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One of the many fabulous restaurants in Estancia La Jolla, this tends to be less crowded than the others yet still has great atmosphere and food. Friendly bartender and intimate setting overlooking the grand garden. Family friendly with kids menu of chicken or burger and fries or fruit.
First of all, the ambience is great. The view is great. The servers were also great. It was just a little bit overpriced. I guess when you're at a resort, that's what you're gonna get. You may as well eat here because the food is good. Online the chilaquiles had meat. When I got to breakfast, the meat could be added for a certain price. I can't remember how much. It did make breakfast a lot more expensive. There was a nice buffet option, but since I was at a conference, I probably could've had the same meal for free if I were to have gotten to the conference on time. The Chilaquiles were great. I was just a little annoyed that I had to add meat to have any meat on it as the online menu had the chilaquiles for the same price with meat. It obviously was an older menu. If I didn't feel like I was getting ripped off, it would've had four stars for sure.
Here's a polished five-star Yelp review for Greenfinch that highlights bartender Sammy: Greenfinch delivers a refreshing blend of elevated ambiance and warm hospitality--but what truly sets it apart is bartender Sammy. From the moment we sat at the bar, Sammy made us feel like VIPs. Her cocktails were not only balanced and creative, but crafted with care and a genuine passion for the craft. She asked thoughtful questions, tailored drinks to our tastes, and shared insights into the ingredients and inspiration behind each one. It felt more like a personalized tasting experience than just ordering off a menu. Beyond the drinks, Sammy's energy was magnetic--friendly, professional, and effortlessly engaging. She struck that perfect balance of attentive service without hovering, making us feel both relaxed and well cared for. The space itself is stylish yet approachable, with beautiful natural light during the day and a mellow, sophisticated vibe in the evening. Everything from the glassware to the garnishes speaks to a team that pays attention to detail. If you're visiting Greenfinch, do yourself a favor: grab a seat at the bar and ask for Sammy. She elevates the entire experience.
An Above and Beyond Experience at Greenfinch Restaurant! I recently had the pleasure of celebrating my holiday party at Greenfinch Restaurant, and I can't express enough how exceptional the experience was! Originally, I had scheduled my event at Arlo at Towne and Country, but after a series of frustrating issues, I found myself searching for a new venue in San Diego that could accommodate our various dietary, allergy, and physical needs. After calling several places, I reached Anthony at Greenfinch, and from the start, Anthony was incredibly kind, patient, and thorough in ensuring all our specific needs could be met. Anthony's attention to detail and willingness to go the extra mile immediately put me at ease. On the day of the event, things took an unexpected turn. The power went out at the restaurant, which meant no cooking, no coffee, and no heaters. As we had an 8 a.m. holiday party planned, I arrived early to set up and found myself in a bit of a bind. Despite the challenges, Oliver was extremely accommodating, offering me options and suggesting I speak to a manager. Erica quickly came outside to meet me, and Erica was beyond helpful, even helping me explore backup plans in case the power didn't come back on. Erica's kindness and patience were greatly appreciated during such an uncertain situation. We decided to take a chance and wait for the power to return, hoping for the best. Some of our guests had to leave by 10 a.m., but we were allowed to stay at our table and order food from outside. Just as we were about to place a Grubhub order, the power came back on around 9:45 a.m., and our entire group was delighted! While we waited for the kitchen to get up and running, we were treated to a delightful spread of complementary hydrating and sweet cut fruit, decadent pastries, and coffee, which had been brought in from an off-site location. My dog was also gifted delicious dog jerky and fresh water in a bowl. Cindy greeted us warmly and was very kind. Cindy quickly enlisted Karina's help. Karina was a true phenomenal--going above and beyond to ensure we felt welcomed and comfortable. Karina's efforts to make our experience as pleasant as possible truly made a difference. Anthony returned to check in and made sure we got our coffee, and by that point, the mood had lightened. We had a wonderful time laughing, catching up, and enjoying each other's company. Karina made sure our cups were never empty and was empathetic and wonderful.
