After working up an appetite surfing, riding, walking, or lounging, you may begin to think about replenishing all those calories you just burned off.
New restaurants are popping up all over North County every month, but below are some of our favorite new hot spots to check out while you’re visiting, all located in downtown Carlsbad. The best part, these are all within walking distance, a bike ride, or a short drive from any of Haustay’s Carlsbad properties. Keep reading for 8 new spots we love.
1. Nick’s On State
2742 State St Suite 100, Carlsbad, CA 92008
This newest Nick’s location just opened earlier this year after owning many other successful restaurants all along the Southern California coast. Known as a Seafood and Steakhouse, some popular dishes they offer include a Prime Rib Melt, Deviled Eggs, Shrimp Taquitos, and for dessert you can’t pass up the most popular item on the menu- Butter Cake! Some notable features this restaurant offers is you’re able to make reservations, they have heated and covered outdoor seating, and a selection of Vegan and Vegetarian food options, along with a full bar.
2. Fresca Cocina
2858 Carlsbad Blvd, Carlsbad, CA 92008
This new trendy hot spot is one you won’t want to miss, whether you’re looking to get a crafty cocktail lounging on the couch at the bar with some apps, or wanting a full dining experience, this modern Latin inspired restaurant won’t disappoint. They offer heated and covered outdoor seating, private parties, a full bar with happy hour specials, and you can even order catering services if you decide you want to continue taking in the views from your cozy temporary home while still experiencing some of Carlsbad’s finest. A few popular dishes to add to your list is the Beer Battered Pacifico Sea Bass, Brazillian Churrasco, and Peruvian Roasted Chicken Breast. The owner of this restaurant also has a sister property in downtown called 264 Fresco, which is an Italian inspired eatery.
3. Village Kabob Mediterranean Grill
550 Grand Ave, Carlsbad, CA 92008
Located in the heart of downtown Carlsbad, this restaurant offers some of the most delicious Mediterranean fusion in North County. Some popular dishes you won’t want to miss is their Greek Salad, Baklava, and their Chicken Shawarma Plate, but you can enjoy a variety of wraps and sharable plates. They offer indoor and outdoor seating and has space for any size group. The owner of this restaurant also owns 2 other successful eateries: Cicciotti’s Italian and Seafood also located in the Carlsbad Village, and Cocina del Rancho Mexican Cuisine in Rancho Santa Fe.
4. Jeune et Jolie
2659 State St Suite 102, Carlsbad, CA 92008
This French cuisine is best known as one of just 3 restaurants in the San Diego area to earn a Michelin star in the California Guide. You can be sure to enjoy an intimate chef’s table experience of just 22 seats in the house with a multi-course menu, along with an option for outdoor dining. Some menu favorites include Frog Legs, Amuse Bouche, Wagyu Beef, and Lamb Tartare. The owner of this restaurant also owns another local favorite hotspot called Campfire located next door.
5. Ember & Rye
7447 Batiquitos Dr, Carlsbad, CA 92011
Carlsbad’s newest casual, vintage clubhouse setting offers views overlooking the 18th hole of the Arnold Palmer inspired golf course at the Aviara Hotel. The chef, Richard Blais, is most recently known for being the first winner of Bravo’s Top Chef All-Stars and continues to make regular appearances as a judge on the show, along with making appearances on several other culinary competitions, and has impeccable culinary experience including training at The French Laundry. Here at Ember & Rye you can enjoy indoor or heated outdoor dining, one-of-a-kind craft cocktails from the full bar, private dining, and it’s also a good spot for groups and families. Some fan favorites on the menu include Strip Steak, Carrot Cake, Hot Scotch Eggs, and their Avocado Tostada.
6. Pure Taco
2742 State St suite 102, Carlsbad, CA 92008
This new modern American taqueria is a fast-casual restaurant that opened a year ago and continues to be busy all times of the day. The restaurant offers a wraparound patio for outdoor dining along with a couple seats at the indoor/outdoor bar. Most known for their hand-pressed tortillas, you can enjoy traditional chicken, shrimp, pulled pork, and veggie tacos, naming just a few favorites on the menu. The owner of Pure Taco also owns a local favorite in another Carlsbad neighborhood of Bressi Ranch called Casero Taqueria.
7. Lofty Coffee
2742 State St, Carlsbad, CA 92008
Just like it’s neighbor, Pure Taco, this coffee shop is also trending since it opened and is a great spot to read a book, catch up on some computer work, or just sit back and relax while sipping on some coffee and enjoying the fresh air outdoors. Not only do they offer a wide selection of warm and cold drinks to sip on, but they offer a delicious menu of food items for breakfast and lunch!
8. Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream
2825 State St, Carlsbad, CA 92008
You can’t come to Carlsbad without making a pitstop at this ever so popular ice cream shop. This hot spot is known for their over 100 ice cream flavors that’s all made fresh every day. Handel’s has been around since 1945 but just recently made a home in downtown Carlsbad, so if you ever see this creamery with little to no line be sure to hop in because this line is known to be long during peak hours.
