Manhattan Of La Jolla
Experience old New York charm with live jazz, classic Italian dishes, and an elegant, romantic ambiance in La Jolla.
Highlights
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Manhattan Of La Jolla
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience old New York charm with live jazz, classic Italian dishes, and an elegant, romantic ambiance in La Jolla.
"A time capsule with fantastic food and live music, perfect for a romantic date night."
Request Dimly Lit Seating
Opt for the dimly lit seating for a more private and intimate dining experience, reminiscent of an East Coast steakhouse.
Experience Live Music
Visit on weekends for live jazz and piano music to enhance the lively bar scene and elegant atmosphere.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Italian
Price
$$$
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Classic Manhattan Ambiance
Step back in time with a swanky, dimly lit setting featuring live piano music and a vintage charm reminiscent of old New York.
Signature Italian Dishes
Indulge in traditional Italian fare, from rich lobster ravioli to flavorful veal chop Fiorentina, prepared with authentic taste.
Tableside Caesar Salad Experience
Enjoy a classic Caesar salad prepared tableside, adding a touch of flair and personal service to your dining experience.
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Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Request Dimly Lit Seating
Opt for the dimly lit seating for a more private and intimate dining experience, reminiscent of an East Coast steakhouse.
Experience Live Music
Visit on weekends for live jazz and piano music to enhance the lively bar scene and elegant atmosphere.
Don't Miss Classic Cocktails
Pair your meal with a classic cocktail, perfectly suited for the swanky, vintage New York-style lounge.
Consider Appetizer Sampler
Try the fried calamari and shrimp scampi appetizers for a delightful start to your meal.
Tips
from all over the internet
Request Dimly Lit Seating
Opt for the dimly lit seating for a more private and intimate dining experience, reminiscent of an East Coast steakhouse.
Experience Live Music
Visit on weekends for live jazz and piano music to enhance the lively bar scene and elegant atmosphere.
Don't Miss Classic Cocktails
Pair your meal with a classic cocktail, perfectly suited for the swanky, vintage New York-style lounge.
Consider Appetizer Sampler
Try the fried calamari and shrimp scampi appetizers for a delightful start to your meal.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Manhattan of La Jolla offers a classic Italian dining experience with a charming vintage ambiance and live music. Diners praise the delicious food, especially the lobster ravioli and tableside Caesar salad, and the romantic atmosphere. However, some reviews mention slow service and that dishes could be served hotter.
"Just walked in and was greeted by live piano music and singing, giving off a classic piano bar vibe. The dark, vintage decor feels straight out of an old-school Manhattan restaurant. Guests were dressed up, making my Crocs feel out of place, but no dress code here!
The food is fantastic and worth the price. The complimentary bread was fresh, and the calamari was one of the best I’ve had, packed with squid heads. We ordered the Manhattan Trio pasta—lobster ravioli was a highlight, and the sauces were so good I wiped them clean with bread. The NY cheesecake was authentic, though I still prefer Yanni’s.
This place is perfect for a romantic date, especially if you appreciate vintage charm. Definitely a hidden gem!"
LULU LIVE Art
"Manhattan's has long been a cherished favorite of ours, a go-to destination for special occasions and hosting out-of-town guests. Last night, we returned to celebrate my bride's birthday, and it was truly a magical evening. The staff greeted us with warmth and friendliness, and the exquisite food never fails to impress. Our waiter was so friendly and quirky, sometimes he got a little busy and we had to ask for him, but nothing that ruined our experience. The enchanting Jazz Band created a captivating atmosphere, perfectly embodying a classic evening of elegance. Manhattan's is truly a place where one dresses up to savor a remarkable meal, making every visit an unforgettable experience."
Thomas J. Nelson, Realtor
"The food was delicious! We came here on a Saturday for dinner and requested to be seated in the bar area. They have a piano player that provided live music around 7pm. This place was bustling after 6pm.
They do not have valet parking but there's public parking across the street for $15.
I ordered the pasta combo for dinner. It came with shrimp scampi (2 big shrimps), lobster ravioli (about 3), and 1 big cannelloni. We also ordered the fried calamari and the shrimp scampi appetizers.