STEPH JUDGEMENT: Upscale-casual hotel breakfast option. My friends and I decided to have breakfast here before checking out and it was a very nice experience. Located on the second floor, it overlooks their lovely grassy garden area where they hold special events like weddings, etc. The decor and ambiance is refined but relaxed resort dining. We didn't care for the area where they had tables on either side of a walkway where guests going to and from their rooms had to traverse, but that was our only gripe about the layout. I got the crab and eggs benedict with a coffee, both excellent. My friends enjoyed their breakfast items also, and we all commented on their nice assortment of gourmet jams. The service, while seemingly a bit stretched, was friendly and helpful, and the prices were pretty reasonable for a hotel restaurant. I'd definitely come back if staying at the hotel again.
I always love the atmosphere of Green Finch. Today, I had the opportunity to eat outside, and was pleasantly surprised that they had outdoor heaters. Pros: -staff from valet to our waitress were wonderful and provided excellent service -the grounds are beautiful. Everything seems well- maintained. -located conveniently across of UC San Diego's Pangea Parking Structure. Cons: -none Other: -food is just okay which is why I provided a 4/5. I come here for the atmosphere rather than the food itself. -It can be rather pricey for what you get. For example, a side of avocado or egg will be around the $6-$8 range.
We stayed at the hotel and this particular restaurant is the worst. Yesterday's host (a male) was arrogant and said he didnt have tables and it would be an hour wait because they have a big group yet there were 5 available 4 tops. Today we stood for 5 minutes waiting for a hostess who finally came to do her job said they were slammed and the wait would be 5 minutes. 2 other hotel guests told me they were told 5 minutes and its been 10. How can the Hotel have such a nice property with the only place for for a sit down meal be the worst. Without experiencing wait staff and food, I will never be back and now have to leave the property to have a meal and service. My opinion of this restaurant is PATHETIC!
Came here twice since I was staying at the hotel and had breakfast included, service and ambiance are great but the food lacks flavor. I ordered the shakshuka on our first breakfast here and it's the worst shakshuka I've ever had. No flavor at all. And to top it off they use low quality eggs (very pale yellow yolks). Even the bread served with the shakshuka was plain and reminded me of a Panera roll that's thrown in your Panera to-go order. My husband got the Greenfinch breakfast on or second breakfast here and was unimpressed as well. It even came with a side of burnt bread. I got the bagel and lox and even that was just ok. I expected more given the hotel property but was extremely disappointed.
After a luxurious stay at the Estancia, we had a wonderful breakfast at Greenfinch. Our stay came with free breakfast that equated to up to $80 in credit. We had the option to sit inside or outside but chose the inside area because it was cold out. The decor is modern and beautiful and we were greeted by extremely friendly and attentive wait staff. Our breakfast was tasty! We shared a crab benedict that was made with real crab patties on top and a Carlsbad Strawberry Stuffed French Toast. The berries were sweet and so were the delicious candied walnut that topped our french toast. Everything we ate was delicious and we loved getting to share something both savory and sweet. If we didn't have our dining credit, I'm not sure this review would be the same. For those two items and 1 coffee, we walked out at $75. The menu items seem really pricey here and I think it might be because of the amount of dining credit they give out. I don't know that it'd be worth it to come here if you weren't a guest staying at the hotel, but if you are, it's a great option.
Came here for brunch after staying at estancia. Food was decent and it was surprising their jam used for the toast was in glass bottles sealed individually. I was expecting plastic cartons filled with jam. View was nice. You can see the garden courtyard and people resting in the balcony.
My bestie and I came in for the native poppy pop-up. It's a nice and intimate bar with the beautiful native poppy decor/installment. They have a few cocktails listed on their menu, but I was able to order an espresso martini that wasn't on the menu. We also had 4 glasses of casimigos neat, because they do not offer shots. So, keep that in mind. Lol We also had their baked Brie, which was yummy. We just needed more crostini Service was so-so. We felt some judgment at times because we asked for shots of tequila - which again they don't provide. Then asked for a soda or limes to with the tequila and the gal looked at us funny. lol When we looked up the details of the native poppy-greenfinch collab, we thought it would be more of a speakeasy vibe aka dimmer lighting but it was pretty bright in there. The lighting wasn't that great for photos of the florals either. The bar itself is beautiful. The couch seating is a vibe and the native poppy florals were gorgeous. Would we go back? Probably not, but it was a nice bar to try.
