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Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in Oceanside

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18 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Nick’s on State restaurant
1. Nick’s on State
4.8
Exceptional(2110)
Price: Moderate
• American • Carlsbad
Booked 75 times today
Classic American comfort food, crave-able bar snacks, plus unique cocktails & an extensive wine list in an upscale yet casual environment. Our intimate restaurant features a chic island bar, walls of glass and a spacious covered patio, perfect for people watching. Our exhibition kitchen highlights the talents of our passionate culinary team. Nick’s is dedicated to perfecting the dining experience through continuous innovation, offering the highest quality food and beverage, and executing impeccable standards of hospitality. The deeply instilled Nick’s culture is personified by its Ladies and Gentlemen – professionals who share a single focus and are inspired and committed to offering great service and creating positive, memorable experiences.
A photo of Lilo restaurant
2. Lilo
5.0
Exceptional(55)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Carlsbad
Booked 9 times today
A lively and immersive dining experience that welcomes you to celebrate life’s special moments, Lilo harnesses the untamed spirit of the California coast and the world's shorelines through a curated, multi-course tasting menu rooted in a thoughtful connection to nature, served around a 22-seat chef’s counter.
A photo of Jeune et Jolie restaurant
3. Jeune et Jolie
4.9
Exceptional(4291)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary French • Carlsbad
Booked 29 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 Matsu restaurant
4. Matsu
4.7
Exceptional(100)
Price: Very Expensive
• Creative Japanese • Oceanside
Booked 4 times today
Matsu follows a new light in modern Japanese cooking while paying homage to centuries-old tradition. We honor the philosophies behind the culture and its cuisine while expressing the local terroir and what grows naturally around us. The menu is our study of pristine, simple ingredients, the overall experience a balance, providing a sense of omotenashi, or Japanese hospitality.We currently offer a 10 course tasting menu that constantly is changing with the seasons and availability, featuring a wide variety of seafood and vegetables, a few meat courses, and desserts. We also have a la carte and vegan options available as well, and walk in guests are welcome to join us either at our bar, or if tables are available for the evening. With advance notice, we are happy to adjust the menu to accommodate most dietary restrictions. A5 Wagyu can be added for an additional $55 per person.
A photo of 333 Pacific - Steaks & Seafood restaurant
5. 333 Pacific - Steaks & Seafood
4.5
Awesome(5543)
Price: Moderate
• Steakhouse • Oceanside
Booked 9 times today
Stunning Views of The Famous Oceanside Pier, Innovative Cuisine and Stylish Décor, Seaside California Elegance
A photo of Wrench and Rodent Seabasstropub restaurant
6. Wrench and Rodent Seabasstropub
4.7
Exceptional(1452)
Price: Moderate
• Sushi • Oceanside
Booked 24 times today
Please call for reservations of 7+ (760) 453-2738 Founded in 2013 by Davin and Jessica Waite, Wrench & Rodent is a space for culinary exploration and collaboration. This cozy, eclectic restaurant quickly became a destination for those who appreciated Chef Davin’s creative approach to celebrating local and responsibly sourced fish and produce. In addition to a set sushi menu, Wrench offers an omakase as well as a list of specials that change daily. The team is committed to reducing waste and enhancing flavor by elevating all cuts of fish and veggies, as well as featuring a diverse range of species. Many menu items are simple, fresh and creative, with a lesser-known fish species complimented by ingredients from the backyard garden. Byproduct utilization drives the menu as well, and recent explorations with aging techniques have led to a dry aged fish program. Plant-forward preparations are also celebrated, and a vegan omakase is available upon request.
A photo of Texas de Brazil - Carlsbad restaurant
7. Texas de Brazil - Carlsbad
4.6
Exceptional(1705)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Carlsbad
Booked 71 times today
Texas de Brazil, is a Brazilian steakhouse, or churrascaria, that features endless servings of flame-grilled beef, lamb, pork, chicken, and Brazilian sausage as well as an extravagant salad area with a wide array of seasonal chef-crafted items.
A photo of Vigilucci's Seafood & Steakhouse restaurant
8. Vigilucci's Seafood & Steakhouse
4.8
Exceptional(4728)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Carlsbad
Booked 64 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 Vigilucci's Cucina Italiana restaurant
9. Vigilucci's Cucina Italiana
4.7
Exceptional(2816)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Carlsbad
Booked 17 times today
Nestled in the heart of downtown Carlsbad, Vigilucci's Cucina Italiana offers fabulous Northern Italian cuisine and award-winning service. Enjoy lunch on the outdoor patio or start the evening off at their full-service bar before dinner. A great place for a romantic dinner, a family gathering, a company party or special event. Each of Vigilucci's three locations offer a notable wine menu, made from scratch pastas and sauces, fresh seafood specials, salads, prime steaks, chicken and veal dishes. 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 264 Fresco restaurant
10. 264 Fresco
4.5
Awesome(2678)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Carlsbad
Booked 46 times today
At 264 Fresco, our goal is for every guest to leave feeling absolutely delighted with their dining experience. Whether you stop by for a quick drink, come in to share a special meal with a loved one, or are planning to host a private party, you can always count on us to deliver delectable food made from the finest ingredients, exceptional service, and a warm, lively, and welcoming atmosphere. For groups of 8 or more, please call the restaurant directly at (760) 720-3737 https://www.instagram.com/264fresco/The Deck @264 Fresco is now open! The Deck is 21+ and is first come, first serve seating. To reserve a private event please email hello@264fresco.com

