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 Featuring homemade pate |
1733 South Coast Highway San Diego, CA 92054 United States +1 760 722 7006 http://www.atasteofeurope.com |
Dining here is an elegant experience, but not overdone. White cloths drape over the tables, while subtle artwork covers the walls. This is an ideal location for couples or businesspeople, who desire a dining experience that is upscale, yet unceremonious. Homemade pate is a featured appetizer, along with Escargots aux Champignons (snails cooked in garlic and butter, served in mushroom caps). For your entree, try the Oven-Roasted Rack of Lamb, served with potatoes, red cabbage and vegetables. Trout (covered with almonds and served with rice and vegetables) is another customer favorite. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Popular diner |
795 Carlsbad Village Drive San Diego, CA 92008 United States +1 760 729 5448 http://www.alscafecarlsbad.com/ |
This spot is an ultra-popular diner in Carlsbad Village. Inside, one long counter, with vinyl-covered stools, bears the resemblance of a traditional American diner. Guests also have the option to sit outside, with a few umbrella-topped tables set along the street corner. Yet, be forewarned that traffic is busy and the noise level is significant. For breakfast, try one of Al's Omelets. Or choose from Strawberry, Macadamia Nut and Banana-Pecan Waffles. Traditional lunch specials include Meat Loaf and Mashed Potatoes and Liver and Onions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Favorite among locals |
2251 El Camino Real San Diego, CA 92054 United States +1 760 757 7745 |
This Mexican restaurant is a favorite among North County locals. Festive stained glass displays are posted on top of each booth. Brightly colored artifacts cover the walls, accompanied by Mexican-style figurines showcased on shelves. The cantina hosts its own section, separated from the main dining area. Fajitas are a top choice among the entrees served at this spot. Choose Chicken or Steak Fajitas, served in a sizzling skillet with rice, beans, Guacamole, Salsa Fresca and hot Tortillas. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Oceanfront view |
3126 Carlsbad Boulevard San Diego, CA 92008 United States +1 760 720 2233 http://thearmeniancafe.com/ |
This popular restaurant serves Middle Eastern cuisine on an outdoor patio. Most guests opt to dine on the porch, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. On Friday and Saturday nights, enjoy live belly dancing entertainment. Belgian Waffles top the breakfast menu. For an elaborate breakfast, top your waffle with fruit, ice cream, whipped cream and syrup. Later in the day, consider the Spinach Bereg Platter. Phyllo dough is stuffed with spinach and cheese, then baked and served with rice pilaf and cucumber and yogurt dip. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Wine and dine |
5610 Paseo Del Norte San Diego, CA 92008 United States +1 760 603 1919 http://www.bellefleur.signonsa... |
Nestled near the Carlsbad Flower Fields, this upscale restaurant is Tuscan in style with Old-World charm. The innovative cuisine is carefully prepared to complement the restaurant's fine wines. For an appetizer, try the Pan-Roasted Tiger Shrimp with Bellefleur Chardonnay, Lemon Butter and Warm Crostini. Then, indulge in the Grilled Salmon entree in grape leaves with yellow Finn Potatoes and Fennel-Mushroom Ragout Runs. The wines are sold only on the premises. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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An Italian deli |
2216 S El Camino Real San Diego, CA 92054 United States +1 760 722 7771 |
Whether you wish to dine on the premises or simply purchase a loaf of fresh bread, consider this deli. The market dominates the front of the establishment, with a glass case featuring deli meats, cheeses and bread. Through a doorway, the inside dining area offers modern-style tables with cream cloths. An outdoor dining area is separated from the sidewalk by a low, wrought-iron fence. Hot sandwiches are available, including the Sausage Sandwich, made from a family recipe. The restaurant also offers a few pastas, including Lasagna, Tortellini and Spaghetti. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Ice cream and health food |
2913 State Street San Diego, CA 92008 United States +1 760 434 7616 |
Downtown Carlsbad hosts this mini-cafe, which offers an odd combination of ice cream treats and health-conscious entrees. Ice cream delights include sundaes, made with Dreyers ice cream, and fountain specialties. Try an Oreo Milkshake or a Root Beer Float. On the healthy side, this spot has a short list of salads and sandwiches. Consider the Veggie Burrito (organic beans and rice, cheese, avocado and salsa, served in a warm tortilla). Most guests eat outside, where patio tables are placed near a stone fountain, with a ceiling fan overhead. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The best sauce in town |
2907 State Street San Diego, CA 92008 United States +1 760 720 9998 |
Managed by a brother and sister team, this dining venue is best known as the home of an incredible tomato sauce. Whether you order seafood, veal or pasta, be sure to request this notable sauce, which is thick and chunky, loaded with garlic and jalapenos. For those who choose not to partake of the infamous sauce, there are other entree options available, including the Sicilian Chicken Salad or Eggplant Parmigiana. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Ultra-trendy Mexican cuisine |
