Best Restaurants for People Watching in Rancho Santa Fe

This was our first visit. As others said, the architecture is fantastic—like nothing around here! The mountain lodge and hops decorating is a bit odd, yet attractive. The menu changes seasonally. The fresh catch was line caught SD Halibut. We shared bread and (two types) butter (also two blends), Washington Oysters, and red beet hummus. All interesting and tasty. I had a “Pilsner” which was tasty, though (as I was warned) much hoppier than typical. My wife ordered a Napa cab blend; a bit delicate but nice. My entree was an absolutely delicious seared lamb loin. Perfect portion. My wife raved about the beef short rib. Only disappointment was my Espresso…chilled by a cold cup and not that great. We will be back!

If you’re a foodie then you will appreciate this place for a date night for flavorful international food with California and British influence’s and caring service. From the beverages I enjoyed the mocktail and happy hour appetizer with the best crispy pork belly bao I’ve had. The entree from the house made pasta in cream sauce and the jerk chicken was done with fresh ingredients and just hit the flavor notes. For desserts we appreciated the date cake with the homemade gelato. There is an outdoor area for kids to play around and outdoor seating. We’ll stop by with our kids next time for their high tea and my husband will consider California English as a spot to bring in business clients. Plenty of parking just as you drive past it to your right side, and try not to accidentally park in the Chick-Fil-A area. Thank you again!

We love coming to the Brigantine. We are greeted warmly by the staff (even the parking attendant) each time we go. Our table positioned us to look over the Del Mar area with a wide view. It was beautiful. I ordered the lobster tacos and they were wonderful. Chunks of lobster inside a yummy coating and placed in blue corn tortillas along with some fresh, sliced vegetables. On the side, a few french fries, and then some fresh, lightly cooked green beans and pretty little carrots. Loved my meal. Daughter had fish and vegetables, husband had fish and chips, and we were all happy with what we ordered and too stuffed to share a dessert. We were well taken care of even though it was really busy when we got there. This is a tried and true restaurant and we will return soon.

Our yearly tradition did not disappoint! Next year, though I think I’m going to request to be in the main dining room. The music in the bar was too loud and a little hard for my mom who can’t hear well! 

Great place to watch sports for sure. Cocktails and beer selection is fantastic! We had crab cakes for an appetizer, outstanding. The shrimp and grits is very authentic New Orleans style. Great burger too. We are adding this to our rotation.