Pacifica Del Mar, the ocean-view restaurant perched above Del Mar Plaza, has started its long goodbye. After nearly four decades of race-week dinners, sunset patio nights and milestone celebrations, the second-floor staple has announced it will close in December. Regulars and staff are already swapping stories and plotting final visits while the dining room carries on with business as usual.
The looming shutdown was first reported this week by the local television station, which noted that Pacifica will keep serving through December as it winds down nearly four decades of operation. As reported by CBS8, the announcement marks the end of a notably long run for one of Del Mar’s most visible restaurants.
For now, Pacifica’s own site still lists the business at 1555 Camino Del Mar and continues to highlight private-dining options and weekly specials, a sign the team intends to operate normally right up until closing time. According to Pacifica Del Mar, reservations are being accepted for the remainder of the year.
Who Might Move In?
Local reporting points to a national seafood player eyeing the coveted ocean-view perch. SanDiegoVille reports that Water Grill, the King’s Seafood Company brand with a San Diego flagship, is expected to take over the Del Mar Plaza space, although the chain “has not yet publicly announced official plans” for the location. The company already operates a Water Grill in the Gaslamp Quarter, according to Water Grill, which helps explain why Del Mar would be a logical next step.
A Neighborhood Loss
For many locals, Pacifica was where families marked birthdays, racing weekends and quiet date nights, a role reflected in years of reviews and community memories. Diners on reservation platforms have already started leaving farewell messages. One recent reviewer on OpenTable wrote, “Sad to hear it will be closing,” a short line that captures how deeply the spot has been woven into North County routines.
How To Say Goodbye
Pacifica says it will continue operating through December and is taking reservations via its website, so anyone who wants a final meal with that ocean view is encouraged to book ahead, according to Pacifica Del Mar. Local coverage notes that Water Grill and Del Mar Plaza managers have not released firm renovation or opening timelines, so a months-long transition is likely if a national concept does move in, according to SanDiegoVille. As the restaurant winds down, Pacifica is planning to honor longtime staff and loyal customers during its final months of service, according to Pacifica Del Mar, a last salute before the lights go out on one of Del Mar’s most familiar dining rooms.
