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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in Carlsbad

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16 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Ember & Rye restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1235)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Carlsbad
Booked 36 times today
Dine overlooking the 18th green at this Richard Blais steakhouse... of sorts. This delightful collaboration with acclaimed chef and television personality offers delectable steaks and fresh seafood dishes rooted in fine local ingredients, served in a casual, vintage clubhouse setting located at the signature Arnold Palmer designed Aviara Golf Club.
A photo of Green Dragon Tavern & Museum restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1485)
Price: Moderate
• American • Carlsbad
Booked 11 times today
Green Dragon Tavern & Museum is an award-winning eatery in Carlsbad, offering a unique dining experience. With its highly acclaimed menu, featuring Maine lobster rolls, Shepherd's Pie, and more, it's clear why patrons are consistently impressed. Plus, it's not just about the food - it's also a museum, allowing you to explore American history. The rave reviews speak for themselves, with guests calling it 'unique', 'historic', 'entertaining', and 'a great value'.
A photo of Ponto Lago - Park Hyatt Aviara restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1034)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Carlsbad
Booked 7 times today
Immerse yourself into a refined modern setting featuring Baja-inspired cuisine and specialty cocktails composed of mezcal and tequila. Enjoy a show kitchen allowing you to get an inside look behind the scenes bringing Chef's creations to center stage. Locally sourced cuisine with a coastal flair is the cornerstone of this fine dining Baja-inspired experience.
A photo of Vigilucci's Seafood & Steakhouse restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(4620)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Carlsbad
Booked 41 times today
Vigilucci's Seafood and Steakhouse offers authentic Northern Italian cuisine. The location sits across from the Pacific on the historic 101 and has one of the best views in San Diego.Open seven days a week. Signature dishes include Caprese salad with bufallo mozzarella and Heirloom tomatoes, made from scratch stuffed pastas, Cioppino, prime steaks, fresh seafood including a warm or cold fresh seafood tower with oysters, clams, mussels, crab, lobster and jumbo prawn. (items may vary )Private Wine Cellar room available for private parties.For off-site events and parties contact Cater@Vigiluccis.comCatering to the most discerning palates for over 25 years.Vigilucci’s catering team can custom create a unique and memorable menu for celebrating life’s special occasions.
A photo of Fresco Cocina restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(400)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Carlsbad
Booked 25 times today
Fresco Cocina is a bustling restaurant located in the heart of Carlsbad Village serving a traditional and contemporary interpretation of Mexican cuisine. Our playfully curated menu rediscovers tradition and offers a selection of shareable plates and main courses all infused with Mexican soul. Fresco Cocina is a haven for those who appreciate bold, bright flavors paired with exemplary wine and artisanal spirits that let the high quality ingredients shine.
A photo of PAON Restaurant & Wine Bar restaurant
4.4
Awesome(1962)
Price: Expensive
• French American • Carlsbad
Booked 8 times today
Paon restaurant offers California cuisine with French Cafe influences. Beautiful patio dining, elegant Art Deco in intimate dining setting. Private dining available in handsome club environment. Paon chef features seasonal, locally grown organic produce for the palates of fine food lovers from all over the world. Spotlighting organic prime meats, game and fish prepared with traditional French sophistication. Beautiful lounge with old Hollywood feel and relaxing French music. The patio in a Downtown Carlsbad Village atmosphere. Paon's knowledgeable and attentive staff looks forward to creating an exceptional experience.
A photo of Pacific Point - Park Hyatt Aviara restaurant
4.2
Awesome(170)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Carlsbad
The perfect chic spot to sip your favorite cocktail and savor a bite to eat while watching one of Carlsbad’s finest sunsets from the indoor dining room or out on the terrace. Pacific Point's seating is available on a first come, first serve basis with limited reservations available.
A photo of 333 Pacific - Steaks & Seafood restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(5434)
Price: Moderate
• Steakhouse • Oceanside
Booked 45 times today
Stunning Views of The Famous Oceanside Pier, Innovative Cuisine and Stylish Décor, Seaside California Elegance
A photo of Cocina de Barrio Encinitas restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(130)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Encinitas
Booked 24 times today
