Fodor's Expert Review Bistro West

This busy spot, part of the West Inn complex, might be called the boisterous bistro, especially if you get there during happy hour, when it appears that all of Carlsbad is tipping back a few. The bistro specializes in comfort food; a huge chicken potpie tops the list that also includes rotisserie chicken, beef Stroganoff, and house-made pastas, burgers, and pizza. Many of the dishes are seasonal, and are made with ingredients from a nearby farm tended by Bistro chefs. You can select from a long wine list of mostly California products at fair prices; many are available by the glass.