There’s lots of buzz around Le Coq, which recently opened its doors in La Jolla, California in June 2024. Here’s the scoop if you haven’t yet been.
Le Coq
7837 Herschel Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037
Named for “the rooster,” this modern French eatery is the brainchild of James Beard Award finalist Chef Tara Monsod and Chef Brian Malarkey of the SoCal restaurant group Puffer Malarkey Collective. The new restaurant occupies the former Herringbone space on Herschel Ave, a 1930s-era warehouse that has been transformed into a chic, Parisian-style bistro with a late-night vibe. Très magnifique!
About the Chef, Tara Monsod
At the helm of Le Coq's kitchen is Chef Tara Monsod, a trailblazer in San Diego's culinary scene, best known as the executive chef at upscale Asian fusion restaurant Animae in downtown SD.
In 2024, Monsod became the first San Diego chef to be named a James Beard Award finalist in the Best Chef: California category. As the child of Filipino immigrants, Tara’s innovation in Asian-fusion cuisine has earned her critical acclaim and a devoted following at Animae.
My Picks: What I Love About Le Coq
From the moment I stepped into Le Coq, I was charmed by the restaurant's chic Parisian atmosphere and playful decor. The space effortlessly blends the building's original 1930s touches with a modern, sophisticated vibe.
The menu impressed with a diverse offering of French classics and innovations by Chef Monsod. The staff were attentive, making recommendations and encouraging us to share and explore.
Truthfully, everything looks—and tastes—amazing. You can’t go wrong.
However, you might try the chicken liver mousse, silky-smooth and perfectly accompanied with a dried cherry aigre-doux, caramelized onion salt, and an opal basil amaranth which elevates the dish to unexpected heights. Another standout appetizer is the onion tart, an incredible combination of tender short rib, caramelized onions, and melted Gruyère cheese.
For the main course, you may enjoy the duck breast, beautifully plated with tamarind puree, kumquat, and chicory, cooked to perfection with crisp skin and tender meat. To complement your meal, indulge in the La Melletron cocktail, a refreshing blend of Caribbean rum, limoncello, lemon, and egg. Well-balanced and perfectly suited to the cuisine.
Savoring the experience, I couldn't help but appreciate the quality of the ingredients used. The locally-sourced proteins and farm-fresh produce, demonstrate Le Coq's mission of showcasing California’s bounty. To conclude your evening, you must treat yourself to the pistachio Paris-Brest—light, flaky layers, rich with pistachio cream.
From start to finish, my visit to Le Coq was a delight. The service, atmosphere, and exceptional cuisine have earned a spot as one of my favorite dining destinations in La Jolla.
Chef’s Choice: What to Try at Le Coq
Le Coq's menu is a celebration of French cuisine with a modern twist, showcasing Chef Monsod's global influences and commitment to sourcing local ingredients.
While the offerings are always evolving to incorporate the freshest seasonal produce and the chef's latest creations, the menu provides a tantalizing glimpse into the restaurant's distinctive culinary style.
From the Hors d'Oeuvres section, standout dishes include:
- Local yellowtail with cherry, wasabula, cherry tomato, and shallot jam
- Chicken liver mousse with dried cherry aigre-doux, caramelized onion salt, and opal basil amaranth
- Onion tart with short rib, caramelized onion, and Gruyère
For your main course, Les Plats offers a range of exquisite options:
- Roast chicken with chicken glacé and lemon
- Duck breast with tamarind puree, kumquat, and chicory
- Seared tuna Basquaise with French bread, heirloom tomato, long pepper, and espelette aioli
Meat lovers will appreciate the Grillé section, featuring a variety of premium cuts such as dry-aged ribeye, filet, and a bone-in pork chop from Thompson Heritage Ranch. Elevate your steak with a choice of sauce, like bearnaise or bordelaise, or add shaved Périgord black truffle or Russian Ostera caviar for a truly luxurious experience.
Don't forget to pair your main course with one of the tempting side dishes (Plat D'Accompagnement):
- Mushroom & onions with veal demi and egg yolk
- Creamed wakame with seaweed and onion soubise
- Pomme Darphin with chive
For dessert, try the pistachio Paris-Brest dessert, making it a must-try for those with a sweet tooth.
For lovers of French cuisine and adventurous diners seeking new and exciting tastes, Le Coq promises a memorable evening out. Make your reservations and feel free to share your favorite dish! I’m always eager to hear what you think.
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