Dija Mara is a Balinese-inspired restaurant and natural wine bar at 232 S Coast Hwy in downtown Oceanside, a few blocks inland from the pier and beach. The kitchen combines Southeast Asian flavors, Western influences and Japanese cooking techniques (Dija Mara), and the restaurant has earned a MICHELIN Guide Bib Gourmand every year from 2021 through 2026 (Instagram). Its name is a Balinese greeting that means “Where have you been?” (Visit Oceanside).
Owner Rob Jones built much of the dining room himself, and the warm wood stands out against the room’s industrial lines (San Diego Magazine). Plates arrive carefully composed, with spice, acidity and char balanced in each dish. The drinks follow the same thinking. A low-ABV cocktail list draws on Southeast Asian ingredients, and the wine list is fully biodynamic and natural. The restaurant recently introduced a new menu (Yelp), so ask your server which dishes they recommend.
Visitor Highlights & Practical Info
Dinner runs Tuesday through Sunday from 5 to 9 p.m., and the restaurant is closed Mondays. The room is small, so reserve ahead for Friday and Saturday nights and during summer beach season. For a quieter date night, book an early weeknight table. Order several plates to share so you can taste more of the menu. Oceanside Transit Center, with Coaster and Amtrak service, is a short walk away. After dinner, you can stroll to the Oceanside Pier at sunset.
