Always delicious and a great experience. Whether it's lunch or dinner, I've never had a bad item on this menu. Top it off with their delicious butter cake and you won't be sorry! read more

You can't go wrong with Nick's. Everything here is just amazing. The service is always top notch, the food is always delicious, and it's got great vibes. We got the asparagus fries which are so delicious. Lightly breaded with a nice crunch to it. My daughter loved the fried chicken. It was juicy and crispy. I always get the filet, asparagus and potatoes. The filet is the perfect amount of food. Their butter cake is out of this world. I keep coming back just for the cake. The cake is moist with this crispy, crunchy crust. Perfect way to end the meal read more

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came to Nick's on State for dessert and a night cap on my birthday and decided to try the much-talked-about "butter cake." Unfortunately, it was a huge disappointment. After one bite, we couldn't take another--it honestly tasted like a spoonful of straight sugar. There was no balance at all, just overwhelming sweetness. It ended up being the worst butter cake I've ever had. Really disappointing, especially for a birthday treat and given how much this dessert is hyped, but the espresso martini was delicious! read more

I really liked this location, we've eaten previously at the same owner in Laguna Beach. I thought my spicy rigatoni was delicious, although my husband said his food was okay, but he felt like the serving size was on the smaller side. Our server was quite friendly, gave great recommendations, and overall the interior was a great date getaway. read more

Nick's On State - New American Near Me - Carlsbad, California

I stopped in here on a Tuesday evening, around 5pm, thinking it wouldn't be hard to snag a table, or seat at the bar, and was quite surprised with how busy it was. This seems to be the place to be! That said, there is a good amount of seating both in the restaurant, and around the bar. I secured a seat at the bar, and waited a few minutes before the bartenders noticed I was there/provided menus (a woman sat down next to me after I arrived and received menus first), that said, it was pretty busy. I ordered a classic cosmo, which was a signature pink hue, and delicious. For dinner, the two women next to me recommended and were eating the meatloaf (it looked, and smelled, delicious), and the woman on the other side of me had the bistro plate, which she also said was good and regularly orders (we had a great chat, she lives nearby and is also a wine expert). Wanting to try something different, I ordered the chicken piccata. This isn't your traditional chicken piccata dish - it comes panko crusted, with a lemon caper sauce, arugula salad, and whipped potatoes. It was very generously portioned, and absolutely delicious. It was also very generously portioned. I will absolutely be back to try more of the menu when I'm back in the area again! read more

Nick's On State - Cosmo - New American Near Me - Carlsbad, California

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The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, making it easy to settle in whether you're out with friends, on a date, or grabbing a casual meal solo. The service is always friendly and attentive without being overbearing. We had a great meal at Nick's, starting with two standout salads. The Local Market, a crisp and hearty mix of greens, bacon, egg, cheddar, and croutons, and the California, which was fresh and vibrant with baby kale, avocado, strawberries, dates, goat cheese, and a light champagne vinaigrette. The Original Rib Eye Melt was rich and satisfying, but the star of the table was the Buttermilk Fried Chicken it is crispy, juicy, and served with creamy mashed potatoes, sweet corn on the cob, a buttery biscuit, and savory country gravy. Every dish was flavorful, well-prepared, and served in a warm, relaxed setting. The prices are more than fair for the quality you get. read more

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Nick's On State is simply great! From the zucchini fries, to the petite bistro, and pan seared salmon you really can't go wrong! Our waiter was kind and tentative. We didn't have reservations but I appreciate they seating us. It is a little smaller of a location so I would suggest making reservations if possible. Otherwise it's a cute little spot in town with great food. read more

We looked up your menu online before we came to the restaurant today and it said you had a wedge salad which is something I was going to order. I also recall it said something about a crab sandwich and neither one was available when we got there so I decided on the veggie burger. It does not say deep fried onions on the menu. I took a bite and it was not what I wanted so I peeled them off. The veggie burger was pretty good. The salad that came with it was pretty good. My husband wanted a grilled chicken but decided to try fried chicken sandwich because the server insisted it was light. It really wasn't. The food was good but it was not great. We were disappointed. But about a year and a half ago when we were in town we were in, I'm not sure what we had but it was much better. read more

