Best French Restaurants in Encinitas

This is our favorite restaurant, and we’ve been many times. The outside setting is lovely. From the moment we were greeted at the front, each of the staff was welcoming and friendly. The food was delicious! The presentation was photograph worthy. The portions are just right, as when we were done, about 2 1/2 hours later, we were quite satiated. The attention to detail from our arrival until our departure is why Jeune et Jolie has earned a Michelin star. Lastly, in September, we ate at twice former #1 World’s Top Fifty Restaurants, El Cellar de Can Roca, in Barcelona, which is featured on Netflix’s Chef’s Table. We were given three desserts prepared by Jordi Roca, but the huckleberry violet ice cream dessert at Jeune et Jolie tops them all! Magnificent!

This was our second visit to Bistro du Marche' this month for dinner prior to an event at the La Jolla Music Society's "The Conrad". We shared the Country Pate' appetizer and found it delightful. To accompany the Pate' we shared an Old Fashioned which was superb. My wife had the Slow Braised Wild Boar on pasta and I had the Venison. Both were very flavorful and tender. Ariana was, once again, our waitress and remains friendly and attentive. We brought our own wine a 2016 Chateau Beaucastel chateauneuf-de-pape which paired perfectly with our entrees. Looking forward to our next visit in the New Year.

A great concept but very limited menu. Removed a favorite-the squash-and substituted it with an easier to prepare dish. Five skinny slices of Prager Brothers bread for $4.00 was excessive.

Amaya is a rare gem. Fine dining in an elegant setting, with a low noise level that allows for undisturbed conversation with your dinner companion. They have a nice selection of classic French cuisine menu items. Our food was expertly prepared, beautifully plated, and every course was delicious. Our service was impeccable. I compare the experience to A.R. Valentien (which is currently closed for remodeling thru March 2025).

Phenomenal experience both with service and food. We planned to try the restaurant when it opened, but somehow never had a chance to go. I’m so happy that we have an opportunity to go the other night. Such a fantastic experience. And, hour teenagers also requested to go on our next visit.