Little Victory Wine Bar

https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/best-new-san-diego-restaurants-heatmap

The Best New Restaurants in San Diego | Eater San Diego

"From the same husband-and-wife team behind Encinitas’s popular Little Victory Wine Market, comes a new wine bar destination in Carlsbad. Little Victory Wine Bar, perched on Oak Avenue in Carlsbad’s booming dining scene, brings the same concerted attention to detail to its food menu as it does its wine list: Find snacks like tinned fish (served with hot sauce and baguette), beef tartare, and crudo alongside more formidable plates like Parmesan-flecked risotto and a pan-seared pork chop with spring peas and mushrooms. Wines include jammy Gamay and skin contact options like a 2022 Viognier." - Helen I. Hwang

https://sandiego.eater.com/2025/4/30/24421152/san-diego-openings-restaurants-bars-rooftops-april-2025

The Most Exciting San Diego Openings in April 2025 | Eater San Diego

"Opened on April 9 as a natural wine bar and the second venture from husband-wife team Jeremy Simpson and Kirsten Potenza (who run Little Victory Wine Market in Encinitas), the kitchen is helmed by chefs Kelly and Elliott Townsend from Long Story Short and showcases Southern California ingredients influenced by Italian and Scandinavian culinary techniques. Menu offerings include house-cured fish, beef tartare, risotto, and Basque cheesecake." - Helen I. Hwang

https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/best-restaurants-carlsbad-san-diego

A compact cave à manger from respected local wine pros, pairing natural wines with precise small plates. Featured on Eater San Diego and welcomed by the Carlsbad Village Association, it’s where chefs and locals linger over crudo, tinned fish, and risotto.

Best Restaurants in Carlsbad (2025)

https://www.littlevictorywine.com/

A small, independent natural-wine bar from a local husband-and-wife team, pairing thoughtful pours with seasonal small plates. Covered by San Diego Magazine and the Carlsbad Village Association as a notable recent opening.

Things to Do in Carlsbad

Wookjin Park

Google

"A friendly atmosphere, simple dishes, and the pleasure of a glass of wine" Food: The menu focuses on simple dishes. The mint risotto had a refreshing taste, and the Basque cheesecake was exceptional. Service: The staff paid close attention to each table and took great care of the guests. Their explanations about the wine were clear and detailed. Atmosphere: Although the tables are a bit close together, the place feels friendly and is filled with warm sunlight.

Em T

Google

We enjoyed our first time at Little Victory. The food was excellent, the seasonal Pasta (summer squash, blistered tomatos) was absolutely unreal, one of the best pasta dishes I have ever eaten. The basque cheesecake was delicious as well! As a first timer, I think the restauraunt would benefit from a small sign outside directing guests to the correct area inside to check in for a reservation. It felt like we were intruding because we didn’t know where to go and to be wandering around getting passed off from server to bartender to someone else to try and find a host to check in with wasn’t a great first impression. However, once we got sat, the staff were truly friendly. Our server was able to give us helpful guidance on the wine list and we liked the wine we chose. The atmosphere was pleasant and the space is well decorated, but we did notice as it got more crowded later in the evening it became increasingly louder inside, which made it challenging to hold a conversation. Maybe some aesthetic looking sound absorbers would help! Overall, a lovely little spot tucked off in a quiet street of Carlsbad. Definitley worth a visit if you enjoy a good Southern California wine bar vibe.

E. Saraiah Philip

Google

Absolutely loved Little Victory 😍 I ordered the risotto and the beef tartare and they were both very good. Not to mention the bread and butter which was perfect. The wine selection was really good and the barista was very knowledgeable. The atmosphere is really cute and relaxing. It's very aesthetic and even though it's mainly outdoor seating, they have heaters so it still feels very cozy. There were also so many cute dogs, so the patio is pet friendly! 10/10 would recommend and go again!

Laina Azeris

Google

Little Victory Wine Bar is chic and welcoming—cool without the pretentiousness. We shared the bread, spring salad, orzo, and fresh catch—and finished with the cheesecake (which I will be dreaming about until I return). Everything was beautifully done and full of flavor. It’s the perfect spot to split a bottle with friends or enjoy a few glasses solo. The patio and dining area are lovely, and the bar seating is cozy and thoughtfully laid out—plenty of space to eat and chat without feeling cramped. There’s also a small wine shop/mini market stocked with all kinds of gems. I grabbed two bottles to take home but definitely plan to browse more next time. Such a beautiful, thoughtful space—I’m so excited this place opened and can’t wait to go back.

Kelsey Hillegass

Google

Wow! This place exceeded my expectations. Dev, Jenny, and Tristian provided exceptional service and expertise on the wines. They were able to assist us with selecting the perfect bottles to share. We went on a Friday afternoon around 4:30 and just about every table was reserved but we got lucky and a table opened up. The staff was very accommodating and flexible so that we could stay to enjoy another bottle. I would recommend reservations if you plan on going after 5pm or with a big group.