It's one of those places where you can enjoy great food, good drinks, and a comfortable vibe all at once. Definitely a spot I'd come back to and recommend if you're looking for a cozy place to grab a bite." read more

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We haven't been to Nicks in a while as it's tough to get a rez, but got in early last Friday. Nicks is still exceptional in every way, and our waiter Josh was the man. Made some great recs and improved our dining experience from start to finish!! Grilled artichokes, Far Niente by the glass!! The food was just great and hot and served timely. Even this pilsner Josh recommended was perfect! Still my favorite restaurant in San Diego.. read more

Nick's On State - New American Near Me - Carlsbad, California

Had dinner here with a couple friends recently, it was my first time at any Nick's location and it was their first time at the Carlsbad location. Our waitress was very nice, all the staff that tended to us were great actually. Loved the aesthetic of the restaurant, very spacious and modern! All of the food and drinks were delicious, we were very full by the end of the meal. The menu is mostly American fair, but enjoyable just the same. Wouldn't mind coming back here! read more

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We made a reservation for a party of 6 for a Saturday night at 8:30pm. As we were driving to the restaurant we received a text that our table was ready and to check in at the host stand. When we arrived we checked in and were told that our table was still occupied and that we would have to wait until the party left to be seated. We had to wait about 30 minutes for a table to become available, and the staff acted annoyed with us as we waited by the front door. The food was pretty good, I had the creamy French onion soup which I enjoyed but the salmon was extremely salty for my taste. The shining star of the night was the dessert, the butter cake was absolutely delicious and I highly recommend! read more

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My fiancé and I visited for the first time and unfortunately left disappointed. The deviled eggs were not to our liking at all, and the overall food quality was just average,not enough to make us want to return. The service also fell short; the reception staff came across as rude, and we waited quite a while before anyone even acknowledged us at the bar. Overall, there are definitely better dining options in Carlsbad that we'd choose next time. read more

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I fought with myself to rave about this restaurant because I don't want it to get too crowded once it's been found out. But my "Do unto others" motto won out and I have to share it. It is by far, hands down, the BEST place to eat in north county. The food is fantastic, really fantastic and creative. We had the blackened mahai-mahai sandwich. It was prepared beyond delicious with 3 small onion rings and other delicacies in there and with a side of delicious mashed potatoes All at a fair price. The ambience is relaxing and comfortable and the staff couldn't be more professional and very nice. I promise you will not be disappointed. read more

Nick's On State - Blackened Mahi-Mahi sandwich with mashed potatoes (the works) Mmmmm so GOOD! - New American Near Me - Carlsbad, California

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Stopped by after the fair with a reservation--it's a cozy little spot with a welcoming vibe. We started with the tuna tartare. The tuna itself was fresh and delicious, and the wonton chips were crisp and tasty. The spicy mayo, though, fell flat...it didn't add much and could've used a kick to tie everything together. I had the blackened fish sandwich, which was really flavorful...just needed a touch of salt to be perfect. My friend got the Rabbi Melt with fries ...also really good, but same story: just a bit under-seasoned. We'll definitely go back. The food is fresh, healthy, and overall delicious--just a few small tweaks would take it to the next level. Service was great read more

Nick's On State - New American Near Me - Carlsbad, California

Stopped by for a quick bite a few weeks ago and had a great time! My best friend and I sat at the bar and had great service and good food. Love the vibe and feel of Nick's. The wood and lighting definitely give off dark, out to sea vibes. There were a descent amount of people for a Thursday at lunch but we were able to sit right away. Loved the asparagus fries! Very crispy and cooked perfectly. We will definitely be back! read more

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Went to Nick's with a friend on a Thursday night with no reservations. We were seated right away although if you come on a weekend I recommend you RSVP because it was a full house even for a Thursday. Anywho, our server was both attentive and patient which we needed because we can be indecisive:)! I ordered the Thai spicy salad (which ended up being more of a noodle dish than a salad). I was shocked that it was my level of spicy because not all spicy foods are created equal! It was perfect flavor and not too filling like I thought it would be. This dish allowed me to make room for their famous dessert, the butter cake! Although it was beautifully served and included a great combination of textures, it was way too sweet for me. It's definitely a generous portion so it can be shared dessert. I do have to say my drink was also 10/10! I had the Cucumber Collin's which was both refreshing and strong! (Kudos to the bartender!!) The ambiance was chill and hip so you can come dressed up or down. I will definitely come back again if I'm in that part of town! read more

