6 Mediterranean Restaurants in Carlsbad, California That You Need to Know About
There are plenty of lovely communities in California, but Carlsbad is definitely up there as one of the nicest places to visit. With stunning beaches, a perfect climate year-round, and an incredibly welcoming feel to the place, it is a great choice as a vacation destination.
It is also one of the best towns in California to visit if you want to discover the Mediterranean without leaving the country. Thanks to its strong European communities, Carlsbad boasts some of the best Mediterranean restaurants on the West Coast and is a great spot for foodies craving cuisine from across the pond.
So whether you are a local, a tourist, or just passing through, here are six Mediterranean restaurants in Carlsbad that you absolutely need to know about.
Village Kabob Mediterranean Grill
550 Grand Ave, Carlsbad, CA 92008, United States
This hidden gem is a local favorite, tucked away in the center of Carlsbad. Renowned among those in the know for its cozy atmosphere and authentic flavors, this family-owned restaurant has wonderful fusion Mediterranean food with a So-Cal twist. Classic dishes like hummus, baba ganoush, chicken shawarma, and baklava rub shoulders with more adventurous experiments like grilled salmon and char-broiled shrimp, and the stylish minimalist interiors make for a delightful atmosphere, perfect for a casual lunch or dinner.
Must-try Dish: Beef Kabob
Dini’s By The Sea
3290 Carlsbad Blvd, Carlsbad, CA 92008, United States
Dini’s isn’t, strictly speaking, an exclusively Mediterranean restaurant, but its eclectic menu offers a wide variety of excellent Mediterranean-inspired recipes, from calamari to filet mignon eggs benedict. It also has a section dedicated to its signature flatbreads, which are sure to please even the pickiest of palates. The restaurant’s idyllic oceanfront setting is charming and elegant, making it a great choice for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.
Must-try Dish: Steamer Combi
Bistro Kabob
2519 Palomar Airport Rd #101, Carlsbad, CA 92011, United States
Located just outside Carlsbad next to the MccLellan-Palomar Airport, Bistro Kabob brings a taste of Persia to the sunny climes of Orange County. This elegant and stylish restaurant is an exciting combination of traditional Persian and Mediterranean recipes, serving up a dining experience that is hard to find anywhere outside of…well, the Middle East! Known for their fresh, hormone-free, and steroid-free meats, and in-house-made breads and dressings, this delightful eatery is well worth a small trip out of town.
Must-try Dish: Bistro Pizza with Chicken Shawarma
Le Papagayo
660 Carlsbad Village Dr, Carlsbad, CA 92008, United States
This great Mediterranean/American fusion restaurant is one of the liveliest spots in Carlsbad, with a great combination of traditional Mediterranean cooking, New American coastal cuisine, and nightly live music performances, in a charming and delightful casual dining environment. Le Papagayo definitely leans towards the Italian side of Mediterranean-inspired flavors, with its pizza-style flatbreads and wagyu meatballs a joyous addition to a superb, all-day menu.
Must-try Dish: Spanish Chorizo P.E.I Mussels
Mediterranean House at Windmill Food Hall
890 Palomar Airport Rd, Carlsbad, CA 92011, United States
This modern Mediterranean chain set in Windmill Food Hall is inspired by the classic hole-in-the-wall joints of a Mediterranean market and is a wonderful option for a quick lunch or a snack on the go. Serving up a variety of Mediterranean dishes including dolmades, falafel, fresh salads, and grilled meats. It is a great spot if you are looking for something casual and delicious, and the other food vendors in the Windmill Food Hall mean there are plenty of other options if you change your mind!
Must-try Dish: Loaded Gyro Fries
While being about as far from the Mediterranean as it is possible to get, Carlsbad boasts a surprisingly rich vein of European eateries and Mediterranean flavors. From Persia to Morocco and everywhere in between, you can taste the Mediterranean in the heart of Southern California thanks to the delightful restaurants above.
This post was published on 8/9/24 by Cherimarie Poulos aka Mrs. Carlsbad is the owner and founder of Carlsbad Food Tours!
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