The 16 best spots for nachos in Carlsbad

Here on a packed house night, sat at the bar and ordered the fish tacos (most entries large enough to split). It was flaky, fresh fish, prepared perfectly on their homemade tortillas. Drinks are a little pricey but they were ok. Great service from bartender Ruby.

Friendly and very efficient service .Large restaurant with indoor or outdoor patio seating . We had a large group and the service was Very Good . Musician s playing Nice songs ,Fun and Happy Atmosphere. The Carne Asada and Shrimp plate was very good. The asada was tender and had good flavor, Shrimp was also good , could have used a couple of more shrimp. Black beans ,Rice , guacamole and choice of tortillas also came with plate . Very generous portions. The chile relleno plate was also very Good. We had a party of 15 and everyone was Very Satisfied with their Food Selections and Service .

Listen, we were very excited to eat here based on the reviews. Unfortunately, we were not happy with the food. Our main gripe was the fact that the pineapple shrimp plate that is pictured, claims to be an award winning dish. I took the first bite of a shrimp and it tasted almost like dish soap and then the rest of the shrimp has no flavor. Literally just tasted like the plainest shrimp ever. The sauce did not help at all. It was missing so much flavor. The taquitos I got were fine. It's honestly so overpriced. And very underwhelming. San Diego usually does not disappoint with it's food. This was unfortunately a miss. The waiters were nice. The place itself is nice. The women's bathroom was kinda gross not gonna lie. I told my boyfriend it's best we return the plate and order him something different but he is kind and wanted to give it a chance. We were so excited to eat here and we felt we were let down. Bummer.

I hadn't been here in YEARS and it was just as amazing as ever. Amazing service, fast turnaround, and a beautiful atmosphere. I got the Especial de Flautas and subbed a side salad instead of beans, and even the salad dressing was SO good. It was fun to visit and I'll definitely be back!

This place met my Mexican husband’s requirements for a “good” Mexican restaurant but neither of us would give it 5 stars. There is something “off” about this place but it is in that part of Carlsbad where things exist in a “bubble.” (I say this with much affection…Moonlight Beach in Encinitas, which is not too far away, and its surrounding area is one of my favorite places ever). The portions are generous, the flavor is there for most everything (I especially liked a green chile tamale that I stole a bite of off my hubby’s plate)…the margaritas are exactly what you would expect from this type of place (good!). It’s a fun, colorful family friendly restaurant but it also feels like it’s trying too hard at moments. I ordered something that was on a side menu…it was on the “lighter” side: mango, avocado, grilled chicken…not at all a classic dish, it was satisfying though because I love anything mango or with avocado. Their desserts are great….the fried ice cream, churros, flan, tres leches, and mango mousse cake were all delicious. My dad always asks the musicians to play something when they come by. It’s not the best Mexican food for sure, but if you don’t eat a lot of homemade “authentic” Mexican food and you are not stuck in THAT bubble, you’ll probably love this place (my brother always gets the San German which looks amazing, carved out pineapple with shrimp and rice).

Visited from out of town and LOVE this place! We sat on the patio and it was beautiful! Food was delicious and service was great. Can’t wait to come back!

My experience at Casa Bandini is never bad, tonight it was so good, the service was very good and the burrito and black beans were wonderful and very tasty. The strawberry margarita was just right and Roy was a very pleasant server and prompt.

Since our arrival in San Diego I was looking forward to having an authentic California Burrito. My wife and I looked around and searched for a spot that looked promising and couldn’t have made a better choice than Senor Grubby’s. This place really blew us away, from the service to the atmosphere and most importantly the food. The Cali Burrito had amazing meat, well seasoned, tender and plentiful and the right amount of cilantro, pico, cheese, and most importantly fries. It didn’t disappoint. We decided to sit out back at the bar which was nice, very casual and cozy. Also, the TJ hot dog sounded interesting so we had to give it a try. It also was delicious.

We ate here at 11:30am, and from the taste of it the meat was yesterday's. Fish and the birria were both super dry, and in huge chunks that would fall out of the burritos. For a $20 burrito I'd expect better.

This is a must eat any time I’m in the area. Tacos are amazing, yummy margaritas, salsas are sooo good, complimentary pickled carrots and jalapeños are tasty. I always sit outside and watch the Padres.

Probably the only thing edible in Carlsbad village. Super cool staff. We've tried it twice on both our vacations this fall. Great food every time. Salsa bar is awesome. We even did door dash with them and food was still hot and delicious. My only qualm was we didn't recieve any utensils but it's probably something I should have requested on my end. Otherwise a killer spot for great burritos. Not a spot I'd go for drinks though. The bar can get backed up quickly and our first visit it took forever just to close out a tab for two cocktails. Burritos yes, cocktails I'd go elsewhere.

I was hosting a day after wedding party at my AirBNB in Vista and I reached out to Senor Grubby to have them deliver food for the party a week before the event. Natalie was very helpful and attentive and got the order down and promised it would be delivered fresh and on time. She followed up with me a couple of times from the original order and was flexible on the day of when I asked her to deliver and hour earlier. The food arrived on time, fresh ands hot, and was spectacular. All of my guests complimented the food and asked where I ordered from. It was a great experience from order to delivery to eating. I highly recommend them for their service, attention to detail and the quality of the food.

2nd time here. The memory was much better. Two Cadillac Margaritas, average in taste and power. We split a ceviche and the Tu Shea burrito, added large Guacamole. Total bill $100

Food is very good and flavorful, highly recommended. I got a TJ dog and chicken rolled tacos. The rolled tacos were excellent and much larger than I expected them to be. This place has a full bar but is family friendly.