*Brunch hours are on a walk-in basis only.Cocina de Barrio by Chef Jose J. FloresWelcome to Cocina de Barrio, the newest modern-urban Mexican restaurant located in Encinitas, CA! We are proud to feature the culinary richness of Oaxaca as well as other Mexican regions. Stop by and enjoy our bar stocked with plenty of tequila and mezcal selections, beer, and wines sourced from Valle Guadalupe.Don't forget to join us during our daily brunch (where we add a Mexican kick) and our happy hour every Monday-Friday from 3-5pm! Stay Chido!
A photo of Mille Fleurs restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2299)
Price: Very Expensive
• French American • Rancho Santa Fe
Booked 11 times today
**Please note: Patio requests must call the restaurant to confirm availability for patio dining, as availability is very limited due to table spacing.* Nestled in the heart of the historic and charming village of Rancho Santa Fe, just four miles inland from Del Mar, Mille Fleurs offers magnificent California food presentation with extraordinary French flair. The exquisite yet comfortable French country décor with inviting outside patio provides an atmosphere that is gracious, warm and welcoming. Mille Fleurs has received numerous accolades including: "Top 25 in America" from Food & Wine Magazine "Far and away the best restaurant sampled in greater San Diego" quoted in The New York Times as well as "Best French" and "Best of the Best" in San Diego Magazine. Our award winning wine cellar offers over seven hundred choices spanning the globe and varying greatly in price. A mile down the road is the Chino's Family Farm where our chef heads every day to get fresh ingredients.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • lauren
    Orange County •2 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Yummy food. Expensive though, so prepare for an expensive night out. Noise level is very loud inside- for some reason I found it hard to hear my family at the table.
    More info
    Cocina de Barrio EncinitasPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Encinitas
    4.7
  • SilviaVIP
    San Diego •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Great food, a little expensive but worth it! Very nice personnel and place looks great
    More info
    Crudo Ceviche & Oyster BarPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Little Italy
    4.6
  • LeslieVIP
    Phoenix / Arizona •14 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Wonderful location over looking the ocean. Fish tacos were amazing. Barbecued chicken salad was a hit as well. Had a table by the glass wall looking out over the bay. Our waitress was so sweet and attentive Definitely will come back.
    More info
    Duke's La JollaPrice: Moderate• Hawaii Regional Cuisine• La Jolla
    4.6
  • JodieVIP
    Phoenix / Arizona •24 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Great place to watch the game on Sunday. Drinks, food and service were excellent. Short rib eggs Benedict was awesome and don’t forget about the passion fruit creme brûlée !
    More info
    Fresco CocinaPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Carlsbad
    4.6
  • Kathleen
    Phoenix / Arizona •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 25, 2024
    Simply put, one of the best meals I have had the privilege of enjoying! Delightful server, Calvin, was very in tune with the timing of our meal and our needs. The fixed menu was perfect for Christmas Eve, as it kept the meal flowing and decision-making to a minimum. Every course was delectable from the scallop crudo, the creamed mushrooms, and the sea bass, to the date cake with walnut ice cream! Mezcal hibiscus cocktail was creative and tasty, as well! I will definitely be back!
    More info
    Herb & WoodPrice: Expensive• Californian• Little Italy
    4.7

Discover best worth the drive restaurants in Carlsbad

Discover the ultimate dining destinations in San Diego's North County, where each restaurant offers a compelling reason to make the drive to Carlsbad and surrounding areas. Known for their exceptional culinary offerings, these eateries stand out for their unique themes, ranging from historical experiences to exquisite coastal cuisine, ensuring every meal is an adventure worth the journey. The dining scene in this region is distinguished by a blend of local flavors and innovative dishes, making it a magnet for food enthusiasts seeking more than just a meal, but a memorable dining experience. Each location is carefully selected to provide not only top-tier food but also an ambiance that enhances your dining pleasure, whether it's a view of the Pacific or a historical setting that transports you back in time. Patrons consistently praise these spots for their outstanding service and commitment to excellence, with many noting that these places are perfect for special occasions or a luxurious outing. The combination of scenic beauty, culinary expertise, and attentive service makes these restaurants in North San Diego a destination that truly is 'worth the drive'. By choosing any of these recommended restaurants, you are guaranteed a dining experience that not only satisfies the palate but also enriches your understanding of the local culture and culinary prowess.

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