Wish I could give this place a better review because the resort is beautiful and the staff is amazing. Went here twice while staying for the weekend - pretty average omelette. Good size. They charged $4 for pour coffee, which I feel like for hotel guests should be free. It was like $60+ for two people for breakfast.
We had a lovely brunch here! The ambience is beautiful and the service is exceptional-- the food was high quality and delicious! I ordered gluten free pancakes with fresh berries and no butter and they came out so fluffy! They were what I remembered regular pancakes to taste like and I joked about getting the chef to tell me his secret-- and he did! My spouse ordered their breakfast with cranberry chicken sausage and eggs. He really enjoyed it. The coffee beverages are flavorful and they have dairy free options for your cappuccino and lattes. Chef Vincent works the tables on top of being responsible for the menu. He stopped to check on us and we had such a nice conversation with him. When I saw him setting a table, I noted his meticulous attention to detail and careful positioning of place settings. This is a chef who loves his work! Would definitely dine here again when we come back to Estancia!
2 months ago
2 months ago
I had breakfast here using my Amex Platinum hotel credit, which includes a $60 dining perk. My friend ate at the restaurant and brought my meal back to me. He ordered the Chilaquiles Verdes and absolutely loved them. He's not even a huge fan of Mexican food. I ordered the Nashville Hot Fried Chicken Sandwich, and unfortunately, it didn't do much for me. The chicken was quite dry, and the fries were the thicker-cut style, which made them softer rather than crispy. Overall, the dish lacked the flavor and texture I was hoping for. Based on my experience, I can't say I was a huge fan, but it may have simply come down to ordering the wrong item. Given how much my friend enjoyed his breakfast, I'd be willing to try something different if I returned. read more
This is a quaint little restaurant at the hotel Estancia La Jolla that has both indoor and outdoor seating. I really enjoyed sitting outside and seeing the courtyard below as we ate for brunch. It was a pretty view and nice to enjoy the open California air together. The rest of the experience wasn't the best though. From the start, my fork had bits of food on it already and I had to ask for a new one, which didn't start things off too well. I got the Greenfinch plate breakfast which came with eggs and potatoes and a choice of meat and toast but I thought everything was extremely bland. I couldn't really even finish even though I was pretty hungry. I wasn't sure why they would name the restaurant after this plate when it wasn't very special. I expected a bit more to be honest. The mocktail was very good though. This resort has tons of mocktails around at different areas and it's really unique to get to try them, super fun if you don't care that much for alcohol or are looking for an alternative. I did like that aspect of the menu but I was a bit disappointed by the rest. read more
5 months ago
One of the many fabulous restaurants in Estancia La Jolla, this tends to be less crowded than the others yet still has great atmosphere and food. Friendly bartender and intimate setting overlooking the grand garden. Family friendly with kids menu of chicken or burger and fries or fruit. read more
First of all, the ambience is great. The view is great. The servers were also great. It was just a little bit overpriced. I guess when you're at a resort, that's what you're gonna get. You may as well eat here because the food is good. Online the chilaquiles had meat. When I got to breakfast, the meat could be added for a certain price. I can't remember how much. It did make breakfast a lot more expensive. There was a nice buffet option, but since I was at a conference, I probably could've had the same meal for free if I were to have gotten to the conference on time. The Chilaquiles were great. I was just a little annoyed that I had to add meat to have any meat on it as the online menu had the chilaquiles for the same price with meat. It obviously was an older menu. If I didn't feel like I was getting ripped off, it would've had four stars for sure. read more
3 months ago
1 year ago
