Living in Carlsbad for nearly 30 years has found us returning time and again to a number of favorite dining venues and cafes. Covid, sadly changed the face of the restaurant scene around the world, and we saw a few dear favorites disappear. However, on the flip side, new favorites popped up in their place. While the scene is ever changing, below I've curated a list of my personal recommendations, as well as those from friends, for your visit to our beloved Carlsbad by the Sea!
Breakfast/Brunch/Lunch:
Naked Cafe - An all time local favorite Breakfast/Brunch/Lunch spot featuring local artists on the walls
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| Naked Cafe |
Cafe Topes - Hearty home-style meals with a special flair for breakfast - think Pancakes and French Toast, various types of Eggs Benedict and Scrambles, Breakfast Burritos, and legendary Cinnamon Rolls!
The Goods Donuts - Often sited as one of the best donut shops in the area, The Goods offers fresh, high-quality and creative donuts throughout the day including vegan and gluten-free options. Seasonal options are introduced monthly, however it should be noted that the Salted Brown Butter Donut has received national acclaim. Good coffee options serving Steady State Roasters Coffee. (Vegan/Gluten Free)
Shorehouse Kitchen - Outdoor seating with California-inspired dishes. Omelettes, Breakfast Sandwiches, pancakes and waffles. Lunch includes Fresh Salads, Sandwiches and Flatbreads, and small plates for sharing.
Wildland - New to Carlsbad in 2025, Wildland is an all-day restaurant, bakery, bar from the owners of Campfire. Indoor has beautiful aesthetics with the floor to ceiling windows, and the patio is comfortable and sun-filled. With house made breads and pastries, breakfast also includes things like Wood Fired eggs with Blistered Tomatoes. Lunch and Dinner feature Wood-Fired Pizzas, House made Pastas, and a variety of salads and meats.
Steady State Coffee - Steady State, often described as a hub for those "in the know" brings high quality
Baba Cafe - Renowned for its extensive coffee menu, Baba also offers unique beverages including CBD -infused coffee, cold brews, an assortment of teas in additon to wine and beer. Baba features a variety of food with my favorite being the Avocado Toast. Baba has claimed a spot as a community hub often featuring live music on the weekends.
Lofty Coffee - a lovely outdoor patio makes you want to sit and savor your sips. Featuring a full coffee and tea menu, Lofty also serves baked goods and savory and savory options making it a nice stop for a quick cup or light meal.
French Corner - An authentic French Cafe bringing a taste of Paris to Carlsbad with indoor and outdoor seating. Try a traditional French Crepe (either sweet or savory), or maybe an èclair or macaron? The French Corner offers a selection of coffee, tea and wine, and are noted for their French-Style espressos and lattes
Vinaka Cafe - A beloved local coffee shop where locals come to relax with an old fashioned cup of coffee, Vinaka is known for its wide range of desserts. Vinaka recently expanded its venue to include the Tipping Point Brewery creating a somewhat hybrid cafe/brewery vibe with a little something for everyone.
Choice Juicery - Organic, Plant Based, Gluten Free - Choice offers a variety of Cold-Pressed Organic Juices, Superfood Smoothies and Bowls, in addition to Salads, Acai Bowls and Avocado Toast on house made breads. Nice outdoor seating area in The Village.
Dinner:
Campfire - Wood-Fired dishes you never thought of! Meats, Seafood, Veg and Shared Plates, Campfire turns fresh, local ingredients into mouthwatering dishes. Fabulous Craft Cocktails, local beers and an extensive wine list complete the experience. One of my favorite places in the Carlsbad Village - try the broccoli! It's unforgettable. (Vegan dishes available)
Cicciotti's - Family owned Ciccotti's brings authentic Italian Cuisine to the table. House made pastas and sauces, wood-fired pizza, and an emphasis on seafood, Ciccotti's is sure to cure any Italian craving you may have. It doesn't get much more real than this.
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| Jalisco Cantina |
Nick's on State - Considered Contemporary American Cuisine, Nick's has something for everyone. Fairly new to The Village, Nick's has quickly become a neighborhood favorite with salads, inventive mains as well as sandwiches and burgers. Nick's also offers an extensive wine list, beers and craft cocktails. Lunch and Dinner.
Via Vai - Traditional Italian Dishes with an emphasis on homemade pasta, Via Vai feels like an authentic Italian Trattoria. An impressive wine list with a focus on Italian Wines complements any meal, and the Tiramisu is not to be missed! (The Polpette Vegan - Vegan Eggplant Meatballs - is one of my favorites)
Jalisco Cantina - Authentic Mexican Cuisine with a wide selection of Tequilas. Fresh local ingredients shine in every plate, and the craft margaritas are lovely - I'm partial to the Cilantro Smash! Creative tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and chile rellenos round out the menu. (Vegan options available)
Vigilucci's - Bringing Italian Cuisine to Carlsbad for over 25 years, Vigilucci's is a local favorite. The menu includes a variety of pasta dishes in addition to traditional favorites such as Chicken Piccata.
Jay's - Serving Carlsbad for over 30 years, Chef Jay features pizza, pasta and seafood to the Village. Occasionally when walking in the area the aroma of sautéing garlic will draw you in!
Wine/Beer:
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| Pure Project |
Pure Project - Taproom and brewery known for sustainability and quality craft beer, Pure Project was one of the first breweries in the Village. Focusing on small batch, ingredient driven beers, Pure Project emphasizes local and organic ingredients when possible. Nice outdoor patio.
Carruth Cellars - Carruth Cellars was established by Adam Carruth in 2006, aiming to make quality wine accessible to urban dwellers by sourcing grapes from premium Northern and Central California vineyards and producing them in an urban setting. Lovely location with outdoor and indoor seating to enjoy tasting, or simply a leisurely glass of wine.
Docent Brewing - Quality craft beer and food offerings "inspired by things fermented. Docent offers an inviting atmosphere and is a lovely spot to enjoy an evening with friends. . New to the Village in 2025.
Napatini - Exclusive, award winning, boutique California wines you can taste with their unique self-serve wine wall, or order by the glass. Food menus include cheese and charcuterie boards and appetizers.
Pizza Port - Renowned for their craft beers brewed on site, Pizza Port is a popular local spot featuring thick pizzas loaded with toppings. Picnic table dining, offers a fun and energetic atmosphere at this community favorite. The Carlsbad Village location has the Pizza Port Bottle Shop next door to the main restaurant specializing in craft beers fro around the world.
Fast/Casual
Knockout Pizza - Hand tossed, New York style pizza, Knockout is a local favorite.
Lola's - Established in 1943, and family run, Lola's holds a special place in local's hearts. A favorite for fast/casual Mexican, the simple bean and cheese burrito is treasured by many. Don't skip the green salsa!
Pure Taco - Taco Bar with hand pressed tortillas, specialty margaritas and beers on tap
Gelato Love - Because sometimes everyone needs Gelato right? This gelato is like wandering the streets of Italy and finding the perfect flavor. Completely handmade with local/orgaic ingredients, Gelato Love is as authentic as it gets!
Handel's Ice Cream - Popular ice cream spot with history back to 1945 in Youngstown, Ohios
Beach City Smoothies - Healthy smoothies and a nice spot to sit while you sip.
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