San Diego’s North County city of Carlsbad offers miles of coastline, swimmable and surfable beaches, diverse restaurant options, and activities that range from Legoland California Resort to Carlsbad Premium Outlets, The Flower Fields, and Carlsbad Strawberry Company.
With Carlsbad Village as the main downtown hub, this city spans several neighborhoods from La Costa and Aviara in the south, Bressi Ranch and Poinsettia in the center, and Olde Carlsbad and Calavera Hills to the north—with many in between. Natural mineral springs helped put Carlsbad on the map, and its alkaline mineral drinking water continues to be one of its claims to fame. Carlsbad Village encompasses 10 walkable blocks filled with restaurants (including two with Michelin stars) and coffee shops, wineries and breweries, boutiques and galleries.
No matter what brings you to Carlsbad, we’ve got you covered with our neighborhood guide filled with recommendations on what to eat, things to do, and where to shop.
Food & Drink | Things to Do | Shops & Boutiques
Carlsbad Restaurants, Bars, and Coffee Shops
Gonzo!
Ranked amongst Yelp’s 2025 list of Top 100 Places to Eat in the US, Gonzo! is the place to go for a steaming bowl of flavorful ramen. Start with picking a soup base like the red (spicy), black (smoky garlic), or green (veggie) and then explore protein options including pork chashu, chicken karaage, or tofu.
300 Carlsbad Village Drive, Suite 201A
Same Same
While most restaurants brag about their authentic cuisine, Same Same bills itself as “inauthentic Thai”—basically, Asian fusion. Think wonton samosas, Korean short ribs, and chicken satay. A live DJ and cheeky cocktails make for a happening bar scene here.
300 Carlsbad Village Drive, Suite 213
Little Victory Wine Bar
Dual family-owned and operated wine bar Little Victory focuses on natural, organic, and biodynamic vinos in a charming indoor/outdoor space made for date night or girls’ night out. The small but mighty food menu has the usual wine bar suspects like cheese, bread, and olives, in addition to pasta, seafood, and other shareable small plates.
505 Oak Ave., Suite B
Prager Brothers
Established by Carlsbad natives Clinton and Louie Prager, artisan bread shop Prager Brothers has three dedicated retail shops, but its products are also sold at several local farmers’ markets and grocery stores. The Carlsbad location has a bakery, espresso bar, pizza and market, plus live music on the weekends. Get an almond croissant and grab a loaf of whole grain sourdough to go.
5611 Palmer Way, Suite C
Pitfire Pizza
Fast-casual pizza joint and Los Angeles transplant, Pitfire Pizza has a roster of 12 pies with sourdough crust, but the pastas and salads here should not be overlooked. Check for seasonal menu offerings, and make substitutions for vegan cheese or cauliflower crust if needed. Plus, its full bar includes boozy frozen slushies like the Negroni Freezoni which is never a bad idea.
7720 El Camino Real, Suite A
The Goods
Artisan donut and coffee shop, The Goods, has creative flavors like a cold brew float, spiced pear & sweet cream, and Nutella buttercream, though other dough-licious bestsellers include the brown butter and Boston cream. They also have plentiful vegan and gluten-free options and all treats can be serve alongside Stumptown Coffee drinks.
2965 State St.
Campfire
Live-fire cooking techniques are at the center of Campfire, an upscale yet approachable modern American restaurant for shareable plates with the whole family. There’s a teepee for kids to play inside, and build-your-own s’mores for dessert. As one of the most popular dinner spots in Carlsbad, reservations are recommended.
2725 State St.
Cherry Blossom
Find Burmese street food like classic tea leaf salad (a must-try) or coconut khao soi at Cherry Blossom cafe and poké shop. This small, family-operated restaurant brings bold flavors from Myanmar that are influenced by Thailand, India, and China.
2521 Palomar Airport Road, Suite 103
Beshock Ramen
Get your Japanese soul food fix at Beshock Ramen, where ramen broths are made from scratch daily. Guests can also find sushi, rice bowls, and appetizers like chicken karaage, takoyaki, and gyoza on the menu. Don’t skip the sake either, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better selection in town.
2525 El Camino Real, Suite 211
The Cassara Kitchen & Bar
This Mediterranean-inspired Hilton property overlooking The Flower Fields is the perfect backdrop for cocktails with a view. Drop by The Cassara for handcrafted or frozen cocktails, and take advantage of discounted wine and beer during weekday happy hour.
5805 Armada Drive
The Wise Ox
The deli counter inside a butcher shop is sure to be a meat lover’s dream. Order one of seven sandwiches served at The Wise Ox like a dry-aged burger or cheesesteak, then grab a pound of ribeye or prime rib to cook at home later.
7750 El Camino Real
Jeune et Jolie
Campfire’s fancier sister restaurant just a few doors down, Jeune et Jolie earned Carlsbad’s first Michelin star. Named “young and beautiful” this chic restaurant offers a four-course tasting menu of French cuisine with optional wine or beverage pairings. For a more casual evening, grab a seat at the bar and order à la carte.
