The Absolute Best Take Out in Encinitas [Updated 2025]

Having grown up in this charming coastal town, I've had my fair share of take out meals. From quick bites to satisfying dinners, I've tried them all.

With a total of 13 take out spots reviewed, I'm here to share with you the crème de la crème of Encinitas' culinary delights. So, if you find yourself craving a delicious meal without the hassle of cooking or dining in, join me on this lighthearted journey as we uncover the best take out options in Encinitas, CA.

Prepare your taste buds for a delightful adventure!

The Crack Shack - Encinitas

Highlights
Fried chicken
Pollo asada torta
Friendly service
Packed atmosphere
Yummy food

As soon as I entered The Crack Shack, I was greeted by a packed atmosphere. The lively chatter and the tantalizing aroma of fried chicken filled the air, creating an ambiance that was both energetic and inviting.

Now let's talk about their fried chicken. Oh boy, where do I begin? It was a crispy and succulent masterpiece! Each bite revealed a perfect harmony of flavors - from the golden crust to the juicy meat inside. It was like a symphony playing on my taste buds.

One item that caught my attention was the Pollo Asada Torta. Let me tell you, this sandwich is no ordinary sandwich. Stacked with tender grilled chicken, spicy chipotle mayo, and tangy pickled onions, it was a flavor explosion in every bite. The combination of textures and flavors left me wanting more.

Not only does The Crack Shack excel in their food offerings, but their service is also top-notch. The staff were friendly and attentive, ensuring that every customer felt welcome and satisfied. They even offered suggestions when I couldn't decide between two mouth-watering options.

Overall, my experience at The Crack Shack - Encinitas was nothing short of fantastic. With its packed atmosphere, friendly service, and incredibly delicious food, it truly deserves its place among the best takeouts in Encinitas. So next time you're craving some crackin' good food, give them a visit!

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Buona Forchetta - Encinitas

Highlights
Good Italian cuisine
Attentive and friendly staff
Perfect pizza every time
Natural and authentic taste
Highly recommended dishes

Let me start by saying, if you're craving some good Italian cuisine, this place is a must-try. The moment I walked in, I was greeted by an attentive and friendly staff who made me feel right at home.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show - their pizzas. Oh my goodness! The pizzas here are perfect every time. The crust is thin and crispy, just the way it should be. And the toppings? They're like a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds.

What sets Buona Forchetta apart from other Italian restaurants is their commitment to using high-quality ingredients that ensure a natural and authentic taste. Each bite feels like you've been transported to Italy itself.

I have to mention a few standout dishes that are highly recommended. First, their Margherita pizza is simplicity at its finest. The combination of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and fragrant basil leaves is truly divine. And if you're feeling adventurous, try their Prosciutto e Rucola pizza with its delicate balance of salty prosciutto and peppery arugula.

To top it all off, they also offer a range of delectable desserts that are worth saving room for. Trust me when I say that their Tiramisu will make you weak in the knees.

In conclusion, Buona Forchetta - Encinitas is a gem among take out options in Encinitas. Their commitment to delivering top-notch Italian cuisine with attentive service makes them a standout choice for any food lover. So go ahead and treat yourself to an unforgettable meal that will leave you wanting more!

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Birdseye Kitchen

Highlights
Scenic location
Great cuisine
Wide drink selection
Good value for money

First of all, let me just say that the location of Birdseye Kitchen is absolutely scenic. As I waited for my take out order, I couldn't help but admire the stunning views of Encinitas. It's like a feast for the eyes before even tasting the food!

Speaking of food, the cuisine at Birdseye Kitchen is truly something to marvel at. The menu offers a wide range of options that cater to various taste buds. From flavorful salads to mouthwatering sandwiches, there's something for everyone here. And let me tell you, each dish is prepared with such finesse and attention to detail that it's hard not to be impressed.

Now, let's talk about drinks. Birdseye Kitchen doesn't disappoint in this department either. Their drink selection is as vast as the ocean itself! Whether you're in the mood for a refreshing smoothie or a delightful craft beer, they have got you covered.

One thing that pleasantly surprised me about Birdseye Kitchen was their value for money. Despite offering high-quality cuisine and an idyllic location, their prices were surprisingly reasonable. It's like finding gold at the price of silver!

In conclusion, if you're looking for a take out spot with scenic views, great cuisine, an extensive drink selection, and excellent value for your money, then look no further than Birdseye Kitchen in Encinitas. Trust me on this one - it'll leave you wanting more!

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Forchettabouddit

Highlights
New favorite place
Fresh pizza and good food
Casual atmosphere
Wide variety of vegetarian options
Lunch special: $15 for pizza and drink

Let me start by saying that Forchettabouddit has easily become my new favorite place for take out in Encinitas. The moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by the enticing aroma of fresh pizza and good food wafting through the air.

