Gold-Plated Del Mar

Walk to the beach along a private path from L’Auberge Del Mar. Walk across the street to Del Mar Plaza. Either way are culinary treasures.

With ironwork, tiled fountains and cobblestone pathways reminiscent of a European market, the Del Mar Plaza offers village guests high-end retailers, services and ocean-view restaurants. Opened in April, the El Agave Restaurant and Tequileria specializes in traditional “Hispanic-Mexican” cuisine, prepared by Executive Chef Mario Montes, inspired by the cooking styles of ancient native cultures like the Aztecs and Mestizos. Popular items are the lobster meatballs, a variety of mole sauces and the signature filet mignon in tequila with a red wine reduction sauce. El Agave Del Mar also features a “tequila museum” from which guests can sample 1,000-plus varieties from around the world. 

Also at Del Mar Plaza, El Fornaio, serving Chef Roberto Carboni’s award-winning Italian cuisine, recently reopened after a complete remodel, adding outdoor seating and interior view space to maximize the ocean views.

On the beach next to Powerhouse Park (the area’s old power station) is Jake’s, recently renovated in its interior and menu. Enjoy sunset views and excellent seafood and American cuisine—a Del Mar favorite for years. delmarplaza.com; dreamdelmar.com.

To Learn More

Del Mar Race Track dmtc.com.

Hotel Indigo Del Mar hotelindigo.com.

L’Auberge Del Mar laubergedelmar.com.