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Best Authentic Restaurants in Encinitas

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29 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Puntamar restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(9)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Encinitas
Booked 5 times today
Puntamar is more than just a restaurant; it’s an authentic experience celebrating quality in every detail. Here, fun and excellence merge to create unforgettable moments for our customers. Discover the true essence of Mexican cuisine, crafted with authentic ingredients and genuine flavors.
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 Cocina de Barrio Encinitas restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(137)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Encinitas
Booked 3 times today
*Brunch hours are on a walk-in basis only.Cocina de Barrio by Chef Jose J. FloresWelcome to Cocina de Barrio, the newest modern-urban Mexican restaurant located in Encinitas, CA! We are proud to feature the culinary richness of Oaxaca as well as other Mexican regions. Stop by and enjoy our bar stocked with plenty of tequila and mezcal selections, beer, and wines sourced from Valle Guadalupe.Don't forget to join us during our daily brunch (where we add a Mexican kick) and our happy hour every Monday-Friday from 3-5pm! Stay Chido!
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.
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 Firenze Trattoria restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1777)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Encinitas
Booked 8 times today
OPEN FOR DINE IN~ We are accepting online and phone reservations. Please be patient with wait times **IF YOU HAVE A SEATING PREFERENCE FOR EITHER THE INSIDE DINING ROOM OR OUTSIDE HEATED PATIO, PLEASE SPECIFY WHEN MAKING YOUR RESERVATION. **SEATING PREFERENCES CANNOT BE GUARANTEED** Sun-splashed by day and romantically lantern-lit at night, Firenze's flower-bedecked patio, with it's gentle fountain, is like a private courtyard in some romantic Italian villa. Come see what all the buzz is about we are certain that you will enjoy this one of a kind experience in this beautiful San Diego Italian restaurant.
A photo of Jeune et Jolie restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(4142)
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 Shimbashi Izakaya restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(988)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Del Mar
Booked 25 times today
Shimbashi's theme is based on the Izakaya, a Japanese tapas restaurant. We offer a multi-faceted menu that can be used as a pairing with sake for the light eater or sophisticated dinner entrées served in the Japanese tradition. Our menu changes with the season making each dining experience a new adventure.
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 Salt + Lime Del Mar restaurant
4.4
Awesome(202)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Del Mar
Booked 21 times today
Mexican cuisine elevated to new heights, blending traditional flavors with modern flair to deliver a truly sensory dining experience.Located in the heart of Del Mar, with stunning ocean views as your backdrop, our menu celebrates the diverse and vibrant flavors of Mexico. From mouthwatering tacos to fresh, zesty seafood ceviches, every dish is crafted to surprise and delight. Whether you’re gathering with friends or enjoying an intimate dinner, Salt & Lime offers the perfect mix of high-energy ambiance and culinary excellence.Expect the unexpected—because too much of a good thing is never enough! Indulge in our unforgettable Espresso Martini or let our Oaxaca Old Fashion warm your soul—cocktails that are as unique as your experience with us.Breakfast is served every Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM.Join us for Reverse Happy Hour every Friday and Saturday from 9 PM to 11 PM, where the night gets even brighter with irresistible drinks and bites.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Marla
    San Diego •14 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    The food was delightful. Don't expect your typical Mexican restaurant --the focus on Oaxacan food is really special. Servers were very attentive. We enjoyed our meal greatly.
    More info
    Cocina de Barrio EncinitasPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Encinitas
    4.6
  • KenVIP
    Los Angeles •85 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    The service was excellent; our server, Oscar, was great! We were surprised that it was a special menu (I’ll assume responsibility for not asking the question, but I don’t recall seeing anything on Open Table about a special menu). That was fine (although somewhat disappointing because there was no Bolognese on the menu), but based on the pricing it appeared there was a desire to take advantage of the Valentine’s Day “holiday”. Won’t keep us from coming back, but not the best experience.
    More info
    Vigilucci's Trattoria ItalianaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Encinitas
    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
  • Mary
    San Diego •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Jan 18, 2025
    We loved this place! It has a chill vibe like you’re on vacation on an island, but the food was fancy and delicious. Definitely would recommend the tuna tataki tostada, amazing. The service was quick without feeling rushed and our server made great recommendations.
    More info
    PuntamarPrice: Expensive• Mexican• Encinitas
    4.7
  • Joey
    San Diego •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 14, 2024
    Awesome staff and great atmosphere for family, food was excellent
    More info
    Buca di Beppo - CarlsbadPrice: Moderate• Italian• Carlsbad
    3.4

Discover best authentic restaurants in Encinitas

Discover the essence of authenticity in North San Diego’s dining scene, particularly in Encinitas, where a diverse array of restaurants offers genuine culinary experiences. Whether you’re craving the robust flavors of Italy or the hearty comfort of American cuisine, Encinitas caters to all seeking true authenticity in their dining choices. These establishments pride themselves on using high-quality, local, and organic ingredients to craft dishes that not only satisfy the palate but also reflect their commitment to culinary excellence. The dining atmosphere in these locations ranges from family-friendly and approachable to sophisticated and upscale, ensuring a delightful experience for every type of diner. Encinitas is not just a hub for great food but also a vibrant part of the larger North San Diego culinary landscape, known for its innovative approaches to traditional and modern cuisines. Each restaurant in the area strives to offer a unique yet authentic dining experience, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring Encinitas’ authentic dining options is sure to be a memorable part of your culinary journey.

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