Vaga is one of the few white tablecloth experiences in coastal Encinitas, located steps from the beach in the Alila Marea Resort. It’s got one of the best patios in the entire area with unobstructed views of the Pacific ocean, so try to time your dinner when the sun is going down. They use a lot of Mexican ingredients like epazote and hoja santa in dishes like a pork chop with rich mole, apple, and cauliflower, and all of it makes for one of the better meals you can have in the whole San Diego area. If you’re a larger group, grab a table in the dining room that has a huge fireplace to catch the action of the open kitchen, or hit up the outdoor bar and lounge area if you’re feeling more lively.

photo credit: Deanna Sandoval