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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What a truly wonderful dining experience. Every encounter with a staff member was pleasant. You can tell the workers are extremely well trained. The service was attentive and so professional. The restaurant is absolutely beautiful- we sat outside on the patio both time, yes we dine 2x in the same week. We were wowed! The food was well prepared- sandwiches, salads, and the meatloaf. They do have a kids menu- the chicken fingers were homemade , you can tell. Overall, I cant think of a more recent dinner experience in a restaurant that impressed me like this one. Bravo to all! read more

The food was amazing--excellent quality, great taste, and very reasonable prices. Every dish was flavorful and well prepared. Service started off strong. Josh was friendly and attentive in the beginning, but toward the end it became a bit rocky. We had to ask for to-go boxes and then request a bag after the check was dropped. After signing the check, we weren't asked if we needed anything else, which was slightly frustrating. A menu recommendation was given as we were leaving, which was appreciated. Overall, the food really stood out and made the experience worthwhile. I recommend making reservations, and if you don't plan ahead, try to sit at the bar.The bathroom and location was clean read more

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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Incredible food and service! Megan was friendly, polite and attentive for our late lunch yesterday. I ordered the Bistro Plate: petite filet, New England clam chowder and chopped house salad. The combination of flavors and freshness were outstanding. My mom ordered the Thai noodle chicken salad. It had the right amount of spice, crunchy and freshness. Also, try one of the margaritas- they're very fresh and delicious! Will definitely be back. read more

Nick's On State - Coconut margarita and skinny margarita - New American Near Me - Carlsbad, California

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Bar service was excellent but food was a disappointment tonight. It didn't taste good. Fish burger was so charred that it wasn't edible. I even asked for minimal char. Eck. read more

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Everything happens for a reason. We came into town last week from LA to celebrate my daughter's spring break and decided that we were going to take her to Legoland. We came into town about 8pm and our main destination was to go find a restaurant before checking in our hotel. We originally ended up at Karl's Strauss at 8:10pm, only for the host to tell us that they close at 9 and they might be able to serve us if we're seated (which obviously makes no sense). I was a little frustrated but wasn't going to let that ruin our vacation. I remember doing my research ahead of time and heard about Nick's On State, so we made our way to the restaurant. We were immediately greeted and seated right away. The menu had a lot of great options and my hubby and I had a hard time deciding on what to eat. Our server ( I didn't get a chance to get her name but she was really sweet) was very professional and friendly, and walked us through our options, along with letting us know what's on the kid's menu. We started off with the bacon deviled eggs and California salad. I never liked deviled eggs, but these eggs were on another level and so good! The crispiness and bacon bits on top made you craving for more lol and even my 5 year old enjoyed them. The California salad was also large enough to share and had all these different flavors in it between the dates, goat cheese, pistachios, etc. For our main meal, my daughter ordered the buttered noodles with chicken. My hubby ordered the ribs and I ordered the rib eye melt. The ribs were falling off the bone and so tender, plus whatever salad came with it was delicious from what my hubby told me. My rib eye melt was cooked perfectly (medium rare) and the sweet onions in there gave it a nice balance. We ended off the night by splitting their famous butter cake which was divine (my hubby loves butter cake if it's made just right). Overall, service and food were excellent. When we're back in SD again for a mini getaway, we'll definitely be returning. Thanks again for starting off our tip on the right path! read more

Birthday celebration party of 5 Food always good Sarah the manager made sure we had a nice table Cody, our server was wonderful! Great dining experience! 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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Had dinner at Nick's on State with a group of friends and it was a great night. The ribs were ridiculously juicy and flavorful, falling off the bone, I made a huge mess and enjoyed every moment. The whiskey selection was exactly what we needed. Megan took care of us and was incredibly patient with the group. She stayed on top of everything the whole time and had some great recommendations. Shoutout to Steel, Geo, Ryan, and Colby for making it a fun night. Great food, great service, and lovely night. 5/5 read more

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

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

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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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

Gives us NICKS on STATE! What's to love? The ambiance The fun drinks The asparagus fries The steaks The salads The staff/service The BUTTTERRRR CAKE !!! Every time even if you are full from all of the above! read more

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

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

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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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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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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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

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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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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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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Nicks was an interesting mix of good and not so good. I ordered a Diet Coke and it came in what I believe was a half can amount glass bottle and the appetizers had a similar issue of small portions not so small price. But! The entree and customer service more than made up for it! I ordered the baby back ribs expecting a half rack at most after the drink and apps, but was pleasantly surprised with a full rack as well as a solid portion of mashed potatoes and slaw read more

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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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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Excellent food, great atmosphere. Modern for any Occassion! What I ordered I do-not see on the menu at the moment. Excellent meatloaf on a bed of mashed potato's w sauce and vegetables. 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

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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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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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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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

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

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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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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