We had an ok experience at Norte's Mexican Restaurant! My husband ordered a simple bean and cheese burrito since he just wanted a light bite, but somehow it was amazing. We're pretty sure the tortilla was made in-house because it was incredibly tasty and fresh. The chips and salsa they serve when you sit down are outstanding! The salsa tasted fresh and homemade, though I didn't confirm--but it definitely had that authentic, made-from-scratch flavor. I ordered the nachos without meat, and they were so generous that I had enough to take home for lunch the next day. The best part? They were still delicious the next day! We decided to finish with the flan, but it wasn’t what I expected. It was dense instead of tender, and I missed that melt-in-your-mouth caramel texture and flavor I was hoping for. I did finish it, though—mostly because it was $8. The other downside is that they no longer offer discounts to Carlsbad Inn guests, which seems odd since the restaurant and its sign are both on the property

We were staying in the Carlsbad Inn Beach Resort, so you couldn't get a closer location for us. If seated outside, it's a really nice setting, with patio heaters if needed. The food was OK, but nothing that exciting. The house margarita was a real disappointment with no taste of tequila, probably the worst margarita of our holiday.

Would definitely visit again! Food was delicious- however, I would add more seasoning, like some cilantro, for example, to the steak burrito. Our server was very sweet and the melon margarita was well made.

Really enjoyed my visit to Norte! The burrito I ordered was delicious—hearty, flavorful, and came with plenty of extras on the side, which was a nice touch. The staff were super cheerful and welcoming, which made the whole experience even better. On top of that, the atmosphere was really pleasant—lively but not overwhelming.

We were staying a few blocks away so the location was good. Place is cool, with a great patio. Our server was excellent too. That's where the positives end. This was probably the blandest Mexican food I've ever had. Zero flavor. I also had a skinny margarita that was void of anything good. It was also more expensive than a regular marg. Why?? It has less ingredients! This place has been around for over 40 years apparently and honestly I don't know how. There are other reviews like this so I'm not the only one. Please add some flavor and spice!

I grew up within walking distance and have been coming here for decades. It is always wonderful when I get a chance to stop by and grab a bite to eat. Their queso fundido, la pachanga, and their soups are all amazing. Margaritas and tacos are great, too. Be sure to check out their specials on the sandwich board in front of the host stand before you get seated. Their patio has heaters, and it's nice to sit outside and people watch. Highly recommend!

Norte Mexican Food (Carlsbad Village) 🌮 Food Quality: Very Bland, Lacking Authenticity Many diners describe it as “Gringo food” with little to no real Mexican flavor. One recent review said: *“The food was so bland and just poor quality we couldn’t finish it… The burrito had nothing but plain chicken… the sauce was unrecognizable—maybe tomato soup?” Others echo the same sentiment: “Order arrived late… food was bland, not the same as usual.” Some even critique the salsa and sides: “salsa tasted like pizza sauce,” “off ‘old oil’ taste to the rice,” and “guacamole seemed like it had been frozen.” Overall, unless you’re content with generic American-style Mexican dishes, the food here may fall flat. 👍 Service & Atmosphere: A Standout Service gets consistent praise: “Prompt and friendly,” “waiters and waitresses can’t do enough for you,” and “great location to the beach.” Patrons appreciate the laid-back, family‑friendly vibe and the beach‑village setting: “Nice atmosphere outside… even though tourists are their bread and butter, locals love it too.” Verdict: Not Recommended for Flavor, But Friendly Otherwise Category Rating Flavor / Authenticity ⭐ (Bland, unmemorable) Service ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Friendly, attentive) Ambience ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Beach‑village charm) If you’re after vibrant, authentic Mexican food, Norte may disappoint—it’s often described as “very bland” or “just standard” . However, if you're just looking for friendly service and a casual spot by the beach, it hits those marks well. Final takeaway: Great service, solid vibe—but the food lacks punch. I’d steer clear unless flavor isn't your priority. ⭐ Would not recommend Norte for flavor. 😊 Two thumbs up for the service and atmosphere.

This is my FAVORITE Mexican food restaurant ever! The building is beautiful, the service was great, and the drinks are so good! Not to mention that queso and salsa!! My friend and I drove an hour just to eat here! We will definitely be back!

I’ve been to Miguel’s in Coronado a number of times but this was my first time visiting a different location. Their food is always so consistently delicious and the service is great here too! Love the queso and chips to start and none of the entrees I’ve ever had have disappointed me. Highly recommend!

Great spot for happy hour! They have excellent drink and food specials, plus the complimentary chips come with both fresh salsa and queso. The bartenders were all very friendly and provided great service.

Wonderful customer service all around, the hostesses were very welcoming and took care of our large group right away. Gaby our waitress was just wonderful. The atmosphere is so upbeat but family oriented as well. The food was great, I highly recommend the guacamole and fajitas they were delicious.

I recently visited Miguel’s Cocina in Carlsbad for a late lunch with a group of four. The overall experience was decent but there is definitely room for improvement. When we arrived, the host greeted us but the welcome did not feel very warm. The hostess seemed a little nervous even though the restaurant was not very busy. To start, I ordered a spicy Michelada with extra lemon. Unfortunately, it did not meet expectations. It lacked spice and lemon flavor, and tasted more like plain beer than a true Michelada. For a Mexican restaurant, I expected a much better drink. As for the food, the ceviche was the highlight. It was fresh, flavorful, and well made. The guacamole was just okay and lacked seasoning. We also ordered the mixed fajitas with chicken and steak, along with the supreme fajitas with shrimp. The steak and chicken were good but the shrimp was excellent—juicy and packed with flavor. Our server was friendly and polite but the service overall could have been better. I had to ask three times for soda water and there were not enough check-ins during our meal to see if we needed anything. The restroom and dining area were clean, but the atmosphere felt a little unorganized and lacked attention to detail. In summary😊 Food: 🥘 Some great dishes like the ceviche and shrimp fajitas, while others were average Drinks: 🍸 Michelada needs improvement, especially for a Mexican restaurant Service: Friendly but not attentive enough It was not a bad visit but with better service and drink quality, the experience could be much stronger.

