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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in Carlsbad

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24 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Wildland restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(126)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Carlsbad
Booked 62 times today
WALK-IN'S ONLY FOR BREAKFAST AND LUNCH.WALK-IN'S AND RESERVATIONS FOR DINNER.Wildland is an all-day restaurant, bar and bakery inspired by the natural landscape and vibrant community of North County, celebrating the creative culture of California by bringing bold ideas to timeless traditions. Night or day, this is a place for the every day. We open daily at 8am, with counter service up until 4:00pm, inviting you all to come in and join us on a first-come, first-serve basis for breakfast and lunch.Reservations are available every evening, and walk in guests are always welcome.Private Dining Room reservations are available for parties of 12-18 guests.
A photo of Green Dragon Tavern & Museum restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1546)
Price: Moderate
• American • Carlsbad
Booked 15 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 Lilo restaurant
5.0
Exceptional(32)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Carlsbad
Booked 19 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 Benihana - Carlsbad, CA restaurant
3.5
Very Good(3937)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Carlsbad
Booked 63 times today
Welcome to Benihana, a dining experience unlike any other! Our guests are seated at communal tables in groups, where your personal chef will perform the ancient art of Teppanyaki. Watch as we slice and dice, preparing a meal that will dazzle your eyes as well taste buds, whether you choose mouth-watering steak, tender chicken or succulent seafood. You can also enjoy sushi prepared by a talented sushi chef and indulge in a specialty cocktail.
A photo of Valentina restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1897)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary European • Encinitas
Booked 18 times today
A small neighborhood Spanish restaurant in a cute California beach town called Leucadia.we play music and serve wine, tapas, some cocktails and thoughtful hospitality with some dim lighting in a lively environment.We look forward to welcoming you.
A photo of 7MILE Kitchen restaurant
3.9
Excellent(332)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Carlsbad
Booked 4 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 Ponto Lago - Park Hyatt Aviara restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1059)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Carlsbad
Booked 5 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 Le Papagayo Carlsbad restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1159)
Price: Moderate
• American • Carlsbad
Booked 45 times today
At Le Papagayo Carlsbad Village you can expect live music nightly blended with the best in Coastal/Mediterranean/New American food and cocktails. With a full bar and service from 8am-10pm nightly you'll have ample opportunity to enjoy the newest addition to Carlsbad Village. Located conveniently off Carlsbad Village Dr. we are a short walk from State St and just off the freeway for easy access from either direction. We have a large public parking lot directly in front of the restaurant along with assigned parking off to the north end. Please come in and enjoy breakfast/lunch or dinner any day or night of the week and don't hesitate to call to see who's performing today :)
A photo of Vigilucci's Seafood & Steakhouse restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(4705)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Carlsbad
Booked 46 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 PAON Restaurant & Wine Bar restaurant
4.1
Excellent(1979)
Price: Expensive
• French American • Carlsbad
Booked 5 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.

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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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