If you’re searching for a friendly Italian restaurant in Del Mar, Aqua Mare Cucina Italiana & Cocktails offers a welcoming spot where guests enjoy classic Italian flavors, relaxing lagoon views, and a lively crowd. Located at 2282 Carmel Valley Rd, Del Mar, CA 92014, Aqua Mare is open daily from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM, making it convenient for both early diners and those who love a slower evening. Call (858) 755-7100 for reservations or event inquiries.
Atmosphere and Setting
The atmosphere at Aqua Mare is relaxed but vibrant, blending a cozy indoor dining space with a waterfront patio—perfect for sunset dinners or a casual cocktail. The restaurant identifies as women-owned and welcomes every kind of guest, from families and couples to solo diners and dog lovers. Kids have their own menu and there are high chairs for little ones. Aqua Mare is also dog-friendly, both indoors and on the patio, so you can bring your furry companion along for dinner. Free parking and wheelchair accessibility add to the convenience.
Menu Highlights
The menu at Aqua Mare is all about fresh, flavorful Italian food. Classics like lasagna, Bolognese, and pasta with wild boar ragu satisfy those looking for hearty dishes. Fans of seafood will appreciate the Cioppino, which mixes shrimp, clams, mussels, sea bass, and calamari in a savory broth. There are lighter salad options like the Aqua Mare Salad (with pears, grapes, walnuts, and gorgonzola in strawberry dressing) and the Del Mar Salad (baby spinach, beets, apples, goat cheese, and red onions in balsamic vinaigrette).
Appetizers include fresh oysters, fried calamari, burrata with heirloom tomatoes, Roman-style artichokes, and eggplant parmigiana—all made to share. Vegetarian choices and healthy options are plentiful. If you’re in the mood for something special, check for their seasonal seafood mains like branzino and mixed seafood grills.
Drinks and Happy Hour
The bar team keeps things lively with Italian cocktails, house-specialty drinks, draft beer, and a solid wine list. Every day between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM is Happy Hour (in the bar area), with deals on oysters ($2.50 each), cocktails, house wines, and popular bites like calamari and burrata. Monday nights stand out with no corkage fee, great for wine lovers who want to bring their own bottle.
Private Events and Catering
Aqua Mare is popular for private celebrations and business events. They offer flexible spaces indoors and outside to host birthdays, anniversaries, or office gatherings. The restaurant also features catering for off-site needs—perfect if you want to treat your guests to Italian cooking at home or at a special venue.
Accessibility, Service, and Community Feel
Aqua Mare prides itself on friendly service and an approachable staff. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible (including bathrooms and seating), accepts credit cards and mobile payments, and has plenty of seating for groups. Reservations are recommended for dinner, though walk-ins are welcome if space allows. Aqua Mare supports a family-friendly atmosphere and is known for its welcoming attitude to all guests, including tourists and group dinners.
Why Aqua Mare Stands Out
-
– Relaxed, friendly atmosphere with lagoon views
-
– Fresh Italian favorites and creative cocktails
-
– Dogs are welcome both inside and outside
-
– Family-friendly features: kids’ menu, high chairs, easy parking
-
– Consistent Happy Hour specials every evening
-
– Flexible for private events and catering
-
– Easy reservations by phone or online
Next time you’re in Del Mar and craving Italian food, Aqua Mare Cucina Italiana & Cocktails is ready to serve you with delicious dishes, beautiful sunset views, and a genuinely inviting vibe.
Source: aquamaredelmar.com
Header Image Source: aquamaredelmar.com
