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Best Authentic Restaurants in Carlsbad

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19 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Buona Forchetta Encinitas restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(610)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Encinitas
Booked 57 times today
Buona Forchetta Encinitas is a hit among customers for its authentic Italian cuisine. One reviewer raved, 'If you are looking for an authentic taste of Italy, look no further.' Others echoed this sentiment, describing the food as 'authentic and delicious' and praising the restaurant for its 'authentic Italian cuisine.' The restaurant's owner, Matteo Cattaneo, has brought his warehouse-style Italian eatery to life in Encinitas, providing a family-friendly, approachable space with award-winning pizzas and upscale entrees.
A photo of Jeune et Jolie restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(4141)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary French • Carlsbad
Booked 31 times today
A culinary experience celebrating the moment, Jeune et Jolie reimagines French cuisine through the vibrant lens of our Southern California landscape with a 4-course menu offered at $120 per guest. For those looking for a more casual evening, we feature "Le Menu du Bar”, an à la carte offering available for walk-in guests at our bar and lounge.
A photo of Fish Boon restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(63)
Price: Moderate
• Sushi • Carlsbad
At Fish Boon, we see every meal as a celebration of freshness, quality, and flavor. Located in the hills of Carlsbad, our restaurant is committed to creating outstanding sushi experiences infused with warmth and elegance. We use handpicked, high-quality ingredients in our meticulously crafted dishes, inviting you to enjoy the blend of tradition and innovation. Join us on a journey where each bite weaves a story, making every visit feel like a homecoming. Welcome to where exceptional sushi meets authentic hospitality.
A photo of 7MILE Kitchen restaurant
4.0
Excellent(328)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Carlsbad
Booked 13 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 Vigilucci's Seafood & Steakhouse restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(4641)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Carlsbad
Booked 39 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 Vigilucci's Cucina Italiana restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(2775)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Carlsbad
Booked 20 times today
Nestled in the heart of downtown Carlsbad, Vigilucci's Cucina Italiana offers fabulous Northern Italian cuisine and award-winning service. Enjoy lunch on the outdoor patio or start the evening off at their full-service bar before dinner. A great place for a romantic dinner, a family gathering, a company party or special event. Each of Vigilucci's three locations offer a notable wine menu, made from scratch pastas and sauces, fresh seafood specials, salads, prime steaks, chicken and veal dishes. 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 Texas de Brazil - Carlsbad restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1653)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Carlsbad
Booked 62 times today
Texas de Brazil, is a Brazilian steakhouse, or churrascaria, that features endless servings of flame-grilled beef, lamb, pork, chicken, and Brazilian sausage as well as an extravagant salad area with a wide array of seasonal chef-crafted items.
A photo of Jalisco Cantina - Carlsbad restaurant
4.4
Awesome(24)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Oceanside
Booked 12 times today
¡Bienvenido a Jalisco Cantina! Inspired by the rich culture of Jalisco, Mexico—a region famous for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and birthplace of the world’s finest tequilas—we bring this spirit to every dish and drink we serve. Our scratch kitchen uses the freshest ingredients to craft flavorful, authentic dishes like birria tacos, carnitas, and made-to-order guacamole.Pair your meal with our extensive selection of premium tequilas and handcrafted cocktails, carefully curated to reflect the essence of Jalisco. Join us at Jalisco Cantina for a dining experience that’s as vibrant and welcoming as the Mexican sun. ¡Salud!
A photo of Buca di Beppo - Carlsbad restaurant
3.4
Very Good(460)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Carlsbad
Booked 5 times today
If you are looking for an Italian Restaurant in Carlsbad, CA then come to Buca. Our Italian Restaurant serves Authentic Family Style Italian Food. Located near the Forum of Carlsbad, your Carlsbad, CA Buca is ready to serve you all your favorite Italian specialties for lunch or dinner all week long. It's easy to see why we are everyone's favorite Italian restaurant. Our chefs create delicious, authentic Italian pastas, entrees, and pizzas and our attentive staff serves them up family style. From the moment you walk into your Carlsbad Buca, you know you are going to be well taken care of. You'll feel like family because we treat you like family. We love celebrations so be sure to book our semi-private dining rooms or set up catering for your next special event. Make your reservations or simply stop by to enjoy a meal today. We can't wait to see you!
