Quick Details
- Exploration of Carlsbad Village’s history, culture, art & culinary scene.
- Interactive food tour led by a professional guide.
- 4 tastings including artisanal donuts & coffee.
- Including an Italian affogato is a shot of hot espresso (coffee), ice cream or gelato.
Introduction to Carlsbad’s Coffee and Sweets Scene
1. Overview:
Start by introducing Carlsbad as a hidden gem for foodies, emphasizing its rich offerings of artisanal coffee shops, cozy crepe spots, and gourmet donut shops.
Why a Tour?, Connecting the laid-back coastal vibes with the pleasure of exploring local cafes and bakeries.
2. The Coffee Stops
Highlight local coffee shops that stand out for their quality and ambiance.
For each location, include:
Signature Drink:
What coffee specialty they are known for (e.g., cold brew, cappuccino, specialty lattes).
Atmosphere ranges from cozy to modern winery/coffee shop.
Local Ingredients or Unique Roasting Methods
Sleeping Tiger Coffee, known for its small-batch roasts and beachy vibe, serving cold brew that’s a local favorite.
3. Crepe Location
Focus on a crepe place offering both sweet and savory options.
Special Crepes: Highlight one savory, such as a classic ham and cheese or supreme crepe.
Customizability: Crepes can be customized (gluten-free, vegan options, etc.).
Authentic Touch: Some places might have a French-inspired background or unique technique that sets their crepes apart.
Example: Carlsbad Creperie might offer a signature Supreme Crepe with Brie, Bacon, mozzarella, Spinach, Tomato (Buckwheat GF batter)
4. The Donut Delights
The Goods Donuts specialize in gourmet or uniquely flavored donuts.
Flavor Highlights: Showcase unique donuts like a brown butter donut, that won best donut in San Diego 2023.
Vegan or Gluten-Free Options are available
Instagram-worthy donuts or seasonal specials.
5. Route:
Start with a donut shop, then a crepe location, and then Coffee shop for coffee and Gelato shop for Affogato.
Free Street Parking is available, you can also park at the Carlsbad Village Train Station. 2775 State Street, Carlsbad, CA 92008.
6. Local Insights & Tips
Best times to visit to avoid crowds or when certain specialties are freshly made is in the morning.
7. Photo Opportunities
Instagrammable spots are available within each location, especially the donuts, gelato and winery/coffee shop.
Share your experiences with a carlsbadfoodtours # hashtag related to Carlsbad’s food scene.
8. Seasonal or Holiday Specials
Mention if certain places offer holiday-themed donuts or seasonal coffee flavors, which could add excitement depending on the time of the year.
9. To book your private group tour with us:
Send an email to cherimarie@carlsbadfoodtours.com or fill out booking form on our website.
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- The Goods: Artisan Donuts and or Cinnamon Rolls.
- Froglanders: French Crepes
- Sleeping Tiger Coffee: Locally roasted coffee
- Gelato: Affogato
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Your tour guide will greet you at the northwest corner of State & Grand in front of the fountain at 11:30 a.m.
There is a large multi-colored beach chair, make yourself comfortable.
On the southwest corner you will see Via Vai Italian Restaurant across the street at 2907 State street, Carlsbad CA 92008.
Parking is available at the Carlsbad Village Train Station 2775 State Street and street parking.
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https://www.carlsbadfoodtours.com/faq/
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
WHAT DO THE TOUR ACTIVITY LEVELS MEAN?
EASY – Walking tours are designed for a leisurely pace but may include uneven sidewalks, some stairs and a combination of walking and standing for up to two hours.
WHAT FOOD WILL WE BE TASTING?
On our food tours you’ll discover our unique Carlsbad cuisine, sampling delicious specialties from local eateries, bakeries, restaurants, and culinary landmarks. Our menu shifts depending on seasonal availability. Each tour has 2-3 savory tastings, 1-2 wine or beer and 1-2 desserts.
WHAT IF I HAVE ALLERGIES OR DIETARY RESTRICTIONS?
We do our best to accommodate the special dietary needs of our guests, however we can’t guarantee all stops will be able to do so. When you book a food tour, let us know about any dietary needs/preferences (eg. allergies, vegetarian, kosher, gluten-free) and your guide will help identify items you might want to avoid.
HOW MUCH FOOD IS SERVED ON THE TOUR?
Our food tastings and portions are generous and roughly equal to a good-sized lunch. We recommend coming on the tour with an appetite as most guests leave comfortably full.
WHAT IF IT RAINS?
We present tours rain or shine, bring your umbrella or jacket with hood.
HOW MUCH WALKING IS INVOLVED?
Our tours cover approximately one mile of walking, and we move at a relaxed and leisurely pace. On our food tours, you’ll have regular opportunities to sit down during tastings.
WHAT IF I AM HARD OF HEARING?
Our professional guides are skilled public speakers and work hard to make sure everyone can hear during the tour. If you are hard of hearing, please let your guide know and we’ll ensure you get a front-row seat.
IS PARKING AVAILABLE?
For Downtown Tours:
There is free street parking spaces throughout the village. There is also parking at the Carlsbad Village Train Station at 2775 State Street, Carlsbad, CA 92008, located next to the meeting location.WHAT IF I NEED TO CANCEL OR CHANGE MY BOOKING?
We offer both a flexible date change service at no additional cost and a fully refundable cancellation policy for our Taste of Carlsbad Food Tour.
WHAT IF I AM UNHAPPY WITH THE TOUR?
Our #1 priority at Carlsbad Food Tours is giving great tours. If you don’t have a great experience, let us know and we promise to make it right with a full refund or voucher for a future visit.
ARE BATHROOMS AVAILABLE DURING THE TOUR?
There are restrooms available along the tour route.
ARE TOURS OFFERED ONLY IN ENGLISH?
Yes, we only offer tours in English currently. Please email or call us if you would like to plan for your own interpreter to join the tour.
SHOULD I TIP MY TOUR GUIDE?
If you feel your tour guide has provided a great experience, gratuities are encouraged— and welcomed—at the end of your tour. We believe that recognizing excellent service is a personal matter, though 15-20% of your booking fee is a good rule of thumb. Gratuities for your guide are always appreciated, but never expected.
DO I HAVE TO PURCHASE TICKETS IN ADVANCE?
Advanced purchase is strongly recommended, as tours often sell out well in advance. To maximize your chances of getting the day and time you prefer, please book well in advance.