If you’re traveling this summer, one delicious foodie destination worth considering is sunny Carlsbad, California, near San Diego. It has emerged as a major foodie hangout. Check out this list of the best Carlsbad restaurants—with something for every appetite and price point. Their memorable menus will make for an unforgettable trip!
Why Carlsbad is a hidden gem for food lovers
Health and vitality are in the roots of this coastal California town. A hot spring containing health-promoting alkaline mineral water was discovered here in 1882. And soon after, the area became a resort destination. Today, people come for the healing water, strawberry farms and flower fields in addition to the thriving foodie scene. And talk about active bodies and minds: Carlsbad is also home to Jazzercise, Legoland and world-class golf at the Omni La Costa Resort. Keep reading to learn where to stop to fuel up when visiting.
7 best food stops in Carlsbad, California
Browse this list of dining options—everything from casual to fancy—located around Carlsbad that will leave your taste buds wanting to stay in this ocean oasis a little longer. (PS: I was fortunate enough to try these spots firsthand during a recent work trip to Carlsbad and they did not disappoint.)
For a relaxed breakfast or coffee: Cafe Topes
Stroll into this family-owned spot and grab a Lavender mocha at the coffee bar. The menu is also full of healthy, comfort food options. What trip to California would be complete without avocado toast? So reach for the chorizo Benedict with chipotle hollandaise, pork and avocado.
For a sweet snack: THE Goods
Early morning surfers and beach strollers enjoy popping into this artisan donut shop for some quick sustenance. Opt for their brown butter and sea salt donut, routinely named the best donut in the region. Or try an exotic flavor from their ever-changing, often selling-out menu. Flavors like Vermont maple bacon and roasted sweet corn honeycomb with caramel.
For a tasty lunch: Señor Grubby’s
Enjoy some authentic Mexican street food in the back patio of this taco shop. A favorite from this perfect sunshiny hangout spot: The spicy surf and turf with shrimp and sirloin. And plant-based eaters can enjoy the Nopales burrito made from cactus and mushrooms. No wonder this is a popular stop on foodie tours in Carlsbad Village.
This is just a walk-up window on a downtown sidewalk in the village of Carlsbad, but it features the best locally grown California strawberries. The owner is a bit of a perfectionist and food chemist, who has mastered the magic ratio of sugary berries, homemade whipped cream and heavenly angel food cake for strawberry shortcake. This is an ideal snack break while getting your steps in, shopping and sightseeing around town. And pop next door for a glass of local wine at Witch Creek Winery.
For a dinner with friends: Campfire
This place has an elevated, camp-chic vibe. As for memorable food, from the very start, try the out-of-this-world cornbread with chili butter. And you do not want to miss the charred-tipped broccoli with Moroccan spices. You’ve never had veggies like this. End any meal with tabletop gourmet s’mores. As for cocktails, consider the Machete, made with tequila, toasted sesame and cocoa nibs. Or for a mocktail, sip the Firesquad with a blend of orange, grapefruit and pomegranate.
For a date night: Wildland
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This gorgeous space will satisfy hearty appetites. Consider the rotisserie chicken with roasted dates or the rigatoni with oxtail ragu. And celebrate with great international wines and the show-stopping pistachio tiramisu.
As an honorable mention, this boutique hotel offers a stunningly curated petite complimentary breakfast bar. So much care is put into crafting little waffle kabobs and yogurt parfaits or filling organza draw-string pouches with grapes so you can start your day off right. Grab some fare and eat it on your room’s balcony overlooking the beautiful Pacific Ocean with dolphins bobbing in the water just paces away.
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