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Best Restaurants for Spicy Food in Escondido

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265 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(7359)
$$$$
• Beer Garden • Escondido
Booked 81 times today
Join us for a meal or a pint in our Bistro’s dynamic and expansive interior, or venture out to our beautiful open-air patio and one-acre beer garden. As strong advocates for environmental responsibility and high-quality food, we are one of the largest restaurant purchasers of local, small-farm organic produce in San Diego County. With 36 craft and specialty beers on tap, an extensive wine list, and distinctive banquet and wedding accommodations, our Bistro has become one of the premier culinary destinations in San Diego County.
A photo of Collette’s restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(1395)
$$$$
• Farm-to-table • Escondido
Booked 4 times today
We are committed to giving you a unique farm to table fine dining experience. We are forging partnerships with local farmers and chefs to bring you good food done well. We believe that food has the power to bring people together and build community, and we're honored to be a part of that process.
A photo of Mkutano House restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(387)
$$$$
• Comfort Food • Escondido
Booked 54 times today
Mkutano House is a beautiful, open‑air dining experience located inside the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, offering stunning views of Elephant Valley and the surrounding savanna. Inspired by the spirit of “gathering with purpose,” Mkutano House blends warm hospitality, thoughtful storytelling, and fresh, seasonal cuisine rooted in California flavors.Guests enjoy a relaxed yet elevated lunch service featuring vibrant starters, wood‑fired entrées, shareable plates, and a curated beverage program highlighting San Diego craft beer, California wines, and refreshing zero‑proof options. Every detail—from water service to tableside presence—reflects our commitment to conservation, community, and world‑class guest care.Valid San Diego Zoo Membership or admission ticket is required to dine in Mkutano House.
A photo of Brigantine Escondido restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1724)
$$$$
• Seafood • Escondido
Booked 10 times today
A San Diego tradition since 1969, the Brigantine has received many accolades in our 40+ year history: "BEST SEAFOOD", "BEST CASUAL SEAFOOD", "BEST HAPPY HOUR", and even "BEST SWORDFISH IN THE WORLD", according to USA Today - just to name a few.Well-known for our signature Clam Chowder, Grilled Swordfish, and Crème Brûlée, the Brigantine is a favorite among locals for consistently fresh seafood, succulent steaks and grilled meats. Located near the California Center for the Arts, Escondido, the Brigantine features fireside seating in a casual dining room, and in the adjacent lounge. Outdoor dining is available on one of our intimate patios, which include both fireplace and water features.Private dining is available.The Escondido Brigantine serves dinner 7 nights a week, and lunch Monday-Saturday. Join us for our signature Happy Hour.
A photo of The Henry - Carlsbad restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(797)
$$$$
• American • Carlsbad
Booked 86 times today
Welcome to the greatest neighborhood restaurant in Carlsbad. You can always count on a warm welcome from our baristas, servers, and bartenders who know your order by heart. A fusion of industrial and classical influences, our open dining spaces are bursting with charm and energy. Come and go with ease for your morning coffee, lunch with a colleague, an intimate date night, a family dinner, or a post-work drink at the bar. For everyday occasions, craveable eats, and downright delicious cocktails, look no further than a place where you'll always be among friends, a place that feels like home: The Henry.
A photo of Herb & Sea restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(3407)
$$$$
• Seafood • Encinitas
Booked 91 times today
Herb & Sea is a coastal California restaurant in Encinitas, just steps from Moonlight State Beach, known for its wood-fired cooking and seasonally driven seafood. Led by Chef Aidan Owens, the menu highlights locally sourced fish, shellfish, and produce from nearby farms, with a focus on sustainability and connection to the region.Signature dishes center around the restaurant’s “Fresh Catch” program, showcasing underutilized local species and supporting Southern California fisheries. From oysters and crudo to wood-roasted fish and housemade pastas, each dish reflects a balance of simplicity, flavor, and thoughtful technique.The space blends laid-back coastal energy with a warm, design-forward dining room and an open-air patio ideal for sunset dinners and group gatherings. Whether you’re joining for a casual meal, date night, or special occasion, Herb & Sea offers a distinctly Encinitas dining experience rooted in community, seasonality, and the ocean just beyond the door.
