A number of San Diego’s best restaurants can be found in the charming seaside town of La Jolla — and many with idyllic views. From award-winning fine dining to casual cafes, Thai Bistros to Prime steakhouses, we hope you’ll rediscover an old favorite, or perhaps a new palate pleaser to add to your dining Rolodex.  MIA STEFANKO

1  In an energized setting, Café Japengo showcases award-winning sushi and Asian-fushion creations worthy of celebratory occasions. Specials include happy hour all night on Saturdays, when cocktails are just $5. (858/450-3355, www.cafejapengo.com)

2  Barbarella restaurant is a local’s favorite, and it’s easy to see why — owner Barbara Beltaire loves what she does, and it shows in her delectable cuisine and in the warm environment she’s created. Menu standouts include the French Toast (made with butter brioche), Barbarella Burger, and the Spaghetti con Vongole. There’s even a Doggie Menu for your furry friend. (858/454-7373, www.barbarellarestaurant.com)

3  Celebrating its 20th anniversary, Piatti has long been revered for its inviting charm reminiscent of a traditional Italian trattoria, not to mention its extensive menu crafted by executive chef Pepe Ccapatinta that also offers gluten-free selections. (858/454-1589, www.piatti.com)

4  For 70 years, The Marine Room has offered spectacular panoramas of the Pacific alongside exceptional cuisine. Award-winning chefs Bernard Guillas and Ron Oliver wow guests with creations as memorable as the oceanfront setting. Take advantage High Tide Dinners on August 9-12 and 26-28. (866/644-2351, www.marineroom.com)

5  Celebrating its tenth anniversary this summer, Nine-Ten Restaurant was recognized at the 2011 Gold Medallion Awards ceremony, winning “San Diego’s Best Hotel Fine Dining Restaurant.” Executive chef Jason Knibb notes, “To be singled out by other restaurateurs and chefs in our industry is truly an honor.” (858/964-5400, www.nine-ten.com)

6  Award-winning chef Jean Michel Diot’s Tapenade Restaurant offers a Thursday Cabaret Happy Hour and Bar Menu featuring international jazz entertainment. Sacha Boutros performs August 4, 11, 18, and 25. (858/551-7500, www.tapenaderestaurant.com)

7  Oenophiles rejoice! For two weeks beginning August 6, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar will have the exclusive release (coinciding with the winery release) of Silver Oak Cellars’ 2007 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. (858/535-0078, www.flemingssteakhouse.com)

8  With fresh new décor, Roppongi Restaurant & Sushi Bar has also added a special summer Bikini Menu through the end of August. Full of flavor but light on the carbs, try the Taco Roll (smoked salmon, avocado, smoked tomato, cilantro), Summer Roll (Maine lobster, shiso leaf, cucumber, ginger lime emulsion), and the Grilled White Peaches. (858/551-5252, www.roppongiusa.com)

9  The Steakhouse at Azul boasts sparkling ocean views through floor-to-ceiling windows. Chef Carmine Lopez’s dinner menu features 100 percent USDA Prime steaks and fresh seafood. A casual patio menu also offers “$7 till 7” happy hour specials daily. (858/454-0934, www.brigantine.com)

10  Chedi Thai Bistro takes pride in preparing each dish with health and balance in mind. Executive chef Sutharin Pia Kampuntip, also the  owner and designer (contemporary colored lighting and three pagodas serve as the focal point), shops at specialty markets daily. Try the Mixed Appetizer of shrimp parcels, chicken curry puffs, and vegetable dumplings; any of the many curries; and the Pan Roasted Chilean Seabass, a mouthwatering sensation sautéed with wild mushrooms and kaffir lime soy. A prix-fixe weekday lunch menu costs $9 and includes two appetizers and a main course featuring an array of salads, soups, seafood, wok dishes, spring rolls, and more. (858/551-8424, www.chedithaibistro.com)

11  High atop La Jolla Cove, La Valencia’s Sky Room offers cuisine by executive chef Lance Repp that emphasizes local seafood and fresh seasonal produce. The collection of 1,000+ wines consistently receives the “Best of Award of Excellence” by Wine Spectator. Consider the five-course tasting menu. (858/454-0771, www.lavalencia.com)

12  Eddie V’s Prime Seafood’s newest location is set in the heart of La Jolla on Prospect. Executive chef Bill Greenwood prepares the freshest seafood right off the docks and USDA Prime, center-cut steaks — aged 28 days and broiled to perfection. The V-Lounge offers live music nightly. (858/459-5500, www.eddiev.com)

For more of our La Jolla Feature, visit Entertainment or Exclusive