Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: good (38) great (34) view (32) service (23) nice (19) delicious (16) amazing (16) Jolla (15) recommend (14) ocean (13)
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  • 5/5 Dan N. 1 year ago on Google
    We really enjoyed our dinner at Dukes. The food was good but the dessert pie was unbelievable delicious. The coconut drink was amazing too. Staff was super nice as well. I recommend making reservations ahead and ask for the table on the patio by the rail. The views are breathtaking.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Taniya Roy C. 2 years ago on Google
    If you are looking for a place with great view and delicious food in La Jolla San Diego, this is the place you must try! We went there yesterday for a lunch date and we loved it. Food was super yum! We have ordered two cocktails, we loved ‘Honi Honi’ it was too good! I have to mention about their “Pork” it was super soft , delicious! We ordered two entrees both of them are good and it comes with salad as a side, I m not a salad person but this is the best salad I have ever had! Service is also very good! We will definitely visit you soon! ❤️
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sergey B. 7 months ago on Google
    If you visit La Jolla, this is a must to visit place. The food was absolutely delicious and the ambiance was great. I had no complaints whatsoever👌 If you are visiting Cali and specifically SD, you probably guess that it's pricey. So, still it's a friendly warning that this is an expensive restaurant.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alex P. 1 year ago on Google
    Amazing views with the food to match. To start my party shared crab wontons and Korean short ribs while sipping perfectly mixed Mai Thais. Everyone loved their entrees. I got a salmon dish that was cooked to perfection, a lite, crispy skin, not burnt, and full of flavor. For dessert, we shared a key lime pie that had a delicious crumble crust and a slice of Hula pie which has a cookie crust and macadamia nut ice cream. 10/10 would definitely recommend.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mark B. 2 years ago on Google
    We ordered off the Restaurant Week menu: the steak and the macadamia crusted fish. Both were excellent. The first course of coconut shrimp was amazing. We really enjoyed the desserts too. We were seated right along the railing, so we had a beautiful ocean view. The vibe is great - lively without being loud. Really enjoyed everything, and our server was great.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rachel G. 3 years ago on Google
    10/10 recommend for ambiance and views. Food and drinks were delish, server was very attentive. Great experience overall.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Frank T. 3 years ago on Google
    UPDATE 11/9/20: Editing my previous review as we just had dinner there again and were blown away by the service we received from our server Brittany. Just super attentive, extremely friendly, and knowledgeable about the dishes. We made some special requests and she accommodated them all. She was just a great representation of the restaurant. Think we're going to ask for her table going forward every time we dine there! Love Duke's LaJolla!! It's a relaxed environment with good food and good service. Very clean establishment including bathrooms which is a big deal to me. I love their spin on drinks such as the mango old fashioned but the real winner for me was their Mai Tai. It's probably the best Mai Tai I've had in San Diego. We just did appetizers and the Hula Pie but all of them were good. The calamari and crab wontons were probably my favorite. Anyway highly recommend this place!!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Bridget H. 3 years ago on Google
    What an amazing view! You really can't beat it. From La Jolla Cove's turquoise waters to the awesome expanse of the ocean over to the cliffs on the north side. I mean wow. The food was delicious, the waiter knowledgeable. The fun tropical drinks were a bit on the pricey side so beware, but beers were very reasonably priced. Definitely recommend this place to tourists and locals alike.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Paul M. 2 years ago on Google
    The restaurant has a beautiful view of the ocean and overall was a nice place to eat. Our waitress was very nice and did fantastic as well. As an app we ordered the coconut shrimp which was a good choice. For dinner we had the ahi steak which was good and not too heavy and fish tacos which were good as well. Highly recommended place to go.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 César Rincón M. 2 years ago on Google
    The waiting time once you're seated is too long. The food isn't as good as it is in some other places that are around here. The place is clean and nice. It's got a nice view to La Jolla cove and beach. 3/5
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Chris C. 2 years ago on Google
    We went for the lunch and I was very satisfied. Really, for the price, the quality of the food and the quantity, it’s a great spot for lunch. Moreover, I made reservations 2 days ahead and that (I think) guaranteed me a spot on the patio with a view of the water. I highly recommend reservations! One other thing - I love that you can pay the bill from the table with Apple Pay!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jacinda C. 2 years ago on Google
    Absolutely stunning. $90 was worth the view alone. A designated space for u to chill on top of the world with family. Drinks look pretty but were watered down. Drink a beer instead. Burger was amazing, prepared to ur liking. Son ordered chicken breast and his younger brothers kids meals were larger portioned. He was upset he didn't order the burger. Order the burger!! Tacos were good. Amazing views. Thanks for seating us right at the tip of the ocean.❤