Service was phenomenal. Bradley was our server and he was very quick and attentive. Food was great and loved the happy hour margs and tacos. Got chicken and beef enchiladas as well. 10/10

Really good food and very nice service. Kayla was very welcoming and attentive. The enchiladas suizas were great, as were the rolled taquitos. The pollo asado burrito and tostada salad were excellent too. Everyone in my group was happy. Prices were decent and the restaurant was clean and hopping. A bit loud. But not to the point you couldn’t talk. The chips and salsa were delicious too and refilled. They came with queso too which was a nice touch. Easy to work around allergies here as well.

Popped in for a margarita and some chips and salsa while waiting for friends at the farmers market. The chips and salsa were fresh and delicious, and the margaritas hit the spot! We grabbed seats at the outdoor bar that faces inside — great setup. The bartender was friendly and made us feel welcome. Perfect little break in the day!

First Visit—Slow Service, semi friendly, had to ask for everything. Food is ok—Chips & Salsa-very good. Carne Asada Taco not worth $7. White Queso with Chorizo Not great—tasteless. Birria Flautas were the best thing I ordered as was the Chipotle Sauce that accompanied. The Green Salsa and the Habanero Salsa were delicious as well. Atmosphere was ok. Very loud though. Parking is on street—many different streets—depending on how far you want to walk.

Unfortunately this place did not do it for us. We came here on a saturday night and it started off strong with wonderful decor and they actually fit us in very quickly for a busy night. Once we sat down I asked if the margarita flavors were made with fresh fruits or with syrup. The server answered syrup and then said “wait let me ask”, and came back and said actually theyre all fresh in house. I ordered a watermelon margarita, my partner ordered a flight (tamarind, jamaica, mango, strawberry), our friends also got a flight and the jamaica margarita. We also ordered chips and guac and chips and salsa. The chips and guac and salsa were actually really good, very crispy and perfectly salted. The atmosphere was very nice with live music. When the drinks arrived the flight was actually very good but we couldnt figure out which was which in the flight because there were 3 yellow ones and one red one which we assumed was the strawberry (and tasted like strawberry). But the jamaica that our friends also ordered was also red so we figured one of the flight must have been switched out. So we asked the waiter which flavors were which and she asked to see the menu and started trying to name them. She ended up calling over someone else who named off all the flavors and pointed to the red one and said watermelon. We asked are you sure? It doesnt taste like the watermelon and there was supposed to be a strawberry in the flight and jamaica… and he said yes it is. Regardless, the flight was actually really good and the tamarind did taste like a real mix. As far as the watermelon that I ordered - it tasted suuuper sweet, like it was almost definitely syrup. We ended up asking to switch for the strawberry since according to the waiter we didnt get one. The strawberry one was even worse, it tasted like more syrup and it tasted like a lot of tequila. The whole table tried it and hated it. We didnt end up sending it back again since we were finished with our meal. I didnt get to try the jamaica since it didnt seem to be in our flight and the one ordered was our friends. As far as the mains - we got the pork chiliverde, shrimp taco, and mahi mahi taco. I felt like across the board they were bland - both in flavor, and presentation. Overall I felt there are a lot of improvements that could be made but if you are looking for a flight and some chips in a vibe-y spot maybe it will be just right.

We visited Tio Ernie’s Tortillamia with a party of five. It took about 5–10 minutes for a server to greet us, but once they did, service picked up. They brought out plenty of chips and salsa to start—good flavor overall. We asked for a spicier salsa and were given two: Diablo and Pineapple Habanero. The pineapple habanero was the standout—flavorful and had a great kick. The diablo had heat, but lacked flavor. Our bill came out to $75 before tip, which felt fair for five people. Everyone rated their experience on a scale of 1–10 and our group averaged a 7.6 rating with the salsas were definitely a highlight.

Good food. Their steak nachos are great the quesabirria was a little soggy by the end of the meal. Cadillac margarita tasted like straight tequila and needed some mix to tone it down to the drinkable level.

Everything was really good! would have been 5 stars but there was a hair in the salsa. I would definitely still recommend trying the birria flautas

The food is great! I don't know what they do with the beans, but they are terrific. The service was quick and personable. We've eaten here before and we'll do it again!!

Beautiful museum/restaurant in Carlsbad near the Flower Fields. Kid friendly, and wonderful proprietor who stopped by to greet us at dessert. Really lovely atmosphere, spotlessly clean, and very delicious food! I had the turkey pot pie, and it was wonderful!

What a neat place. Unfortunately we didn't have time to check out the museum portion as we were on a bit of a time crunch, but just the overall ambiance and environment of the place was really cool. The gentleman that seated us then ended up as our server was patient and helpful and genuinely friendly. This was by far the best dining out experience we have had in a long time. The food was amazing as well. The lobster rolls are huge and flavorful and well worth the price. Blackened cod tacos were also super good and not skimped on at all. Everything was great. Highly, highly recommend and if we ever find ourselves out there again we are going back.

