New Leucadia Restaurants: 4 Spots Worth Your Time in 2026

Leucadia has always had its own personality. Known for its laid-back surf culture, local businesses, and the unofficial motto of “Keep Leucadia Funky,” this stretch of North Coast Highway 101 continues to evolve without losing what makes it special. Over the past year, several notable restaurant concepts have opened their doors, bringing new energy to the community while staying true to the neighborhood’s character.

If you’re new to the 101 corridor, thinking about a move to North County San Diego, or simply a local looking to explore beyond your regular spots, this is the Leucadia list for 2026.

Chick & Hawk (Leucadia Boulevard)

Chick & Hawk (Leucadia Boulevard)
145 Leucadia Blvd | Open Now

The opening that generated the most buzz. Chick & Hawk is the collaboration between skateboarding icon Tony Hawk and Michelin-recognized chef Andrew Bachelier, bringing a unique fast-casual concept to the former Fulano’s location.

The restaurant focuses on elevated fried chicken made with pasture-raised, antibiotic-free chicken and cooked in seed-oil-free fryers. Signature menu items include the popular Birdman sandwich, which has quickly become a local favorite.

Chef Andrew Bachelier brings an impressive culinary background, including time at the three-Michelin-starred Addison, executive chef roles at Campfire and Michelin-starred Jeune et Jolie, and ownership of Atelier Manna, a Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient in Leucadia. The restaurant’s design pays tribute to Southern California surf and skate culture, drawing inspiration from the legendary Del Mar Skate Ranch. Between the food, atmosphere, and creative beverage program, Chick & Hawk has become one of the area’s most talked-about openings.

Leu Leu (Downtown Leucadia)

Leu Leu (Downtown Leucadia)
466 N Coast Hwy 101 | New Chapter in 2026

Originally opening in early 2025 inside a restored 1930s bungalow, Leu Leu has already established itself as one of North County’s most distinctive dining experiences. The restaurant entered a new phase in late 2025 with Michelin-recognized chef Jason Ambacher joining the team.

Previously executive chef at Oceanside’s Dija Mara, a five-time Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient, Ambacher brings a Mediterranean-inspired approach influenced by his Greek heritage and passion for seasonal ingredients, fermentation, and foraging. The intentionally small menu allows each dish to receive careful attention, while the wine program focuses on natural wines sourced from independent producers.

With seating for roughly 65 guests, Leu Leu delivers an intimate dining experience that continues to attract food enthusiasts from across the region.

New Wave Bagel (Downtown Leucadia)

New Wave Bagel (Downtown Leucadia)
312 N Coast Hwy 101 | Open Now

What began as a popular Sunday pop-up has grown into one of Leucadia’s most anticipated permanent additions. Founders Cheryl Storms and Matt Cardwell previously worked at Wayfarer Bread in La Jolla and brought years of baking experience from San Francisco to North County.

Rather than traditional New York-style bagels, New Wave specializes in naturally fermented sourdough bagels, house-made schmears, and bialys, creating a uniquely California approach to classic bakery favorites. The team works closely with local farmers and sources locally caught fish for its smoked fish program, often featuring regional catches such as halibut instead of imported options.

The café also partners with Crossings Coffee, creating a welcoming neighborhood gathering spot for coffee, breakfast, and freshly baked goods. Due to ongoing kitchen expansion, current operations run Thursday through Sunday during morning and early afternoon hours.

Coast Thai-Way (Downtown Leucadia)

Coast Thai-Way (Downtown Leucadia)
698 N Coast Hwy 101 | Soft Launch This Summer

The newest restaurant on the list and one generating considerable local interest. Coast Thai-Way takes over the historic Shatto Building location and marks the second concept from restaurateur Stella Bayphouthongkham, owner of the popular Mekong Cuisine Lao & Thai on Convoy Street.

Inspired by family recipes from Laos, the restaurant blends traditional Lao and Thai flavors with high-quality organic ingredients and locally sourced produce. The menu is expected to feature seafood-forward dishes alongside favorites such as pad thai, curry selections, khao soi, nam khao tod, and Thai-style beef noodle soup.

The beverage program includes natural wines and specialty matcha offerings, paying tribute to the café concept that previously occupied the space. With its unique combination of Southeast Asian flavors and coastal California influences, Coast Thai-Way is positioned to become one of Leucadia’s standout dining destinations.

Looking Just Ahead

Several additional projects are worth keeping an eye on as Leucadia’s dining scene continues to grow.

Encinitas Brewing Company recently received approval to move into the former Islands Restaurant location at 1588 Leucadia Boulevard and is targeting a September 2026 opening. The locally owned concept will combine a brewery, distillery, and restaurant under one roof.

Meanwhile, the team behind Valentina in Leucadia continues expanding with Bodega Vale, a Spanish-inspired tapas and wine bar opening nearby in Solana Beach’s Cedros Design District.

The Map