Here's a polished five-star Yelp review for Greenfinch that highlights bartender Sammy: Greenfinch delivers a refreshing blend of elevated ambiance and warm hospitality--but what truly sets it apart is bartender Sammy. From the moment we sat at the bar, Sammy made us feel like VIPs. Her cocktails were not only balanced and creative, but crafted with care and a genuine passion for the craft. She asked thoughtful questions, tailored drinks to our tastes, and shared insights into the ingredients and inspiration behind each one. It felt more like a personalized tasting experience than just ordering off a menu. Beyond the drinks, Sammy's energy was magnetic--friendly, professional, and effortlessly engaging. She struck that perfect balance of attentive service without hovering, making us feel both relaxed and well cared for. The space itself is stylish yet approachable, with beautiful natural light during the day and a mellow, sophisticated vibe in the evening. Everything from the glassware to the garnishes speaks to a team that pays attention to detail. If you're visiting Greenfinch, do yourself a favor: grab a seat at the bar and ask for Sammy. She elevates the entire experience. read more
2 years ago
An Above and Beyond Experience at Greenfinch Restaurant! I recently had the pleasure of celebrating my holiday party at Greenfinch Restaurant, and I can't express enough how exceptional the experience was! Originally, I had scheduled my event at Arlo at Towne and Country, but after a series of frustrating issues, I found myself searching for a new venue in San Diego that could accommodate our various dietary, allergy, and physical needs. After calling several places, I reached Anthony at Greenfinch, and from the start, Anthony was incredibly kind, patient, and thorough in ensuring all our specific needs could be met. Anthony's attention to detail and willingness to go the extra mile immediately put me at ease. On the day of the event, things took an unexpected turn. The power went out at the restaurant, which meant no cooking, no coffee, and no heaters. As we had an 8 a.m. holiday party planned, I arrived early to set up and found myself in a bit of a bind. Despite the challenges, Oliver was extremely accommodating, offering me options and suggesting I speak to a manager. Erica quickly came outside to meet me, and Erica was beyond helpful, even helping me explore backup plans in case the power didn't come back on. Erica's kindness and patience were greatly appreciated during such an uncertain situation. We decided to take a chance and wait for the power to return, hoping for the best. Some of our guests had to leave by 10 a.m., but we were allowed to stay at our table and order food from outside. Just as we were about to place a Grubhub order, the power came back on around 9:45 a.m., and our entire group was delighted! While we waited for the kitchen to get up and running, we were treated to a delightful spread of complementary hydrating and sweet cut fruit, decadent pastries, and coffee, which had been brought in from an off-site location. My dog was also gifted delicious dog jerky and fresh water in a bowl. Cindy greeted us warmly and was very kind. Cindy quickly enlisted Karina's help. Karina was a true phenomenal--going above and beyond to ensure we felt welcomed and comfortable. Karina's efforts to make our experience as pleasant as possible truly made a difference. Anthony returned to check in and made sure we got our coffee, and by that point, the mood had lightened. We had a wonderful time laughing, catching up, and enjoying each other's company. Karina made sure our cups were never empty and was empathetic and wonderful. read more
STEPH JUDGEMENT: Upscale-casual hotel breakfast option. My friends and I decided to have breakfast here before checking out and it was a very nice experience. Located on the second floor, it overlooks their lovely grassy garden area where they hold special events like weddings, etc. The decor and ambiance is refined but relaxed resort dining. We didn't care for the area where they had tables on either side of a walkway where guests going to and from their rooms had to traverse, but that was our only gripe about the layout. I got the crab and eggs benedict with a coffee, both excellent. My friends enjoyed their breakfast items also, and we all commented on their nice assortment of gourmet jams. The service, while seemingly a bit stretched, was friendly and helpful, and the prices were pretty reasonable for a hotel restaurant. I'd definitely come back if staying at the hotel again. read more
