Hidden gem alert! The fact that this place only has 17 reviews at this point is almost laughable. The views from the dining area are unrivaled in San Diego. To sit and enjoy their delicious food and look out to the panoramic view of the Pacific is a particular treat. If you're visiting San Diego, you have to put this on your list of breakfast spots to hit. If you're a local, you REALLY need to make room in your schedule for this amazing find. Pro-tip, they're closed Mondays and Tuesdays but any other morning/afternoon you'll be good to go. read more

This is Abit overdue but realzied there might be others out there that don't realize what a gem this spot is. A friend's recommendation led me to The Kitchen at MCASD, and what a find it was for our local brunch group--always on the hunt for new dining experiences. This hidden gem is a breath of fresh air for a unique gal's day out; it's nestled away from the La Jolla hustle. Truly more than just a brunch spot, the setting is breezy and super cute. It's evident that every element, from the airy aesthetics to the menu, is intentional and thoughtful. What stood out was their commitment to fresh, whole ingredients; it elevates The Kitchen into a celebration of food and fellowship. With service that complements the high quality of the meal, this is a concept you don't want to sleep on. During our visit, I savored the asparagus and mushroom omelette complemented with herb goat cheese, porcini cream, and a fresh green salad--a dish that redefined refreshing in a brunch setting. Adding shrimp to my omelette was a delightful choice that meshed well with the other flavors. The drink menu deserves a mention, with its eclectic offerings from smoothies to mimosas, and the adorable butterfly flower lemonade. Whether you're aiming for a peaceful family morning without the hassle of cooking or looking to impress out-of-town guests with a dazzling breakfast nook, The Kitchen has you covered. Our group of women were all smiles, relishing every bite and sip. A heartfelt thank you to the staff at The Kitchen--your hard work this past year truly shows, and we're excited to continue supporting such a commendable establishment. read more

The Kitchen MCASD - butterfly flower lemonade - Cafes Near Me - La Jolla, California

Wow! Amazing! I expected the amazing view but the food and service blew me away. Great atmosphere with very pleasant staff. There were lots of menu options and my salad was delicious. Also very large serving sizes. Will definitely go back. read more

This place has nice outdoor seating which is really nice with the weather. The eggs benedict was really nice and balanced with the savory elements. The service was very nice and also pet friendly! read more

The Kitchen MCASD - Eggs Benedict - Cafes Near Me - La Jolla, California

Just down the street from my friends place we have been to The Kitchen many times and enjoyed each visit. Clean fresh food, nice outdoor patio, nice views and good service. One this visit I had the "Churro" French Toast while my friends had the lamb burger and seared tuna nicoise. We all enjoyed our selections. You can tell the quality of the food is first class and the presentation is spot on. This is a great place to have a wonderful meal and avoid the overcrowded area of "central" La Jolla. read more

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I had high hopes for this place when we booked it for brunch. The ambiance is marvelous. It has a nice view of the ocean and the La Jolla coast. The hostess was friendly and welcoming. The food was not to die for but relatively good. What disappointed me was the "phony" customer service from our server. She wasn't rude but there was this weird passive aggressive behavior. She gave my daughter the wrong drink. When we pointed it out, she agreed to replace it. Again, she wasn't rude... but she was just robotic and indifferent about it. She answers a seemingly scripted "of course" to every question or request you make but never delivers. We asked for more water, for our receipt.... "Of course" was the answer but we never got them. read more

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Amazing dinner at sunset! Gorgeous view of the ocean! Food was fantastic! Would definitely recommend! read more

The Kitchen MCASD - Dinner menu - Cafes Near Me - La Jolla, California

The Kitchen MCASD has charming views and a polite staff. I asked what was good for breakfast and the waitress advised me to order French toast. I thought it was delicious and loved that it was served with blood oranges, which are my favorite citrus. read more

WOW this place just brought me back to The Mediterranean. The ambiance is so relaxing between the view, the music and the design. The service it outstanding and best of all the FOOD IS Delightful!! I had high expectation looking at their menu and it was way above my expectation! We had a feast be ready. We tried; the chilled cucumber tahini soup, the green shakshuka, the lamb burger, the hamachi crudo, and the baklava French toast. The flavors on every dishes were so nicely balanced and you can truly test the freshness of each ingredient. As a European girl I'm so glad to have found this new gem. I can't wait to be back for their dinner menu. read more

