Nestled along the picturesque California coastline, the Turf Club at Del Mar offers more than just thrilling horse races—it presents an exquisite dining experience that perfectly complements the excitement of the track.
The menu at Turf Club Del Mar is thoughtfully curated to satisfy diverse palates, blending classic American fare with elegant, contemporary dishes. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual day out, the culinary offerings here elevate your visit, making it as memorable for your taste buds as for the exhilarating races.
From fresh seafood options to hearty steaks and creative appetizers, the Turf Club menu showcases a commitment to quality and freshness. Each dish is crafted with attention to detail, ensuring that guests savor every bite while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the racecourse.
With diverse beverage selections and tempting desserts, the menu caters to all dining preferences, promising an exceptional experience for guests of all ages.
Del Mar’s Turf Club is not just about food; it’s about creating an ambiance where socializing, fine dining, and the thrill of racing seamlessly blend. Guests can indulge in thoughtfully paired wines, handcrafted cocktails, and premium spirits that complement their meals perfectly.
For those seeking a taste of Southern California’s coastal charm combined with upscale dining, the Turf Club’s menu stands as a shining example.
Appetizers and Small Plates
The Turf Club Del Mar menu begins with a selection of appetizers designed to whet the appetite and encourage sharing. These small plates emphasize fresh ingredients and bold flavors, making them ideal for starting your meal or enjoying alongside a refreshing cocktail.
Guests can expect a variety of choices, from light and crisp salads to rich and savory bites. The emphasis is on balance—combining textures and tastes that intrigue the palate without overwhelming it.
Whether you prefer something light or indulgent, the appetizers offer a perfect introduction to the dining experience.
Popular options include crispy calamari, fresh oysters, and artisan flatbreads, each prepared with a unique twist. The use of seasonal produce and locally sourced seafood highlights the menu’s commitment to freshness and sustainability.
Signature Starters
- Crispy Calamari: Lightly battered and served with a zesty lemon aioli, offering a perfect balance of crunch and tang.
- Del Mar Oysters: Freshly shucked and served on the half shell with house-made mignonette and cocktail sauce.
- Seasonal Flatbread: Featuring locally sourced toppings such as heirloom tomatoes, fresh basil, and burrata cheese.
“The appetizers at Turf Club Del Mar set the tone for an extraordinary meal, combining coastal freshness with sophisticated flavors.” – Culinary Review Magazine
Salads and Lighter Fare
For those seeking a lighter option, the Turf Club offers a variety of salads and small plates that emphasize freshness and vibrant flavors. These dishes are perfect for a midday meal or a refreshing break between races.
Each salad incorporates seasonal vegetables, artisan greens, and house-made dressings crafted to enhance the natural flavors. Options range from classic Caesar to inventive creations featuring unique ingredients like grilled peaches or smoked almonds.
The lighter fare section also includes a selection of sandwiches and wraps, providing satisfying yet health-conscious choices. These dishes maintain the high standard of quality and creative presentation found throughout the menu.
Popular Salad Choices
- Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, parmesan cheese, garlic croutons, and a creamy house-made Caesar dressing.
- Grilled Peach Salad: Mixed greens, grilled peaches, smoked almonds, goat cheese, and a balsamic reduction.
- Harvest Kale Salad: Chopped kale, roasted butternut squash, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and lemon tahini dressing.
| Salad | Calories | Key Ingredients | Price |
| Classic Caesar | 450 | Romaine, Parmesan, Croutons | $14 |
| Grilled Peach | 380 | Greens, Peaches, Almonds, Goat Cheese | $16 |
| Harvest Kale | 420 | Kale, Butternut Squash, Cranberries | $15 |
Main Courses and Entrées
The heart of the Turf Club Del Mar menu lies in its entrée offerings, which showcase a fusion of coastal flavors and classic American dishes. Guests can expect well-executed plates that highlight premium ingredients and expert culinary techniques.
From succulent steaks to fresh fish dishes, the main courses are designed to satisfy both traditional tastes and adventurous palates. The chefs incorporate seasonal elements to ensure each dish reflects the best of what the region has to offer.
Portion sizes are generous, paired with thoughtfully prepared sides that complement the main protein. Whether dining for lunch or dinner, these entrées provide a fulfilling and memorable experience.
Featured Entrées
- Grilled Ribeye Steak: A 12 oz. cut, perfectly charred and served with garlic mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
- Pan-Seared Local Halibut: Fresh halibut filet with a citrus beurre blanc, paired with wild rice and asparagus.
- Roasted Vegetable Risotto: Creamy Arborio rice with seasonal roasted vegetables and parmesan, suitable for vegetarians.
“The main courses at Turf Club Del Mar balance bold flavors with elegant presentation, making each dish a standout.” – San Diego Gourmet
Seafood Specialties
Given its coastal location, the Turf Club menu naturally emphasizes seafood specialties that highlight the freshest catches of the day. These dishes celebrate ocean flavors while incorporating innovative cooking styles.
From delicate ceviches to hearty seafood pastas, the seafood section caters to a variety of tastes. The chefs source fish and shellfish both locally and sustainably, ensuring superior quality and environmental responsibility.
Seafood entrées often feature seasonal sauces, fresh herbs, and complementary sides that enhance the natural flavors without overpowering them.
Top Seafood Picks
- Del Mar Seafood Cioppino: A rich tomato-based stew with clams, mussels, shrimp, and fresh fish, served with crusty bread.
- Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon: Fresh salmon filet marinated in lemon and herbs, accompanied by quinoa and sautéed spinach.
- Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine: Succulent shrimp tossed with linguine in a garlic butter sauce with fresh parsley.
| Dish | Preparation Style | Main Ingredients | Price |
| Seafood Cioppino | Stew | Clams, Mussels, Shrimp, Fish | $28 |
| Lemon Herb Salmon | Grilled | Salmon, Lemon, Herbs | $26 |
| Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine | Sautéed | Shrimp, Linguine, Garlic Butter | $24 |
Steaks and Grill Selections
For guests craving robust flavors and hearty portions, the Turf Club’s steak and grill selections deliver exceptional quality and preparation. These dishes are perfect for meat lovers and those celebrating a special occasion.
The menu offers a variety of cuts, all sourced from reputable suppliers to ensure tenderness and flavor. Grilling techniques are carefully executed to bring out the best characteristics of each cut, whether it’s a ribeye, filet mignon, or New York strip.
Sides and sauces are thoughtfully paired, offering options such as peppercorn sauce, béarnaise, or chimichurri to enhance the meat without overpowering its natural taste.
Grill Highlights
- 12 oz. Ribeye: Marbled and juicy, grilled to perfection and served with garlic mashed potatoes.
- 8 oz. Filet Mignon: Tender and lean, accompanied by grilled asparagus and a red wine reduction.
- New York Strip: Rich flavor with a charred crust, paired with crispy Brussels sprouts and béarnaise sauce.
“Turf Club’s steaks are a testament to premium sourcing and expert grilling, satisfying even the most discerning carnivores.” – Steak Lovers Quarterly
Desserts and Sweet Treats
No meal at the Turf Club Del Mar would be complete without indulging in their range of desserts. This section balances classic favorites with innovative creations, ensuring a sweet finish to your dining experience.
Each dessert is crafted with quality ingredients, often featuring seasonal fruits, rich chocolates, and creamy textures. The menu offers options that appeal to all tastes, from light and fruity to rich and decadent.
Pair your dessert with a coffee, dessert wine, or a crafted cocktail to enhance the flavors and round out the meal beautifully.
Popular Dessert Options
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Warm and gooey with a molten center, served with vanilla bean ice cream.
- Lemon Panna Cotta: Silky smooth with a citrus glaze and fresh berries.
- Seasonal Fruit Tart: Crisp pastry filled with custard and topped with glazed fresh fruit.
| Dessert | Main Ingredients | Calories | Price |
| Chocolate Lava Cake | Chocolate, Butter, Flour, Eggs | 560 | $12 |
| Lemon Panna Cotta | Cream, Lemon, Sugar, Gelatin | 320 | $10 |
| Seasonal Fruit Tart | Pastry, Custard, Fresh Fruit | 400 | $11 |
Beverages and Cocktails
The beverage program at Turf Club Del Mar complements the menu with a diverse selection of wines, beers, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options. Every drink is curated to enhance the dining experience and the lively atmosphere of the racecourse.
The cocktail menu features both classic and contemporary creations, many of which incorporate fresh, local ingredients. The wine list includes regional California wines as well as international selections, providing choices for every preference.
For those who prefer lighter or alcohol-free options, the Turf Club offers specialty mocktails, artisanal sodas, and freshly brewed coffee and tea. This range ensures that every guest finds the perfect pairing for their meal.
Featured Beverages
- Signature Turf Club Mule: A refreshing blend of vodka, ginger beer, and lime, garnished with fresh mint.
- California Chardonnay: Crisp and buttery, pairing beautifully with seafood and chicken dishes.
- Craft Local Beers: Rotating selection from San Diego’s vibrant craft beer scene.
“The thoughtfully crafted cocktails and beverage selections at Turf Club Del Mar are a perfect match for an afternoon of racing and dining.” – Beverage World
Private Dining and Special Events Menu
The Turf Club Del Mar also offers private dining options and special event menus tailored to groups and celebrations. These customizable menus provide an elevated dining experience with personalized attention and exclusive ambiance.
Whether hosting a corporate function, wedding rehearsal dinner, or a social gathering, the Turf Club’s culinary team works closely with guests to create menus that suit dietary preferences and thematic choices.
Private dining spaces provide stunning views of the racecourse and luxurious settings to enhance any occasion. The menu options for these events range from plated meals to buffet-style service, ensuring flexibility and style.
Event Menu Highlights
- Customizable Plated Menus: Multi-course meals with wine pairings tailored to your event’s needs.
- Buffet Selections: Variety of stations featuring fresh salads, main dishes, and desserts.
- Passed Hors d’Oeuvres: Elegant small bites served throughout the event for mingling guests.
| Menu Type | Typical Courses | Price Range |
| Plated Menu | Appetizer, Entrée, Dessert | $60-$85 per person |
| Buffet | Multiple Stations, Salads, Mains, Desserts | $50-$75 per person |
| Hors d’Oeuvres | Passed Small Plates | $35-$50 per person |
“Private dining at the Turf Club marries exceptional cuisine with breathtaking views, creating unforgettable events.” – Event Planner Today
The Turf Club at Del Mar presents a menu that truly captures the essence of Southern California’s coastal culinary scene while maintaining the elegance expected at a premier racing venue. From the first appetizer to the final sip of a crafted cocktail, every element is designed to delight and impress.
The fusion of fresh, local ingredients with expert preparation ensures that each dish is memorable and satisfying.
Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned patron, the Turf Club’s diverse menu offers something for every taste and occasion. The attention to detail, from seasonal specials to thoughtfully paired beverages, reflects a dedication to excellence that sets this dining experience apart.
Embracing both tradition and innovation, the Turf Club Del Mar menu invites guests to indulge, celebrate, and savor the moment in style.
In essence, dining at the Turf Club is more than just a meal—it’s an integral part of the overall Del Mar experience, where food, drink, and the thrill of the races come together in perfect harmony. The menu’s versatility and quality make it a destination in its own right, promising a culinary journey that complements the excitement of the track and the beauty of the coastal setting.
