Explore Like a Local: Ingrid Funes’ Guide to Eating & Adventuring Like a Chef in La Jolla Village
The Neighborhood
La Jolla is a quaint (and very posh) village nestled on a striking stretch of San Diego coastline. Its location and setting make it the perfect place to enjoy outdoor activities, luxury shopping, art gallery and museum hopping, and of course, great dining. Despite the fact that it is a major tourist destination, the area maintains a strong sense of community, which adds to the exclusive charm.
The Local
My name is Ingrid Funes, and I’m the Executive Chef of Cusp Dining & Drinks –a gorgeous ocean view restaurant at the top of Hotel La Jolla.
My kitchen is perfectly perched between La Jolla Shores and The Village, giving our guests views and access to the best of both areas. We serve modern coastal cuisine, focusing on local seafood and meats that highlight San Diego’s seasons.
It’s an incredible feeling knowing I get to wake up every day and do what I love in a neighborhood that has so much to offer.
Ingrid’s Chef’s Day Off Tour of La Jolla Village
Daily Brunch at Whisknladle
1044 Wall Street
whisknladle.com
They have been a La Jolla staple for over 10 years and offer hyper seasonal menus. It’s a real neighborhood spot.
My favorite dish is their brunch chilaquiles, which is served daily. It’s excellent.
Taco Takeovers at Galaxy Tacos
2259 Avenida De La Playa
galaxytaco.com
I love this place for their food, but also because they show such comradery within the culinary community. They host Taco Takeovers where they pit their chef against others, including myself. It’s fun and a great way to connect to the neighborhood.
Dessert Anytime at Michele Coulon Dessertier
7556 Fay Avenue
dessertier.com
You can’t come to La Jolla and not go here. The phrase “save room for dessert” must have been started because of their Gateau Aileen, a hot milk sponge cake filled with buttercream, blackberries, raspberries, strawberries and blueberries. It’s amazing.
People Watching at Sugar & Scribe
7660 Fay Avenue
sugarandscribe.com
This cute café is the perfect place to grab a fresh pastry – or two. It’s great for a casual al fresco lunch, and also for beautiful special occasion cakes.
I love that they have a large outdoor patio, which is perfect for people watching.
Kayaking with Everyday California
2261 Avenida De La Playa
everydaycalifornia.com
Between meals, there is nothing better than exploring La Jolla Shores via kayak.
The calm, clear water is ideal aquatic adventures. Hotel La Jolla often partners with the team at Everyday California, who host multiple daily water excursions. It’s my number one, not-to-miss La Jolla activity.