On our trip to California, we had to make sure we visited La Jolla, one of our favorite villages in So Cal. There is something about it that just keeps us coming back for more. Everything from the amazing beach views, laid-back feel and of course the famous seals. We love stopping at the historic La Valencia Hotel La Jolla for drinks or lunch overlooking the Pacific Ocean so on this visit we had to stop at The MED for dinner.
The MED La Valencia Hotel La Jolla
La Valencia Hotel La Jolla is a special place for us, having celebrated anniversaries here before, and a place that never gets old but nostalgic instead. The restaurant terrace with iconic views of the Pacific is where we have always enjoyed The MED’s cuisine, but this time it was the classic dining room.
As we entered The MED at La Valencia Hotel La Jolla, our first thought was that of walking into a very inviting great room. The luxurious lounge chairs and sofas make this room so comfortable and with the wood burning fireplace, you almost don’t want to leave. The vibe is a casual elegance that invites you to enjoy your dinner at leisure and in comfort.
This iconic hotel’s restaurant has always had a decidedly Spanish influence but a new team of young chefs brought a fusion twist to the menu. The same traditional dishes are revitalized in a modern “California coastal“ way and it is exciting! Every dish is now ramped up in presentation and flavors including the off the charts Paella and the very decadent surf and turf. This restaurant’s quality includes the uncompromising service of the waiter who’s very detailed knowledge of the chef’s menu made our choices so easy.
The MED’s Exceptional Menu

Baby kale caesar salad

Amuse-Bouche

Kumiai Oyster + Nitro Veuve

STUFFED LEEK + PEA VELOUTE garlic blossom | preserved lemon | morels

KING CRAB + CUCUMBER GAZPACHO preserved lemon | aleppo | avocado

SPANISH OCTOPUS + ROMESCO fava bean | crispy serrano ham | caper parsley relish

Seared Foie Gras + rhubarb water, green strawberry, puffed pastry

Surf + Turf – Wagyu block, Sea Scallops

Sea Bass and Spring Succotash

‘PAELLA’ + SAFFRON CROQUETTE tiger prawn | octopus | mussels | venus clam | crispy prosciutto | sea scallop

Dessert Assortment

Gelato assortment
Visiting La Jolla is special and with places like The MED at La Valencia hotel La Jolla, it becomes a truly memorable experience. Classic dining redefined.
Thank you so much to The MED and Executive Chef Alex Emery, Executive Sous Chef Dana Francisco and their team for making this a memorable dining experience.
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This post is written in partnership with The MED, but as always, opinions are entirely my own. A huge thanks for a wonderful dinner.
Hum JK
Wednesday 18th of April 2018
I love this place!
dianashealthyliving
Wednesday 18th of April 2018
Our favourite spot in La Jolla
Cat Forsley
Wednesday 18th of April 2018
that last photo of you xxxx GORGEOUS and well of it mama xx
dianashealthyliving
Wednesday 18th of April 2018
Thank you girl