Outdoor Dining: Carlsbad’s 2024 Patio Picks

When summer arrives in Carlsbad, it brings with it the perfect blend of warm sunshine, ocean breezes and an irresistible invitation to dine al fresco. Carlsbad is a premier destination for those seeking the perfect balance of culinary adventure and togetherness over a great meal. Gather with loved ones, enjoy fantastic summer weather and indulge in great food at Carlsbad’s many outdoor dining spots.

Here are some of our recommendations on where to eat outdoors when you’re in Carlsbad this summer:

Chandler's Oceanfront Dining

Chandler's Oceanfront Dining is the place to hit for a summer patio hangout with epic ocean views. This top-rated restaurant is a great spot for soaking up the sunshine and enjoying coastal eats, made with the finest seasonal and local ingredients, before or after a day of exploring Carlsbad.

If you’re starting with brunch, head to Chandler’s to sip on a Coconut Sunrise Smoothie or fuel up with a Crab Cake Benedict to start your day off. Chandler’s has everything from a hearty All American Breakfast to refreshing House Granola & Yogurt from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on weekdays and until 2:00 p.m. on weekends.

If you’re in the area midday, lunchtime on the patio is just as inviting. Try the Local Blue Fin Tuna Poke or the Roasted Beet Salad, paired perfectly with a Butterfly-Flutterby Margarita. With views of the water and delicious food, outdoor dining at Chandler’s is a picturesque place to catch up with friends before you hit the beach.

As evening rolls in, Chandler's transforms into a go-to dinner hotspot. Executive Chef John Hart and Director of Food & Beverage Charles Skipsey are at the helm and from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on weekdays and until 10:00 p.m. on weekends, offering entrees including Ginger Glazed Salmon, Crispy Baja Fried Chicken or Angus Rib Eye Steak. With live music Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, the summer vibes on the patio are quintessentially Southern Californian.

VUE at Omni La Costa

VUE at the Omni La Costa Resort & Spa is another Carlsbad restaurant with stunning views of Omni La Costa’s golf courses and the green rolling hills of Carlsbad. The restaurant features a spacious patio for those wanting a chill dining experience while soaking in the ambience of the resort.

At VUE you can start your day with a tasty breakfast from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. The restaurant features healthy items such as oatmeal, avocado toast and Açai bowls to the classic French Toast or a Morning Table menu that has everything from Lobster Omelets to Chorizo Scrambles. Make sure to save room for the famous Croissant Waffles served with berry jam and whipped cream.

For lunch, you can invite friends to settle into the patio with dishes like the BLTA Salad or the Crab Cake Sandwich while sipping on craft beers or a glass of wine while you take in the views.

Dinner here is also something special, especially when eaten on the outdoor patio. From Thursday to Monday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., crowd-pleasers such as the Blackened Salmon and Braised Short Rib are offered.along with many other tasty selections. As the sun sets, the outdoor seating is perfect for a romantic meal or a relaxing dinner with family to end a fabulous day in Carlsbad.

Seasons Restaurant at Four Seasons Aviara

For a summer dining experience wrapped in charm, head to Seasons Restaurant at the Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara. Seasons combines modern American cuisine with an easygoing patio vibe.

For brunch, you can indulge in Farmers Market Fruit and Chia Seed Pudding, or go for the Cheesy Egg toast. The views of the golf course from the patio are perfect for a peaceful start to your day.

Lunch on the patio features tasty bites like the Lobster Roll and Cali Beets salad. You can pair these with a glass of wine and soak in the beautiful surroundings.

And, as with all of our outdoor dining recommendations, dinner here is a culinary adventure, especially on the patio. Enjoy the creativity of The Chef’s Tasting Menu offering a dynamic and creative five-course dinner that changes with each season and is set within the restaurant’s working kitchen for interactive dining experience.

Happy Hour at Seasons is from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. and offers bites like Duck Fat Fries, Truffle Popcorn and Grilled Fish Tacos. Guests can quench their thirst with a Seasons Mule or a Golden Poppy Sangria Pitcher while relaxing on the serene patio.

Casa de Bandini

Casa De Bandini in The Forum Carlsbad Shopping Center brings the beautiful vibes of Mexico to Carlsbad. This vibrant restaurant has a lively dining experience with a colorful patio.

Happy hour at Casa de Bandini is from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. (Monday to Friday). This is a great time to visit for a Happy Guacamole or Quesadilla De La Cantina, paired with a House Margarita.

Under the evening stars, dinner on the patio features over 80 dishes. Try the Carnitas Burrito or Mexicana Chicken, with fresh ingredients and homemade salsas. The seafood options, like crispy shrimp and mango tacos, are standouts.

Casa de Bandini even has a mariachi group, Cielito Lindo, that performs Wednesday to Sunday to really bring the music and voices of Old Mexico straight to your table.

Casero Taqueria

Another place to sit outside and bask in the colorful culture of Mexico is at Casero Taqueria in The Square at Bressi Ranch Shopping Center. This restaurant brings Baja-inspired flavors to Carlsbad and features a stylish patio that’s perfect for summer evenings.

For appetizers, you can start with Guacamole or Shrimp Ceviche on the patio, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant décor. The restaurant’s taco selections are the highlight including Carne Asada, Grilled Fish Tacos and the Baja Fish Tacos. Pair your tacos with sides like rice, beans or chipotle slaw for a complete meal.

The patio's lively ambiance, with twinkling lights and a warm glow, makes for a perfect summer night that is right out of your favorite influencer’s Instagram page. Casero Taqueria is the place for flavorful dishes with a relaxed Southern California style.

Harbor Fish Cafe

Credit: Barbara Doud

Lastly, another outdoor dining option that is one of our favorites is Harbor Fish Cafe. It has been a Carlsbad staple since 1981 and its cool coastal vibes and ocean views make it exactly what you're looking for in a summer meal.

For starters, the restaurant features favorites like the Carlsbad Clam Chowder, Fried Clam Strips and a Shrimp Cocktail. The Fish & Chips are a must-try – fresh white fish in a light batter, served with homemade tartar sauce and fries. The stunning ocean views on the patio (especially sunset) put it on the map as one of the top places to go when you’re looking for a view. Harbor Fish is a Carlsbad landmark that the whole family can enjoy.

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These outdoor spots should make your top choices for your 2024 summer bucket list. Skip the indoor seating and try dining al fresco in Carlsbad – your taste buds—and your Instagram feed—will thank you. See you on the patios!