Had fun in this New England themed restaurant. The portions were hearty. The Turkey pot pie was well seasoned and a tiny bit peppery. The parmesan fries were perfect. I also really enjoyed the soup of the day. Check it out and also look over their fun exhibits.

We came here for a weekend dinner. We made a reservation just in case but it wasn't super busy, so we could have walked in. Since we got here a little later in the day, we didn't get to check out the museum. There are some exhibits, paintings and information in the dining hall itself. I think I expected this to be more museum like, but the dining space was modern, neither a tavern, nor a museum. The food was ok. We got a red wine and a cucumber based cocktail, the sesame calamari for an appetizer and the jambalaya and Connecticut lobster roll for entrees. The jambalaya was very good. The calamari was interesting - not too fried and accompanied by tempura veggies. The veggies were honestly more tasty than the calamari. The lobster roll was not good. The lobster was dry and pretty bland by itself. The Connecticut version was warm. The bread seemed too thick and no amount of lemon or butter seemed to add any flavor. We paid a pretty penny for everything and the food was just average, so this wasn't a great culinary experience. Our server was nice. There are better dining options in the area, so we will not return.

What a unique gem in San Diego right off of I-5!! Great food and atmosphere. The small free Revolutionary War museum was well done and very informative as well.

Delaney delivered an all-encompassing experience. History, culinary arts, hospitality, all of the above. This empress revived the experience for our generation. I won't lie, as gen-z, this place was initially off-putting with historical and cultural context, but this DIVA put everything into context, delivered bespoke service, and made us feel as though we were at a country club. Her knowledge of the menu as well as the history solidified a musaïc experience that made the Green Dragon not a restaurant, but a destination for historical appreciation and culinary artisanry. I'm sure everyone is lovely, but I will specifically request Delaney any and every time I bring myself, my friends, and my recommendations. This wasn't 'Queen' Delaney, this was tea-pushing, musket-loading, revolutionary "Delaney" 🇺🇲

Coming in here for the first time, it felt nostalgic to taste the best lobster roll in CA topped with never before seen historic relics of the great Benjamin Franklin! Definitely coming back with my Ohana!

This is a great spot to come and eat dinner! I took my fiance here on the night we got engaged, and it added even more to our special night! The staff was very attentive and the food came out really quickly! I was very impressed at the speed of the food and the quality as well. I order the mango sushi roll and my fiancee ordered one of their me tempura rolls, both were amazing and both were delicious! Our server was named Nathalie and she was very kind and helpful, honestly such a great experience!

The server was very friendly and attentive. The food was off the hook fancy without the fancy prices! We ordered dishes to share with everyone - we loved this tact as the dishes just kept coming and we all were able to get a taste and we just loved it!! A great evening to share with close friends! The fish was fresh. We did not feel rushed and enjoyed the night.

Came here for a date night. After reading the mixed reviews I was a little skeptical but left heavily impressed. We sat at the sushi bar and our sushi chef Joe gave us great recommendations and service. Left very full, happy and eager to visit again :)

Surprisingly amazing experience! All the rolls were absolutely delightful. Pork belly bao spot on! Yellow tuna jalapeno roll very refreshing, which went great with more ummami caterpillar roll. Pedro was very decadent! We demolished all of it (just the two of us). Service also friendly. Will be back !

This is a real culinary destination in Carlsbad, excellent food! If you are plant based or vegan it is worth the trip out to Carlsbad to try their vegan sushi. The chef who came up with these recipes is really inspired and talented. I’ve attached photos of the vegan sushi creations “earthquake” and “lady in red” 10/10 for presentation and flavor, sooo good!

My favorite place in Carlsbad! The food always has a great taste , fresh and drinks as well. The service is great 👌… but every time, the kitchen sent food on different time (you need to wait for the others or not eat together 😔). Doesn’t matter if everything is cold, raw, cooked.

Great sushi and sashimi! The quality and freshness of the fish cannot be overstated. Our waitress was not very attentive and we had to ask for water and tea refills throughout our lunch. One of our orders was gotten completely wrong. The hamachi kama (grilled yellow tail collar) was very tasty but it was the smallest kama I have ever been served. I would say that these complaints are very minor compared to the overall experience and I have no problem recommending this place at all. The price was reasonable considering it is in Carlsbad.

Our uber driver recommended this place to my wife and I. The drinks were excellent I had the margarita with serrano peppers and my wife had the cucumber mojito, both were great! We had the steamed clams and mussels and the New England clam chowder. I loved the chowder a must order! For lunch we had the blackened swordfish and the cod. Both were very good! The key line pie was sooooo good!! Definitely recommend this place!

Our waiter, Brandon, was courteous, fast, and professional. My glass was never empty, and he catered to our needs. My wife and I both had the clam chowder and the cioppino. Both were absolutely delicious. Afterward, we treated ourselves to the lava mud pie. Yummy yummy yummy 😋

Upscale Seafood Restaurant in the Heart of Carlsbad Village. Lovely outdoor patio (2) one in front and one in back. Great service. Food is good—little ⬆️ $$$. $50 for Lunch (incl tax & tip) is a bit steep. New England Clam Chowder was creamy and delicious. The bread and butter they serve is excellent. I mistakenly ordered the Crab BLTA. I don’t recommend it. Crab meat was very fresh, yet flavorless and just didn’t go well in a sandwich. Would’ve been much better on the side with some drawn butter or a nice aioli. Fries were crisp and plentiful. Ranch dressing is yummy. Ginger Beer was good quality. Would like to return to try Happy Hour offerings and other menu items. UPDATED: 8/11/25 made it to HH and got the Baked Crab & Artichoke Dip—WOW—So Good. And the Firecracker Shrimp Lettuce Cups was amazing and plentiful. Although the Lettuce is a bit odd (but the shrimp-Wow)! Check out the photos! I also got the Napa Gin Tonic Cocktail—very good and very refreshing. Inside dining is very nice as are the restrooms. Parking can be tough…there’s a Free public parking right beside as well as street parking and other lots. Beware if you’re sitting on the front patio as the trains are incredibly loud with the crossing only a few feet away. Definitely recommend this place.

