The restaurant scene is quickly growing in San Diego, including in North County.
It may be a suburban lifestyle, lacking the bustling streets of the city of San Diego, but North County has become a hub of trendy dining. You’ll find American fusion restaurants, family-friendly eateries and ethnic cuisines that have captured the hearts of many residents in San Diego County.
Here are just five North County restaurants you need to try — even if you don’t live in the area, it’s worth the drive!
Flying Pig Pub & Kitchen
Bringing fresh ingredients to the plate is the Flying Pig Pub & Kitchen. The restaurant, which has two locations — in Vista and Oceanside, is popular for its tasty pastas and signature dishes such as duroc pork belly, jidori farms airline chicken and chuck burger. The restaurant’s must-have dessert is the butterscotch budino. You’ll be thankful for those calories.
Local Tap House
Just a few blocks away from the beach is Local Tap House. The Oceanside favorite is brings its own take to classic American dishes. You won’t be disappointed with its fish and chips, seafood stew or smoked gouda macaroni and cheese. The must-have dish is the WTF slow-cooked short rib fries, a twist on the traditional Canadian poutine.
Green Dragon Tavern & Museum
This New England-inspired restaurant serves as a museum and eatery. The Green Dragon Tavern & Museum in Carlsbad offers patrons delicious seafood dishes such as breaded cob, clam chowder and lobster macaroni and cheese. Must-have dish is the braised short rib topped with caramelized onions and cheese. Plus, you’ll enjoy a history lesson while dining here too.
The Whet Noodle
If you’re in the mood for some savory Ramen, look no further than The Whet Noodle. The Oceanside restaurant offers the Asian dish with a twist.You can top your noodles with adobada, bacon and duck. You’ll also find other Asian-inspired dishes such as teriyaki, sweet chili chicken and fish.
The Wooden Spoon
The Wooden Spoon is serving up flavor in Escondido. The restaurant is popular for offering farm-fresh meals, such as burgers, fried chicken and steaks at this eatery. But don’t expect any ordinary American dish — each meal is topped off with a unique set of ingredients that really highlight the flavors.
