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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in Carlsbad

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20 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Jeune et Jolie restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(4017)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary French • Carlsbad
Booked 57 times today
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 offered at $120 per guest. For those looking for a more casual evening, we feature "Le Menu du Bar”, an à la carte offering available for walk-in guests at our bar and lounge.
A photo of Ember & Rye restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1197)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Carlsbad
Booked 23 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
4.7
Exceptional(1467)
Price: Moderate
• American • Carlsbad
Booked 14 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(1028)
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 7MILE Kitchen restaurant
4.2
Awesome(320)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Carlsbad
Booked 7 times today
Named for Carlsbad's seven miles of coastline, 7 Mile Kitchen features wood-fired pizzas and gourmet burgers. Keeping in mind San Diego’s love for craft beers, 7 Mile features rotating taps of many of the local favorites. Dessert is a must in this restaurant, which has a gelato bar and fire pit s'mores.
A photo of Vigilucci's Seafood & Steakhouse restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(4566)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Carlsbad
Booked 42 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
4.5
Awesome(393)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Carlsbad
Booked 20 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(1950)
Price: Expensive
• French American • Carlsbad
Booked 10 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(169)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Carlsbad
Booked 7 times today
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 Pacific Coast Grill - Cardiff restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(9148)
Price: Very Expensive
• Seafood • Cardiff By The Sea
Booked 77 times today
Pacific Coast Grill's oceanfront venue features unique Pacific Coastal cuisine, an oyster bar, select sushi rolls, and a plethora of seafood choices, delicious steaks and more! There are two levels of dining at the new PCG with every dining seat in the house carefully planned to have an ocean view. There are bars on both levels and a heated outdoor patio and a deck with one of the best views of the Pacific Ocean and the line up at Cardiff Reef. You can watch surfers, kite surfers, dolphins, whales and spectacular sunsets from throughout the restaurant.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • OpenTable Dinervip
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We enjoyed a fun dinner at Duke’s. Great service, beautiful view. Hula Pie never dissapoints.
    More info
    Duke's La JollaPrice: Moderate• Hawaii Regional Cuisine• La Jolla
    4.6
  • Martyvip
    San Diego •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    If you’re looking for a spot with a lively New Orleans vibe and flavorful dishes, this restaurant hits the mark. The menu was packed with tasty options, and everything we tried was well-prepared and delicious. The atmosphere was warm and vibrant, capturing that Southern charm perfectly. However, the Cognac Espresso Martini was a bit of a letdown. I’d suggest sticking with their other beverage offerings or pairing your meal with a classic cocktail or wine instead. Overall, it’s a great spot for a flavorful meal and a fun experience, but I’d pass on the espresso martini.
    More info
    Louisiana Purchase SDPrice: Expensive• Creole / Cajun / Southern• North Park
    4.5
  • Johnvip
    San Diego •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Got reservations for seats at the bar. There is a tasting menu, as well as a separate bar menu, mostly small plates. Cocktails from menu are twists on classic cocktails, and they were truly extraordinary, as well as the off menu cocktails we ordered, and we've sampled some of the best. Food sampled at bar: Crudo, Tartare, Pain et Beurre, and Gougere. All were phenomenal. Service at bar was very attentive and knowledgable, they know what they're doing, and they do it well. Cool vibe and music playing from reel to reel player in bar. Very open, busy kitchen with frequent calls from cooks, "Oui, chef!" Great for foodies and cocktail nerds. Pricey, some may not appreciate the value.
    More info
    Jeune et JoliePrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary French• Carlsbad
    4.9
  • Lynnvip
    Grand Rapids / Western Michigan •54 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    We were greeted nicely. I fell down on the way to the restaurant and hurt my finger. The restaurant staff offered me a bandaid and some cream. They also checked on me during our meal! That’s an excellent compliment to them! Thank you so much!
    More info
    Great Maple San DiegoPrice: Moderate• American• Hillcrest
    4.8
  • Joe & Sara
    San Diego •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 12, 2024
    We enjoyed but we are waiting some veterans discount or promotion for especially celebrating
    More info
    Fresco CocinaPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Carlsbad
    4.5

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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