I ordered the salad with seared tuna, bean hummus, capers, olives, and lettuce. It was delicious! A salad uniquely served, for a change. Ate at the bar, by myself. One of the bartenders, Dakota was awesome. Got here at 4:30 on a Saturday. Before the rush and it was very nice. Lots of parking.

Anna did an outstanding job of going above and beyond. She really knows the ins and outs of the industry, and the service was fast. Drinks came out quickly and entrees were hot, chowder was delicious and the service was fantastic. Thank you Anna, will be back soon.

We had an overall good experience. We were seated quickly on the patio (which was heated) and checked on frequently. The calamari was crisp, the burger was solid, the scallops were brilliantly cooked. The scallop dish had very well prepared asparagus with goat cheese grits and sweet corn. A nice dinner date atmosphere for us.

I'm in Carlsbad each spring & fall, for a week each time. I ALWAYS make sure I dine at Bluewater Grill at least one time each visit. Best prepared salmon I've ever had. All other fish have been equally delicious. I always save room for the key lime pie. The best! Service is always attentive. No complaints. Only suggestion is to add ice to water served.

Located just off the main drag of Carlsbad Village, this place is a gem with great indoor/outdoor dining, a fun bar scene, and a great happy hour (lots of options, rare for most places). Oysters for $1.50ea at happy hour are a steal and they are good (but sometimes do run out). Good cocktails and amazing wine list. Prices very reasonable. Parking is street only (no lot).

I am definitely going back here. The food was outstanding the service was outstanding, I suggest reservations you can get them online but we definitely will be back Husband got the surf and turf which came with a generous portion of filet a lobster four or five shrimp and veggies. I got the appetizer shrimp barsac, which I didn't like and sent it back because it was not peeled properly so I just ate off my husband's plate and it was really good

Excellent service and food! This was our second visit, and both occasions were great! Giorgio was our server and did a great job. I had the surf and turf and loved it! My wife had the ravioli, and she also enjoyed it. Our appetizer was brucheta with mozzarella, tomatoes, and a lovely dressing. All excellent! The dessert was tiramisu, and it was the best I've ever had. I highly recommend this establishment.

I admit that I used a Groupon for this restaurant but we also drove 30 miles to go to it because it was that good. We were there once before and the food was excellent. The ambiance is also excellent and the service as well. It's a long way for us to go but old Carlsbad is a nice place to visit so I highly recommend this restaurant.

One of the best meal ive ever had. Osso bucco was the tenderest most flavor lamb ive ever had. The steak could be cut with a fork it was soo tender.

Stopped in for an afternoon bite, Nick was welcoming, made great drinks and his service was on point. Food was amazing! Definitely recommend! 10/10

Pretty good food but very expensive.

Breakfast burritos were pretty good and prices are even better especially for a location so close to the beach. We also got a trio sample of tacos - fish, shrimp and chicken. Fish was good, chicken was OK, shrimps were tiny though, salsas were good accompaniment

This place was across the street from out resort so we decided to give it a try after walking in. They had good reviews at 4.4 stars so we thought it would be a great choice. My wife had the carne asada fries and I had the carne asada torta. My first impression was very bland and lacking flavor. I tried her fries and they just were flavorless with very little cheese and the fries were over cooked. My torta was ok but the bread was overcooked and really hard and dry. We came right before they were closing so a late rush could account for the over cooked bread and fries. Perhaps we didn't order the right choices as the pictures of the tacos posted look pretty awesome. If we come back I will give their tacos a try and see if they live up to the reviews. Overall the portions are large so you wont go hungry and the prices are appropriate for a taco shop.

I like their carne asada burritos and rolled tacos most of all. Fish tacos, crispy beef tacos and carne asada nachos are also nice. Very family-owned, community vibe. The mini salsa bar offers a few selections for different tastes.

Amazing, hands down best taco shop. Everything is fresh and delicious. Cheap compared to most places in the area. Still serving soft serve ice cream and only a block from the beach. Breakfast options are delicious and breakfast burritos are filling. Must try the carne asada burrito or carne asada fries.

Delicious freshly made Mexican food! My wife and I ordered California Burrito and the Carne Asada Fries. Cali Burrito came with Avocado inside versus Sour Cream, Skirt Steak, Cheese and French fries. The Carne Asada Fries is exactly like the Cali Burrito minus the burrito wrap as you can see in the picture.

Quality food, very reasonable pricing. Both a California burrito and single enchilada cost under 9 with a drink. As a first time guest I can say I'll try this place again.

Maybe I was spoiled by the countless amazing taco spots in so cal but this one was just average to me

I love this place, it’s close to my work and easy to walk to on my lunch break. The staff are always friendly and the service is excellent. I also really enjoy the music they play, it's a nice atmosphere. So far, I’ve mostly ordered their wet burritos, I’ve tried both the chicken and shredded beef, and both have been just the right portion size, not too big or too small. I usually add sour cream and a few other extras. One of my favorites is their chicken tortilla soup! This is one of the best I’ve had! It’s hearty and filling, very tasty with a generous portion, and I love that it has potatoes and green beans as well. The salsa is also really good. Highly recommend this place!

great restaurant!! they have a good albondigas that hits the spot. The server here was also kind enough to allow us to have a dog sit outside and he also offered the doggo a nice bowl of ice water! above and beyond service with good food. I would def recommend coming to this place.

