Culinary Dropout

Culinary Dropout Culinary Dropout is a New American restaurant located on El Camino Real, known for its vibrant atmosphere and engaging offerings. The establishment emphasizes self-care through enjoyable experiences, combining delicious food with live music and local arts. Guests can anticipate a lively environment, especially with the introduction of various cocktails and hearty dishes like the Meatloaf Sloppy Joe. Culinary Dropout also features an ongoing schedule of live music performances, enhancing the dining experience by showcasing local talent.

Recent social media posts

11/10/2026

If you put your mind to it, soup season is year-round.

11/06/2026

Ours is long lunches with good company.🍴Tag your go-to plus-ones.

2 YEARS. 20 LAYERS. 1 LASAGNA. 🍅Every recipe here starts in our kitchen, from a blank page. This one got rewritten more ...
11/05/2026

2 YEARS. 20 LAYERS. 1 LASAGNA. 🍅

Every recipe here starts in our kitchen, from a blank page. This one got rewritten more times than we can count, and today it finally hits the menu.

Fall menu is LIVE. Swipe to the end. You’ve been warned.

Culinary Dropout Ballantyne is officially open. Come say hi. 👋🤘🎸 Two guests even showed up dressed as a chef and a colle...
11/04/2026

Culinary Dropout Ballantyne is officially open. Come say hi. 👋🤘🎸 Two guests even showed up dressed as a chef and a college dropout 👩‍🍳👨‍🎓. We’ve never felt so seen.

10/28/2026

We did our big one 💥
Come check us out Ballantyne 🔜 we open 11/4!

She's thinking about the Pretzels & Fondue 🥨🫕📸:
10/27/2026

She's thinking about the Pretzels & Fondue 🥨🫕

📸:

10/23/2026

Our f/w beverage menu is coming together... and we think you'll like this one. 🙂‍↕️
Après Gotti: pineapple, warm spices, & apricot. Made for after the slopes, after your shift, or just because.
Available 11/5. 📆

10/22/2026

Extra, extra. 📰 N E W M E N U coming right up. We’re excited to introduce new flavors for the season and a few new favorites we think you’ll be ordering on repeat.

Any guesses what this review is about??? 🤔 🦝
10/16/2026

Any guesses what this review is about??? 🤔 🦝

Address

12875 EL CAMINO REAL
San Diego, CA
92130

To reach your destination at El Camino Real in San Diego, you have a couple of options for transportation:

**Driving/Parking:**
1. If you're coming from downtown San Diego, take I-5 North.
2. Merge onto CA-56 East toward Escondido.
3. Take the exit for El Camino Real and turn left at the light.
4. Continue on El Camino Real until you reach your destination.
5. There is parking available on-site; look for designated parking areas.

**Public Transport:**
1. Start by taking the San Diego Trolley (Blue Line) to the Old Town Transit Center.
2. From there, transfer to Bus Route 101 or 105 heading north.
3. Get off at the stop closest to El Camino Real and walk a short distance to your destination.

Make sure to check local transit schedules for the most accurate times and routes!

Opening Hours

Monday 11am - 11pm
Tuesday 11am - 11pm
Wednesday 11am - 11pm
Thursday 11am - 11pm
Friday 11am - 12am
Saturday 10am - 12am
Sunday 10am - 10pm

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What people say

Culinary Dropout on El Camino Real in San Diego is a vibrant destination that perfectly blends delicious food, refreshing drinks, and an inviting atmosphere. The restaurant's playful spirit shines through in its menu offerings and engaging events.

Guests rave about the Meatloaf Sloppy Joe, topped with fontina cheese, crispy onions, and pickles—a true standout that elevates the classic comfort food experience. The cocktails are equally impressive, with a variety of creative concoctions that are hard to resist. It's no wonder patrons find it difficult to stick to "Dry January" when such tempting beverages are on the menu!

The lively ambiance is further enhanced by live music featuring local artists, making every visit feel special. Whether you're stopping by for happy hour or enjoying a leisurely meal with friends, Culinary Dropout promises an unforgettable dining experience filled with flavor and fun.

With its commitment to quality and creativity, Culinary Dropout has carved out a niche as a must-visit spot for anyone looking to indulge in great food and good times in San Diego.

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