Del Mar has its share of dining staples — Americana, The Fish Market, Red Tracton's, Market, Pamplemousse, and the list goes on — but we set out to highlight what's new (or newsworthy at some tried and trues.)   MIA STEFANKO

1 Owners Jenn and Greg Glassman of Zel’s in Del Mar have created a coastal neighborhood restaurant and bar with an open-air patio. Enjoy half-price bottles of wine on Wednesdays, and happy hour nightly from 4-6:30pm. Brunch is also available Saturdays and Sundays. (858/755-0076, www.zelsdelmar.com)

2 “Our happy hour drinks and appetizer menu are really fun to enjoy at our new bar-height gathering tables as well as on our big, comfy lounge couches and indoor and outdoor bar,” notes Shana Adair, who owns Paradise Grille with her husband Conor. “Our beach glass firepit table sits up to 14 guests.” Originally from the wine region of South Africa, Conor, certified as a “world sommelier,” offers a diversified wine list. A unique “wall of scotch” offers over 40 single malts, and a “Scotch Bible” educates guests about the different varieties. (858/350-0808, www.paradisegrille.com)  MARIA DESIDERATA MONTANA

3 Smashburger’s “Pop-up Smashdog Stand” will be set-up during Opening Day on July 20. When the races conclude, grab a quick Smashdog with condiments and a water or soda for $5. Smashchili will be available, too. (858/461-4105, www.smashburger.com)

4 Poseidon has added new flair to the menu with the Couscous and Vegetables Tasting, Thai Stir Fry, and Thai Veggie Wrap — but not to fear, staples like the Pojo Burger and Prawn Martini haven’t gone away. Half-priced wine bottles are offered Tuesdays and Wednesdays with the purchase of an entrée. (858/755-9345, www.poseidonrestaurant.com)

5 Flavor Del Mar has expanded and will offer a wine bar/lounge called Sip at Flavor Del Mar. Executive chef Jason Maitland will cure his own charcuterie and offer a small menu of cheese, cured meats, and other small bites, along with an extensive wine selection, craft beers, and a rotating cocktail menu. Expect it to open the second week of July. (858/755-3663, www.flavordelmar.com)

6 Proprietor Dan Sbicca and chef Bryan Graham have unveiled an entirely new menu at Sbicca. Highlights include the P.E.I Mussels, Maple Jalepeño Glazed Grilled Scottish Salmon, and the Brown Sugar Rubbed Duck Leg Confit. A Bistro Bar Menu is also offered nightly in the bar from 4-6:30pm. (858/481-1001, www.sbiccabistro.com)

7 From the creator of the renowned Dumpling Inn on Convoy, Del Mar Rendezvous features dishes from many regions of China and select Asian countries that utilize prime ingredients. Half-priced bottles of wine are offered Wednesday and Sunday nights. (858/755-2669, www.delmarrendezvous.com)

8 Pacifica Del Mar has introduced the Ocean Bar, an expansion of the existing bar, to offer additional seating and a separate lounge area for drinks and small plates. An international vodka bar boasts more than 100 vodkas, along with a raw bar and hand-crafted cocktails. (858/792-0476, www.pacificadelmar.com)

9 No news is good news — The Brigantine hasn’t changed and will continue to be the hot spot that it’s always been. How can you beat two fish tacos and a cold beverage overlooking the races? (858/481-1166, www.brigantine.com)

10 A San Diego tradition since 1967, Bully’s is known for its award-winning prime rib, fresh seafood, and more. On Sunday Fundays, enjoy $4 Bloody Marys, Margaritas, and Mimosas all day. (858/755-1660, www.bullysdelmar.com)

11 Perched on the sand, Jake’s Del Mar is renowned for its happy hour, offered Monday-Friday from 4-6pm and Saturday from 2:30-4:30pm. Don’t miss Waikiki Wednesdays, when Fish Tacos are $6 and Mai Tais are $4 after 4pm. (858/755-2002, www.jakesdelmar.com)

12 Go back to where it all began. En Fuego, Del Mar’s original restaurant, then known
as La Tienda circa 1930, hosted Del Mar Race Track elites and Hollywood movie stars including Bing Crosby and Pat O’Brien. Today, savor the flavors of the Mexican Riviera, and take advantage of Taco Tuesday and Wine Wednesday specials. (760/792-6551, www.enfuegocantina.signonsandiego.com)

Kitchen 1540 Insider Scoop:
Our sources tell us that the restaurant will close for a few days after July 4th for a facelift. It will reopen to the public on July 16, just in time for Opening Day — and will feature new colors and furniture, as well as a new menu, mixologist, and dining experience. Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better. (858/793-6460, www.laubergedelmar.com)

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