My Husband and I walked around Carlsbad looking for a place for lunch. We came across Garcia's and I liked their decor outside. We ate on their outside patio because it was a beautiful day. We had good service and they had a great menu, a lot to choose from.They had a nice dining area inside. Great location, close to main street.

We stopped in for lunch to eat out at there patio outside and the staff was amazing. David our waiter recommended the best margaritas it was amazing. The food was delicious. I had a small dog with me and they were very accommodating. I would give these guys a 10 star review if I could.

Very delicious food, amazing customer service. Very clean. Highly recommended!

We’ve been in the area nearly 50 years and Garcia’s is our Go-To for great Mexican food! It never disappoints! Great chips and Salsa! They have a great crunchy taco…and every other menu item is tasty. The service is always great too! There is usually parking behind the restaurant. Highly recommend!

Best Mexican Restaurant in Carlsbad Village! Casual, cozy outdoor patio. Tasty, fresh & delicious Mexican breakfasts (believe me, I'm picky) and of loved the 👌 Bloody Mary's! Great service! Highly recommend!

Overall this place is definitely worth a try I could see myself coming back since the prices are fairly decent. We ordered huevos rancheros, chips and salsa, chorizo and egg burrito plus a michilada for under $30. If dinning in I would highly suggest eating inside there seems to be lots of flies outside.

Went here because it appeared to be a good place to eat and wanted to try something different than el pollo loco. I am not sure how it gets its good reviews here because I ordered the half chicken special. Everything was on the bland side. Especially the chicken and red salsa. Service was average and so was atmosphere. Anyway I’m sticking with el pollo loco.

SPLENDID MEAL REMINDING ME OF ONCE LIVING IN PUERTO RICO AND FOR EVERY DAY IT WAS RICE BEANS CHICKENS AND TOSTONES NOW ITS TORTILLAS THE RICE IS FLAVORFUL THE AMBIANCE IS QUAINT WHILE HAVE THE LOCAL FEELING ALWAYS A GOOOD MEAL TO HAVE WHEN SURFING BOOGIE ENDLESSLY I SAY I SHALL MAKE THIS A REGULAR FOR TIME TO COME THANKS POLLA MARIA

During my first visit here, I ordered the "Medio Especial," a 4-piece grilled chicken meal (essentially half of a chicken), with sides of rice, beans, and tortillas. The chicken is marinated in a citrus-based marinade and then flattened (spatchcocked) and cooked on the plancha. The texture of the chicken is moist, tender, with crackly, flavorful skin. The salsas can make or break your experience here. Choose the salsa roja (the spicier red sauce) and you'll encounter a taste of something that could pass for a piquant cleaning product. The superior choice is definitely the better-balanced and more mellow salsa verde. In fact, this is among the better salsa bar salsas I've had in San Diego. Pollos Maria's "Chicken Taco" features its juicy pulled chicken deposited onto dual white corn tortillas, with shredded cheese, lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a sizable dollop of guacamole on top. Like many unsuccessful tacos I've written about before this, Pollos Maria has inundated this one with too much in terms of vegetal toppings. It comes across more like a salad than a taco. And I hate salads. They should serve it less everything except the chicken and the salsa verde by default, and if people want all this other whack crapola, make them ask for it. San Diego County does not lack in excellent Mexican chicken options. Whether you're a fan of Jose's Pollos Estilo Acapulco's mesquite BBQ'd chicken in South San Diego, El Pollo Grill's grilled chicken in Chula Vista, or any number of rotisserie style chickens available at the Mexican supermarkets around the county, you're generally in for a treat. So it's not as if Pollos Maria is unique, but what they do with their chickens is done reasonably well and they fill a need for an area of North County that is lacking in legitimate Mexican food.

First time at this place and it will not be the last. Very good food and service. Chicken was excellent. My wife got a taco and enchilada Which was very good. The beans and rice we're good too. They also have a fresh salsa bar.

Nice little taco spot. Outdoor patio seating available.Family friendly environment. No margaritas lol but a nice selection of bottles beer.Decent prices. Food was good and fast service. Stopped by for some lunch on my way back home. Definitely visit again next time we're in San Diego.

I've come here for years... One of the great things about Carlsbad Village. El Pollo Mara is one of the best places in Carlsbad not only that but North County. If you're looking for chicken anything's Mexican that's chicken this is the place I always get the enchilada one green and one red sauce that's kind of my go-to plate... Everything is Awesome here though service everything is amazing and have nice fire pits from the back patio anyway great place you won't be sorry

I have been here so many times. Love it. Everyone here is always going above and beyond. Usually come here after the gym. Never had an issue here. I can probably point out 4 workers that always go that extra step. Especially one of the female workers. Not sure if she's a manager but she's so friendly and always on top of everything. I have tried just about everything, including their limited time Asian fusion menu. The Salmon Bowl, Tri-tip, and Chicken dishes and all were very well seasoned and the meat was cooked perfectly.

My wife raved about this place. It was a terrible disappointment. We got three different chicken dishes and they were all awful. My son's piri piri chicken sandwich was as dry as Clark Griswald's Christmas turkey. We could tell the chicken was not fresh or cooked to order. They were dry, stringy and chewy, not what freshly cooked chicken should be like. It took 3 minutes from order to table and we were there at opening. Try something else if you must.

