Claiming "Seafood is Our Passion," and specializing in what Chef Chris Idso calls Creative Coastal Cuisine, Pacifica Del Mar has occupied its striking location at the edge of the Del Mar Plaza ever since the mall first opened nearly twenty years ago. Pacifica Del Mar offers an expansive selection of fresh fish, steak, and pasta, garnished with mouth-watering views of the Pacific Ocean.

Some of the tantalizing dinner starters include the Curried Chicken Sataya with spicy peanut sauce glaze, Steamed Easter Mussels, and Takoshimi of Peppered Ahi with Chinese salsa, sushi rice, and Napa cabbage. Entrees, which range in price from $23-35, include the Pan Roast Free Range Chicken Breast, the Lemongrass Seared Ahi, and Filet Mignon, with broccolini, potato-white cheddar gratin, and Zinfandel sauce.

For dessert, choose from Mango Sorbet, Roasted Berry Parfait, or a classic Chocolate Cake with ice cream. Consider, too, the restaurant's original recipe for Pacifica's Burnt Cream, which can be topped with caramelized bananas. There is also a menu where "beginning diners" (those under 14) can choose from a Cheeseburger, a Cheese Quesadilla, Cheese Pizza, or ABC Pasta, a fool-proof blend of angel hair pasta, butter, cheese, and "never any green stuff."

If you're looking for a memorable San Diego dining experience on the North County coast, you won't be disappointed with Pacifica Del Mar. We especially recommend dining at Pacifica Del Mar after a day at the 2008 San Diego Fair, or the upcoming 2008 Del Mar Racetrack season.

Insider Tip: For casual, yet stylish outdoor dining, visit the Pacifica Breeze Café, which sits adjacent to the main restaurant. Enjoy a simple breakfast, have a light lunch, or sip an espresso in this laid back, open-air patio that overlooks the Village of Old Del Mar.