A.R. Valentien
The restaurant at the Lodge at Torrey Pines is named after a Californian Impressionist known for his ceramics, watercolors, and oil paintings—many of which decorate the restaurant today. Guests can dine inside next to the artwork, or on the back patio, which has unobstructed views of the world-famous Torrey Pines Golf Course and Pacific Ocean in the distance. Executive chef Jeff Jackson's innovative menu changes seasonally, but standout dishes here include the hamachi crudo with radish, horseradish, and Meyer lemon; and the 28-day dry-aged prime New York strip served with caramelized winter vegetables, currants, and bordelaise. There's also an extensive wine selection, as well as live jazz every Wednesday through Friday from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.