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 C W. 2 years ago on Google
    Delicious!!! I recommend the lavender colada and the fish tacos! Everything was amazing including the service. I’m my opinion if you get the shrimp, just get the appetizer and a side of the pasta salad. If you get the ribs, as for extra saucy! Delicious flavors, great find! Thank you!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Monalisa K. 2 years ago on Google
    We went here for lunch on a Saturday afternoon. We had reservations for 3pm. This place has a separate Brunch menu for the weekends. The appetisers were really good. We ordered for the fried calamari and the poke tacos. The cocktails were really nice and stiff. The view of the ocean from here beautiful. Overall it was a good experience however they can work a little bit on the service part or probably it was just the server at our table.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 B. L. 2 years ago on Google
    One of the most picturesque restaurants in this part of La Jolla. The view from the tables next to the edge of the glass are well worth a reservation for a date night. That being said, if you want it, either you had best make your reservation for the first seating and be there right as they open. I missed our 11AM brunch reservation by 10 minutes looking for parking, and the 3 tables that had an ideal view were gone. Meal wise, the catch of the day is a pretty solid choice. Crispy, had a mild acidity from the vegetables, just a simple well-executed dish. I'd highly recommend the lavender pina colada, though be warned. It's a deceptively easy-to-drink cocktail and it can hit you after the 3rd one.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Yu-Hsien H. 1 year ago on Google
    Pretty good food here. Especially the appetizers. The fried calamari was extremely well done. Lightly breaded with good seasoning. The strips were nice and meaty. The sauces delicious. The ribs appetizer was very good also. Had a real kick to it, more than expected but very good. I ordered the chicken and rib combo. The rib was good like the appetizers but the chicken on the skewers were just ok. They were grilled and there was some sauce they put on it after it was grilled. The rice was fragrant and cooked perfectly. Over all very good experience.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 CC 1 year ago on Google
    The food is excellent and the views are amazing! We loved everything we had - coconut shrimp, mango bbq chicken salad, pulled pork sandwich and fish and chips. The pulled pork and fish and chips were SO good. Only con was the service, it look a long time to get the bill and cocktails weren’t brought until we had nearly finished entrees. We’ll still be back because the food is so worth it!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sheesh S. 1 year ago on Google
    Duke's is the place where you always say "it looks really expensive" and hope to go one day. If you are wondering if you should go I would say YES. Yes the food is on the pricier end compared to your mid level eateries but the quality is something you can taste in every dish. Phenomenal calamari, mussels in coconut curry and seared tuna. GO DURING THE SUNSET. If you go at night you won't get the view and might think the food is not worth it. Even if you end up going at night they have many heaters. ASK FOR TYLER, great guy with so much fun energy. If you want a server that cracks jokes and just seems like he enjoys doing his job ask for Tyler. Man took our orders and didn't miss a beat! Small notes, just for those who say I only do nice reviews.... Add egg whites to the whiskey sour and use large ice cubes for the featured old fashion. Personally idgaf, I go for the drinks, the good food, and good vibes as should anyone!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Joe K. 9 months ago on Google
    Wow, having spent 10 days in SD we found La Jolla cove and Dukes on our last day... It is safe to say it was so good we are already planning our next trip from Scotland to San Diego! The food here was incredible, in a very cool restaurant, with great views... And it was phenomenal value compared to other restaurants in San Diego. It was all fresh and super tasty. We had the hurricane chicken, the burger, and the pulled pork and they were all superb. If your are anywhere near La Jolla... Don't miss Dukes! You may have to wait for a table, but it is most definitely worth the wait. Shout out to Claire who was our brilliant server on the day!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 mario b. 9 months ago on Google
    WOW, the food was amazing. Really good food. Staff was really nice and recommended dishes. Highly recommend making reservations and request a table on the patio by the glass ledge with the ocean view! Recommend calamari and crab wontons. Parking is located next to the restaurant. It’s $40 to park your vehicle. Get there early parking is limited.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Anthony S. 4 years ago on Google
    We were greeted by friendly hostesses. We wanted to sit outside and be able to see the views, so we had to wait 5 minutes. The views are so beautiful. We ordered the crab and shrimp salad, and it was very delicious and had a lot of flavor. Service was good also.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Iven Y. 2 years ago on Google
    Nice food, great view and service! Poke tacos are really special and flavorful, Nachos is tasty as well. Waiter is super kind and funny. The only thing that might stop me from coming back is the smell, however it’s not from the restaurant itself but from the street, if they can solve it, it would be a perfect place to chill.