We table side Caesar salad, bananas foster, and cherry jubilee desserts were all delicious and fun. I highly recommended ordering the Caesar salad and Banana Foster.
Service was ok from our waitress. She wasn't very friendly and warm. Service from the young man doing the Caesar salad and desserts was much better. He was very nice."
Sharon B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
The restaurant offers a classic, elegant, and romantic atmosphere reminiscent of an old New York-style piano bar, complete with dim lighting and live music.
Popular dishes include lobster ravioli, veal chop Fiorentina, and the tableside Caesar salad.
Yes, live music, often jazz and piano, is available on weekends, enhancing the dining experience.
Valet parking is not offered. Public parking is available across the street for a fee, or street parking may be an option.
While there's no strict dress code, the elegant ambiance suggests dressing up for a special occasion. Many guests opt for smart attire.
The restaurant is considered upscale, with prices reflecting the fine dining experience and quality of food.
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Step into this swanky New York--style Italian chophouse that takes you back in time with its piano bar, paintings of Sinatra, and dirty martinis to match. The menu is as rich as the atmosphere with the taste of olive oil, garlic, and lemon in every bite. Start with the steamed clams or homemade cannelloni, and move on to the lobster Manhattan over linguine or the charbroiled veal chop Fiorentina.
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The Manhattan of La Jolla lounge at the Empress Hotel embodies the feeling of an old New York nightclub where one might hear jazz classics like Clooney and Martin perform. With a brick interior and snowy white tablecloths, this makes for a great dinner date or just drinks. While you’re there, enjoy live music four evenings a week (Wednesday to Thursday 7 — 10 pm, Friday and Saturday 8 — 11 pm).
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Manhattan of La Jolla is a fine dining New York-style Italian steak and chop house located in the heart of La Jolla at the corner of Fay Avenue and Silverado Street. Add the charm, professional service, Zagat award-winning menu items, plus the classic cocktail bar and live music five nights per week, and you have a must-see on your culinary itinerary.
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Let me start by saying that if you have expensive taste and a longing for a culinary adventure, then Manhattan Of La Jolla is the place for you. Prepare yourself for a dining experience that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight. The moment I stepped into Manhattan Of La Jolla, I was greeted by a warm and welcoming staff.
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You can grab an incredible and elegant meal with a visit to Manhattan of La Jolla. This fine dining establishment features a decadent Italian menu full of traditional dishes along with some unique offerings. Live jazz music is available each week for an elegant ambience like no other.
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Manhattan of La Jolla is off the beaten path from La Jolla cove, but is offers one of the best restaurant bars in the area. The restaurant offers exquisite New York style Italian steak and seafood. The best part of Manhattan of La Jolla is hands down the live jazz music.
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Manhattan of La Jolla Italian steakhouse in the Empress Hotel is a local favorite where Frank Sinatra and friends would feel right at home in its swanky, romantic dining room. Standout dishes include their famous cannelloni, lobster ravioli and New York steak Fiorentina.
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- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (343 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (4.5/5)- Type of cuisine: Italian- Price: $$$$- Address: 7766 Fay Ave Empress Hotel, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037-4309- Read more on Tripadvisor
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– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (343 reviews)– Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (4.5/5)– Type of cuisine: Italian– Price: $$$$– Address: 7766 Fay Ave Empress Hotel, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037-4309– Read more on Tripadvisor
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Jazz lovers and connoisseurs of fine Italian cuisine will feel right at home at Manhattan. Dark wood and exposed brick create an elegant ambiance for enjoying standouts like salmon fiorentina, pollo marsala, and New York pepper steak flambé.
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Cozy up at La Jolla’s New York-style Italian steak and chop house. It’s got the Italian charm and elegant feel that transport you to the romantic side of The Big Apple. The restaurant is in the Empress Hotel in the village of La Jolla.
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Manhattan of La Jolla: A perfect blend of sophistication and charm, this dimly lit lounge sets the mood with soulful jazz tunes and melodious tracks performed by Tad Sisler every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night.
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Dinner at Manhattan of La Jolla has been a favorite for Maxine and Marti time and again. Tucked inside the Empress Hotel, this spot brings a touch of New York’s charm to the heart of La Jolla.
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