300 Carlsbad Village Drive San Diego, CA 92008 United States +1 760 729 4695 http://www.coyote-barandgrill.... |
This North County restaurant combines a Southwestern theme, hip cuisine and live entertainment. Wooden furniture features Southwestern-style carvings and Native American symbols are painted on the stone fireplace. Real cactus plants are scattered throughout the restaurant. While the inside hosts a large bar and dining area, the fast-paced action is outdoors. Live entertainment, from disc jockeys to karaoke, enlivens the patio dining section. Popular entrees include Swordfish Tacos, the Vegetable Burrito and Chile Relleno. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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For adults and kids |
2434 Vista Way San Diego, CA 92054 United States +1 760 721 7222 |
It is hard to miss this local spot. The red building, with its bright green and yellow accents, boasts a brightly-lit sign. Inside, the lobby features a lobster tank as well as a large, clear icebox filled with fresh fish. A casual atmosphere invites guests of all ages. Fish tops the menu. Guests may select a Mate's Cut or Captain's Cut of various fresh specialties, including halibut, shark and salmon. Another customer favorite is Shrimp Diablo, wrapped in Grilled Bacon and stuffed with Cheese and Jalapenos! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Down-home cooking |
2885 Roosevelt Street San Diego, CA 92008 United States +1 760 729 2274 |
This traditional American breakfast diner is popular among Carlsbad locals, so be prepared for extremely large crowds, particularly on weekends. An outdoor area offers patio seating, with white, plastic tables. Meanwhile, the inside restaurant includes a counter with bar stools, several tables and a busy service staff. Traditional breakfast favorites are served. Try biscuits and gravy, Chicken-Fried Steak or the Pecan Waffles. While breakfast is served all day, there are lunch specials offered after 11a. Try the club sandwich, served with your choice of salad. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: D.B. Blas  |
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A fiesta for all senses |
3003 Carlsbad Boulevard San Diego, CA 92008 United States +1 760 729 0903 |
With colorful decor, talented mariachis and traditional Mexican specialties, this place is a fiesta for all the senses. Pueblo-style architecture welcomes you to a Southwestern ambience. The indoors is covered with decorative tile, Southwestern paintings and pottery, while the outside patio offers umbrella-topped tables among cactus plants. As the mariachi group approaches your table, request a song from any region of Mexico. As for the cuisine, try the Carne Asada (served with guacamole, salsa frescale and tortillas). Top off your meal with a famous margarita. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Dine near the Pacific |
417 Carlsbad Village Drive San Diego, CA 92008 United States +1 760 434 6777 http://www.fishhouseveracruz.com/ |
Just seconds away from the Pacific Ocean, this wildly popular Carlsbad restaurant serves fresh catch to both locals and tourists. A fish market counter dominates the lobby, where customers may order fresh catch to cook at home. Of course, most patrons opt for the full dining experience. Inside the dining room, bright tablecloths are plastered with fish prints. On the menu, Krab Salad is a customer favorite. Fresh catch may include salmons, Atlantic cods or rainbow trouts, served with your choice of sides, such as Green Salad and Romano Potatoes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 North County locals' secret |
2216 El Camino Real (Suite 108) San Diego, CA 92054 United States +1 760 722 8218 |
Tucked away inside a strip mall, this restaurant is easily missed by most tourists. Yet, those 'in the know' frequent this restaurant for its authentic Mandarin, Szechwan and Cantonese cuisine. Customers walk past a large fish tank to enter the dining area, which is small and cozy, with pictures of Chinese calligraphy to honor ancient traditions. The Chef's Specialties are customer favorites. Consider Szechwan Scallops and Shrimp served with water chestnuts, green onions, bamboo shoots and mushrooms. Plum Tree Beef is also popular, appealing to those with spicy tastes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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From scrambled eggs to salami |
595 Grand Avenue San Diego, CA 92008 United States +1 760 729 4015 |
This spot is a top-pick among locals. The order counter features a long glass case filled with cheese, meat, and fruit. Guests may sit inside or outside, although the outdoor tables are located on an often-busy street corner. Try the Breakfast Special, which includes two eggs, sausage or bacon, home fries and toast. Lunchtime brings sandwich selections to the forefront, with 'Deli Regulars' topping the menu. Pick your choice of meat, as well as your choice of cheese and bread. Your sandwich is prepared to order. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Trendy Carlsbad hot spot |
1854 Marron Road San Diego, CA 92008 United States +1 760 720 9961 |