  • 5/5 Nicole 2 years ago on Google
    The food here was amazing and the service is great. I ordered the Seafood Hot Pot and it was delicious and flavorful. We had a stunning view from our table of the coast. Make sure to make reservations well ahead of time!

  • 5/5 regina f. 3 years ago on Google
    Such great service view and food

  • 5/5 Adrian A. 2 years ago on Google
    Absolutely all the food was fantastic! Probably the best tasting Nachos I've ever had. The Poke tacos were to die for and the Ribs & Chicken dish was delicious. All accompanied by a well made Mai Tai and finished with a scrumptious Hula Pie! Can't recommend this place more. I don't usually give 5 stars, but Duke's definitely deserves them!

  • 5/5 Master S. 3 years ago on Google
    Duke's in La Jolla was a wonderful experience! The view of the ocean with Torrey Pines in the distance is gorgeous! We enjoyed seeing the people swimming and paddling canoes. The food was outstanding! The most delicious Hawaiian food I have ever tasted. The drinks where very well crafted. The portion size on a few drinks were dainty. That said we had 2 each. When we can, we will be going back for sunset dinner

  • 5/5 Freddy B. 3 years ago on Google
    After an amazing day walking around and enjoying the scenery to stop in and have some great food highly recommended

  • 5/5 Emiliano R. 3 years ago on Google
    I visited La Jolla for several days to getaway with my sons. We all wanted a local seafood spot nearby. Several friends that lived in the area advised us against this place, but after reading a bunch of reviews we decided to give it a try anyway. We got a fantastic rooftop table, and everyone's meals were fabulous! Great service and reasonably priced too. I'll go again next time we're there.

  • 5/5 Hristo B. 2 years ago on Google
    Wow, they have exceeded my expectations! I am so glad I picked this place! Food was fresh and tasty. Portions are not huge as other places but I'd say they are the right size and prices are decent too. Atmosphere is great - we got an ocean view table just out of luck but we did have to wait 15-20 mins for brunch even with reservation which was not great but it was worth it. I'm definitely coming back!

  • 5/5 Evan T. 3 years ago on Google
    Love the food. Defiantly one of our favorite spots in sd.

  • 2/5 Stav A. 3 years ago on Google
    Very low-quality food with a nice location/view/decor. Pretty pricey for what you’re getting, most of the menu is deep-fried. I didn't take any photos cuz it wasn't worth taking, but everything was way too fried/burn/dry (even the mahi-mahi was overcooked) or they just didn't change the oil for a while...bottom line not a restaurant I’ll consider coming back to or craving for.

