Paradisaea,

5680 La Jolla Blvd, San Diego, CA 92037, United States

"The chefs five course menu at $105 per person is exceptional value and the food was top tier. However, there were too many blemishes in service to amount to a recommendation. The front of the house seems to prioritize walk-ins over reservations. When asked about multiple empty seats in the bar and restaurant area, they simply said everything was full. Throughout our meal we saw the same seats sit empty, so this was frustrating and confusing. There also appears to be no dress code because even at a $100 price point we saw joggers, sneakers, bomber jackets and an assortment of streetwear that maybe wouldn't normally be okay for a restaurant at this price point. Our particular server was excellent - frustration was with the front of the house and a touch of unwarranted attitude. Given the amount of empty seats and dress wear we saw, I think this restaurant needs to figure out its real identity: either you are the cool neighborhood joint or you are a destination $100 per person restaurant. The food definitely warrants the latter, however weaknesses like this mean that I could not recommend that you venture here. Unfortunately."

"I loved everything about this restaurant, from the decor, the friendliness of the host stand, the bustle at the bar and the ensuing seated portion of the restaurant, the bathrooms and our waitress. We arrived early for our reservation and were seated within 5 minutes. As soon as we sat, we were greeted by Aris who was lovely and very attentive throughout our dining experience. I do not usually consume mocktails as they are usually full of sugar, but the Sunset Cliff not only looked like a real cocktail, it was very refreshing and not too sweet. We started with the focaccia with cultured butter, crudo, jalapeño caesar and coconut shrimp. The jalapeño caesar was EVERYTHING! Seriously, I have never had a caesar salad like this. I wanted so badly to order one to go, but I did not look as if it would be the same the next day. The coconut shrimp was also delicious, except we were not expecting the heads to be attached. In the description it does not mention prawns which is usually a dead giveaway, nor did it describe the shrimp as whole, so now you have been warned. For our mains, we chose the dover sole, salmon, carolina gold rice and duck fat fries. OMG, we made some fabulous choices, but the dover sole and rice were the winners for the night. Our eyes were way too big for our stomachs and we were not able to consume dessert, but I will be back soon because the straus milk and honey sundae and the dark chocolate pave looked divine. Before you leave, you have to use the bathroom. The design is really cool and do not forget to grab a couple of matches. They are the cutest matches you will ever own!"

"Amazing, everything that came to the table was absolutely fantastic. Be aware the prices are steep. Staff is super friendly and takes care of you. Overall a great experience and would definitely recommend for a special occasion or if your trying to impress a special someone."

"When first entering, it's easy to notice the stylish and modern decor with many colorful accents and playful lighting. The cocktail menu incorporates creative flavors with clean, elegant presentation. The entrées were well-proportioned (even on the generous side). The sauces for both the chicken and 90-day beef were lick-the-plate-clean good. Service was very attentive without hovering. And the desserts... These were so intense it was almost an overindulgence after such a well-crafted satisfying meal. Highly recommended all around."

"Very fun and lively atmosphere! The design is very well done. The food was great, I personally loved the oysters as they were served differently than I have experienced. The jalapeño Caesar salad was also amazing! Had a kick! Main dishes I enjoyed were the burger, and the chicken, very good and flavorful. Very fun and different cocktails to choose from along with fun zero proof options which is great if you do not drink alcohol. Service was spectacular, very kind, professional and knowledgeable about the menu. We will be coming back!"