I was in Carlsbad for a meeting with a client. My boss and I wrapped up the meeting a little later than expected, and before heading home we decided to grab a bite. We found this little spot tucked into the same business complex and figured we'd give it a shot. It was a Tuesday afternoon. We walked in, and it was completely unassuming. There was a deli display near the front that was basically empty. You look around and immediately get that feeling - this is a local place. A woman greeted us as soon as we walked in. I looked over the menu. Sandwiches, burritos, simple comfort food. I asked if they had soup. She said they had chicken poblano, then turned and yelled, "Ma, we have soup?" That was the moment I fell in love with the place. The sandwich I ordered wasn't anything revolutionary. Honestly, it was a sandwich I could have made at home. But that's exactly what made it so beautiful. It was made exactly the way I would have made it myself. The same style of bread, turkey, lettuce, tomato, onions, mustard. Nothing trying to be trendy. Nothing trying to reinvent the wheel. Just a phenomenal sandwich. It was generously sized, incredibly fresh, and surprisingly affordable. The chicken poblano soup was one of the best I've ever had. They didn't skimp on the chicken. It was perfectly seasoned, comforting, and tasted like someone actually cared while making it. As we were eating, I turned to my boss and said, "Man, the older I get, the more I just don't want places like this to disappear." It isn't modern. It isn't flashy. It isn't designed for Instagram. It probably isn't winning awards for interior design. It just is. And that's exactly what makes it special. Family businesses are different. They aren't just businesses. They're part of the dinner table. They become woven into the family's life. They're talked about over breakfast, stressed over late at night, celebrated together, and carried from one generation to the next. They're almost like another member of the family - a living, breathing organism that everyone helps keep alive. That's why we need to support places like this. Not just because they're local, but because supporting people like this is part of what keeps our communities human. And if that isn't enough of a reason, support them because the food is seasoned with care. Sometimes the best meal you'll have isn't at the newest restaurant in town. It's at the little family-owned spot that quietly keeps showing up every day, making great food, without needing anyone to notice. read more

Sam’s Kitchen - Mexican Near Me - Carlsbad, California

I was in the Carlsbad area and saw the high Yelp ratings for Sam's Kitchen so I decided to eat lunch here. The restaurant was in an industrial multi-unit complex. I was actually surprised how much room was in the sit down restaurant. As I waited for my order, the El Jefe Burrito, I was given some seasoned chips and salsa. I was given a very good amount of chips and they had a very pleasant season on them. As I said prior, I ordered the El Jefe - rib eye steak, chimichurri, home style potatoes. My 1st few bites were the Homestyle potatoes and then I arrived at the stars of the show, the ribeye. I love ribeye and there wasn't plenty big it in this burrito. The chimichurri wasn't overpowering but very pleasant. This burrito was very good and when I'm up here again I will definitely try some of their other food. read more

Stopped in for a couple of breakfast burritos and both were very good. I had the grand Sam and my guest had the sunrise with "soyrizo" and she stated it tasted just like chorizo. we also had a couple of coffees and total cost was 28.00. Very reasonable as these burritos are huge. read more

I lied. This is my last review of the year! When coming down to Carlsbad for a family vacation, I wanted to find places nearby that are small hole in the wall type of places. This one checks the box! Located in a seemingly random lot of office buildings, Sam's Kitchen closes at 5pm, so make sure to get them before they close! We got here around 4pm and they were quite empty at that time. I'm guessing they're busier in the mornings. However, we ordered El Jefe which is their ribeye burrito with potatoes and chimichurri sauce in addition to their El Camino burrito which is a chicken burrito. Both burritos were great in their own way. The steak and potatoes burrito was great! Lots of large cubes of steak. Tender and flavorful. The chicken burrito was good, but I liked El Jefe more. Definitely check this place out if you're in the area! read more

Sam’s Kitchen - Mexican Near Me - Carlsbad, California

See all

My favorite regular place to get lunch. The food is really good quality and good portion for the price and taste is great. Sam has a real talent for food and the cashier is always friendly. Their catering is good too! I recommend their steak sandwich on French bread and also their burritos. Salads are very good and fresh too, can add steak! read more

Carls Good Burrito - fat burrito - good guac Chips - a little stale - has some lime - salsa isn't too spicy read more

See all

Unique spot with a lot of burrito options! I went with the Jefe Burrito with egg added on. The jefe has good quality rib eye steak! It was overall good, next time I'll need to ask for the meat to be cooked medium or medium rare, I think it'll conserve more flavor. But it was a good burrito!! They have a lot of different options it's worth checking out if you're in the mood for a good burrito! Service: they were friendly! Ambiance: casual spot and easy going Overall I would recommend! read more