  • 4/5 MC M. 3 years ago on Google
    Mai Tai was yummy but so tiny and not very strong. Portions are very small and kind of basic. My salad was meh especially for the pricepoint. My husband has some ribs that had great flavor, very yummy. I gotta say I prefer George's by far!

  • 5/5 Ivan D. 3 years ago on Google
    For being first timers the food was absolutely tasteful and a welcoming environment from all the staff. A very nice place to come and have a brunch with the wifey 😊 on her special day. Thank you Duke's.

  • 4/5 Phil L. 3 years ago on Google
    Only four stars. I really want to like this place, but it just doesn't do it for me and I don't know why. Staff is always knowledgeable, food is good. The specialty drinks tend toward the sweet, so be sure to ask before ordering if you are into that kind of thing. Fantastic tour of the history of surfing.

  • 5/5 Punit D. 3 years ago on Google
    A perfect place for lunch after spending half a day at La Jolla. We found this place from Yelp where it is rated 5 stars. This place has a deck with stunning view of the ocean. It's well shaded to keep you from the scorching heat and is very airy. We ordered Drake's beer and Drake's mai Tai. Both were good. Had veggie burger and loaded nachos. Tasted yummy. One of the best buffets we had in town. Special thanks to Shannon who waited on us and was playful with our 4 year old. If we go to La Jolla, we will definitely lunch there again.

  • 5/5 Harald E. 3 years ago on Google
    Great food and excellent Service.

  • 5/5 Emily R. 2 years ago on Google
    Absolutely fantastic experience at Duke’s. We celebrated our anniversary here and they gave us complimentary dessert which was such an unexpected and wonderful surprise. The food was phenomenal. We especially enjoyed the avocado toast and coconut shrimp. The atmosphere and service were top notch. We’ll be back.

  • 1/5 Marlene E. 1 year ago on Google
    The food was Overrated and Overpriced. Don't believe the hype about this place!!! I've had better fish tacos at Rubio's, which is fast food. The wait time from when we ordered until our food arrived was very long. We were seated inside, which was fine. There were plenty of tables inside so the place was not busy. The service was terrible. We had to ask to refill our water and drinks as the server passed by. When the food finally arrived, only half of our party received their plates. The other half had to wait another 15 minutes, which we had to inquire about because the server ignored us. As half the people at our table were just about finished with their food, the other half finally received their food, which was COLD. We had to help ourselves to the table condiments because the service was so bad.

  • 5/5 Sara S. 3 years ago on Google
    During our honeymoon, we went here for dinner right before sunset. They sat us on the first floor outdoor patio to overlook the ocean. Loved our Hawaiian cocktails and even more our entrees. They surprised us with Hula Pie, which was such a sweet touch! Loved every moment at Duke's and thankful for the many recommendations. Well worth the visit!

  • 4/5 Rachit G. 3 years ago on Google
    We did a Saturday brunch here. The vibe was great and we definitely enjoyed it overall. However, menu options were very limited. I was hoping for a better selection of 'brunchy' options and better cocktails.

  • 4/5 Nicole W. 5 months ago on Google
    Casual, good food, nice atmosphere with amazing waitstaff. You can’t go wrong here. If you are looking for a casual good time with good food and drinks this is your spot! If you like calamari I highly recommend theirs and also the hummus. My two favorite appetizers. Lots of good main course options also and don’t forget dessert - they typically have key lime pie also but it’s the Hola pie for me every time!

  • 5/5 Angel T. 6 months ago on Google
    Duke's restaurant in La Jolla is a must-visit in San Diego. The combination of delectable food and breathtaking views makes it a standout spot. I highly recommend trying the Hula Pie for dessert – an absolute delight that will leave you thanking me later. Overall, a fantastic dining experience deserving of five stars.

