15 Best Carlsbad Restaurants | Must-Try Restaurants in Carlsbad CA

Written By: Gail Clifford | Published By: Foodie Flashpacker | January 16, 2024

Along the sun-kissed coast of California, Carlsbad is more than just a destination; it’s an experience that proudly proclaims, “It’s All Good.” Life here is a perpetual beachside vacation, a place where locals and tourists coexist in near-perfect harmony, sharing the secret of this coastal gem.

In this culinary exploration, we’ll uncover our favorite dining destinations visited during a recent press trip in Carlsbad, California from seaside seafood shacks to farm-to-table delights, a true food lover’s paradise waiting to be explored. The founders of this charming town surely had a crystal ball, foreseeing the allure it would exude in the years to come. 

Carlsbad’s origin story is a tale of wanderlust that began with the partnership of two visionary men, Gerhard Schutte, who purchased nearly 400 acres at $40 per acre from John Frazier, and Samuel Church Smith, who were inspired by the pristine beauty of the California coast.

Best Carlsbad Restaurants

In the late 19th century, they recognized the untapped potential of the area and saw the opportunity to create a thriving community in this idyllic location. Today, Carlsbad remains a testament to their vision, a place where the surf and the sand blend seamlessly into a tapestry of relaxation, adventure, and gastronomic delight.

Schutte and Smith, along with their partners, purchased the land along the coast, laying the foundation for the town’s development. Their vision was to create a coastal paradise that could rival any other in terms of natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

They named their budding town “Carlsbad” after the famous spa town of Karlsbad in Bohemia (now Karlovy Vary in the Czech Republic), known for its therapeutic mineral springs.

One of the most significant industries they established in Carlsbad was centered around artesian well water. They were among the first to harness the area’s natural alkaline artesian water, which was believed to have healing properties.

This water became a valuable asset, drawing visitors seeking its reputed health benefits. Carlsbad’s alkaline water was bottled and shipped far and wide, contributing to the town’s early prosperity.

Schutte and Smith, with their entrepreneurial spirit, also built two charming and similar homes in Carlsbad. One of these homes (Schutte’s), known as the Twin Inns, still stands today as a historical landmark.

The Twin Inns, built in 1887, has been beautifully preserved and serves as a tangible link to Carlsbad’s rich history, a testament to the town’s founders and their enduring legacy.

Today, Carlsbad thrives as a vibrant coastal community that has evolved from its early days as a quaint spa town. The founders’ vision for a picturesque haven on the California coast has come to life, and the town continues to attract visitors and residents alike, drawn by its stunning beaches, cultural heritage, and a thriving economy that extends far beyond the waters of its renowned artesian wells.

Taking a three-hour guided food tour, especially the Carlsbad Food Tour with a guide as wonderful as Kellie, is an invaluable experience when visiting this foodie haven. It’s the ultimate culinary journey that not only introduces you to the best dining gems in town but also provides a delightful snapshot of Carlsbad’s vibrant food scene. 

This adventure allows you to savor a diverse range of flavors, all in a short distance of about a mile. While the scenic walk may offer a taste of exercise, it’s no match for the indulgent array of calories you’ll consume along the way.

So, for those with limited time but insatiable appetites, the Carlsbad Food Tour is your ticket to a flavorful exploration you won’t soon forget.

Then, later in the day when your appetite may have returned, get back to town for a great steak at Nick’s on State or finish the night telling stories around The Campfire.

• Carlsbad Food Tour https://www.carlsbadfoodtours.com/tours/taste-of-carlsbad/

The 15 Best Restaurants In Carlsbad CA

The Goods

2965 State St. // (760) 994-0458

“The Goods” is a bustling and aromatic haven for doughnut enthusiasts, where every delectable delight is crafted in-house. As you step through the door, you’re greeted by the intoxicating scent of freshly fried dough and the symphony of laughter and animated chatter.

The lively atmosphere is palpable, with the heart of the operation visible through a glass window at the back, where skilled hands craft these sweet masterpieces.

The back wall of the seating area proudly proclaims “GLAZE AND GRIND” in bold black letters on a crisp white brick wall canvas, hinting at the magical transformation happening in the kitchen. It’s not just a doughnut shop; it’s a destination for those who appreciate the artistry of a perfectly crafted treat.

One of the joys of visiting “The Goods” with a group is the ability to sample an array of doughnuts. With 5 or 6 friends in tow, you can make it a delightful adventure of flavors, each bite a different experience, without a 6,000-calorie meal. The choices are diverse, including gluten-free options and an awe-inspiring cinnamon roll that’s as big as your hand.

During our visit, we couldn’t resist indulging in the likes of a cinnamon roll, maple bacon donuts, a raspberry-filled delight, a classic glazed donut with chocolate frosting and sprinkles, and a masterpiece featuring a glazed donut adorned with a chocolate shard, more frosting, and a drizzle of honey. The taste explosion is sure to leave your taste buds dancing with joy.

Pricing is straightforward, with each doughnut priced at $4, and the cinnamon roll coming in at a slightly higher cost, but trust me, it’s worth every penny.