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!

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!).

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!

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!