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7 Secrets Of George's At The Cove: An Insider's Look At La Jolla's Iconic Oceanfront Dining

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George's at the Cove in La Jolla, California, remains the undisputed jewel of San Diego's fine dining scene, even as it undergoes a significant facelift to its most famous level. As of late 2024 and heading into 2025, the iconic multi-level restaurant is buzzing with the news of a temporary closure for its Ocean Terrace, signaling a commitment to maintaining its status as a premier destination for breathtaking Pacific Ocean views and award-winning cuisine. This deep dive reveals the current status, the distinct dining experiences, and the culinary vision that has sustained its legacy for over four decades.

The restaurant, a staple on Prospect Street in the heart of La Jolla Village, celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2024, a testament to its enduring quality and the visionary leadership of its founder and culinary team. Guests should be aware of the ongoing, temporary renovation to the beloved rooftop Ocean Terrace, which promises a refreshed, stunning experience upon its reopening, but can still enjoy the sophisticated atmosphere and ocean views from the Level2 dining room.

The Visionaries: Founder George Hauer and Executive Chef Trey Foshee

The enduring success of George's at the Cove is rooted in the partnership between its founder, George Hauer, and its longtime Executive Chef and Partner, Trey Foshee. Their combined vision established a benchmark for coastal California cuisine and hospitality that few have matched.

George Hauer: The Founder’s Legacy

  • Role: Founder and Visionary.
  • Vision: Hauer founded George's at the Cove with the foresight to recognize the boundless potential of the Prospect Street location, transforming it into a three-level dining destination that perfectly pairs world-class food with unparalleled ocean views.
  • Impact: His original concept laid the groundwork for the restaurant to become synonymous with fine dining in San Diego and a celebrated institution in La Jolla.

Chef Trey Foshee: The Culinary Partner

  • Role: Executive Chef and Partner.
  • Origin: Born in Hawaii and raised in Ojai, California.
  • Education: A distinguished graduate of The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in Hyde Park, New York.
  • Culinary Philosophy: Chef Foshee is known for his commitment to sustainable cuisine, utilizing locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that are distinctly Californian—fresh, seasonal, and innovative.
  • Other Ventures: In addition to George's, Chef Foshee is also associated with other successful San Diego-area concepts, including Galaxy Taco and Sandpiper Wood.
  • Awards & Accolades: Under his direction, the restaurant has earned numerous honors, including "Top 25 Southern California" and "Best Vegetarian" from various publications, highlighting the depth of the menu beyond just seafood.

Secret #1: The Ocean Terrace Renovation and Current Status

The most crucial, up-to-the-minute information for any visitor is the status of the famous rooftop level. The casual, open-air Ocean Terrace—known for its spectacular, unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean and La Jolla Cove—is currently undergoing a significant, temporary two-month renovation.

This project is not a closure due to decline, but a major investment to enhance the guest experience. Plans include the installation of a new glass wall and a refreshed floor, ensuring that the views remain the star attraction while providing a modernized, sophisticated setting.

Crucial Update for Visitors: While the Ocean Terrace is temporarily closed, the middle-level Level2 dining room and bar remain fully operational, offering a stylish, sophisticated atmosphere and indoor seating with impressive ocean views.

Secret #2: Decoding the Three Distinct Dining Levels

What sets George's at the Cove apart is its unique three-level structure, each offering a completely different menu, price point, and ambiance. Understanding these three entities is key to having the perfect dining experience, whether you seek fine dining or a casual cocktail.

1. California Modern (The Lower Level)

This is the restaurant’s most intimate and formal space, dedicated to the highest level of fine dining. It is the heart of Chef Trey Foshee’s innovative, seasonal California cuisine. The atmosphere is quiet, romantic, and focused on an exquisite culinary journey, often featuring tasting menus and sophisticated wine pairings. This level is where the restaurant has earned its highest accolades for its "solid food" and inventive preparations.

