J at SkyDeck

Disclaimer I haven’t actually tried it yet, but I just wanted to post some pictures and add this place in Google Map so the world knows this place is opened for business as of August 2021. This place is located inside the Sky Deck. Very nice decor and upscale atmosphere. Due to staff shortage, it’s possible that they (as well as other restaurants in Sky Deck) might be closed temporarily on Mondays. Call ahead just to be sure. I’ll update my review once I try it.

The food was fine, but portions were small in the way that “small things on big plates” is trendy now. I liked being able to see the food being prepared through the windows, but whatever they were doing in there wasn’t quite worth the price or long wait. We had the octopus, which was a little dry; the salmon, which was fine (risotto reminded me of a Trader Joe’s rice blend); and the chicken, which was our favorite. We also had and enjoyed the butter cake. The staff was very friendly. This is still their soft opening, and I wish them the best as they get a little more established!

I had the lamb meatball here a few weeks ago. Most delicious appetizer I’ve had in a long time. Highly recommend trying it.

Absolutely had a blast here! As in its name, you'll find the restaurant in the SkyDeck food hall on the 2nd floor. Go towards the left side and it will be the 2nd restaurant past the street foods. I made a reservation beforehand (available on their website) and was quickly seated. Around 7PM, there were a couple tables available but the restaurant was definitely buzzing on a Friday night. The atmosphere was nice not only because it was in the cool SkyDeck area but the space itself felt distinct and modern. The bottles that lined the ceiling of this space definitely made it feel a bit more apart from the rest. Need to talk about the thing that absolutely won me over which was the service. The waiter was super chill and helpful, but when the wrong dish came out, he cooly told me that it was on the house and the kitchen was able to make the actual dish I ordered super quickly. Really appreciated that and no hassle so kudos to Sean for being awesome. Let's talk food. This place is a mix of New American and Mediterranean. I got to try the following: +J Burger: Pretty solid! The lamb burger didn't taste game-y at all and was really solid. Feta fries were also delicious // couldn't stop eating them when I should! +Center Cut Filet: The best item I had for sure. The filets were juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. The veggies were super delicious and the the potato puree was a nice complement to it all. +Pita: Probably the weakest part of what I ordered. It was warm and not bad. But would have appreciated a side of olive oil or some hummus (or some other dip). They have an extensive wine menu and some beers - believe I got one of the pale ales.

Such a welcoming restaurant with wonderful service! After looking at all the menus at Sky Deck we decided to try J ! The hummus dips were so good and you can get them with veggies or pita. The sous vide lamp chops were incredible and so was the potato puree! Great wine selection as well. Super comfy dining chairs, too :).

Fantastic food and service!

The staff is incredibly helpful and accommodating. Now that they are past the soft opening phase and have expanded their menu, I would highly recommend eating there. The food is delicious. Mary’s chicken, and the salmon entree were incredible. I am not normally a fan of lamb, but their lamb meatball appetizer is a must try!

The food and service are top notch. We've eaten everything on the menu during our multiple visits. So many favorites!! Always fresh and beautifully prepared. Staff is the best ...professional and friendly... Best restaurant in Del Mar!!!

Very good food. In my opinion the best food venue in Sky Deck in Del Mar. Should not be overlooked. S. Gounder MD