FOODIE GUIDE TO CARLSBAD
One of the FIRST thing people do when picking a place to visit, is to check out the food?
What are the favorite hot spots in town and where do the locals eat?
Where to eat in Carlsbad?
Carlsbad is a little seaside village in northern San Diego, Ca. With seven miles of beautiful beaches, Carlsbad is a great place to visit when coming to Southern California.
Besides the beachy flavors of Carlsbad, it also has an international flair to its cuisine:
Modern Latin
Italian
French
Mexican
Sweet Delights
Nouveau American Cuisine
(New American cuisine is generally a type of fusion cuisine which assimilates flavors from the melting pot of traditional American cooking techniques mixed with foreign and sometimes molecular gastronomy components. There’s often a focus on fresh, local, and seasonal farm-to-table ingredients).
Campfire – Nouveau American
If you enjoy the smoked flavor to your food, you will love Campfire. They cook everything over a campfire, hence the namesake. Smoked broccoli is one of the specialty items. They also have some of the best cocktails in town, one of the favorites is the Aloe Black Tequila Cocktail.
Fresco Cocina – Latin
Modern Latin Dishes rooted in tradition and flavor. Featured dishes include Peruvian Ceviche, Argentinian Empanadas, Venezuelan cuisine, and Brazilian Steak.
Cicciotti’s – Italian
Fresh and simple ingredients is the key to Cicciotti’s Italian dishes. Recipes pasted on from generations. Pasta heaven and best gnocchi ever.
Nick’s on State Street
Features classic American comfort food menu and a California-style open-air decor. The meatloaf & the Buttercake were fabulous!
Jeune et Jolie – French
A culinary experience celebrating the moment, Jeune et Jolie reimagines French cuisine through the vibrant lens of our Southern California landscape with a 4-course menu. In 2021 Jeune et Jolie was awarded its first Michelin star!
Food does not have to be expensive to be good. Here are a few inexpensive local eateries you won’t want to miss:
Froglanders – French
Delightful French crepes made in front of you. Healthy crust made from flax seed and buckwheat, both vegan and gluten free. An inexpensive taste of France.
The Goods
Artisan Doughnuts crafted with the finest Locally sourced ingredients. And Mom’s homemade Cinnamon Rolls
Senor Grubby’s
If you’re looking for a great place to go to for Taco Tuesday. Senor Grubby’s has the best Al Pastor Tacos in San Diego. They have also been voted best burrito in San Diego. Great Mexican food, fun environment, what’s not to like.
Gonzo Ramen
Gonzo Ramen has captured the authentic flavors of Japanese cuisine.
The Black Garlic is Japanese noodle dish, served in a black garlic broth; toppings include sliced pork, egg, and scallions.
Café Topes
A family-owned cafe, just a speed bump or two away from downtown Carlsbad on Roosevelt Street, where Joe Barille and his family serve up…
“Big breakfasts, big lunches, hearty, freshly made,” Barille said. And let’s not forget about Mom’s homemade Cinnamon Rolls, yum!
Blue Water Grill
This delicious spot in the heart of Carlsbad is fabulous for some Al Fresco dining! We love having fresh seafood available to enjoy in our seaside village.
Strawberry Shack
Everything strawberry, including strawberry shortcake a favorite of course.
Gelato Love
Blends the authentic art of homemade gelato making with a growing passion for the finest quality dessert foods made with local, natural, and organic ingredients.
3-hours guided waking tour around the village with 6 stops at unique eateries for food and wine tastings. Learn about Carlsbad’s history, culture and architecture while eating your way through town.
Bon Appetito
After Dinner Delights include some of our favorite watering holes:
Witch Creek Winery
One of the oldest beach wineries in San Diego. They specialize in delicious Red Wines.
Barrel Republic
Local self-pour beer tasting venue.
