Tucked inside the Empress Hotel on Fay Avenue, Manhattan of La Jolla transports diners across the country to a golden era of New York dining. This beloved establishment has anchored the local dining scene since 1986, swapping breezy coastal aesthetics for deep leather booths, polished cherrywood and soft, moody lighting.

As autumn weather brings cooler coastal evenings, this intimate supper club atmosphere becomes a premier choice for dinner in La Jolla. Diners can sink into plush booths, order classic dry martinis and enjoy soulful tunes from the piano lounge. Manhattan of La Jolla delivers a vintage charm that stands apart from typical beachfront spots.

The menu is a celebration of traditional New York Italian steakhouse cuisine. The kitchen prepares USDA Prime steaks, milk-fed veal chops and rich, scratch-made pasta dishes. 

The menu highlights:

• The veal chop Florentina: A Zagat-recognized signature, pan-seared and served with lemon, extra virgin olive oil and garlic..
• Classic eggplant parmigiana: Lightly breaded with mushrooms, topped with cheese and baked in a rich marinara sauce..
• New York style cheesecake: A rich, velvety complement to the classic steakhouse meal.

Who it’s for:
Couples seeking a timeless romantic date night, professionals hosting celebratory dinners and anyone looking for classic live music in The Village of La Jolla.

Good to know:

• Live entertainment: The piano bar hosts live jazz and vocal performers on select evenings, creating an unforgettable backdrop for drinks and dinner.
• Make it a staycation: The restaurant sits directly inside the Empress Hotel, making it an easy addition to our curated collection of La Jolla hotels.
• Daytime stroll: Located on Fay Avenue, Manhattan of La Jolla is a short walk from the afternoon sights at La Jolla Cove and The Village’s luxury boutiques and shops.
• Parking: Fay Avenue offers street parking and hotel valet services are available. Review our La Jolla parking playbook for nearby public garages and stress-free parking options.