3 Best Restaurants in Escondido, North County and Around

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It might not have coastal views and ocean breezes, but don't be surprised to find an elegant French restaurant next to a hole-in-the-wall taco stand, along with a clientele as mixed as the area's cuisine. Despite the inland location, Grand Avenue has a string of charming downtown eateries, with local chefs serving farm-to-table dishes at a fraction of what you'd pay along the coast.

Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens—Escondido

$$ Fodor's Choice

One of the fastest-growing companies in the United States, Stone staked out a hilltop overlooking Escondido to create, brew, and sell its beloved craft beer in a gorgeous, solar-run facility. Thirty-six craft and specialty beers are always on tap in the tasting bar and the bistro, which has indoor and garden seating for lunch and dinner, where you can dine on an ingenious menu that features yellowfin ahi poke nachos, hand-braided IPA pretzels, and Wagyu beef burgers; save room for a real beer float. The company store offers signature items; check their website for weekly events.

1999 Citracado Pkwy., Escondido, CA, 92029, USA
760-294–7866
Known For
  • Real beer floats
  • Brewery tours $15 offered twice daily at 2 and 4 pm
  • Farm-to-table bistro food

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Bellamy's Restaurant

$$$

Live piano music, crystal chandeliers, and leather tufted chairs set the stage at this fine-dining restaurant for a delectable menu that includes crispy skin seabass, roasted chicken with caramelized carrots, and bourbon-braised beef short ribs. For a sweet conclusion, try the warm butter cake or the decadent chocolate torte. On Wednesdays, wine is half off. 

417 W. Grand Ave., Escondido, CA, 92025, USA
760-747–5000
Known For
  • California-French cuisine
  • Upscale dining
  • Live music Friday and Saturday
Restaurant Details
Closed Sun. No lunch

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Vintana

$$

Don't let its location above the Lexus dealership dissuade you; this swanky restaurant is designed as three restaurants in one: a formal glass-walled dining room; a lively patio with firepits and cabanas; and the lobby bar with leather couches and a wine shop. No matter where you dine, try the macadamia-and-coconut-crusted sea bass, or the slow-braised short ribs, followed with a cocktail using one of the more than 125 vodkas. For something different, come for “Tuesday Date Night,” which features two entrées and a bottle of wine ($75).

1205 Auto Park Way, Escondido, CA, 92029, USA
760-745–7777
Known For
  • Tuesday Date Night deals
  • Nightly specials
  • Large portions
Restaurant Details
Closed Mon.

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