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Since I found this place I go at least 3 times a month. The view is incredible, the food is great! I love their peanut smoothie and their fries are my favorite! The service is very nice as well. Can't say enough that I love this restaurant! LOVE! read more

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Went here this morning, older couple was seated quickly as a walk in and when we were up next to be greeted, we were told a one hour wait. We decided to wait the hour and when the time came to be seated we were seated all the way in the back when there was spots for a view. On top of all that the service was slow and we barely got our waters 20 minutes in. We decided to get up and leave right after. read more

Came here for brunch over the weekend, definitely enjoyed the experience. The restaurant is located just outside the museum, and it had an incredible view of the sea, which is great on for brunch. For drinks I got the matcha latte, which was great! We got the chilaquiles and breakfast sandwiche substituted with avocado (to make it vegetarian). Both entrees were super good, I definitely liked the breakfast sandwich with avocado! Actually, the restaurant messed up our a couple times but the waitress was super nice and patient. We could tell she was really busy but she took the time to help us out! It was also nice that they admitted they made a mistake and comped our meal. The service was exceptional here! read more

Staff was friendly but super disappointed in the quality of food (we went for dinner). Also surprised that outdoor tables were so basic, the view is not great from behind the wall, and heat lamps weren't set up. In terms of food, the chicken schnitzel was quite good but everything else was just ok or not good at all. Avoid the crab cakes, seems like they were premade from a not so great mix. The asparagus dish is generally good but the asparagus wasn't trimmed correctly. The hamachi crudo was ok but not great quality fish and a tiny portion. Pricey disappointment. read more

We went today for a late birthday for my mom since my brother was in town visiting. Views are out of this world. My Niçoise salad was just ok - I found the aioli sauce sitting at the bottom of it weird, and the green beans did not taste very good, but the albacore itself was delicious. The "almond butter and jam sandwich" off the kids menu was appalling - one singular hard crunchy piece of stale bread drenched in almond butter dripping off the sides and jam in a side cup. It came out last, much later than the 5 other adult orders...my daughter started crying asking where her food was. This dish said "we hate kids". Don't bring your child here. Fortunately my 3 year old was on her best behavior and tried this absolute disaster of a "sandwich" that I had to prepare for her myself by scraping the mess of almond butter off, spreading on the jam and cutting the bread into manageable pieces. Our waitress also looked annoyed and angry the whole time - the service was awful. Only the person who sat us was friendly and kindly gave my daughter crayons to color the kids menu with. The chairs were very uncomfortable and the spacing in the restaurant is bizarre. The whole experience was just strange. Beautiful views but likely won't go back. read more

The Kitchen MCASD - Cafes Near Me - La Jolla, California

My boyfriend and I had brunch on a Saturday and agreed it is the best sit down breakfast we've had in San Diego in quite some time. In addition to the food, the attention to detail and service were impeccable. We had the asparagus mushroom omelette and the "basics" eggs breakfast. They were both exquisite! (I only wish the smashed potatoes were a bit more smashed and crispy). Lastly, the peacefulness was unbeatable. read more

Came here for lunch Friday ans had the best time.Ambiance was amazing,and the manager Megan was so accommodating for me and my elderly mother!definitely a reason to come back read more

Came here unfortunately by myself on a day between lunch and a meeting close by. I wish I would have made it for lunch. But my afternoon coffee and cheesecake hit the spot. On a nice day the outside patio can get busy so make sure you make a reservation if you are coming for lunch. read more

The Kitchen MCASD - The basque cheesecake - Cafes Near Me - La Jolla, California

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Disappointed and felt unwelcome. We came in with visiting relatives from out of the country and walked all the way from the beach, excited to dine here. Unfortunately, we were turned away at the door by the host, who told us they were at full capacity and couldn't accommodate our party. However, when my husband went inside to use the restroom, the restaurant was mostly empty--only a few tables were occupied. We also noticed a large party seated outside, which made their refusal to seat us even more confusing. It left us feeling discriminated against, especially since only one type of group seemed to be dining in. This experience was disappointing. After reading the reviews maybe it's a good thing we didn't waste our money and time here. We won't be returning or recommending it to anyone. read more