The casual atmosphere immediately put me at ease, making it the perfect spot to grab a quick bite or enjoy a leisurely meal. But let's dive into the real star of the show – the food!

Forchettabouddit offers a wide variety of options, including an impressive selection of vegetarian dishes. As someone who appreciates a good veggie-based meal, this was music to my taste buds. From their delightful Margherita pizza to their mouthwatering pasta dishes, every bite was bursting with flavor.

One thing that stood out during my visit was their lunch special – $15 for a whole pizza and a drink! Now that's what I call a great deal. Who says you can't have quality and quantity?

The attention to detail in each dish was evident; every ingredient seemed perfectly curated, resulting in an explosion of delightful flavors in my mouth. It's safe to say that Forchettabouddit truly knows how to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.

So, if you're looking for top-notch take out in Encinitas, don't hesitate to give Forchettabouddit a try. With its fresh and delicious food, casual ambiance, and wallet-friendly lunch specials, it's bound to become your new go-to spot too!

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Luna Grill Encinitas

Highlights
Fresh and flavorful food
Fast and friendly service
Accurate order fulfillment
Pleasant dining atmosphere

Let me start by saying that Luna Grill Encinitas truly lives up to its reputation as one of the best take out spots in town. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm smile and welcomed into a pleasant dining atmosphere that made me feel right at home.

One thing that really stood out to me about Luna Grill was their commitment to using fresh and flavorful ingredients. Each bite burst with a symphony of flavors that left my taste buds dancing in delight. Whether it was their perfectly seasoned kebabs or their refreshing salads, every dish was crafted with care and attention to detail.

Not only did they excel in the culinary department, but Luna Grill also proved to be masters of efficiency. Their fast and friendly service ensured that my order was taken promptly and delivered without any delay. It's rare to find a place that can strike the perfect balance between speed and quality, but Luna Grill managed to do just that.

Accuracy is key when it comes to take outs, and I must say, Luna Grill nailed it. My order was fulfilled exactly as requested, leaving no room for disappointment or confusion. It's always a relief when you get exactly what you asked for, especially when you're craving something specific.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for the best take out in Encinitas, look no further than Luna Grill Encinitas. With their fresh and flavorful food, fast and friendly service, accurate order fulfillment, and pleasant dining atmosphere, they truly deserve a spot on your go-to list. So go ahead and treat yourself to some Mediterranean goodness – your taste buds will thank you!

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The Taco Stand

Highlights
Best Al Pastor Tacos
High-quality food
Friendly and speedy service
Plenty of indoor and outdoor seating
Good for kids

Let me start by saying, if you're in the mood for some mouthwatering Mexican cuisine, The Taco Stand is the place to be. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by a vibrant and lively atmosphere, which set the perfect tone for my take-out adventure.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: their Al Pastor Tacos. Oh boy, these little wonders are truly something else. The succulent marinated pork combined with their homemade corn tortillas creates a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Seriously, these tacos are so good they should come with a warning label!

Not only is the food at The Taco Stand top-notch, but the quality of their ingredients is also impressive. You can taste that they use fresh and high-quality produce in every bite. And don't even get me started on their salsas! From mild to fiery hot, there's something for everyone.

The staff at The Taco Stand deserves a special mention too. They were not only friendly but also provided speedy service without sacrificing an ounce of efficiency or accuracy. Plus, they had plenty of indoor and outdoor seating options available for those who prefer to dine on-site.

One thing I appreciated about this place is that it's perfect for families with kids. The menu offers options beyond just tacos, allowing even picky eaters to find something they'll enjoy.

In conclusion, if you're searching for the best take out in Encinitas, look no further than The Taco Stand. With their delectable Al Pastor Tacos and friendly service, this place has everything you need to satisfy your Mexican cravings – and then some! Trust me; your taste buds will thank you later.

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Himalayan Kitchen Encinitas

Highlights
Perfect catering
Amazing food
Excellent service
Must-try garlic naan
Delicious vegetarian options

Upon entering the restaurant, I was immediately greeted by the warm and inviting atmosphere. The staff at Himalayan Kitchen Encinitas is known for their excellent service, and they certainly did not disappoint. They were attentive, knowledgeable, and eager to assist with any questions or dietary concerns.

Now let's talk about the star of the show - the food! Oh boy, it was a treat for my taste buds. The menu at Himalayan Kitchen Encinitas offers a wide variety of options, making it perfect for catering any craving. Whether you're a meat-lover or a vegetarian, there is something for everyone here.