Loved this place from start to finish. Called before coming and the person on the call was great. Upon entering, Emily took my order and was so friendly, kind, helpful, welcoming. Great Smile. It’s nice when team members actually eat and love the food. Everything I got was dynamite. Grass fed burgers-Yes! En Fuego Burger made with crispy bacon (like I requested) and Sweet Potato Fries are exactly as described—so delicious. The sauces are all so delicious as well. Inside/outside seating. Great drink options as well. You gotta try this place! Happy Hour offerings 2-5pm daily as well (see photo).

Stopped here as it is one of few restaurants open after 8pm in San Diego, the prices were very good and the food was incredible. Staff was friendly too. my wife got a tri-tip bowl and loved it but I had the California Burger and it had to be the best burger I have ever had, hands down. The sweet potatoe fries were cooked to perfection. They also have a great selection of drinks but since I had to drive back to the hotel, my wife and I settled for the craft soda, which was really good - I have never had anything like it. I would highly recommend giving this place a try.

Great food and celiac safe. Two family members have celiac and we are able to enjoy the great food without worrying about a bad non-gluten contamination.

This restaurant has a great variety of options for everyone, but we stopped by specifically for their vegan offerings and we weren’t disappointed! The avocado sandwich was fresh and tasty, but the standout was the vegan empanada with their chimichurri green sauce. So flavorful and satisfying even our picky-eater kids asked for more. They also have gluten-free options, which is a big plus. We’ll definitely be back!

AMAZING dinner, incredibly tasty, I could come and enjoy this place every day. Wonderful, friendly, personable manager and staff, casual atmosphere.

Love this place. Been here for years and has a new owner with great staff and service. The chef really knows his craft.

OK everyone the 4.2 raring on this place is super unfair based on long ago service issues. For us it’s about chips, salsa and margaritas- all excellent! I had the margarita with grapefruit liqueur and soda. Omg delicious! We had the vegetarian spinach and cheese quesadilla and my husband had a shrimp taco and a carnitas taco - both excellent. Our server Miranda - excellent and a riot. The bathrooms clean with great Mexican tile. Highly recommend!! If you live in Vista, shockingly the desert of Mexican food, go there!! Really

Fun tequila bar a couple blocks from the beach. Stopped in for a tequila or two on the the way to dinner. Sat at the outdoor bar and got some terrific service from a gal who knows her stuff. Will try dinner there next time, looks pretty good!

We were on a vacation trip and decided to try this place based on the reviews and the fact that we were craving Mexican food. My wife had the cheese enchiladas and I had the carne asada casa burrito. Both were wonderful choices and probably the best Mexican food we have had in the past 20 years or so. The service was unremarkable but not too bad. The food more than made up for the lackluster service by being so flavorful and having good portions. This is definitely going on our list for future vacation trips in the area.

We came here for lunch. The special was chicken plate. It was delicious. One order feed 2.... 1/2 chicken with rice, beans and pico de gallo with guacamole and cream. Delicious. The salsa was really good too. We did not drink but it was only $22.00 because we order 3 extra tortillas. Unbelieveble good.

Came here for some cocktails, and was pleasantly surprised. They have a nice grouping of mezcal cocktails, which is my favorite liquor, they are yummy. I had the Lolita, santeria, kaleesi and a nectarine margarita, all super yummy. (The one with the tamarindo candy is the Santeria and my favorite) I also had 3 tacos, 1 vegetarian which had tempura battered avocado with a jicama slaw, cannot recommend enough and 2 carnitas tacos, also delicious. The staff are great and take care of you, outdoor seating has heating lamps and they clean each table as soon as a patron leaves. Definitely recommend, support local

We found this place just walking by, and decided to stop in to try one of the many tequilas. There are more than 100 tequilas, and what's especially unique is they offer half pours of several! We sat at the outside portion of the bar and service was prompt. Looking over a food menu, we saw that Barrio offers a dog menu, which we loved, so we decided to return for brunch the next morning. We brought our dog back for brunch, and were immediately won over by the chips and salsa. They are house/scratch made and sooo good! Our margarita and sangria were great also, and we were happy with the huevos rancheros and quesadilla. This place is pretty small and really cute, and we will definitely be back! Although we didn't get to try them on this visit, the happy hour specials and tequila tastings sound fantastic.

Ordered via Uber Eats. This meal was terrible. Visiting Carlsbad for business & craved Mexican food. We thought, Primos Mexican Food would be authentic. Nope, the meal tasted like taquitos and enchiladas you purchase at the frozen section at Costco. We ordered 2 chicken enchiladas topped with lettuce, 2 taquitos w/Guacamole, & the Flamimg Hot Monster Burrito. Enchiladas- No flavor at all. Ate only 1/2 as I was grossed out by the terrible taste. Not even the salsa helped. Taquitos w/Guacamole- Just because it's green, you can't claim it to be anywhere near Guacamole. it was brownish green. We had 1 taquitos each (the ones not touching the so-called guac), again, frozen taquito flavor.. Flamingo Hot Monster Burrito - the Hot Cheeto bag was probably left opened as the Cheetos were too soggy. Maybe, a Monster can eat this. Side of Rice & Beans - Tasted the beans and just put what went into my mouth into a napkin. We're all about Mexican Food and supporting small businesses, but this was no Mexican food. Save your appetite and shop elsewhere.

I've been going to Los Primos in Catlsbad, Ca for the past several years. They have really good Cali and steak & eggs burritos. I asked to have my Cali burrito cut in half so I could have the other half for breakfast. They actually wrapped it up separately for me. Great customer service!!!

