The Californian coastal city of Carlsbad has grown into a major foodie hotspot in recent years, with everything from casual eateries to the very best in bars and restaurants now on offer.
(Photo: Jeune et Jolie / courtesy of Lily Glass)
Stretching for 39 square miles along the Southern California coastline, a short drive from San Diego, the city is still best known for its world class surfing, but it’s reputation among gastronomes is fast catching up. If you’re coming to Carlsbad and would like to check out its food scene for yourself, there are a huge range of great places to eat to pick from – not to mention several watering holes too. We’ve picked out five of the best below.
Jeune et Jolie
Owned of a coveted Michelin star, this modern French restaurant is perhaps the city’s stand-out destination dining experience. Situated in the heart of Carlsbad village, the restaurant has gained widespread acclaim for its inventive French cuisine served up with a distinctive Southern California twist. Led by executive chef Eric Bost, the menu features seafood and seasonal vegetables, available through a four-course tasting or à la carte options. Tables are spread across a stylish dining room and a patio area, or there’s also bar seating, where cocktails and absinthe from a custom fountain are also on offer.
2659 State St Suite
Campfire
(Photo: Campfire)
For a less refined but equally memorable place to eat in Carlsbad, Campfire – which shares the same executive chef as its above counterpart – ticks plenty of boxes. Housed in a mid-century Quonset hut and known for its lively atmosphere, the eatery serves up wood-fired American fare surrounded by playful camping vibes. Since its 2016 debut, it’s grown to become a local favourite, with its quirky, fire-themed menu featuring sections including Trailhead, Kindling and the Fire. A 12-foot wood-burning hearth adds smoky flavours to dishes like grilled octopus, slow-cooked brisket and Oaxacan-spiced chicken. For dessert, regulars rave about the DIY s’mores.
2725 State Street
Ember & Rye
If you’re seeking to dine with a view, this renowned steakhouse, set within the Park Hyatt Aviara at the Aviara Golf Club, is hard to beat. Located a 10-minute coastal drive south of Carlsbad, the restaurant invites patrons to tuck into mouthwatering steaks and fresh seafood while soaking up sensational views of the golf course’s pristinely-maintained 18th green. Guests can pick from classic dishes like the beef rib chop “Storm Breaker Cut” and Epic Snack Tower, as well as an impressive cocktail list that includes the iconic Smoking Ember cocktail.
7447 Batiquitos Drive
Blue Ocean Robata & Sushi Bar
(Photo: Blue Ocean Robata & Sushi Bar)
For fans of Japanese cuisine in Carlsbad, Blue Ocean, with its blends of traditional Japanese techniques and modern flourishes, is the place to head. After opening its doors back in 2014, the stylish restaurant has gained a loyal following, with patrons flocking here to enjoy the specialty rolls and grilled skewers cooked on an authentic Japanese robata grill, not to mention the creative cocktails. Menu favourites include wagyu meatballs, pork belly and bacon-wrapped asparagus. If you’re here mainly with drinking in mind, there’s also a daily happy hour.
2958 Madison Street
The Coyote Bar & Grill
As well as plenty of great places to eat, Carlsbad also has several drinking establishments to pick from – and some that combine the two. Among the most well known is this buzzing bar and grill, just a block from the Pacific Ocean and a short walk from downtown. Popular for lunch, dinner and sunset drinks, the atmosphere heats up on the venue’s regular live music and karaoke nights, with revellers throwing shapes on the dance floor – and around the open fire pits – long into the night.
300 Carlsbad Village Drive