Located one block from the beach, this restaurant is popular for evening meals. Inside, one wall is covered in an elaborate mural of an ancient Greek goddess. Yet, many diners still prefer outdoor dining complete with old-fashioned lamps and greenery. On the menu, the Shark Kabab and Kofta (ground lamb) Kabab are both popular. If you have a large appetite, order one of the combination plates. The Greek Combination Plate offers a skewer of beef or chicken, served with Gyros, yellow rice, olives, Feta cheese and tzatziki sauce. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Japanese and Korean entrees |
2251 El Camino Real San Diego, CA 92054 United States +1 760 967 1515 |
This Oceanside spot features a combination of both Japanese and Korean traditional cuisine. Japanese writing is painted on the walls, as well as other pictorial displays of the Orient. The sushi bar is located near the front entrance, while general dining occupies the majority of the restaurant's space. For a Japanese entree, select Yaki Soba (pan fried noodles with chicken or beef). Meanwhile, Eun Dae Gu Jorim (broiled codfish) is a favorite Korean entree. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Best Steaks in Town |
1221 Vista Way Oceanside San Diego, CA 92054 United States +1 760 433 2633 http://www.paragonsteak.com |
This classic American steakhouse offers a great combination of quality, service and food. It has several branches over America and is renowned for serving scrumptious steaks and prime ribs. The service is impeccable at this award- winning restaurant. Though it'll be tough, make sure you leave room for desert. The Bailey's Irish Cream Mousse and Turtle Cheesecake are awesome. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A hidden treasure |
2604-C El Camino Real San Diego, CA 92008-1214 United States +1 760 434 7248 |
In the midst of a Carlsbad shopping center, located between several chain restaurants, is this hidden treasure. The deli utilizes minimalist decor, with large windows and several wooden tables. A large display case holds giant cinnamon rolls, croissants and other fresh-baked goodies. For breakfast, there are over 20 varieties of stone-oven bagels, fresh-made daily. Try the Breakfast Bagel Omelette (flattened bagel topped with a bacon or sausage omelette). The lunch menu features sandwiches such as the California Reuben (corned beef, melted swiss, cole slaw and Thousand Island dressing). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Hot and cold specialties |
2249 El Camino Real San Diego, CA 92054 United States +1 619 773 9464 |
Enjoy hot or cold coffee drinks in a casual, cozy atmosphere. Wooden tables with dark green accents seat guests, both inside and outside. An eclectic assortment of pictures covers the walls, ranging from a depiction of an old-fashioned American cafe to a photo of the San Diego Marathon. From the hot coffee menu, try the Milky Way, which mixes Espresso, milk, cocoa, caramel and Italian flavoring. A long list of cold coffee drinks is also available. Consider Frost Bite, combining Espresso, Java Frost Mix, milk, white cocoa and ice. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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One block from the ocean |
2975 Carlsbad Boulevard San Diego, CA 92008-2979 United States +1 760 720 9688 |
Just one block from the ocean, this spot combines a casual atmosphere with incredible culinary favorites. Guests may sit at the bar, which covers one wall, or at wooden tables. Pictures of family and friends decorate the inside walls, while the outdoor seating is complemented by greenery and gaslamps. Pizzas, pasta and seafood are the featured entrees. Consider fresh clams, fresh salmon or fresh halibut. Each of these seafood specialties are sauteed with garlic and served over linguini, with red or white wine sauce. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A fruitful experience |
5620 Paseo Del Norte San Diego, CA 92008 United States +1 760 438 3740 |
Located in the popular Carlsbad Company Stores shopping center, this small juice operation offers healthy and tasty drinks. There are no indoor tables, but you will find small tables and benches just outside. Select a smoothie, nectar or shake, then people-watch in the sunny outdoors. For those looking to add a boost to their drink, "add-its" such as protein, bee pollen or ginseng can be mixed in any smoothie or shake. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Do not miss the boat |
1025 Carlsbad Village Drive San Diego, CA 92008 United States +1 760 730 0088 |
Located just one-half mile from the Pacific Ocean, this restaurant is tucked away in a series of Carlsbad specialty shops. As you peruse the menu, do not miss the boat! The Geisha Boat includes Chicken Teriyaki, Tempura California Rolls and salad. Looking for a bit smaller portions? Try some of the a la carte items, such as the Chicken Teriyaki Bowl. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Historic Location, Fresh Food |
300 Carlsbad Village Drive San Diego, CA 92008 United States +1 760 729 4131 http://www.oceanhousecarlsbad.com |
Through name-changes, renovations, and several business ventures, Ocean House has sheltered entrepreneurs and travelers for over a century. It now hosts banquets, weddings, corporate events, and serves lunch and dinner every day. A different entertainment each evening includes open mics, DJs, dances, and live bands. Famous Sunday buffet brunches, served every week, offer champagne and mimosas included in the fixed price. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Vast assortment of Chinese favorites |