  • 5/5 Shawn De S. 3 years ago on Google
    Well, if you have ever been to a Duke's in Hawaii, then you'll look for any excuse to recreate that feeling back here at home. The great town of La Jolla already has those island vibes. Duke's La Jolla will make you miss the islands as well as make you feel like your back there all at the same time. Stop in and enjoy one of their signature cocktails.. Aloha! 🤙🏼

  • 5/5 Chris A. 9 months ago on Google
    Cool place with a great view. Menu was very focused and everything looked delicious. Honestly very difficult to pick. Everyone was pleased with their lunch. They do have a kids menu to keep the little ones happy. Our picky 7 year old was very happy. Beer list was excellent. All local offerings. Service was also excellent. Waiter was very nice and attentive.

  • 4/5 Michele G. 3 years ago on Google
    Right on the coast with an outdoor roof top. So nice to be able to see the water and enjoy the food. Loved their salad with grapefruit and shrimp. Had an amazing dressing. Overall a nice quick place

  • 5/5 F'burg F. 7 months ago on Google
    The last time we went to a Duke’s was in Waikiki back in 2009 and it was great! We recall enjoying amazing local fish, so when booking a trip to LaJolla, we reserved lunch here, hoping for some great fish again! When making the reservation, I requested the patio, overlooking the ocean and the staff didn’t disappoint when we got there… the views were beautiful on the sunny day we visited for lunch! The place quickly packs up and the deck is the first to get booked, so make reservations! (Don’t be like these two young girls we watched move from the back to the rail area to have the best view, when they didn’t reserved it and then argue with staff when they got caught… the actually argued in front of the customers who were about to be seated there as they stood there refusing to move! RIDICULOUS!) The menu for lunch is nice… they offer normal seafood dishes you’d expect, plus many Hawaiian dishes, which all sounded so great, it was hard to decide. We opted for their grilled swordfish and fish tacos. The swordfish was perfectly prepared (tho the sauce was slightly salty) and the pasta salad that came with it was great! The tacos were mahi and they tasted soooo good! Nice, fresh fish with an amazing slaw – yum! Our drink simply consisted of their ice tea, which they put a hint of mashed passion fruit in and it tasted sooo good! Clarissa was our server and she was attentive, friendly, and helpful! Definitely would suggest coming here! But please make reservations!

  • 5/5 Scot M. 7 months ago on Google
    This was my first time at this Dukes. I’ve ate at a different restaurant in Hawaii. It’s been quite a while since I’ve taken one in, but they did not disappoint. I went with the fish and chips, others had the macadamia nut hummus, and the Kalua pork sandwich. Everybody really loved their meals, the waiter was very good and attentive. We sat inside, but the popular places to be outside where you’re next to the water you may need to make reservations for that.

  • 4/5 Matthew C. 3 years ago on Google
    Great deck overlooking the ocean. We just had a drink and dessert. Jennifer our server was great. The Hula pie was delicious

  • 5/5 Aria F. 3 years ago on Google
    Food is amazing, service is stellar, and the environment is very comfortable. Great view (when it’s daytime) and sufficient heating to keep warm when it’s cold out. Went once for breakfast and once for dinner, both great experiences!

  • 5/5 Tanica V. 3 years ago on Google
    Amazing view, delicious food, great service. We enjoyed our visit.

  • 5/5 Vivi G. 3 years ago on Google
    Wonderful view!

  • 4/5 John M. 3 years ago on Google
    Great views from outside decks. La jolla cove is below and a further view is all the way up the coast almost to Orange county on a clear day! Fish tacos with chips is a great way to enjoy this place. Also lots of surfboards in the entrance to show the old style of early surfing. Parking is underground right next to the entrance. Worth a visit!

  • 5/5 Lateasha D. 3 years ago on Google
    Five thumbs up great view ,great food. Amazing service. No hassel about my service animals. I love this place a must go!!!

  • 5/5 Sarah B. 3 years ago on Google
    The boy's choice for his 15th Birthday dinner.Very nice.