A photo of Vigilucci's Trattoria Italiana restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1357)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Encinitas
Booked 13 times today
Vigilucci’s Trattoria Italiana features an exceptional menu of Italian favorites, steaks and the freshest seafood. Menu highlights include many of the company’s signature dishes, made from scratch pastas, salads, steaks, seafood, pizzas and calzones. Group dining space is available for large or small groups. Our casual yet sophisticated piano bar enhances the dining experience in the main dining room and front patio.For off-site events and parties contact Cater@Vigiluccis.comCatering to the most discerning palates for over 30 years,Vigilucci’s catering team can custom create a unique and memorable menu for celebrating life’s special occasions.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Guy
    Los Angeles •16 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    A wonderful experience! Went with my wife to Valentine’s Day. She was immediately charmed by the relaxed ambience and then blown away by the five-course meal. The ingredients and taste combinations were delicious. I don’t drink so they paired each course with perfect no-alcoholic drinks . My wife’s food was paired with very interesting alcoholic beverages which enhanced her courses. Staff was excellent: smart, down-to-earth and attentive. Highly Recommended!
    More info
    Jeune et JoliePrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary French• Carlsbad
    4.9
  • Sue
    San Diego •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    The staff at this fine-dining restaurant shared a birthday celebration for my sister. We both had the salmon dish, and I would recommend it without a doubt. What could be nicer than looking out at the Pacific Ocean and enjoying delicious food served with prompt and professional service?
    More info
    Vigilucci's Seafood & SteakhousePrice: Expensive• Italian• Carlsbad
    4.7
  • JayVIP
    San Diego •17 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Perfect place for a low key date night. Arguably the best pizza on the coast highway. Salads are huge and tasty. Servers are friendly and professional.
    More info
    Buona Forchetta EncinitasPrice: Moderate• Italian• Encinitas
    4.7
  • Lydiana
    San Diego •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Feb 1, 2025
    Beautifully prepared and super fresh sushi. Great menu. Superb service. Nice sake tasting and premium sake small/large bottle choices. Indoor or outdoor seating options. Outdoor has heat lamps. Area of improvement: check in area by front door gets congested and crowded. We sat at the table by the front door and people waiting to be seated leaned up against our seating booth. Not fun dining with constant bumps. Overall: highly recommend!
    More info
    Fish BoonPrice: Moderate• Sushi• Carlsbad
    4.8
  • Kendall
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 26, 2024
    This was one of the few places open on Christmas Day and my family and I had a great meal. Thank you all for everything!
    More info
    7MILE KitchenPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Carlsbad
    4

Discover best authentic restaurants in Carlsbad

Explore the authentic dining scene in North San Diego, specifically in Carlsbad, where culinary delights meet local charm. This region is celebrated for its genuine culinary experiences, offering a diverse range of restaurants that highlight authentic flavors and innovative approaches to cuisine. Diners looking for true, locally-inspired meals will find establishments in this area that prioritize fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, providing a taste of the local agriculture and seafood bounty. The dining atmosphere in Carlsbad caters to a variety of preferences, from casual, vintage settings to more contemporary and sophisticated environments, ensuring a memorable experience for every occasion. Each restaurant in this locale strives to create dishes that are not only flavorful but also deeply rooted in the region's culinary heritage, often enhanced by the creativity and expertise of renowned chefs. The overall dining experience in Carlspace is highly rated by visitors and locals alike, who often praise the exceptional service, the quality of the food, and the unique ambiances that each venue offers. Whether you're a food enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy a meal that's both authentic and inventive, North San Diego's Carlsbad area promises an enriching and satisfying dining journey.

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