Summer of Steak: Inside Le Coq, San Diego’s Hottest New Steakhouse

As the summer sun beats down on San Diego, a new wave of French-inspired cuisine is about to take the city by storm. Le Coq, the latest venture from James Beard Award finalist Tara Monsod, promises to bring a taste of Paris to the West Coast. This weekend, the highly-anticipated steakhouse will open its doors, offering a unique blend of classic French flavors and modern California twists.

Summer vibes

Monsod’s menu is a love letter to the City of Light, with dishes like chicken-liver mousse, steak au poivre, and roast chicken making an appearance. But it’s not just about tradition – the chef has also drawn inspiration from her time cooking in Paris, where she learned about the city’s bistronomy movement and its creative twists on classic cuisine. The result is a menu that’s both familiar and innovative, with dishes like duck breast with tamarind puree, kumquat, and chicory, and pork collar served with creamed wakame, pickled mustard seeds, and pork jus.

French flair

Of course, no steakhouse would be complete without an impressive beef program, and Le Coq delivers. From filet to dry-aged ribeye, the options are endless. And to wash it all down? A wine list that leans heavily on France and California, with cocktails divided into three sections: Refreshing, Spirit-Forward, and Spirit-Free.

Wine o’clock

The space itself is a masterclass in blending old and new, with original touches from the 1930s building combined with 1970s supper-club vibes. It’s the perfect setting for a night out in San Diego, whether you’re a foodie, a Francophile, or just looking for a new adventure.

Supper club vibes

So what are you waiting for? Book your table at Le Coq and get ready to experience the best of French cuisine, California-style.