Sam’s Kitchen - El jefe (good size) - Mexican Near Me - Carlsbad, California

See all

Located off of El Camino Real in Carlsbad tucked in a office park is Sam's Kitchen, a convenient breakfast/lunch spot. The menu is mostly burritos ranging from breakfast and lunch. On this lunch visit I went with the Carls-good lunch burrito consisting of tri-tip steak, fries, cheddar cheese and guacamole. This is burrito has some weight to it and the portion was very filling. The meat was tender and flavorful, fries well cooked and cheesy. It is essentially a california style burrito. Overall it was very tasty and I would definitely order this again. There is plenty of seating both inside and outside and ample parking. If you are in the area and in need a quick bite, Sam's Kitchen is a great spot. read more

See all

It's not in a convenient location and you might not be impressed when you first see this restaurant (I wasn't). Don't let that influence you. No atmosphere, no decor, just really good food. I ate 1/4 of my burrito and took the rest home. That was two breakfasts worth and I enjoyed every bite. You will, too. read more

Always great food and good vibe. I do recommend ordering ahead as the wait can be long because the food is so good. read more

My coworkers really hyped me up on this place so I had high expectations. I called ahead and placed an order for a Carlsgood burrito. It's in a bit of a hidden spot, not exactly the place you would think to find a Mexican restaurant. I took my burrito back to work to enjoy it over there. I was disappointed to say the least. The burrito was quite hefty, they don't skimp on the portions, but the tritip was bland and tough. The fries and guacamole were really nice, but couldn't make up for the meat. I also tried the red and green salsa and neither had a much flavor to them. I'm interested in trying a breakfast burrito to see if I have a better experience, but the initial visit did not meet expectations. read more

Very humble looking but the food is on point. Great service and quick food. Had the bbq burrito and it and the free chips were delicious.

Great service! Was having a little trouble ordering for delivery and they were very accommodating and helpful! The burritos were perfect when they arrived & the best I have had in the area! We got the Carls-good burritos. Fries inside were crispy and seasoned which makes such a difference! So yummy! read more

We came straight here from Santa Clarita and yelped breakfast burritos. Came across this place which is located in an industrial center and was greeted by a sweet young lady who told us we could order anything on the menu even if it was for lunch/dinner. (We arrived at 9am and my husband was wanting to try the El jefe which had rib eye.). We were able to order it and added eggs to make it more breakfast like. It was amazing! My kids and I ordered the Grand Slam and the Carls Good! All delicious!! The sweet lady also offered us fresh salsa and chips even though it was early in the morning. The chips were warm, dusted with tajin and the salsa super fresh. The rib eye in the burrito was great quality steak! And the prices were reasonable. Definitely coming back! read more

Sam’s Kitchen - The el jefe with egg. There was more rib eye but we ate most of it. - Mexican Near Me - Carlsbad, California

See all

Forgot Ive never written a review for this wonderful establishment. I could eat here every day. Everything Ive gotten has been so good. They are so nice and they work so hard. Always nice in there. Thanks read more

Asked for the avocado sandwich and cashier quite literally offered pretty much all the veggies. Swapped in sour dough and add mayo and I couldn't be more content. $8.50 for this magnificent veggie sandwich is so good! read more

Sam’s Kitchen - The avocado sandwich with extra veggies on sourdough - Mexican Near Me - Carlsbad, California

First time and last time. If you can't get my order correct on my 1st visit than than there's no good memory recall to visit again. I paid $2 xtra for potatoes and beans + $5 tip. Total spent here-$40 51 for two burritos and side of chips. There were no potatoes and beans added, making the burrito taste eggy and bland. read more

See all

Ordered the el gaucho burrito after seeing all the great reviews for this place. The burrito was good it definitely wasn't the best burrito that I have ever had but for the price it was a good choice. The service was quicker than a sit down restaurant but there was still a wait for the food, as you can see directly into the kitchen and know they are making your food fresh to order. The place is sparsely decorated and has a very utilitarian feel. read more

Sam’s Kitchen - Menu - Mexican Near Me - Carlsbad, California

See all

Came here for lunch with my cousin. I ordered the el hefe and he ordered the burrito with the tri tip. There seemed to be two people working. One taking the orders in the front and the chef working in the back I presumed. Since we came for lunch, i figured it wouldn't be too long of a wait. It seemed that we waited over half an hour. The lady in front was friendly. When the food finally came it was piping hot and was delicious. If it wasn't for the long wait for the food this place would have definitely gotten 5 stars. Overall the experience here was nice. read more

