Welcome to Nick's on State
At Nick's on State, we craft a dining experience where flavors meet an unforgettable atmosphere. Nestled in the heart of Carlsbad, our restaurant is a blend of casual elegance and trend-conscious design. Celebrated for our diverse menu featuring succulent steaks, fresh seafood, and inventive vegan options, we cater to every palate. Guests rave about our signature dishes like the Prime Rib Dip and Asparagus Fries, complemented by a thoughtful selection of wines and craft cocktails. With an inviting outdoor patio and attentive service, Nick's on State is more than just a meal—it's a cherished gathering place for family and friends.
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2742 State St Carlsbad, CA 92008 United States Hotline: (760) 696-3593
Welcome to Nick's on State, a vibrant gem nestled in the heart of Carlsbad, California. This modern eatery beautifully harmonizes the flavors of New American cuisine with the rich textures of steakhouses and the freshness of seafood. Whether you're in the mood for an exquisite meal or simply want to enjoy a cocktail outdoors, Nick's on State has something special in store for you.
As you step into the restaurant, you’re greeted by a chic yet laid-back atmosphere perfect for casual gatherings or intimate dinners. The majestic high ceilings and well-appointed decor create a captivating vibe that seamlessly melds class with comfort. With an ADA-compliant entrance and restroom, it ensures accessibility for all guests.
Dining Experience Highlights:
- Diverse Menu: Nick's on State offers a robust selection that caters to every palate, including an impressive array of vegan and vegetarian options.
- Signature Dishes: Prepare to be delighted by culinary standouts like the asparagus fries—a crowd favorite—alongside the mouthwatering prime rib dip and Scotch salmon.
- Drinks and Desserts: Indulge in exquisite cocktails, including the highly praised espresso martini, and wrap up your meal with their legendary butter cake or the recently revived lemon cake.
Customers rave about the attentive service. Many have commended the warmth and knowledge of the staff, making every visit feel welcoming and intimate. Tracy A. notes the bartender’s friendliness and the unique offerings like huckleberry ale, while Megan A. emphasizes the consistent quality of food that justifies the higher price point.
Nick's on State is not just a dining venue but a place for experiences—perfect for lunch, dinner, and even dessert. For those planning a visit, it’s wise to make reservations, especially during peak hours, as the restaurant can fill up quickly with eager patrons discovering its many delights.
So, if you're looking for an unforgettable dining experience that prioritizes quality, atmosphere, and service, make sure to visit Nick's on State. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a destination. You won’t be disappointed!
Nick's is awesome. My husband and I stopped in for lunch on a Saturday when we first got into town. We sat at the bar for drinks and a little bite to eat. The bartender was amazing; super friendly! The espresso martini is terrific and the huckleberry ale was delicious. The fact that they had huckleberry ale was amazing because I've never found it anywhere other than Idaho. The asparagus fries are a must! You really can't go wrong with anything on the menu. Definitely coming back!
Amazing food, great service, beautiful outdoor patio. I really love Nicks and can't wait to go back again.
The bar service was excellent, the drinks were tasty and the food was fabulous - 10 out of 10 would recommend!
The food is hands down the best in Carlsbad. The atmosphere is cool & swanky. The service has been wonderful every single time. You won't be disappointed. It's pricey but so worth it! Yummy
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.
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!
My boyfriend and I came on a Thursday night without a reservation, the wait was about 40 minutes. Nick's is located in downtown Carlsbad which meant for a lovely evening stroll around town before we were sat. The service was stellar. The ambiance of the restaurant was romantic. The high hanger ceiling was captivating. I ordered the Prime Rib Dip and it was worth the hype. My boyfriend ordered the Baby back ribs and they were mouth watering. Overall we both agreed we can't wait to come back and next time we'll make a reservation.
So delicious. Very cute vibe, we didn't have a reservation on a Wednesday night and we were sat within 15minutes. Service was very friendly, I loved our server (wish I remembered her name). I got the sea bass which was perfect, we also got the petite filet bistro and mashed potatoes which was all amazing. Had to end with the butter cake. Def recommend and def coming back!
We've been to Nick's in San Clemente and Del Mar many times and in terms of caliber of consistent food quality Nick's on State hits the mark! But this specific location has a unique beautiful ambiance with its hanger architecture and more intimate feel. We came here with our 7year old and let me tell you- order the kids Grilled Cheese. It is the hands down best grilled cheese (I would order it as an app even without child). Typically I get the buttery tender Chilean Sea Bass or the Salmon. This time I went handheld and got the blackened fish sandwich (local mahi, slaw)- excellent! Hubs had the Ribeye sandwich- also delicious (super tender, carmelized onions and horseradish sauce). Shared a bottle of delicious dry Riesling and grateful for the options on half bottles (liquid dessert on the Pinot Grigio) Service was awesome- Shoutout to Sean- warm , attentive and friendly. Feels like we made a new friend! (Tip for restaurant owners- it's the quality of servers that truly impact the decision to revisit a restaurant. Good food yes but having a great connection to the server while there makes the difference!) Highly recommend - but make reservations! We went early so were able to snag a table but it was crowded on a Friday night.
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!