California English The Realization Of Lifelong Dream For Chef Richard Blais

The opening of California English in Sorrento Mesa is the realization of a lifelong dream for San Diego celebrity chef Richard Blais, and we’re very glad he stuck with it to see it through!

Upon first impression, the location is not an obvious choice for a restaurant like this – it’s located in a Class A Life Science campus in the Sorrento Mesa neighborhood – but they’ve certainly made the most of it.

It’s clear that Chef Blais and his team have put every ounce of love and attention into the details that matter – stunning design, beautiful furniture, and a vibe that perfectly blends traditional English with effortless Southern California cool.

The Menu at California English

The menu includes traditional English dishes with Chef Richard’s ‘California interpretations’ – making things a little lighter and healthier than you’d expect to find in most English restaurants (the mayonnaise in the tartar sauce replaced with avocado, etc.) – we love it!

The California English menu combines traditional English food with California touches.

Brits will feel right at home with Sunday Roast, Yorkshire Pudding, the Scotch Egg, and even a bag of crisps on the menu.

And the Fish & Chips are a must-try according to Chef Blais himself, who proudly proclaims that you won’t find a batter that stays crispier than his, or chips that equal the three-day prep process found at California English (we tried both, and we can’t argue with him!).

Fish & Chips at California English

The bar at California English

No good English restaurant would be complete without stiff gin cocktails to wash down your Fish & Chips, and the bar at California English does not disappoint!

Her Majesty at California English Sorrento Mesa by Richard Blais
‘Her Majesty’ featuring Empress Gin and Craft Tonic

The cocktail menu has enough variety for everyone to enjoy themselves, but it’s the gin-based cocktails that really stand out. They pay homage to the motherland with names like ‘Stiff Upper Lip’, ‘Her Majesty’, and ‘Arsenal’.

Football matches, lawn games, and happy hour

One thing you won’t find at California English is any stiff English attitude! Richard and the team, in addition to serving fantastic food and cocktails, seems truly committed to making California English a fun place to be.

In addition to the quality food and bar service you’d expect from a chef of his status, Richard also wants you to experience the laid back vibe of an English community pub.

So don’t be surprised when California English becomes a go-to destination to watch football (soccer for you Americans!) matches, play lawn games on the gorgeous and expansive front lawn, and enjoy happy hour conversation with friends old and new!

See you there!

California English is open for lunch, dinner, and a daily happy hour from 3-5pm, and is located at 9276 Scranton Road in the Sorrento Mesa neighborhood.

Follow California English on Instagram and Facebook to keep in touch.

See you there!

Share This Post
The Latest
2025 Breeders' Cup World Championships
The 2025 Breeders’ Cup World Championships is set to take over Del Mar Thoroughbred Club from October 31 to November 1, bringing together the world’s...
Dora La Jolla
Dora, a vibrant new Southern Italian restaurant from the husband-and-wife team behind Cori Trattoria, is set to open in La Jolla’s Theater District this fall—and...
Tequila & Taco Music Festival
Get ready to spice things up—the Tequila & Taco Music Festival is bringing the party to Del Mar Fairgrounds! This flavor-packed fest blends everything we...
Feeding San Diego Marketplace
Feeding San Diego’s free grocery store, the Feeding San Diego Marketplace, is making a powerful impact in the local community—quietly becoming one of San Diego’s...
Omni La Costa’s Easter Extravaganza
Spring’s most egg-citing holiday is just around the corner, and Omni La Costa’s Easter Extravaganza is pulling out all the stops. This festive celebration features...
San Diego EarthFest
San Diego EarthFest, the city’s biggest Earth Day bash, is back to take over Balboa Park—a free, all-ages festival celebrating sustainability, community, and the planet...
Recently Featured Restaurants
Dora, a vibrant new Southern Italian restaurant from the husband-and-wife team behind Cori Trattoria, is set to open in La Jolla’s Theater District this fall—and...
There’s a breezy new addition to Little Italy’s dining scene! Brisa, an island vibes and Latin-Japanese fusion restaurant, is now open at the corner of...
Downtown La Mesa has a delicious new addition—Tour de Tapas, a restaurant offering Euro small plates and sips inspired by the culinary traditions of Spain,...
Tajima Crown Point is the latest addition to San Diego’s beloved ramen scene, officially opened on December 14 at 3782 Ingraham Street. Known for its...
Wildland in Carlsbad Village is officially opening its doors, bringing rustic cuisine and coastal-inspired dining to North County. This all-day restaurant, bar, and bakery from...
Aldea in La Jolla, a 2024 runner-up for San Diego Magazine’s “Best New Restaurant,” is setting a new standard for bold Baja-inspired cuisine and elevated...