The food tastes freakin good. I went to Los Tacos, nasty compared to Los Primos. I had a burrito from Vallartas Express, cold and nasty compared to Los Primos. Those food is good, hot and flavorful. I eat here about 3 days a week.

I am usually a fan of the food here at Primos and I had heard the the chilaquiles were good. So i was craving them this morning and I decided to try them... Im sorry but no bueno. The Chipotle sauce was not good at all. the rice was cold and hard it seemed like it was reheated from the night before. This is not the spot for the Chipotle Chilaquiles. They also didnt tell me that that it came with 2 eggs when i ordered it over the phone and that they were over easy. Wish they would have told me and I could have had them well done or just not at all. You can see where I removed the eggs.

The amount of grease in the burrito is insane. It was dripping out of the bag, and had to use multiple napkins to soak most of it up and even after it was still extremely greasy. I love burritos, but this was just too much grease. We ended up having toss both our burritos because the tortilla was so drenched.

Wow!! First time here and the food and service is fantastic. Tacos are very good and they have a great salsa selection to choose.

The monster burritos are epic!!! My goal is to try all of the different types of monster burritos. So many options for all your different likes. Give it a try highly recommend it. A co-worker check it out for the first time and he said it definitely worth the extra couple of miles from or local Mexican food spot.

Awesome Thai restaurant! Same Same doubles as a bar, we went to an 8pm reservation and spilled into the bar/nightclub turnover at 9 pm. The atmosphere and staff were amazing, super vibes and slick. Wait staff was friendly and knowledgeable, and not pushy. The food was insanely fresh and quick. Food came out hot and all the flavors were on point. It’s traditional Thai, with a modern spin. Highly recommend the chicken wings, and the tuna crudo. And since it’s a bar, the drinks are creative and tasty. Sits in upper floor of a Carlsbad shopping center, and kind of hidden in the back. Love this place, well done.

Same Same delivers the kind of dining experience that feels both inventive and comforting. From start to finish, everything I ordered was a standout. I started with the wonton samosa, a playful and delicious fusion that balanced crisp texture with rich, flavorful filling. It was the kind of appetizer that sets the tone for the meal—unique but approachable. For drinks, the Sioux City Old Fashioned impressed me with its balance. Smooth, well-crafted, and just the right level of boldness—it paired beautifully with both the starter and the main course. The highlight of the evening was the grilled New York steak. Perfectly cooked to almost blue, very juicy, and seasoned with care, it showed off the kitchen’s skill. The flavors were deep and satisfying, and the preparation respected the cut without overcomplicating it. The Thai chili dipping sauce was phenomenal. To end the meal, I was lucky enough to try something off-menu: the secret Thai Tea Tiramisu. This dessert was nothing short of brilliant—silky layers with the fragrant sweetness of Thai tea, offering a twist on a classic that I won’t forget. The service was attentive without being overbearing, and the atmosphere struck a balance between stylish and relaxed. The music was fun and fit their style. The art was punchy and the added punk twist took me back. Same Same is the kind of restaurant that makes you want to come back—not just for the food, but for the sense that every detail has been thought through. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – Highly recommend if you’re in Carlsbad and want a meal that blends creativity, quality, and genuine hospitality.

Restaurant Review: Same Same – A Flavor-Fueled Gem Worth Repeating From the moment we sat down at Same Same, we were treated to a top-tier dining experience – and it all started with our waiter, "Sea-bass". He absolutely killed it with his service. His energy was contagious, his recommendations were spot-on, and his attention to detail made the entire meal feel effortless and fun. He set the tone for what turned out to be an incredible night. The rest of the staff was just as amazing – friendly, attentive, and clearly passionate about what they do. The whole team operated like a well-oiled machine, making us feel welcome and taken care of from start to finish. Now let’s talk food: an absolute flavor explosion. Every dish was layered with bold, vibrant flavors that hit all the right notes. It’s rare to find a place where each bite keeps you coming back for more, but Same Same nailed it. The bar is equally impressive. It’s a full bar, and the cocktails are seriously next level. The Paloma was refreshingly crisp, perfectly balanced with a zesty citrus pop, while the espresso martini was rich, smooth, and left us wishing we had room for a second (or third). Portions were more than generous – we left with leftovers, which we were more than happy to relive the next day. Bottom line: Same Same is a must-visit. Amazing food, exceptional drinks, and the kind of service – thanks again, Sea-bass! – that turns a great meal into an unforgettable experience.

Amazing Drinks and Vibes. You might not expect it but the food is incredible with possibly the best Vegan options in all of North County. NWA behind the bar is an A+. Great for drinks, food or both.

Food’s okayyy , service can really improve lol bartender here literally does order taking. Nothing above & beyond. Idk his name. Mid 40 ..? Doesnt care much about service. Kao soi - is it really egg noodles or angel’s hair pasta lol I liked cucumber, wontons though Lot of cocktails have spicy complexities which’s interesting to try but beside food & cocktails service kinda ruined all the stars.

What a great place!!! I visited after the restaurant was closed, bar & dancing only......All the staff were incredibly responsive, friendly and helpful with drink selections. There's a good mix of friendly people there, no judgmental vibes, everyone having a great time. DJ was jammin' and dance floor was alive. Age range varied but most in their 30-40s. Highly recommend!

This used to be a really cool spot to come and listen to music, dance, and feel good .. Now it's obvious they they just let anybody in here and don't kick rambunctious men out when they're drunk. It's become a sloppy place. The drinks that were great were taken off the menu as well... Watching men be drunk and spill drinks all over the place and do push-ups while taking up the entire dancefloor is the most ikiest thing... I definitely will not be coming back again. Not a great place for girls honestly.