This little restaurant has been on my list to try forever. They are only open on weekdays so if you do most of your food exploring on weekends, like I do, you will miss out. Fortunately, I had an opportunity to swing by on a random weekday. It feels like a mom and pop shop. It's located in commercial center and it's no frills. But the food is really good. We tried the El Camino burrito (made with chicken and lots of lime) and the Carls-good burrito (made with steak and fries). Both orders came with a small bag of some of the freshest and most delicious chips I've ever had. They were heavily seasoned with salt and lime and they were terrific. I'm almost always on Team Steak but the El Camino chicken burrito had a lot more flavor than the Carls-good one. Both burritos were very hefty and filled with good ingredients and not filler. This place is popular so be prepared to wait a little bit while your food is cooked to order. They have plenty of seating inside to eat and they also do takeout. I'd score them a 4.5 but I'm rounding up because I respect small businesses and hard work. read more

See all

Wow. I came twice in a day. I had a breakfast burrito and their taquitos. I had the mix chicken and beef taquitos and it was light but delicious. The breakfast burrito was good too. This is such a hidden gem read more

Chicken quesadilla and veggie burrito were great!! Finally found where I can get my regular veggie burritos!! Prices are great too for good quality food. read more

Love this family owned business. Today I got the small Tuna and chips. The tortilla chips are seasoned and amazingly good. The tuna is also yummy. I usually come here for the burritos which are my favorite but I've been trying to be a little healthier with my choices haha. I'd recommend Sam's kitchen, they have excellent customer service and always have my food ready when I ordered a head. read more

Sam’s Kitchen - Tuna and seasoned tortilla chips - Mexican Near Me - Carlsbad, California

Tried this burrito place tucked away in a business park in Carlsbad on lunch break. They have a number of burritos, I tried the chicken/lime one which was reasonably priced at around $12 and included a little bag of chips and salsa. The burrito was quite filling and a good portion size for the money. While solid I just didn't think it lived up to 5 star; the chicken was on the drier side and the rice inside could have been fresher. I went a bit before the lunch rush around 1130 on a weekday and had no wait, burrito was out within 5 min. The staff were wonderful. Overall would put this in the 4 star category, while not unbelievable it's a solid burrito at a solid price. read more

Sam’s Kitchen - Chicken burrito - Mexican Near Me - Carlsbad, California

Came 2 days in a row because I really want to try all their items. This visit got the El Jefe. Let's just say it was a major disappointment. I bit into it and it was huge chunk of meat & not the tender meat that melts in your mouth, but the kind that spills out burrito because you can't get entire piece in your mouth. Equally huge under cooked & un seasoned red potatoes. Maybe in a bowl with beans & rice, no potatoes this dish would be tasty. I came at 8 so they had just opened. This item failed to meet the mark & glad it wasn't the first item I tried or else I wouldn't return. They're very generous with the salsa, I like the reds. read more

Sam’s Kitchen - Free sample of taquito - Mexican Near Me - Carlsbad, California

See all

I've scoured the earth for the best breakfast burrito, and this place is up there. Very friendly staff and the food is incredible.

Best Mole in California, hands down!!! I have been at Sam's kitchen many times and it never disappoints. Hard working honest people with an amazing taste. Try the Mole, don't be afraid read more

This restaurant has amazing food, cooked to order and nearby a busy industrial park, on El Camino Real near Palomar Airport Road.

Absolutely DELICIOUS food at this little family run friendly spot tucked away in a Business Park which is slowly gaining more & more eateries It is in the area of Prager Bros. but on the front side just of of Camino Real. Arcana Brewing also nearby. We had excellent burritos & rolled tacos. Extensive menu offering a wide range of burritos,salads,bowls & other Mexican options. Most of the traffic takes their food to go as they are workers headed back to their jobs. However, they do have a few tables with umbrellas outside & several tables inside should you choose to eat there. May have to wait in line if you come during lunch hour. Open Mon-Fri. until 5:00. Closed on weekends. Plenty of parking available in the lot.This will now be a frequent spot for us read more

See all

Came during lunch hour and knew there would be a bit of a wait but didn't think it would be 35 min. The food was really good, but not worth the long wait especially when it eats up the majority of my lunch break. Prices are also very reasonable when compared to other restaurants in the area. read more

Huge! Great breakfast burrito. I had the la Bomba. Lean steak, fresh homemade pico, pepper jack cheese and lots of eggs. If you're in the area do yourself a favor and stop in. read more

