Wine, burgers, or brunch…? You decide! We’ve scouted the best & brightest newcomers in dining, drinks, & more North County.
Known for its inviting atmosphere and rotating selection of boutique wines, Postino WineCafé offers a diverse menu featuring bruschetta, paninis, salads, charcuterie boards, and more, perfect for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. The café, located across from the “fire pit” lounge area, features mid-century modern decor, art installations, and a spacious outdoor patio. Postino’s unique wine club, the Postino Wine Cult, provides members with exclusive wines and restaurant benefits.
Tanner’s Prime Burgers is set to redefine the fast-casual burger scene. Founded by Michelin-starred chef Brandon Rodgers and Eric Brandt, their new brick-and-mortar location in Oceanside emphasizes simplicity and quality, featuring 100% USDA prime-grade beef from Brandt’s family ranch.
Their concise menu highlights the star of the show: a single or double burger made with unique aged cheddar that melts perfectly. Additional offerings include beef tallow fries, all-beef hot dogs, and the decadent Fatty Patty—a beef tallow ice cream sandwich. Complementing the menu, Tanner’s Lager and IPA are brewed by Artifex Brewing, and their signature hot sauce is crafted from a 14-day fermented chile mash. With a commitment to using high-quality ingredients and a welcoming, functional design, Tanner’s promises elevated taste paired with an unpretentious dining experience.
Located in Solana Beach’s Lomas Santa Fe Plaza, this newly opened health-focused brunch spot, created by the Gaistman sisters, offers a “nutritious yet indulgent” twist on breakfast favorites. Menu highlights at Our Green Affair include high-protein pancakes and smoked salmon toast — perfectly paired with a matcha latte, fresh green juice, or smoothie.
Their diverse menu also features the Green Shakshuka, a hearty Greens Sandwich, and vibrant salads like the Bean There Done That. With house-made vegan mayo, ricotta, and hummus, plus a convenient coastal location, Our Green Affair Cafe promises a wholesome and delicious dining experience.
Formerly The Grill at Lakehouse, Brickmans Restaurant + Bar is redefining the typical golf course dining experience. This newly remodeled restaurant and bar is helmed by Jarrod Moiles, former executive chef at the high-end Rancho Valencia resort. Brickmans offers a chef-driven menu inspired by Moiles’ Massachusetts countryside roots, featuring dishes like grilled salmon picatta, beet and goat cheese salad, and birria tacos.
Traditional favorites such as burgers, beer-battered fish and chips, and club sandwiches are elevated with high-quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation. The bright, modern lounge and dining area with floor-to-ceiling windows provide a welcoming atmosphere for both locals and golfers.
Toasted has opened its doors on the top deck of Del Mar Highlands Town Center, replacing the long-standing Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza. This new dining spot, which launched on May 23, offers brunch from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and dinner from 4-8 p.m. daily.
The menu features an array of delicious options, including “Benny’s,” loaded toasts, pancakes, and egg specialties like smoked brisket hash and Eggs in Purgatory. Toasted also boasts a variety of mimosas, which can be enjoyed bottomless. With cozy green couches, vibrant floral designs, and a full bar, Toasted provides a cheerful dining experience perfect for any time of day.
From chef-driven restaurants and neighborhood cafés to an independent bookstore and a shave ice shop made for sunny afternoons, these are the newest North County openings to add to your summer list.
Tucked beside Domaine Artefact’s vineyards, the new café pairs thoughtfully crafted coffee and seasonal fare with a warm, community-first atmosphere that invites guests to slow down and stay awhile.
Founder Katie Jayne shares the inspiration behind her Carlsbad market, her favorite North County spots, and her vision for building community through food.
Part hidden cocktail bar, part immersive experience, Anigma transforms an unassuming corner of Encinitas into one of North County’s most intriguing new openings.
The hospitality group behind Queenstown, Raglan Public House, and Dunedin has opened its first North County location, pairing New Zealand-inspired comfort food, coastal California flavors, and ocean-view dining in the heart of Del Mar Village.
Discover the best rooftop dining & sipping spots in North County, San Diego including Vintana, Monarch Ocean Pub, Cococabana & more.