Love this hidden gem!! Gorgeous view. We had the French toast, the chicken schnitzel, and the tuna bowl. It was delicious. And the wait staff and manager were so attentive. And we all loved our fancy coffees. read more

I made a reservation. When we got there, the host was giving us a table that's in the middle. I have vertigo so I requested to be by the wall or in the corner. At first, she gave me a table by the wall. But then, I got kicked out because she said that those tables are reserved and explained those tables for people coming in at 9:30am. I watched to see if the table I got kicked out of got filled. I left around 11am. That table is still vacant. I don't understand the excuse given to me then. I don't understand why restaurants in general don't give you a certain table but is kept vacant the whole time. I would understand if it's an upscale restaurant, but this is a casual restaurant. We were seated by the courtyard. No view unless you stand up. At least the table doesn't give me vertigo. The service said they're understaffed. I understand, but we barely got water refilled, especially were given small glasses. I wish they left a carafe in each table so we can refill the water ourselves. My coffee came out very late; I was halfway done with my meal. And it came out with an aftertaste. I was forcing myself to drink it. I was glad the server gave me another one that tastes better. But I was almost done with my meal. It also looks like the servers had to make a trek to bring the food out. Is the kitchen that far? The taste. My husband said that the eggs benedict is just okay; he can make that at home. I like the churro French toast, but I don't think it's enough for me to crave for and bring me back. My husband got the smoothie, which he liked. I already told the story of my coffee. This is the first time I remember Eater San Diego recommended a restaurant, which failed me. It could've been a better experience for us, especially we're celebrating two occasions the weekend we visited. read more

I was looking for a brunch place that would accept reservation on weekends for my mom's birthday. I was happy that Kitchen would accept reservation for large parties. I called them 2 weeks in advance and was able to make a reservation for a party of 8 at 1030am Saturday. Half of our party was about 30 min late, but our table was ready and they sat us right away. Hostess and waiters were very nice. We ordered our coffee right away. They serve Dark Horse coffee which is one of my local coffee brewers. They also serve both their breakfast and lunch menu one the weekends l, so you have more choices to chose from. I got the smoked salmon sandwich, which was yummy the salmon tasted great, the side salad had a nice light dressing to it. The ambiance is pretty and peaceful. We really enjoyed our time. I will definitely come back here! read more

We've been to a couple of their monthly dinners and had a great meal both times. One of the better views I've found in San Diego restaurants, without the usual crowds that come with the more trendy spots. Looking forward to trying their recently opened daily options. read more

The view is terrific bit the food was very expensive crap! I had salad nicoise.. tuna was tasteless. It had a tumeric "crust" and that is it. My friend hab chicken and artichokes sandwich and could ot find artichokes and was way too much mayonnaise. read more

Got to have an awesome brunch here the other day! The food was unique and tasted amazing. The beach was super close and the restaurant had a nice view! read more

The Kitchen MCASD - Crepe - Cafes Near Me - La Jolla, California

Didn't plan on eating three breakfasts but completed the trifecta. Too good. Get the French Toast. Service was outstanding as well. read more

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Great food, great quality and great service! La Jolla needs more places like this. Definetly will be back read more

Cute cafe vibe and delish breakfast sandwich I would come back again and try lunch menu read more

The Kitchen MCASD - Cafes Near Me - La Jolla, California

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We decided to visit this place to look over the event space to do a celebration of life for our mother that recently passed. We sat down to see how the food was and ordered as we were also celebrating a mother's day brunch. We decided to bring little bites with us for our celebration. We did not think it would be any issue as we all were still going to be ordering large portions to eat, 7 of us to be exact and leaving a generous tip. However, a waitress came up to us, pretending to take our order but instead decided to ridicule us. It felt like it was her main objective considering no order was taken just pure badgering. Come to find out this was actually the general manager named Megan. Her tone was hostile and condescending, she even laughed at us, saying " Do you guys really think this okay? " We had no idea that it was not allowed and would be such a big deal so we then asked if she can give us some grace this mother's day as we are mourning the loss of our mother. And she brushed that aside and said yeah me too my mom died and kept making jabs at our choice to bring our small bites. Laughing at us, and said "haha yeah i'm not even joking are you guys serious? ". We explained we did not know this was such an issue and she said next time to ask. But of course! Had we known we needed approval we would have been fine asking and without doubt it would have been acceptable/approved. It really is a non issue, especially considering we were all paying to still eat and leave a tip. But she made it seem like we were doing something so horrendous and needed scolding at. In no way should a GM act this way, it's embarrassing for this establishment to have someone employed with no tact or customer service skills. I hope this review can help with proper training and a forewarning to anyone encountering such odd behavior from this GM Megan. Its not you, it's her. No matter the issue, no one should ever be subjected to that kind of tone or treatment, especially from a General Manager. Megan can absolutely benefit from more training or a different position away from patrons. read more

