From there, wood-fired and grilled dishes take center stage. Grilled tiger prawns arrive slicked with black lime butter, while Australian rack of lamb is elevated with ancho and chorizo butter. Seafood shines in dishes like dry-aged king salmon with sauce vierge and mussels enriched with tarragon curry. Pasta offerings lean toward coastal Italian, including lobster spaghetti steeped in bisque and spicy rigatoni punctuated by Calabrian chiles. Seasonal produce anchors the lighter side of the menu, from a truffle market salad and endive salad with goat cheese to a bright Greek salad layered with ripe tomatoes, feta and olives.
At ILYA, the Western Mediterranean is less a destination than a philosophy— one built on fire, sea and restraint. The name itself nods to tradition. Derived from elia, the Greek word for olive tree, a symbol of peace and abundance, the evolved name ILYA was chosen for its softness and ease. “It feels light and effortless when spoken,” Hayek says. “It embodies the serenity of coastal life and the spirit of our kitchen.”
The Artemisia cocktail includes Kettle One cucumber and mint vodka shaken with aloe, fresh lemon and strawberry basil
“This incredible city drew me in; it is fresh, lively and welcoming, reflecting everything I love about coastal dining.” –CHARBEL HAYEK
That sensibility carries through the space’s design. Inspired by the Cycladic islands, the restaurant favors airy whites, ocean blues and natural textures marked by a stunning olive tree that anchors the main dining room. An open kitchen puts the wood-fire hearth on display, while the bar anchors the space with Mediterranean-driven wines and seasonally inspired cocktails. For diners who seek to savor their meal under the stars, request a spot on the alfresco patio, where a roaring fireplace provides warmth and ambiance.
“We’ve long admired chef Charbel’s creativity. His approach to Mediterranean cuisine is both fresh and deeply thoughtful, and bringing ILYA to life with him has been incredibly rewarding,” notes Freddy Braidi, CEO of Boulevard Hospitality Group. “His vision is a perfect fit for San Clemente, and we’re thrilled to share it with the community.” With ILYA, San Clemente gains a dining destination that feels both transportive and grounded—an invitation to slow down, gather and savor the coast, one plate at a time.
Dining and Cooking