Ok this place is one of the few gems In Carlsbad. The burritos here are truly worth getting. The el jefe and carlsgood are definitely my picks. I had the grand slam brunch burrito a couple weeks ago for breakfast. Def hearty sized. Service was great and it's located in a small business plaza close to a few other restaurants. I'll be coming back here quite a bit. read more

Located in a business center so it can be a bit confusing to find. The menu is a bit confusing because what is listed on the chalk board differs a bit from what is on the paper menu on the counter and the Yelp order online has different prices and items than what is actually offered. I had a few questions about items on the menu and the gal working the register yelled "Mom!" towards the back of the place, to the kitchen, to get answers. One of the questions I asked the gal was how many tortillas come with each item if we are getting a bowl or plate. She answered 3-4 tortillas but actually we only received one large tortilla per order. I learned that any burrito can be turned into a bowl. We ordered the Sweet Smokey Sam bowl. It came with a bowl filled with half pulled pork and half house made slaw and a large tortilla for $15.00. We also ordered the Birria plate that came with a good portion of birria, rice, beans and a large tortilla for $12.00. The birria was too spicy for my taste. Make it a combo that includes a bottle/can drink and bag of chips for an additional $3.00. The chips and salsa cost $5.00. The chips were good and the seasoning was a nice touch. The salsa was watery and spicy. read more

Sam’s Kitchen - April 16, 2024 specials - Mexican Near Me - Carlsbad, California

This place is a 10/10 the service was wonderful and the steak fries were the best I've ever had! I can't wait to eat here again during my next visit! read more

Sam’s Kitchen - Carls-good - Mexican Near Me - Carlsbad, California

Tucked away in a business plaza, Sam's Kitchen is breezy and open to all. They specialize in burritos and offer lots of options. I almost went with the el jefe (ribeye steak, chimichurri, and home style potatoes), but opted for The Grand Sam( eggs, potatoes, ham, sausage, bacon, cheese). I asked for no cheese. Pay in cash which is cheaper and always good for small businesses. They have generous salsa portions in to go containers and the person who ordered pick up was raving about their food so I was excited. Unfortunately they forgot to take out the cheese in my burrito which isn't great because I'm deathly allergic. I luckily only had a few bites, and when I brought the burrito back in they had one without cheese waiting for me. The service and quality of the burrito saved this from a one star review. I decided to finish my burrito later in the day since I wasn't feeling great from eating cheese. I was munching and it was very delicious, but noticed a hair in my burrito. For a second I thought it was mine but this was a black hair and I have brown hair. Then noticed a gray/silver string in the salsa. I was thinking it could be a sinew of a vegetable, but it was thick. It could have been another hair, but leaning towards string. Maybe this bad experience is my fault and I should have just been very adamant that I'm deathly allergic to dairy? Or ordered the El Jefe instead. read more

Sam’s Kitchen - The Grand Sam - Mexican Near Me - Carlsbad, California

Sam's does not disappoint. Today was my third-or-so time here and every burrito has been excellent. I usually get the sunrise with soyrizo and a second that varies every time but the sunrise is out of sight. Today I go a fully vegan burrito as my add-on and it was REALLY tasty. Pair that with their hottest sauce (wasn't too hot at all) and their tomatillo salsa (the absolute BEST tomatillo salsa you will ever try) and you're off to the races. If I was going to grade them down it would be for their long wait times but if you call your food in, you can skip the wait altogether. I need to come back and try their lunch and dinner offers but if they're half as good as their breakfast are, you can be sure you're in for a treat. read more

Sam's Kitchen & Catering is a hidden gem on El Camino just north of Faraday in Carlsbad. Everything we've tried so far has been delicious. The food is fresh, the prices are good, the service is great! What more could you ask for? They get busy between 11:30 -12:30 for your planning purposes. Give them a try for take out, inside or outdoor dining. Super Yummy! read more

My co-workers at Carlsbad Jet Center eat here multiple times a week. I have ordered from here a few times and I will continue to eat here. The first burrito I had was the Grand Sam and it was tasty. The Sweet Smoky Sam (add french fries) is probably the best burrito I have ever had! read more

Starving. Found yummy. Big veggie burrito. And alot of other veg friendly options. Fast kind service. Breakfast and lunch. Authentic mex.food and bomb salsa read more

Sam’s Kitchen - Sunrise. With avocado. Green salsa - Mexican Near Me - Carlsbad, California

Food has been excellent. I've tried the breakfast burrito, tomato soup and grill cheese, and club sandwich. I'd highly recommend all. Service was speedy. Prices are fair. Restaurant was clean. read more