Summer may be coming to a close, but the culinary scene in North County is still heating up. From a charming farm-to-table in Encinitas to seasonal Chinese cuisine courtesy of former Addison chefs, here’s the latest buzz in North County dining.
PHOTOS VIA MARIA RUSSO + TECTURE
Nestled in Fox Point Farms in Encinitas, Haven offers a unique farm-to-table experience where fresh, locally-sourced ingredients take center stage. This charming new restaurant is set against the backdrop of the farm, offering seasonal, nutrient-dense dishes in an elevated atmosphere — including everything from potato gnocci and local bluefin to shishito hummus and goat milk & corn panna cotta.
PHOTOS VIA OSHUN REIN + DEE SANDOVAL
24 Suns, originally known for its intimate gatherings over dumplings — then transforming into multi-course tasting menus — has evolved into a distinctive dining experience with its first brick-and-mortar location in Oceanside. Founded by Chefs Nic Webber and Jacob Jordan, both trained in fine dining, 24 Suns blends traditional Chinese culinary techniques with the fresh, vibrant ingredients of Southern California — driven by the region’s microseasons. The team is also working on a new concept, Swan & Fox.
Head to Oceanside to experience 24 Suns’ fine Chinese cuisine, thoughtful craft cocktails, natural wine, and warm neighborhood hospitality — a delicious tribute to the dynamic rhythms of land and season.
PHOTO VIA FINNEY’S CRAFTHOUSE
Located just steps from the beach, Finney’s Craft House has opened its newest location in Oceanside. Known for its expansive menu featuring over 50 scratch-made dishes, including gourmet burgers, tacos, salads, and shareable appetizers, they also have 30 local craft beers on tap along with signature cocktails.
PHOTOS VIA FISH BOON
Situated in Bressi Ranch, Fish Boon offers a dining experience centered around freshness and quality. The restaurant focuses on creating exceptional sushi, combining traditional techniques with innovative touches. Using carefully selected ingredients, Fish Boon crafts thoughtfully designed dishes that reflect a balance of flavor and presentation — with their attention to detail apparent in their unique and delightful dining room.
PHOTO VIA THE COTTAGE
The Cottage has opened its newest location in coastal Del Mar, bringing its popular breakfast, brunch, and lunch offerings. Known for its relaxed, beachy vibe and locally sourced ingredients, The Cottage serves a variety of classic American dishes with a California twist, including fresh salads, sandwiches, and a variety of egg-based breakfast items.
PHOTO VIA AMALFI CUCINA
Amalfi Cucina Italian offers an authentic taste of Italy with a contemporary flair. Amalfi features a diverse menu of pizzas, pasta, and seafood, all meticulously crafted by world-renowned chefs and seasoned restaurant managers with over 30 years of international fine dining expertise. In addition to its standard offerings, Amalfi Cucina highlights weekly specials inspired by Chef Marcello.
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.