  • 5/5 Aida O. 3 years ago on Google
    Our server was a delight!

  • 5/5 Vanessa V. 3 years ago on Google
    Such a wonderful seaside oasis. Everyone who worked here was so friendly and made the experience great.

  • 5/5 Robert O. 3 years ago on Google
    Very yum

  • 5/5 Bryce F. 3 years ago on Google
    Similar to the Maui location, this restaurant has wonderful food offerings with an incredible ocean view. The servers are attentive and high caliber; as good as the view.

  • 1/5 Duplantier C. 3 years ago on Google
    Hostess are rude and the food is not authentic hawaiian. This food is similar to Marriot resort style food. Anyone who has lived lives or been to Hawaii knows that the food in Hawaii is flavorless and includes spam And rice with almost everything, at times mango and pineapple. Hawaiian hostess are happy and pleased to have you and treat you like Ohana. Dukes - La Jolla is rude and terribly expensive even turtle bay resorts has better food.

  • 4/5 JOE A. 3 years ago on Google
    Great food

  • 5/5 Rachel G. 3 years ago on Google
    The food was fabulous

  • 5/5 Kiara F. 3 years ago on Google
    Delicious food with an amazing view! Dinner was so good and the heaters made it very comfortable outside. The waiter was so friendly and personable, and was super helpful in answering questions about the meal, and I would definitely recommend going here. It was so good that we went for breakfast the next day!

  • 4/5 William P. 3 years ago on Google
    Delicious food and great service

  • 5/5 Michael M. 3 years ago on Google
    Special occasion dining.

  • 5/5 A M. 3 years ago on Google
    Amazing view, food and service. If in the area you cannot miss this place.

  • 5/5 Leedor H. 3 years ago on Google
    Delicious gluten free Fish Tacos, lovely view too!

  • 5/5 Marcos 3 years ago on Google
    Wonderful restaurant! Good food, reasonable prices and beautiful view.

  • 5/5 Heidi B. 3 years ago on Google
    Amazing food and service! Yummy Mai Tai and delicious Hula Pie!

  • 5/5 Matt L. 3 years ago on Google
    Great dish...Swordfish was amazing and fresh with no fishy taste

  • 5/5 Ryan C. 3 years ago on Google
    Highly recommended as the atmosphere, you will feel and welcome you! Also, the crab cake has excellent texture and zest.

  • 5/5 Adam I. 3 years ago on Google
    Brittany was the best server! So nice and accommodating. Highly recommend the hula pie

  • 5/5 Guy K. 3 years ago on Google
    They offer a large range of delicious food. I loved eating here. Employees are always very friendly, prices are convenient and the place is always well organised.

  • 4/5 Gloria L. 3 years ago on Google
    We had a great time celebrating our daughters birthday! Had great service and food.

  • 5/5 rodnesha h. 3 years ago on Google
    Customer service was great and the food was even better! Fish tacos, coconut shrimp, black bean nachos and wine for the win!

  • 5/5 Dave M. 3 years ago on Google
    Great food and service

  • 5/5 Holly D. 3 years ago on Google
    This Duke's location is so nice. The service is wonderful and the atmosphere is on point.


Call (858) 454-5888 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Parking
    • ✓️ Free street parking
    • ✓️ Paid parking garage
  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Coffee
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Hard liquor
    • ✓️ Comfort food
    • ✓️ Small plates
    • ✓️ Happy hour food
    • ✓️ Healthy options
    • ✓️ Late-night food
    • ✓️ Happy hour drinks
  • Popular for
    • ✓️ Lunch
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Breakfast
    • ✓️ Solo dining
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible seating
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible restroom
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Lunch
    • ✓️ Brunch
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Dessert
    • ✓️ Seating
    • ✓️ Breakfast
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✓️ Takeout
    • ✓️ Delivery
    • ✓️ Curbside pickup
    • ✓️ Outdoor seating
    • ✓️ No-contact delivery

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