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Celebrated the hubs birthday at Nick's. We had an excellent experience from the moment we walked in. The service was impeccable and the restaurant had a very nice atmosphere...not too loud and not too dark. We ordered the bacon deviled eggs with the jalapeno watermelon margarita and the old fashioned. The eggs were tasty and the drinks were strong! For dinner, he had the center cut filet and I had the bistro plate...the best "girls" dinner in town! Everything was cooked perfectly and the plating was beautiful. For dessert, the hubs received a complimentary slice of the butter cake...we really enjoyed it. We will definitely be returning to Nick's read more

Nick's has to be one of the most consistent restaurants of the last decade--and that alone deserves more than five . Service is always attentive, the kitchen deserves tons of high fives, and the flavors are spot-on. Favorites include the spicy Thai salad, chicken sandwich, cheeseburger, prime rib dip, and any of the fish dishes including the blackened fish sandwich. Cocktails are always excellent too. You truly can't go wrong here. Solid American menu options. It's a great go-to! read more

Nick's On State - Chicken sando - New American Near Me - Carlsbad, California

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Been there many times. It's my favorite place. The chopino is incredible. So is the prime Rib dip. read more

Nick's On State - New American Near Me - Carlsbad, California

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Such a disappointing sandwich. I actually can't believe how bad it was. And I only ordered it because my server said it was incredible. It was the Prime Rib Dip. Fatty, cold, overall mid. Very nice place though. read more

Food is excellent!! Ambience is great as well with covered patio seating. Service has always been stellar. This place can get busy so either plan ahead and do reservations or roll the dice and possibly look at seating at the bar as another alternative. read more

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Food was very good( the deviled eggs were fantastic ), service was very attentive ( except for the hostess that greeted us at the door... no smile, no welcoming) and ambiance was amazing! read more

Amazing afternoon dinning experience which exceeded my expectations. 5- Stars. I wouldn't be surprised if Nick's is looking for a special M-Star. Service from beginning to end was attentive without being distracting. Big plus. Food was very delicious from appetizers to dessert. Amazing flavors, freshness and quality. The non-alcoholic drink I had was incredible. Went well with my meal; delicious and complex flavors. Reservations is recommended. We were a 'party of six' seated on their covered patio. Street parking or nearby parking lots; allow time for parking. Pics of two entrees. Chicken pot pie and Meatloaf. read more

Nick's On State - Chicken pot pie - New American Near Me - Carlsbad, California

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I went for lunch and had the shrimp tequilas so yummy Cocktails and wine list great service Inside/outside dining If you want outside during lunch make a reservation Parking can be challenging read more

Excellent service, delicious dishes and wonderful ambiance. Everybody's dishes and cocktails were perfect! Cody was an amazing waiter making sure our one nut allergy guest was well taken care of for the night. I highly recommend this restaurant when in Carlsbad! read more

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2nd night in Carlsbad and went right back.....and did not disappoint once again! Everything is phenomenal! read more

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Always on point. We've been to this location many times and they never disappoint. We came this time to celebrate a birthday and everyone enjoyed their meal. We got the Caesar salad with chicken, the fried chicken, cioppino, the bistro plate, the shrimp taquitos, spicy rigatoni and a few drinks. Service was attentive and responsive - never wanting or needing to call on wait staff. Downtown Carlsbad is a nice place to walk around and browse the shops. read more

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The lemon cake has returned!!! If you couldn't tell, I love Nick's lemon cake. For dinner I had the meatloaf and my 'go to' glass of Austin Hope Cabernet, both absolutely delicious. I am always happy to see Jessica and Chase, they are always a delight behind the bar. Enjoy! read more

Nick's On State - Nick's absolutely delicious lemon cake. It's huge and the gift that keeps on giving. - New American Near Me - Carlsbad, California

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Fabulous place! Excellent Service! Great food! My husband has been here before, but this was my first time. The ambiance was beautiful inside or outside. We sat outside and the heaters were the perfect temperature. We got the spinach dip, which was so good, for entrées we got the baby back ribs,which were huge, and sea bass, perfect pint of food. Our server Gracie, was so attentive! Water always filled, specials were mentioned. HIGHLY recommend read more