I always love the atmosphere of Green Finch. Today, I had the opportunity to eat outside, and was pleasantly surprised that they had outdoor heaters. Pros: -staff from valet to our waitress were wonderful and provided excellent service -the grounds are beautiful. Everything seems well- maintained. -located conveniently across of UC San Diego's Pangea Parking Structure. Cons: -none Other: -food is just okay which is why I provided a 4/5. I come here for the atmosphere rather than the food itself. -It can be rather pricey for what you get. For example, a side of avocado or egg will be around the $6-$8 range. read more
1 year ago
We stayed at the hotel and this particular restaurant is the worst. Yesterday's host (a male) was arrogant and said he didnt have tables and it would be an hour wait because they have a big group yet there were 5 available 4 tops. Today we stood for 5 minutes waiting for a hostess who finally came to do her job said they were slammed and the wait would be 5 minutes. 2 other hotel guests told me they were told 5 minutes and its been 10. How can the Hotel have such a nice property with the only place for for a sit down meal be the worst. Without experiencing wait staff and food, I will never be back and now have to leave the property to have a meal and service. My opinion of this restaurant is PATHETIC! read more
1 year ago
Came here twice since I was staying at the hotel and had breakfast included, service and ambiance are great but the food lacks flavor. I ordered the shakshuka on our first breakfast here and it's the worst shakshuka I've ever had. No flavor at all. And to top it off they use low quality eggs (very pale yellow yolks). Even the bread served with the shakshuka was plain and reminded me of a Panera roll that's thrown in your Panera to-go order. My husband got the Greenfinch breakfast on or second breakfast here and was unimpressed as well. It even came with a side of burnt bread. I got the bagel and lox and even that was just ok. I expected more given the hotel property but was extremely disappointed. read more
3 years ago
After a luxurious stay at the Estancia, we had a wonderful breakfast at Greenfinch. Our stay came with free breakfast that equated to up to $80 in credit. We had the option to sit inside or outside but chose the inside area because it was cold out. The decor is modern and beautiful and we were greeted by extremely friendly and attentive wait staff. Our breakfast was tasty! We shared a crab benedict that was made with real crab patties on top and a Carlsbad Strawberry Stuffed French Toast. The berries were sweet and so were the delicious candied walnut that topped our french toast. Everything we ate was delicious and we loved getting to share something both savory and sweet. If we didn't have our dining credit, I'm not sure this review would be the same. For those two items and 1 coffee, we walked out at $75. The menu items seem really pricey here and I think it might be because of the amount of dining credit they give out. I don't know that it'd be worth it to come here if you weren't a guest staying at the hotel, but if you are, it's a great option. read more
Came here for brunch after staying at estancia. Food was decent and it was surprising their jam used for the toast was in glass bottles sealed individually. I was expecting plastic cartons filled with jam. View was nice. You can see the garden courtyard and people resting in the balcony. read more
3 years ago
My bestie and I came in for the native poppy pop-up. It's a nice and intimate bar with the beautiful native poppy decor/installment. They have a few cocktails listed on their menu, but I was able to order an espresso martini that wasn't on the menu. We also had 4 glasses of casimigos neat, because they do not offer shots. So, keep that in mind. Lol We also had their baked Brie, which was yummy. We just needed more crostini Service was so-so. We felt some judgment at times because we asked for shots of tequila - which again they don't provide. Then asked for a soda or limes to with the tequila and the gal looked at us funny. lol When we looked up the details of the native poppy-greenfinch collab, we thought it would be more of a speakeasy vibe aka dimmer lighting but it was pretty bright in there. The lighting wasn't that great for photos of the florals either. The bar itself is beautiful. The couch seating is a vibe and the native poppy florals were gorgeous. Would we go back? Probably not, but it was a nice bar to try. read more
4 years ago
Wish I could give this place a better review because the resort is beautiful and the staff is amazing. Went here twice while staying for the weekend - pretty average omelette. Good size. They charged $4 for pour coffee, which I feel like for hotel guests should be free. It was like $60+ for two people for breakfast. read more
Business owner information
Meghan N.