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Mimi
    Phoenix / Arizona •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    Amazing! I loved it!!!! Too amazing!!!! Best food experience!!!!
    More info
    Jeune et JoliePrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary French• Carlsbad
    •
    4.9
  • Kim
    San Diego •28 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Nick’s is one of my favorite restaurants if you want really good food and great service. We had a delicious meal with a delicious steak, cooked to perfection, ending with their signature butter cake, that is one of the best desserts I have ever had! The service was great! All around this was a great experience!
    More info
    Nick’s on StatePrice: Moderate• American• Carlsbad
    •
    4.8
  • OpenTable Diner
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Incredible experience - truly no notes. Everything that was brought out from start to finish was magic. I don’t want to share too much and spoil the experience! Just trust that it is well worth every penny.
    More info
    LiloPrice: Very Expensive• Californian• Carlsbad
    •
    5
  • ChloeJVIP
    Seattle / Eastern Washington •2 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Our server Erin was awesome. The ahi appetizer was good, cioppino was delicious, and the filet was fine but I ordered medium rare and it was medium to medium well.
    More info
    333 Pacific - Steaks & SeafoodPrice: Moderate• Steakhouse• Oceanside
    •
    4.5
  • Dr . Benjamin S .VIP
    San Diego •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on May 30, 2025
    We were absolutely blown away by the chef tasting menu as well as the 1000 star service we received! I cannot believe they do not have a Michelin Star or 3. The flavors of every dish was amazing. The details of the preparation was a great way to dine and experience at the same time. We will definitely be coming back as this spot has this our top three in Oceanside! Thank you all again for a fantastic dining experience! See you soon!
    More info
    MatsuPrice: Very Expensive• Creative Japanese• Oceanside
    •
    4.7

Discover best special occasions restaurants in Oceanside

Planning a special occasion in North San Diego's Oceanside area? The local dining scene offers a variety of restaurants that are perfect for celebrating life's milestones. From exquisite steakhouses to charming Italian bistros, each venue provides a unique atmosphere tailored for memorable events like birthdays, anniversaries, and other celebrations. These establishments prioritize high-quality ingredients, expert preparation, and exceptional service to ensure a delightful dining experience. Oceanside's culinary offerings are renowned for their sophisticated ambiance and attention to detail, making each meal a luxurious affair. Whether you're looking for an intimate dinner or a grand gathering, the restaurants in Oceanside cater to all preferences with their diverse menus and elegant settings. Immerse yourself in a dining experience where each bite and moment is crafted with the utmost care and dedication to culinary excellence.

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