Eight Restaurants You Need to Try in Carlsbad and Oceanside

When you’re looking for a place to live, you’ve got to think about the day to day kind of stuff. The big decisions (the school, the job, the property values, etc.) are what we all tend to focus on, and with good reason. But, once you’re actually in your new house, what one might describe as “the mundane” begins to become a concern. Take, for example, the dilemma of what to eat. Sure, cooking works, but sometimes you just want a night out. And that night out should be anything but mundane.

Luckily, the food selection in North San Diego County is a cut above the rest. Whether you call Carlsbad home or Oceanside home, there are some restaurants you simply cannot miss. These spots are great for entertaining friends and relatives visiting or just taking a night off from the kitchen. There’s a cuisine for all appetites. The area has become something of a foodie paradise, so don’t think of this list as definitive. Rather, consider these eight restaurants the places where you want to begin exploring the area. If you aren’t already hungry, you will be by the time you finish with this list.

Carlsbad

Paon

Paon is a favorite of the downtown scene. It’s easy to see why. Featuring California cuisine with a French twist, there’s always something interesting on the menu. It’s certainly a place for those with an adventurous palate. Throw in the art deco interior, stylish art, old Hollywood-inspired lounge, and extensive wine list, and it’s easy to see why Paon is a must visit restaurant in Carlsbad.

West Steak and Seafood

Really, name a better combination than steak and seafood. West Steak and Seafood does it particularly well. It’s one of the best loved restaurants in Carlsbad for a reason. While you’ll get a top-notch filet mignon for sure, it’s the details that make West Steak and Seafood stand apart from the competition. It’s a farm to table restaurant, meaning all ingredients are sourced locally. The fruits and vegetables are actually picked daily from the local chef’s garden.

Casa di Bandini

Good cuisine is all about authenticity. If you’re looking for the real deal when it comes to authentic, traditional Mexican food, then you have to eat at Casa de Bandini. Featuring colonial-era design, this restaurant also provides live mariachi entertainment and a fully loaded drink selection including over fifty tequilas to try. Yes, fifty tequilas. We recommend trying them over the course of many visits.

Perfect Pairings

As the name suggests, Perfect Pairings is all about making the perfect matches between the plates offered and the wines and craft beers served. The food changes regularly as dishes are made up of seasonal offerings, ensuring freshness. This is definitely a place where you’ll want to opt for the chef’s tasting menu to get the full experience.

Oceanside

333 Pacific

When it comes to ambience, 333 Pacific has it in abundance. If you’re looking for the perfect date, book a table for around the time of sunset to get a beautiful view. The interior is adorned with 1920s art deco inspired designs. The menu is set, so if you want to pick and choose, you’d be better off coming for Happy Hour otherwise you’re in for a pre-determined three-course meal.

Succulent Café

This laid-back spot lives up to its catchy name. The Succulent Cafe is a great place to enjoy good food and west coast creativity and vibes. There are often art shows in the café along with musical performances.

That Boy Good

Just because you’re in California doesn’t mean you can’t get some good old Southern food. If you’re craving BBQ, fried wings, and brisket, you have to stop at That Boy Good. Enjoy some catfish and take in the blues. The destination for comfort food.

The Breakfast Club Diner

Sure, you’re probably thinking of the movie of the same name right now. That’s no accident. The Breakfast Club Diner  is all about setting that 1980s charming vibe, complete with movie posters. Of course, you’re here for the food. The all-American breakfast choices will keep you coming back for more.

Conclusion

Seriously, where do you start with this list? It’s too bad you can’t have a tasting menu from each. Of course, in order to eat at all these places you need to live nearby. The food culture in Carlsbad and Oceanside is just one of the many reasons why more people are looking to call North San Diego County home. When it comes to finding a great home for you and your family, you’re going to need a little help. Contact us today. The team at Juncal Real Estate knows the area like no one else. We’ll help you find the house of your dreams.