One dish that I absolutely must recommend is their garlic naan. It was heavenly! The warm, fluffy bread paired perfectly with the bold flavors of garlic and butter. It was so good that I couldn't resist ordering seconds.

Speaking of vegetarian options, Himalayan Kitchen Encinitas truly excels in this department. Their vegetarian dishes are bursting with flavor and creativity. From their aromatic vegetable biryani to their creamy paneer tikka masala, each bite is an adventure in itself.

In conclusion, Himalayan Kitchen Encinitas has all the components of a great take out experience - perfect catering options, amazing food, and excellent service. So if you're in the mood to indulge your taste buds in some delectable Himalayan cuisine, be sure to give them a try!

P.S.: Be warned though - once you try their garlic naan, there's no going back to plain old bread!

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One2Go Thai Kitchen

Highlights
Perfect drunken noodle dish
Excellent minced chicken with Thai basil
Refreshing Thai iced tea with boba

Walking into One2Go Thai Kitchen, I was immediately greeted by the enticing aroma of authentic Thai spices and flavors. As a self-proclaimed connoisseur of take out, I couldn't resist diving straight into their menu.

One dish that truly stood out was their perfectly executed drunken noodle dish. The noodles were cooked to perfection – soft yet not mushy – and packed with an exquisite blend of spiciness and savory flavors. Each bite was like a symphony in my mouth, making me wonder why it's called "drunken" when it should be celebrated soberly!

Another highlight was the minced chicken with Thai basil. The combination of tender minced chicken, fragrant Thai basil, and a medley of aromatic herbs created a dance of flavors that left me yearning for more. It was like a flavor explosion in every bite; it had me contemplating whether I could become a full-time professional food taster.

To wash down these delectable dishes, I indulged in their refreshing Thai iced tea with boba. The creamy sweetness paired perfectly with the richness of the food, providing a delightful contrast that left my taste buds dancing with joy.

In terms of service, the staff at One2Go Thai Kitchen were attentive and friendly throughout my visit. They were knowledgeable about their menu and provided helpful recommendations without being pushy or overbearing.

All in all, One2Go Thai Kitchen is definitely a contender for the title of best take out in Encinitas. With its perfect drunken noodles, excellent minced chicken with Thai basil, and refreshing Thai iced tea with boba, this place is truly something special. So grab your chopsticks and prepare for a flavorful adventure that will leave you craving more!

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Lotus Cafe & Juice Bar

Highlights
Curry perfection
Tons of vegetables
Healthy and tasty
Wide vegetarian choices
Vegan & gluten-free

Let me start by saying, wow! Lotus Cafe & Juice Bar is a true gem when it comes to take out options in Encinitas. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a vibrant and inviting atmosphere that made me feel like I had stumbled upon some sort of hidden culinary treasure.

Now, let's talk about the food. The curries at Lotus Cafe & Juice Bar are nothing short of perfection. Bursting with flavor and packed with an impressive array of aromatic spices, each curry dish had me savoring every single bite. And the best part? They load their curries with tons of vegetables! As someone who appreciates a well-balanced meal, this was a delightful surprise.

It's not just about the curries though. Lotus Cafe & Juice Bar offers a wide range of options that cater to various dietary preferences. Their menu boasts an extensive selection of vegetarian choices, ensuring that even the most discerning herbivores will find something to tickle their taste buds. And fear not my vegan friends, because they have you covered too!

What impressed me the most about Lotus Cafe & Juice Bar was their commitment to both taste and health. Each dish was not only healthy, but also incredibly tasty. It's refreshing to see a place that understands you can have your cake (or curry) and eat it too.

In conclusion, if you're looking for take out that combines deliciousness with nourishment, look no further than Lotus Cafe & Juice Bar in Encinitas. With their wide variety of vegetarian options and commitment to accommodating different dietary needs such as gluten-free and vegan, they truly stand out from the crowd. So go ahead, treat yourself to some curry bliss - your taste buds will thank you!

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Chicks Natural

Highlights
Delicious
Natural
Amazing
Must try
Great service

When it comes to take-out, Chicks Natural is a hidden gem that truly stands out. From the moment I walked in, I could sense that this place was something special. The ambiance was warm and inviting, with a touch of rustic charm that made me feel right at home.

Now, let's talk about the most important part - the food. Oh boy, where do I even begin? The menu at Chicks Natural is a delightful mix of delicious and natural options that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Each dish is prepared with care and attention to detail, ensuring a mouthwatering experience every time.

One bite into their signature chicken wrap, and I was transported to flavor heaven. The combination of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and their homemade sauce created a symphony of flavors that left me craving for more. It's safe to say that this dish is an absolute must-try.