Dear Chelsea,…
4 years ago
We had a lovely brunch here! The ambience is beautiful and the service is exceptional-- the food was high quality and delicious! I ordered gluten free pancakes with fresh berries and no butter and they came out so fluffy! They were what I remembered regular pancakes to taste like and I joked about getting the chef to tell me his secret-- and he did! My spouse ordered their breakfast with cranberry chicken sausage and eggs. He really enjoyed it. The coffee beverages are flavorful and they have dairy free options for your cappuccino and lattes. Chef Vincent works the tables on top of being responsible for the menu. He stopped to check on us and we had such a nice conversation with him. When I saw him setting a table, I noted his meticulous attention to detail and careful positioning of place settings. This is a chef who loves his work! Would definitely dine here again when we come back to Estancia! read more
We visited this place for the spring pop up themed bar. While the drinks looked pretty, they tasted awful. Above that, we were just 2 of us and were charged a surcharge. Ended up spending $50 for 2 drinks. Overall, expensive and not worth the hype :/ read more
2 years ago
Excellent and fast service, everyone was friendly and speedy. I was told I'd have a 10 minute wait, it was more like 5. The chicken was great, fries were nice too. The place is decently busy, but clean and overall very pretty! read more
4 years ago
Had a 30 dollar hotel credit from when I booked, so we decided to put it to good use. Had breakfast here, no reservation but also no wait. The previous reviewer is right, it was 4 bucks for a cup of coffee but it included refills and our sweet waitress even offered to make to go cups for us. I tried the avocado toast and my fiancé had the salmon toast. Both options were delicious. The rosemary bread used was crispy on the edges yet soft in the middle. Great breakfast spot, beautiful decor inside. Would recommend. read more
Business owner information
Meghan N.
Dear Jessica,…
5 years ago
Beautifully redone room that used to be Adobe restaurant. Limited weekday Breakfast/Lunch menu. But everything sounded good. Pricey (but normal for a resort menu) but both items we ordered were very generous sized portions. I had the Smoked Salmon flatbread which was out of this world: $19 Definitely big enough to split. It is served on a sort of Naan bread. I loved the crispy fried capers and hard boiled egg, on top. Husband had scrambled eggs with bacon and a big side of purple potatoes, came with choice of toast or English muffin. Beautiful decor, and the space overlooks a charming courtyard. Bring a sweater. Very chilly inside on this 55 degree morning, and waiter said that, unfortunately, the doors could not be closed. Heat lamps available above tables on the veranda outside. read more
4 years ago
I never knew that this adorable brunch place existed within Estancia Hotel! I made a reservation because it was the only one I could book without risking not being seated. Some things to know: there is no self parking, have a reservation and eating at Greenfinch allows you complimentary valet, bring CASH to tip the valet! When going to Greenfinch, you walk through the main doors and go immediately to your RIGHT, you can pass through the coffee shop Blend and it will lead you down a corridor and around the corner to the restaurant, it can get a bit maze like. My friend got the pancake charcuterie that came with lots of fruit, Nutella, syrup, whip cream and sausage and bacon! I got the avocado toast that comes with 2 poached eggs on top, and my bf got the pork quesadilla. Out of the 3 dishes we all agreed the pork quesadilla (not pictured) was phenomenal, it was juicy and flavorful and came with a tangy verde sauce! My avocado toast had perfectly poached eggs and I added pork sausage to give it a little more oomf (which I highly recommend!) my friend shared her pancakes and everything was honestly very well made. My bf did feel that he could've eaten another few quesadilla slices as it came with either 4 or 5 slices, but after eating a pancake he was satisfied. I highly recommend this place, it's beautiful and quiet and had pretty great food! For 3 people including non-alcoholic drinks with tip came to $100 which isn't bad for La Jolla and brunch! read more
4 years ago
Delicious breakfast, attentive service, and heaters on a chilly morning. They're dog friendly, so if you're staying on the property, make sure to bring them for a special doggy menu. read more
Business owner information
Meghan N.
Dear Rebekah,…
2 years ago
2 years ago
Great lunch spot located in the the estancia hotel in La Jolla. The service was amazing and the food waterway. I'd highly recommend you stay for breakfast if you're staying in the hotel or even check it out if you're local and looking for a cute/casual brunch spot with garden vibes! read more
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