The few precious weeks nestled between the end of summer and early autumn are one of the best times to visit Del Mar. This time of year could be considered Del Mar’s real summer—the crowds of tourists have left, and the weather is still amazing. Our seaside neighborhood is still warm and sunny during the day, but it finally starts to cool down at night. These late-summer-early-fall nights offer the perfect temperatures to unwind next to an outdoor fireplace. Even better, most places to sit fireside in Del Mar offer a blissful combination of ocean views and spectacular sunsets, with the sound of crashing waves providing a relaxing soundtrack to your evening. These five restaurants and bars around the Del Mar Village each have their unique atmosphere and character. Whichever you choose, you can expect the charm and warmth that makes our village as inviting as the fire you’re cozying up to.

Enjoy some fire-inspired flavors while sitting at one of Tamarindo Del Mar’s fire pit tables on the lively corner of 15th Street. Let your taste buds blaze with delight as you savor their smoky mezcal margaritas, flame-grilled carne asada tacos, or charred Caesar salad. The ambiance here captures the essence of Del Mar’s seaside charm, blending perfectly with the culinary experience that’s both bold and comforting under the flicker of the firelight.

The fire pits at Hotel Indigo are simply wonderful. Even if you’re not a guest at the hotel, grab a beer or a signature cocktail and some California eats while you lounge around the multiple pits on the outdoor patio. With live, local music on Fridays and Saturdays, sweeping ocean views, and big, comfy couches, this is a place where locals come to hang out—sometimes even with their furry friends in tow, since the patio is dog-friendly. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy a laid-back evening enveloped in warmth and good vibes.

Il Fornaio Del Mar is the place to head for upscale Italian cuisine in a charming and even romantic atmosphere. Once you’re done with dinner, steal a seat at the restaurant’s fireplace table. A different take on fireside dining, Il Fornaio’s setup is a long, ledge-like table that overlooks the ocean. This space not only offers warmth but also provides a dramatic backdrop for an evening of sipping wine or enjoying some dessert. It’s the perfect location for those special nights out, where the ambiance uplifts the dining to something truly memorable.

While technically not an outdoor fireplace, Poseidon does offer visitors the best of both worlds. The restaurant has a beachfront location with a fire pit inside. On nights when it’s particularly chilly, you have the chance to sip your libations by the fire indoors. However, if you prefer to dine al fresco, the tables out on the patio are accompanied by heaters to ensure your comfort. Poseidon blends the beauty of beachside dining with the cozy allure of a fire, making any meal an experience to remember.

Located up on Camino Del Mar, Zel’s Del Mar’s warm, bistro-like setting makes it a neighborhood favorite. Its outdoor dining area features a central fire pit that keeps patrons warm as they dine. With happy hour specials, a seasonal menu, and live music every weekend, it’s a compelling choice for a casual yet enchanting night out during the fall. The inviting flames and the friendly atmosphere make Zel’s a place where moments are made and cherished under the starlit Del Mar sky.

In true California fashion, Del Mar is the place to enjoy a fire and the smell of the sea, without having to endure freezing temperatures. Visit Del Mar now!