Salmon with butternut squash purée was great. Cobb was ok as well as the flatbread. Only offer well spirits for cocktails and subpar wine list. Service was awful. Non- attentive, constantly having to ask for things we ordered and overall not an overly pleasant experience. read more

Food was just ok. I mistakenly ordered Chilaquiles and they had no flavor whatsoever. The other food ordered by the rest of my party was so-so. Service was OK. Beautiful surroundings with a spectacular view of the ocean. read more

I feel like people are sleeping on how good this dinner menu is. Just had an unbelievable meal here. Food, service and drinks were all 10/10! We will be back! read more

I have eaten here 3 times and for the most part the food and service are very good. However, the breakfast burrito doesn't match the level of the other food, hence only 4 stars. I had the chicken sandwich, the roasted vegetable sandwich (shared lunch), the churro french toast and the breakfast burrito. Everything was so good except the burrito. The breakfast burrito is very bland, There is hardly any roasted chile in it and the pickled carrots are large sticks rather than small pieces that could have helped with the flavor. It is mostly potato and egg and needed salt. Even the salsa couldn't save it. Service is good and the setting is wonderful, right next to the ocean. read more

Fantastic food and service with an unforgettable view. Would highly recommend putting this place on your list when visiting La Jolla and the museum of contemporary art. It to be missed read more

It's so aggravating when you have a daughter with an egg allergy and restaurant refuses to find out if the children's options are egg free. The answers I received were "it may... better not." Which I couldn't confirm if they actually checked the label, because she can have things in facilities with egg, just not egg containing products. Anyway, thumbs down for insensitivity at the hostess stand. Kids have to eat and they were not accommodating. read more

The Kitchen MCASD offers the most beautiful patio setting for brunch or lunch in all of San Diego. The avocado bowl and the lamb burger are two of our favorites. Service is friendly and efficient. Ocean views are spectacular! It's a must see for our out of town guests. Hours are limited due to museum hours of operation so call ahead. read more

Their smoked salmon sandwich + whipped herb goat cheese might be my new favorite sandwich in town. It also doesn't hurt that you can check out the Art when you're finished with your lunch. Highly recommend. read more

What a gem! Went for breakfast, highly recommend the French toast. Also ate the lobster omelet, patatas bravas hash, and tropical fruit plate - all so flavorful and beautiful presentation. Wonderful patio. Love the sidewalk seating for coffee. Service was outstanding. read more

Patatas brava breakfast was delicious. Great atmosphere and service was terrific. Although we didn't bring our pet, we loved their pet friendly policy. read more

Lovely garden setting, friendly and knowledgable staff and delicious food. We especially love their breakfast and brunch offerings. This has become one of our favorite local spots. read more

I don't usually try a restaurant until it has more trusted reviews but the pictures of food posted on Yelp caught my eye as something special. Then there are pictures of the view and I was sold. A place with this kind of location need only serve decent food and quickly rise in popularity but it turns out the food is quite inspired. I ordered the asparagus and mushroom omelette add sausage and it was hands down the best omelette I've ever had in my life. It was slow cooked French style probably with a healthy amount of butter but I didn't care. Every bite was worth it. My husband got the chilaquiles which happens to be one of my go to options and it was really good as well. It had a delicious mole sauce that set it apart from others I've had. It was a little rich but I wouldn't take anything away from the dish. It was solid. I look forward to my next visit which will hopefully be sooner rather than later as this place is only going to get more and more hopping. read more