2. Level2 (The Middle Level)

Level2 is the sophisticated middle ground. It features an open-air balcony and indoor seating, providing excellent views of the Pacific Ocean with a fun, upbeat vibe. The menu is more casual than California Modern but still features refined, high-quality dishes and a dedicated bar program focused on special cocktails. It is an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch or a stylish dinner when the Ocean Terrace is unavailable.

3. The Ocean Terrace (The Top Level)

As noted, this is the most casual and famous level, known for its open-air, rooftop setting and unparalleled views of La Jolla Cove and the marine life below. The menu is simple, focusing on appetizers, light fare, and drinks—the perfect spot for sunset viewing and a relaxed San Diego experience. It is the go-to for tourists and locals seeking the best view with a casual bite.

Secret #3: The Must-Try Dishes for 2025

The menus across all three levels are constantly evolving to reflect the freshest seasonal ingredients, a hallmark of Chef Foshee’s commitment to sustainable cuisine. However, certain dishes or ingredients consistently appear in their seasonal rotation, representing the best of their current offerings.

  • The Ahi Tuna “Taco”: A signature dish often found on the more casual menus (Level2 or Ocean Terrace). This creative take on a taco features beer-battered avocado, jalapeño, cilantro, and black lime, offering a fresh, vibrant taste of coastal California.
  • Bone in Alaskan Halibut: A refined offering typically found on the California Modern menu. It showcases the chef’s mastery of seafood, often paired with seasonal vegetables like artichoke, fennel, cherry tomatoes, and a spicy tomato broth.
  • Wild Isles Salmon: Another staple of the finer dining experience, often served with light, seasonal pairings such as peas and asparagus, emphasizing the natural flavor of the fish.
  • Oysters: Available by the half-dozen, served with classic mignonette and a unique, local twist: bullwhip kelp hot sauce, adding a distinctive San Diego flavor profile.
  • George's Famous Soup: The restaurant is known for its daily or seasonal soup offerings, a comforting classic that has been a favorite for decades.

Secret #4: A Commitment to Sustainable California Cuisine

The term "California cuisine" is often overused, but at George's at the Cove, it is a strict philosophy. Chef Foshee’s focus on sustainable sourcing and local ingredients means the menu is a direct reflection of the best produce, seafood, and meats available in Southern California. The proximity to the Pacific Ocean and local farms allows the kitchen to maintain an exceptional level of freshness, ensuring that every plate tastes of the region. This dedication to sustainability is not just a trend but a core value, contributing to its enduring reputation as an award-winning destination.

Secret #5: The Unmatched La Jolla Cove View

While the food is exceptional, the primary draw for many is the location. Situated on Prospect Street in the heart of La Jolla Village, the restaurant offers arguably the best ocean view dining experience in San Diego. The panoramic vistas span the Pacific Ocean, the rocky coastline, and the famous La Jolla Cove, home to sea lions and kayakers. The sunset view from any of the three levels is a bucket-list experience, making reservations essential, especially for dinner.

Secret #6: Celebrating Four Decades of Excellence

In 2024, George's at the Cove celebrated its 40th anniversary, a monumental milestone in the notoriously volatile restaurant industry. This longevity is a testament to consistency, continuous innovation, and a loyal clientele. The celebration highlights its status as an iconic San Diego landmark, not just a restaurant. Its history is deeply intertwined with the development of La Jolla as a premier coastal destination.

Secret #7: More Than Just Dinner—Private Dining and Events

Beyond the daily dining services, George's at the Cove is a top choice for private events and celebrations. Its multi-level design allows for versatile private dining spaces, accommodating everything from intimate family gatherings to large corporate events. The combination of its reputation, award-winning food, and stunning backdrop makes it a premier venue for weddings, anniversaries, and celebratory chef dinners, further cementing its role as a cultural and culinary hub in Southern California.

7 Secrets of George's at the Cove: An Insider's Look at La Jolla's Iconic Oceanfront Dining
george's at the cove la jolla california
george's at the cove la jolla california

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