2659 State St.
Wildland + Lilo
Casual, all-day restaurant, bar, and bakehouse, Wildland (same hospitality team as Jeune et Jolie and Campfire) has a buzzy social scene with woodfired pizzas, fresh pasta, and rotisserie chicken. Come for flaky pastries in the morning, hearty sandwiches at mid-day, and full service dining with inventive cocktails in the evening. For a more exclusive experience, book reservations at Lilo, the 22-seat chef’s table/counter that’s housed inside Wildland with a separate back entrance. The fine dining meal includes a 12-course, coastal-inspired tasting menu with optional beverage pairings. While still new to Carlsbad’s dining scene, Lilo earned a Michelin star within six weeks of opening.
2598 State St.; 2571 Roosevelt St.
Ember & Rye
A steakhouse concept from celebrity chef Richard Blais, Ember & Rye overlooks the 18th hole at Park Hyatt Aviara’s golf course designed by Arnold Palmer. Helmed by executive chef Jonathan Bautista, the restaurant leans heavily into steak and seafood, but some must-order items include garlic croissants and a Smoking Ember mezcal cocktail.
7447 Batiquitos Drive
Vinaka Cafe
Homey, Fijian-themed coffee shop Vinaka Cafe is a favorite among locals for coffee, tea, espresso, and breakfast sandwiches. Once you’ve finished your latte, head back to the counter for a scoop of locally made Niederfrank’s ice cream.
300 Carlsbad Village Drive, Suite 211
Seasons Restaurant
It’s not just hotel guests that flock to Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara. Offering high-end meat, seafood, and pasta dishes at dinnertime, Seasons Restaurant has a beautiful, light-filled dining room and patio that’s open for all day family dining.
7210 Blue Heron Place
Himalayan Sherpa Cuisine
Get a taste of Himalayan, Nepalese, Tibetan, and Indian flavors at Himalayan Sherpa Cuisine, a no-frills eatery that should be on your takeout rotation. Classic dishes like chicken tikka masala and butter chicken are on the menu, but other favorites worth trying include Himalayan biryani, salmon tandoori, and Badami naan.
795 Carlsbad Village Drive
Pelly’s Fish Market
Family-owned seafood market and counter-service cafe Pelly’s Fish Market has been serving up tacos, burritos, sandwiches, salads, and combo plates for more than 35 years. After polishing off grilled fish tacos, order from its fresh seafood counter to take home sushi-grade ahi tuna, scallops, shrimp, or other seasonal fish to cook later.
7110 Avenida Encinas, Suite 101
Chandler’s Oceanfront Dining
When you’re camping at South Carlsbad State Beach and can’t fathom the idea of yet another hibachi burger over the portable stove, head to Chandler’s Oceanfront Dining instead. Housed inside Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach hotel with views of the Pacific, Chandler’s has a seafood-focused menu with dishes like macadamia-crusted calamari, crab cakes, and cioppino.
1 Ponto Road
Harbor Fish Cafe
A local institution for more than 40 years, Harbor Fish Cafe is a casual seafood restaurant slinging fish tacos, clam chowder, and their fan favorite fish & chips within steps of Carlsbad State Beach. Score discounts with its weekday specials.
3179 Carlsbad Blvd.
Dini’s by the Sea
Get incredible sunset views with an oversized plate of crab legs or oysters at Dini’s by the Sea. This casual American bar and grill inside Tamarack Beach Resort has ocean views, an extensive weekday happy hour menu, and late-night drink specials.
3290 Carlsbad Blvd.
264 Fresco
Sit on the sidewalk patio or head upstairs to the rooftop deck (ages 21+) at 264 Fresco for woodfired pizzas, pasta, meat, and seafood dishes. This sizable Italian restaurant is especially good for large groups and private parties—just make sure someone at your table orders the lasagna to share.
264 Carlsbad Village Drive
Things to Do in Carlsbad, CA
The Flower Fields
Frolic among 55 colorful acres of Giant Tecolote ranunculus flowers, in bloom each year from March until May at The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch. Take a tractor wagon ride, wander through a maze of sweet peas, and let the little ones explore Santa’s Playground. The photo ops are endless.
5704 Paseo Del Norte
New Village Arts
Performing arts theater New Village Arts hosts full seasons of plays and musicals that draw more than 30,000 people annually to its 100-seat community theater. The nonprofit is known for its education and outreach programs with local schools, and hosting special events to unite the local arts community.
2787 State St.
State Street Farmers Market
Every Wednesday from 2:30-7 p.m. (6 p.m. during winter), State Street Farmers Market comes alive in Carlsbad Village with more than 50 vendors selling fresh produce, meat and seafood, artisan packaged foods, and prepared meals. Find street parking and expect to encounter some busker performances while you shop at this small farmers market.