But it's not just the food that makes Chicks Natural exceptional; their service is equally impressive. The staff members are friendly, attentive, and always go the extra mile to ensure your dining experience is nothing short of amazing.

In conclusion, if you're looking for top-notch take-out in Encinitas, look no further than Chicks Natural. With their delectable offerings, commitment to natural ingredients, and excellent service, they have truly earned their spot among the best in town. So why wait? Go ahead and indulge in some amazing take-out from Chicks Natural – your taste buds will thank you!

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Chin's Szechwan - Encinitas

Highlights
Delicious food
Quick service
Friendly staff
Easy parking

Let's start with the food. Oh, my taste buds were in for a treat! The flavors of their Szechwan cuisine danced on my tongue like a troupe of skilled performers. Each bite was an explosion of delectable spices and perfectly balanced seasonings. It was as if the chef had concocted a magic potion to awaken every dormant taste bud.

But it wasn't just the food that left me impressed; the service was lightning fast! I barely had time to blink before my order was ready for pick up. It felt like they had a secret portal directly from the kitchen to my car. Now that's what I call efficiency.

The staff at Chin's Szechwan - Encinitas were incredibly friendly too. They greeted me with warm smiles and made sure I felt right at home. Their helpfulness knew no bounds as they answered all my questions about the menu and even gave me some recommendations. It was like having my own personal culinary guide.

And let's not forget about parking – that eternal struggle we face whenever we venture out for takeout. But fear not, dear reader, because Chin's Szechwan - Encinitas has easy parking! Yes, you read that right. No circling around the block or playing hide-and-seek with elusive spots. Just pull right in and voila!

In conclusion, if you're in Encinitas and craving some top-notch takeout, look no further than Chin's Szechwan - Encinitas. With their delicious food, quick service, friendly staff, and easy parking, they have everything you need to satisfy your hunger cravings without any hassle or compromise on quality.

So go ahead, give them a try, and prepare yourself for a taste sensation that will leave your palate begging for an encore!

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URBN Encinitas

Highlights
Coal fire wings
Best pizza ever
Great beer options
Amazing caesar salad
Helpful and friendly staff

Upon entering URBN Encinitas, I was immediately drawn to the enticing aroma of their coal fire wings. These succulent morsels were truly out of this world, with a perfect balance of smokiness and heat. Each bite was like a taste explosion in my mouth.

But let's not forget about the star of the show - their pizza! Oh my goodness, this was hands down the best pizza I have ever had. The crust was thin and crispy, just how I like it, and the toppings were generously piled on. Whether you're a fan of classic margherita or prefer something more adventurous like their BBQ chicken pizza, URBN Encinitas has got you covered.

To complement their fantastic food selection, they also offer a wide range of great beer options. From local craft brews to international favorites, there's something for every beer lover's palate.

For those looking for something lighter, I highly recommend trying their amazing caesar salad. It was fresh, flavorful, and boasted a delightful balance of tangy dressing and crunchy croutons.

Last but certainly not least, the staff at URBN Encinitas were incredibly helpful and friendly. They went above and beyond to ensure that my take-out experience was exceptional.

In conclusion, if you're in Encinitas and craving some top-notch take-out food, look no further than URBN Encinitas. With their mouthwatering coal fire wings, unbeatable pizza selection, great beer options, amazing caesar salad, and helpful staff - it's a winning combination that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.

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Alice's Italian Gourmet

Highlights
Amazing lasagna
Rich flavor marinara
Friendly staff
Cozy and welcoming

First of all, let's talk about the amazing lasagna at Alice's Italian Gourmet. It was a mouthwatering masterpiece, layered with velvety smooth cheese and perfectly seasoned meat. Each bite was like a symphony of flavors dancing on my palate.

And let's not forget about their rich flavor marinara sauce. It was like a work of art - tangy, savory, and packed with just the right amount of herbs and spices. It elevated every dish I tried to new heights of deliciousness.

But it wasn't just the food that impressed me at Alice's Italian Gourmet; it was also the friendly staff. They greeted me with warm smiles and made me feel right at home. Their knowledge of the menu was exceptional, and they were more than happy to offer recommendations based on my preferences.

The atmosphere at Alice's is cozy and welcoming, making it the perfect place to enjoy a takeout meal. The charming decor and soft lighting create an intimate setting that transports you straight to Italy.

Overall, my experience at Alice's Italian Gourmet was nothing short of delightful. The combination of exquisite dishes, friendly service, and inviting ambiance makes it one of Encinitas' best takeout spots. So if you're craving authentic Italian cuisine that will leave you wanting more, don't hesitate to give Alice's a try!

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