San Diego, CA, January 8, 2026
San Diego restaurants Lilo and Lucien have been honored in Robb Report’s 2025 list of the most beautiful new restaurants in America. Lilo secures the fourth spot, while Lucien follows at ninth. Lilo, a Michelin-star establishment, offers an intimate multi-course tasting menu, and Lucien impresses with its fusion of French and Japanese cuisine. This recognition highlights the city’s growing prominence in the culinary landscape.
San Diego’s Lilo and Lucien Voted Among America’s Most Beautiful New Restaurants
San Diego, CA — Two standout restaurants from San Diego County, Lilo in Carlsbad and Lucien in La Jolla, achieved remarkable recognition by securing spots in Robb Report’s 2025 list of the most beautiful new restaurants in the United States. Lilo impressively ranked fourth, while Lucien followed closely at ninth.
Lilo: A Michelin-Starred Culinary Experience
Lilo opened its doors in April 2025, offering patrons an intimate dining experience in a cozy 24-seat setting. This restaurant centers around a unique multi-course tasting menu crafted by Chef Eric Bost and co-owner John Resnick. Within just two months of launching, Lilo earned a Michelin star, marking a significant milestone. Additionally, it was the only restaurant from San Diego featured on The New York Times’ 2025 list highlighting the nation’s 50 best restaurants.
Lucien: A Fusion of French and Japanese Culinary Arts
Lucien, located in the picturesque La Jolla area, commenced operations in July 2025. This 30-seat destination offers a lavish chef’s tasting menu that features over a dozen exquisite courses, all skillfully blending classical French and Japanese culinary techniques. Designed by the noted San Diego architecture firm Tecture, Lucien also boasts a captivating outdoor garden bar and a uniquely styled interior, reminiscent of sea caves, where diners can enjoy their meals nestled in cozy alcoves.
National Recognition for San Diego’s Dining Scene
The acknowledgment of both Lilo and Lucien in Robb Report’s esteemed list underscores San Diego’s ascent in the culinary landscape. Both establishments were among 21 across the nation celebrated for their aesthetic charm and innovative dining experiences, further cementing the city’s reputation as a burgeoning gastronomic hub.
About Robb Report’s ‘Most Beautiful New Restaurants’ List
Robb Report’s annual list is dedicated to honoring new restaurants characterized by exceptional beauty and design, paired with outstanding culinary offerings. In the 2025 edition, restaurants from prominent cities such as Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York City were featured, highlighting the nationwide appreciation for San Diego’s unique dining venues.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the rankings of Lilo and Lucien in Robb Report’s 2025 list?
Lilo is ranked fourth, and Lucien is ranked ninth in Robb Report’s 2025 list of the most beautiful new restaurants in the United States.
When did Lilo and Lucien open?
Lilo opened in April 2025, and Lucien opened in July 2025.
What is the dining experience like at Lilo?
Lilo offers an intimate 24-seat dining experience centered around a multi-course tasting menu.
What is the culinary focus of Lucien?
Lucien presents a chef’s tasting menu with over a dozen courses, blending classical French and Japanese techniques.
How many restaurants were recognized in Robb Report’s 2025 list?
Robb Report’s 2025 list featured 21 establishments nationwide recognized for their aesthetic appeal and innovative dining experiences.
Key Features of Lilo and Lucien
| Feature | Lilo | Lucien |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Carlsbad, CA | La Jolla, CA |
| Opening Date | April 2025 | July 2025 |
| Seating Capacity | 24 seats | 30 seats |
| Michelin Star | Yes | No |
| Chef’s Tasting Menu | Multi-course | Over a dozen courses |
| Design Highlights | Intimate setting | Outdoor garden bar, sea cave-style alcoves |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
