LANA — Restaurant in Solana Beach

WOW. Solana Beach just seriously leveled up!

Celebrating mid-century vintage California vibes, Lana is exactly the restaurant North County needed—elevated but chill, stylish but totally unpretentious - the kind of spot that can be enjoyed for a business dinner, date or special occasion!

Here's everything I loved (and definitely recommend sharing everything): Mt. Tam appetizer = perfection. Marin County's Cowgirl Creamery-sourced decadent triple-cream cheese paired with and toasted sourdough bread and wildflower honey served melted like fondue in a small pot. Beef tartare - having recently moved to North County, it's been rare to see beef tartare on a menu - this one hits the spot! The Burger - Snake River Farms Waygu - think dry-aged beef, melty cheese, and house pickles on a perfectly toasted bun. It’s rich, indulgent, and somehow still balanced. Possibly the best burger I’ve had in North County. Roasted chicken - juicy, flavorful and served over a bed of potatoes and wild mushrooms. Flatiron steak - seasoned and cooked to perfection. Signature yellow-tiled pizza oven: Lana showcases the iconic pizza oven to roast and finish many of its dishes, proudly paying homage to California Pizza Kitchen’s 30+ year legacy in Solana Beach. The Cocktails - Brandon Curry is the mixology mastermind behind the bar, and his creations are next-level. Try the Jenneral for refreshing green cocktail blending cilantro, ginger, lime and tequila or mezcal with a subtle kick. Brush with the Devil - tequila, strawberry, Thai Basil, lime. Pony Boy - pink-peppercorn infused gin and cucumber. Brujo Sangre - mezcal, blood orange clove, lime. Alcohol-Free Cocktail Selection -- Well-crafted and extensive selection - huge plus and thoughtful to have this featured. The All-Star team behind Lana: Co-Founder and Sommelier Mark Wheadon (Robert Redford, Ruth Chris, Sundance), Co-Founder and GM Travis LeGrand (Marine Room, Herringbone, Urban Kitchen), Chef David McIntyre (Wolfgang Puck's Cut Steakhouse), Chef de Cuisine Matt Martinez (Cowboy Star), Mixology Mastermind Brandon Curry (Lion's Share), Designer Megan Power (Workind Studio - Malarky's Le Coq, Drew Deckman's...

I recently stumbled upon Lana, the new restaurant in Solana Beach that now occupies the space where California Pizza Kitchen once stood. I was immediately impressed by the stunning interior design and the thoughtfully redesigned patio area. One of my favorite details was that they kept the small open windows into the kitchen, offering a peek into the lively energy of the kitchen staff — it made them feel like part of the dining experience.

I grabbed a seat at the bar and was warmly greeted by Alec and Brandon — two familiar faces I recognized from their days at The Patio in Mission Hills. As we chatted, I discovered that Brandon is now the bar manager, and both he and Alec collaborated to create the entire new cocktail menu. Every drink I tried was exceptionally well-designed and beautifully crafted. My personal favorite was a Mezcal cocktail with bitters — perfectly balanced and full of depth.

To top it off, I treated myself to a slice of their delicate key lime pie. It was handcrafted by their chef using authentic small key limes, and I have to say, it was one of the best key lime pies I’ve ever had — even rivaling the slice I once had in Hawaii!

The wine menu is well-curated, though I noticed it leans heavily toward Napa Valley selections. Personally, I would have loved to see more variety, particularly among the happy hour offerings. That said, I was thrilled to see a wine from Levo Winery in Paso Robles — a standout producer located in Tin City that’s been making waves in recent years.

Overall, Alec’s service was truly above and beyond. His cocktail and wine recommendations were spot on, and he made the entire experience feel special. I’m already looking forward to coming back for...

LANA now open at 437 South Highway 101 in Solana Beach, brings an elevated yet approachable culinary experience inspired by Southern California cuisine. LANA brings coastal elegance, thoughtful cuisine, and a stellar drink program together in a prime Solana Beach location. Brilliantly timed for sunset dining and weekend brunch vibes—definitely a five-star addition to the coast.

Menu Highlights (Sample Dishes) —

While the full menu is still evolving, early reports hint at standout seasonal dishes like: Fresh, regional produce–driven starters—vibrantly fresh, locally sourced ingredients showcasing coastal flavors. Modern entrées with Southern California flair—think Baja-style seafood, coastal-Asian fusion, and creative riffs on comfort classics. Weekend brunch & sunset dinner selections—thoughtfully crafted and perfect for relaxing by the coast.

The design-savvy space, warm hospitality, and local sourcing underscore LANA’s commitment to quality and community.

The Stellar Drink Program —

LANA’s full bar is a central feature, offering: Expertly crafted cocktails—likely incorporating coastal and regional influences (e.g., Baja mezcal, citrus-forward blends). Wine & beer selection—reflecting California and Baja terroirs, ideal for pairing with the menu’s fresh coastal fare. A congenial bar-forward atmosphere, with plush indoor seating and a breezy outdoor patio perfect for enjoying creative...