2907 State St.
Museum of Making Music
Don’t worry about being able to carry a tune, read music, or play an instrument to have a good time at the Museum of Making Music. This small museum explores how instruments are made, used, and sold via exhibits and hands-on experiences—there’s even a children’s area.
5790 Armada Dr.
Legoland California Resort
Act like a kid—with or without kids in tow—at Legoland California Resort, where “everything is awesome” thanks to more than 60 rides, shows, Lego build-and-play areas, and character meet & greets. For the full experience, stay in one of the new Lego Duplo-themed rooms at Legoland Hotel, make a splash at Legoland Water Park, and explore Sea Life Aquarium. Those who live for spooky season will love its annual Brick-or-Treat monster party with Halloween-themed attractions.
One Legoland Drive
Omni La Costa Resort & Spa
This 400-acre destination hotel has it all: an incredible spa, two golf courses, eight swimming pools, restaurants, water slides and splash pad, tennis and pickleball courts, a kids’ club, event spaces with fun programming, and gorgeous Spanish Mission-style architecture throughout. Whether you’re staying overnight in one of Omni La Costa’s newly remodeled guestrooms or just spending an afternoon relaxing at the indoor/outdoor spa, chances are you’ll never want to leave.
2100 Costa Del Mar Road
Carlsbad Strawberry Company
Get your hands a little dirty at Carlsbad Strawberry Company where you can pick your own strawberries (typically March through July) and wander through sunflower fields. During fall, the fields become a pumpkin patch (September through November), complete with a corn maze and tractor rides through the farm.
1050 Cannon Road
Batiquitos Lagoon Trail
This flat, easy hike through an ecological preserve takes about an hour to complete. Batiquitos Lagoon Trail is a 3.4-mile out-and-back route with views of the tranquil lagoon, birds, plants, and other wildlife that feel like worlds away from the nearby Interstate 5.
7380 Gabbiano Lane
South Ponto Beach
One of the county’s widest swaths of beach, South Ponto is adjacent to Batiquitos Lagoon, giving it a more secluded feel than other area beaches. Surfing is popular here, and beachcombers enjoy collecting smooth stones during the winter months.
Coast Highway and La Costa Ave.
Tamarack Beach
Carlsbad State Beach, known as Tamarack Beach by locals, is great for families, surf sessions, and walking—either on the sand or a paved path that runs along the seawall. It’s easily accessible, with plenty of space to spread out, stretching from Tamarack Avenue up toward Carlsbad Village.
Carlsbad Blvd. and Tamarack Ave.
Carlsbad Shops & Boutiques
Swirl Boutique
Shop for the latest trends in women’s clothing, accessories, and home & beauty products at Swirl Boutique. The well-curated shop carries designer brands like ASTR the Label, Cleobella, Aloha Collection, and LSpace.
560 Grand Ave.
Carlsbad Premium Outlets
Do some name-brand shopping with a discount at Carlsbad Premium Outlets, an outdoor center with more than 84 stores including Coach, Kate Spade, Tory Burch, Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors, and many more. There’s also a handful of dining options like Blaze Pizza and Ruby’s Diner when you need to make a pit stop.
5620 Paseo Del Norte
The Forum Carlsbad
The closest thing to a mall in town, The Forum Carlsbad has about 30 shops from well-known brands like Lululemon, Vuori, Apple, Yeti, and Ulta Beauty. The shopping center is anchored by Jimbo’s grocery store and a slew of eateries such as Casa de Bandini, The Henry, and Parakeet Café.
1923 Calle Barcelona
Bloom Boutique
Score new work clothes, going out attire, jeans, and shoes at this women’s retail shop, along with accessories to match. Bloom Boutique stocks brands like Free People, Lovestich, and Risen Jeans at each of its two Carlsbad locations.
7720 El Camino Real; 653 Gateway Road, Suite 102
Village Faire
A main hub of Carlsbad Village, Village Faire shopping and dining center is a centralized, accessible meeting point for friends and family. Here you can browse souvenir shops, grab a bite to eat, catch a sports game at the bar, or just let the kids run around their courtyard fountain.
300 Carlsbad Village Drive
Jayden P Boutique
What began as a small retail corner inside Jayden Presleigh Salon is now a dedicated shop selling women’s clothes, hats, bags, shoes, jewelry, beauty products, and gifts. Selling brands like DIFF Eyewear, Daze Denim, and Pixie Mood, Jayden P Boutique offers different styles ranging from coastal cowgirl and festival wear to date night outfits and streetwear.
2946 State St.
Uptown Cheapskate
Get thrifty at Uptown Cheapskate resale shop that carries secondhand name-brand attire for those on a budget. Fashionistas can also sell their clothes that are in season and on-trend here for cash or store credit.
6949 El Camino Real, Suite 200