A photo of Ember & Rye restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1657)
$$$$
• Steakhouse • Carlsbad
Booked 36 times today
Dine overlooking the 18th green at this Richard Blais steakhouse... of sorts. This delightful collaboration with acclaimed chef and television personality offers delectable steaks and fresh seafood dishes rooted in fine local ingredients, served in a casual, vintage clubhouse setting located at the signature Arnold Palmer designed Aviara Golf Club.
A photo of Pacific Coast Grill - Cardiff restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(10354)
$$$$
• Seafood • Cardiff By The Sea
Booked 138 times today
Pacific Coast Grill's oceanfront venue features unique Pacific Coastal cuisine, an oyster bar, select sushi rolls, and a plethora of seafood choices, delicious steaks and more! There are two levels of dining at the new PCG with every dining seat in the house carefully planned to have an ocean view. There are bars on both levels and a heated outdoor patio and a deck with one of the best views of the Pacific Ocean and the line up at Cardiff Reef. You can watch surfers, kite surfers, dolphins, whales and spectacular sunsets from throughout the restaurant.
A photo of Nick's Del Mar restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1828)
$$$$
• American • Del Mar
Booked 73 times today
Classic American comfort food, crave-able bar snacks, plus unique cocktails & an extensive wine list in an upscale yet casual environment. Our intimate restaurant features a chic island bar, walls of glass and a spacious covered patio, perfect for people watching. Our exhibition kitchen highlights the talents of our passionate culinary team.Nick’s is dedicated to perfecting the dining experience through continuous innovation, offering the highest quality food and beverage, and executing impeccable standards of hospitality. The deeply instilled Nick’s culture is personified by its Ladies and Gentlemen – professionals who share a single focus and are inspired and committed to offering great service and creating positive memorable experiences.
A photo of Nick’s on State restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2740)
$$$$
• American • Carlsbad
Booked 82 times today
Classic American comfort food, crave-able bar snacks, plus unique cocktails & an extensive wine list in an upscale yet casual environment. Our intimate restaurant features a chic island bar, walls of glass and a spacious covered patio, perfect for people watching. Our exhibition kitchen highlights the talents of our passionate culinary team. Nick’s is dedicated to perfecting the dining experience through continuous innovation, offering the highest quality food and beverage, and executing impeccable standards of hospitality. The deeply instilled Nick’s culture is personified by its Ladies and Gentlemen – professionals who share a single focus and are inspired and committed to offering great service and creating positive, memorable experiences.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Evonne
    Las Vegas •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Go to this place. The food was amazing. Bursting with flavor. You could taste the quality. We got the honey walnut shrimp, the Kung Pao chicken and the crab ragoons. Everything was delicious. They use real crab and the juiciest shrimp. The veggies in the Kung Pao chicken were fresh and the chicken was juicy and flavorful. The atmosphere was absolutely amazing. The fire place and arch way are beautiful. Intimate setting great for date night and the bar next door is a great place to grab drinks after.
    More info
    Fortunate Son$$$$• Chinese• North Park
    4.7
  • Kris
    San Diego •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Everything about our first visit to Haven Farm + Table was awesome. Drinks, food, service, ALL surpassed expectations.
    More info
    Haven Farm + Table$$$$• Californian• Encinitas
    4.4
  • LeenaGold
    Alabama •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Great management and service. They go out of their way to make sure you’re comfortable and accommodated for. The drinks were great! The bartender did not hesitate to make a bespoke drink, the service was exceptional, the general manager was professional and very accommodating. The food was great! I would definitely return.
    More info
    Books + Records$$$$• American• Banker's Hill
    4.8
  • BeniGold
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Fajita is always a favorite! Great food, great service. We also tried the La Tablita which is perfect for two or more and the presentation is mouth watering! Keep in mind that if you’re bringing kids, they don’t have a kids menu. The Churros is a must!!! Overall, it’s a fantastic experience every time.
    More info
    Javier's - La Jolla$$$$• Mexican• La Jolla
    4.7
  • nyleGold
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Jun 18, 2026
    Utterly amazing experience. San Diego is lucky to have such a talented chef that can pair food and cocktails with unique flavors and ingredients.
    More info
    Carne & Hueso$$$$• Contemporary Mexican• North Park
    4.9
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