2820 Roosevelt Street San Diego, CA 92008 United States +1 760 729 0348 |
With an ideal location in downtown Carlsbad, this restaurant is popular for business lunches and relaxing evening meals. The kitchen is readily visible when customers pass through the front entrance. Guests sit in booths with pink tablecloths. Red, gold and black Oriental pictures decorate the walls, while low lamps hang from overhead. Lunch specials are available from 11:30a-3p, served with an egg roll, fried wonton, daily soup, rice and fortune cookie. The menu is gigantic for dinner specialties, ranging from seafood to vegetable dishes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Old-fashioned fish market |
7110 Avenida Encinas (Suite 101) San Diego, CA 92009 United States +1 760 431 8454 |
With one or more of the owners always behind the counter, this spot offers specialized service in the spirit of an old-fashioned fish market. Guests enjoy meals served on paper plates at one of the few inside tables or the outside tables in the shopping center patio. Featuring fresh snapper, calamari, mahi-mahi, shark, halibut, sea bass and salmon, most of the fish is locally caught. You may choose any of the fresh fish from the menu or the glass case, and the owners will sauté or grill the seafood to order. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Award-winning take out |
2508 El Camino Real San Diego, CA 92009 United States +1 760 720 6252 http://www.pickupstix.com/ |
The readers of San Diego Magazine selected this place as the 'best take out' restaurant in San Diego County. The favorite Chinese restaurant holds a broad menu, with its specialty lean cuisine and spicy entrees. In addition to take-out, catering and delivery are available. On the menu, the house specialty is Chow Mein. Another customer favorite is the Garlic Shrimp, including broccoli, zucchini, mushrooms, onions and water chestnuts. All entrees are served with steamed rice and a fortune cookie. The restaurant serves non-alcoholic beverages only. You need to call for delivery information. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Pizza & Handcrafted Brews |
571 Carlsbad Village Drive San Diego, CA 92008 United States +1 760 720 7007 http://www.pizzaport.com/ |
Downtown Carlsbad combines three attractions at this restaurant: original pizza preparations, handcrafted brews, and a clambake atmosphere. Surfboards are suspended overhead throughout the restaurant. Surfing pictures plaster the walls while televisions show surfing footage. Seating is available at long, wooden picnic-style tables or at the bar. Try the hometown Pizza Carlsbad, which offers toppings of pesto, chicken, artichoke hearts, feta and sun dried tomatoes. Top off your meal with one of Port Brewing's award-winning, world-famous handcrafted brews. Two popular choices are the California Honey and Sharkbite Red. Opt for the Wipeout IPA if you're feeling up to it. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Sandwich and salad treats |
2812 Roosevelt Street San Diego, CA 92008-1619 United States +1 760 434 2644 |
Featuring top of the line sandwiches and salads, this spot is a gourmet favorite in the Carlsbad community. The indoor facility includes a gourmet market with beverage coolers and a deli case that offers fresh meats, cheese, breads and desserts. Place orders at the counter and eat outside at one of the white patio tables. Gourmet sandwiches are the menu highlight. Try the Greek Turkey Sandwich served with Feta, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, peppercinis and vinaigrette. Lunchtime catering and delivery is available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Modern dining |
300 Carlsbad Village Drive San Diego, CA 92008 United States +1 760 720 1132 |
Located on the second story of a trendy Carlsbad shopping arena, this spot hosts a modern atmosphere and top-notch cuisine. Inside, black and white decor creates a contemporary look. Customers are seated among black tables and chairs, or at the sleek bar. On the outside, several umbrella-topped tables line the balcony, overlooking downtown Carlsbad. Specialty pizzas are popular. Consider Eggplant Pizza, with mozzarella, plum tomatoes, fresh garlic and eggplant. The restaurant serves delicious pasta entrees as well. Pasta Emilia offers vodka cream sauce with peas and mushrooms. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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For meat lovers |
6118 Paseo Del Norte San Diego, CA 92009 United States +1 760 438 2620 http://www.tiptopmeats.com/ |
Meat-lovers will enjoy the specialties at this restaurant, which also boasts a full-service meat market and catering service. The entrance features large windows, yet the oversized, blue window coverings provide just enough shade so bright sunlight is subdued. On the menu, try the Big John Breakfast, featuring three eggs, potatoes, toast and unlimited meat. Choose from bacon, pork, sausage, ham and bratwurst. For lunch, cold sandwiches are the specialty. Naturally, dinner entrees feature meat as well. The Sausage Plate allows guests to choose from Bratwurst, Knackwurst or Smoked Polish Sausage. Review © 2007, Wcities |
