I recently had the pleasure of dining at Claire’s on Cedros in Solana Beach, and I couldn’t wait to share my experience with you all. If you’re looking for a cozy, welcoming spot with fantastic food and impeccable service, Claire’s is the place to be. From the moment I arrived, I knew I was in for a treat.
An Experience Worth the Wait
Claire’s on Cedros is nestled in a charming house, giving it a unique and cozy vibe that’s hard to beat. Whether you prefer indoor or outdoor seating, there’s plenty of space to enjoy your meal comfortably. The outdoor patio is particularly charming, surrounded by lush greenery and offering a perfect spot to soak up the sunny California weather. Inside, the décor is warm and inviting, making you feel right at home. I loved the way the natural light streamed through the windows, creating a bright and cheerful ambiance. It felt like dining at a friend’s house rather than a restaurant.
Despite the restaurant being quite busy, we only had a 20-minute wait to be seated. During this time, we took a short stroll to the Cedros Design District, which is just a stone’s throw away. Browsing through the unique shops and art galleries made the wait feel like part of the adventure. There’s something for everyone in this district, from trendy boutiques to quirky home décor stores. We even peeked into a few art galleries showcasing local artists’ work. Before we knew it, our table was ready.
A Feast for the Senses
Now, let’s talk about the food – the star of the show. Everything we ordered was simply mouthwatering. To start, we ordered the green fiend juice from Raw Juicery. This refreshing blend of cucumber, celery, green apple, kale, spinach, ginger, lemon, and parsley was the perfect way to kick off our meal. It was invigorating and tasted incredibly fresh – a great choice if you’re looking to add a healthy twist to your brunch. The ginger added a nice zing that really woke up my taste buds, making it an excellent palate cleanser before the main courses.
Next up was the seared salmon benedict, which quickly became a favorite. Served on a house-made buttermilk biscuit, this dish featured organic baby spinach and grilled Roma tomatoes, all topped with a luscious bearnaise sauce. The salmon was perfectly seared, and the combination of flavors was divine. It’s a must-try for anyone who enjoys a classic brunch with a gourmet twist. The bearnaise sauce was rich and creamy, complementing the salmon beautifully without overpowering it. Each bite was a tasty blend of textures and flavors.
We also tried Claire’s chicken salad sandwich, which came with crispy sweet potato fries. The sandwich was made with house-made chicken salad, lettuce, tomato, and sprouts, all nestled between slices of rosemary sourdough. The chicken salad was flavorful and well-balanced, and the rosemary sourdough added the perfect hint of herbiness. The sweet potato fries were crispy and delicious, providing a perfect complement to the sandwich. The chicken salad was chunky yet creamy, with just the right amount of seasoning, making each bite a delightful experience.
Speaking of fries, I have to give a special shoutout to the string fries. These thin, crispy fries were absolutely addictive. Perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection, they were a highlight of the meal. If you’re a fry lover, you won’t be disappointed. They were the ideal mix of crispy exterior and tender interior, with a seasoning that made them impossible to stop eating. Honestly, I could have had a whole meal just of these fries.
Impeccable Service
One of the standout aspects of our visit was the impeccable service. Our waitress was exceptionally friendly and knowledgeable, offering great recommendations and making us feel right at home. Despite the restaurant being busy, our food and drinks were served promptly, and we never felt rushed or neglected. It’s clear that the staff at Claire’s take great pride in providing top-notch service. Their attentiveness and genuine care for the diners’ experience added a personal touch that’s rare to find.
The Little Extras Make All the Difference
Claire’s goes above and beyond to make your dining experience special. Not only is the restaurant dog-friendly (they even bring out water for your pup!), but they also surprised us with two delicious cookies when we received our check – free of charge. It’s these little touches that make a big difference and leave a lasting impression. The cookies were soft, chewy – a sweet end to a perfect meal. I also noticed other diners receiving similar thoughtful gestures, which speaks volumes about the restaurant’s commitment to customer satisfaction.
Convenient Accessibility and Parking
Getting to Claire’s on Cedros is a breeze. It’s easily accessible by foot or bike, and if you’re driving, there’s a large parking lot right across the street. No need to stress about finding a spot, which is always a bonus when dining out. The parking lot is spacious, and I appreciated the convenience, especially in a busy area like Solana Beach. The restaurant’s location is perfect for a leisurely meal followed by a day of exploring the nearby shops and beach.
My Final Thoughts
All in all, my visit to Claire’s on Cedros was nothing short of excellent. From the charming atmosphere and incredible food to the friendly service and thoughtful extras, it’s clear why this spot is a local favorite. Whether you’re a Solana Beach resident or just passing through, I highly recommend stopping by for a meal. You won’t be disappointed.
If you’re curious to learn more or plan your visit, check out their website. Trust me, you’ll be planning your next visit before you even leave. So, what are you waiting for? Head to Claire’s on Cedros and treat yourself to a dining experience you won’t soon forget. Happy eating!