Nick's On State - Sea bass and baby back ribs which - New American Near Me - Carlsbad, California

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Great service great food excellent cocktails good vibes highly recommend we've been there a few times now and we're going back tomorrow for a Friday date night with our friends. read more

Great open space, quick service. Would highly recommend the ribs and the fish all were so good! I recommend the cucumber cocktail as a refresher I actually filmed a bit while I was there, might post a little feature soon! Would love to come by again and try some of your new menu items. read more

Nick's On State - New American Near Me - Carlsbad, California

Had a wonderful visit to Nick's On State!! Couldn't get a Saturday evening reservation so I called. They put us on a waitlist and we got in no problem!! Our server was excellent. The restaurant is really pretty, and has a great vibe!! All the staff was busy. The food was delicious!!! Everything we ordered was a hit!!! read more

TL; DR I love the butter cake here. Ribs and fries are good, but nothing to write home about. The burger, fish sandwich, chicken sandwich, and prime rib sandwich weren't hits for me. Pricey. Parking isn't free or readily available. Ambiance, staff and service are top notch. My favorite item and frankly the only item I come back for here is the Butter Cake. It is delicious. My previous review has other items I've tried that were okay at best. The ribs are the better choice here for me, but I wouldn't come back for them. It's the dessert that lures me back. On our last visit I had the chicken sandwich. It was average at best and so was the prime rib sandwich that came with bacon mustard. It did NOT taste like bacon at all. It tasted like Dijon somehow, which I hate. Food was served barely lukewarm. Disappointed in this last experience, however the staff was very accommodating to the experience so can't be too upset at the mishap. I'll always return to satisfy my sweet tooth! read more

I've been to a few Nick's locations, and the Carlsbad spot didn't disappoint. The restaurant has a modern yet cozy vibe and the service was on point. We didn't have a reservation but only waited about 10 minutes, which was a nice surprise for a weekend. For food, the chicken piccata and Scottish salmon were both solid choices, but the prime rib dip is a must try. Also highly recommend the asparagus fries which coms w/ a side of ranch. And don't skip dessert, butter cake is the perfect way to end the meal. Overall, another great experience at Nick's. Would I go again? Absolutely! read more

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With the location on State Street very near the train station, parking was not a huge issue. We shared the Buttermilk Fried Cheicken with an appetizer of the 5 wrapped prawns. So good! So much food! Service was outstanding, very attentive even though quite busy. Our first visit but definitely not our last. read more

I absolutely LOVE this restaurant! The food was excellent, the service was superb! It's a beautiful establishment, with a warm ambiance. (Even if it was a bit chilly in there! ) My friend & I went there because we were craving a good French dip sandwich. We ordered the beef dip sandwich that was in so many reviews. The meat was tender, the bun was buttery squishy goodness. The waitress advised us to add havarti cheese & fried onion strings ( hot tip)!! We were not disappointed in the least. This place lives up to its stellar reputation. I can't wait to go back !! read more

This place is totally one of my to spots in the village as I love the ambiance and the service is very good. The food is pretty typical Californian and they have a pretty good selection of salads, entrees and sandwiches. The deviled eggs are freaking awesome! read more

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Great new addition to downtown Carlsbad! This has the same menu as the Laguna Beach location but a better vibe overall. The building is really cool- I remember it used to be an antique mall actually. Anyway, came here for my husband's bday the other night. Tuna tartare and shrimp taquitos were spot on. Steak was grilled to perfection. The waiter was very kind and attentive. They brought out a free butter cake for his bday. I know people rave about that thing but honestly it's way too rich. Could barely finish one with the whole table sharing it. Hot towel service was a nice touch at the end. Not sure if they have live music here but they should with the way it's set up. Weeknight was not busy at all and easy parking. Patio looked really nice too if it was warmer out. No Dr Pepper tho? Why. read more

First time ever dining there, and was amazed when we walked in on how cool the place looked. We were greeted right away and received great service from start to finish. I ordered the steak and my son ordered the hamburger. Both entrées were very satisfying. Definitely going to be going back. read more