Nearly 18 months and one renovation after our previous trip to The Grill at Torrey Pines, the venue still delivers one of the best lunchtime views in town, overlooking the first tee and fairway at Torrey Pines Golf Course. Best enjoyed from the patio, the early fall weather cooperated with clear skies and a slight breeze.

In tribute to the recent passing of The King, all in attendance thought a round of Arnold Palmers to be an appropriate complement to the meal. The Drugstore Style Hamburger, the restaurant’s only burger offering, can be ordered with options of cheese and bacon, and comes standard with mayo, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles.

Working top to bottom, I’d like to first note the bun. It held up well to the heft of the burger, and had a lightly toasted inside, providing a nice crispy element. The toppings were all crisp and fresh, and I found the pickles to be particularly tasty. For those that added bacon, it was found to be crispy and a great addition to the burger (surprise, surprise). Coming to the patty, everyone agreed that there was great flavor, though the cooking temperature was somewhat inconsistent. The mayonnaise kept the burger from being dry, but if you’re not a fan, make sure to ask for it on the side.

While the burger scored high marks, and the Arnold Palmers gave an additional bump, the group found the French fries to be a little on the cold side, and I think I speak for most fry lovers when I say that there is a direct correlation between temperature and tastiness where fries are concerned. The temperature issues with both the fries and the patty resulted in a slight slide to the overall grade for The Grill down to A-/B+, though it’s enough to maintain a spot in our top ten.

If you’re looking for an all-around relaxing and delicious lunch, I heartily recommend The Grill at Torrey Pines.