Deanne Rudman

Google

Lovely place to enjoy the afternoon/early evening while sipping wine and enjoying some tasty bites. Cute setting and overall good vibe.

Andrew Uebelein

Google

Love this place! We’ve been here a few times now, and it’s become one of our favorite places for a good glass of wine and a great vibe. Food is always delicious, we love the tomato tartine. Staff is attentive and knowledgeable. And it’s overall really cute and well put together!

Bree Marble

Google

INCREDIBLE! Wow! My friend and I have been wanting to try this place since they opened. We finally went and it was out of this world. The wines they have are so unique (although just know they are a bit more pricey). The service was so great. Very kind and knowledgeable waitress. The food is what really blew us away. We got the crudo, the beef tartare, and the summer squash pasta. Quite possibly one of the best meals I’ve ever had. Can’t wait to come back!

Rakhi B.

Yelp

Ambiance..such a cute place..plenty of outside and inside seating and a market to shop as well Service..fast and friendly and can bring kids and dogs too Food..amazing. they change their menu every day. Had the cheese and bread and butter and pasta and cheesecake. My fav was the pasta and cheesecake..so flavorful and fresh. I also liked the red wine because it was a little cool too. The cheesecake is amazing and gf and so creamy.

Falcone K.

Yelp

Unsure what's going on here but the wine was not good. Look, I get it. "natural wine" is hip and better for you but these wines taste like vinegar and smell like cheese. I'll have a beer next time. Food was good. Not great. Cute space. Service was slightly pretentious when I asked a few questions about the wine (white girl, tattoos).

Nell C.

Yelp

Thursday night relaxation with friends is a must. I enjoyed my time at Little Victory Wine Bar. Cute wine bar opened up in Carlsbad Village off of State Street. Note: Be prompt, you will only be seated when your full party has arrived. This wine bar is a good size with about 6 small tables on the patio and 6 small tables on the inside. Knowing this, it is still great for groups because it is quaint and cozy. They have a standing location by the bar with bar stools in the corner seating around 6-7 people. I loved the service and plethora of wine selections. I had a Syrah from Mendocino, CA. It is a Red, light with a tart taste. Servers are knowledgeable on the wines which is amazing! I had experienced at other wine bars some servers were clueless. Thank you to the servers who replenished the water. I appreciate you! The Oscar's Olives and the Cheese plate was phenomenal! I got lost in the food, wine and company. This is a good thing. I'll be back!

Christina H.

Yelp

Loved this spot! Was able to come here on a date night and enjoy amazing food, great service (with playful kitchen staff/cooks) and enjoy the location and energy of this being a brand new spot. The food was AMAZING, some of the wines were different as we arent always used to small batch organic wines, but our server led us in the right direction and we enjoyed a nice bottle of red and i also had a glass of white.

Analisa S.

Yelp

I've always loved visiting Little Victory Wine Shop in Encinitas and was thrilled to hear they opened a wine bar right here in Carlsbad, walking distance from my house. The space has such a warm, cozy vibe that makes you want to settle in and stay awhile. The food was absolutely delicious and perfectly paired with their great wine selection. On top of that, the staff couldn't have been more wonderful, friendly, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. We have already added this spot to our list of local favorites and I cannot wait to come back.

Lindsey H.

Yelp

What a charming little place in Carlsbad! The food was incredible. We loved all the wine recommendations. Stand out food was their: tuna crudo, peach arugula salad, mussels and the pasta. The cheesecake was nuts as well. So good. Dogs welcome. Friends encouraged. Cheers!

Jeremy S.

Yelp

I'm a fan! This is a cute little wine bar that just opened up within carlsbad village. Lots of outdoor seating and the wine list is primo. One of the few places that actually offer a large selection of skin contact wine! Which if you haven't had, you should totally try. Pair the wine selection with a chef that knows his ish, and you got delicious food as well! One of my sleepers in the area!

Tina S.

Yelp

You will want to check out this neighborhood wine bar. They have an amazing wine selection and some great food too. We tried the Tempranillo which was delicious. We decided to share Oscar's olives and the pasta. The pasta has such a light refreshing taste, I recommend it! The staff work as a team and made sure you had everything you need. Love this place.

Marsha A.

Yelp

Five stars because the wine here is easily the best in North County as far as selection goes. I love a natural orange wine that aint too stanky - but WOW was my glass of wine ruined by the absolutely atrocious girl serving me my wine. Didn't catch her name but unfortunately, caught her vibe which frankly, ruined mine. Her attitude alone was somehow more fermented than my wine. Then on top of it, she kept openly flirting with my man. Clearly, she did not realize if we stepped outside her head would be rolling down the block before she could uncork our second bottle of wine. BUT - since this is a nice establishment and I'd like to be legally allowed to buy wine here again, I digress. I kept my ass in my seat and closed my eyes, knowing i'd sleep well tonight because my I stay in my lane and don't try to steal another woman's man

Ann C.

Yelp

Perfect spot to hang with friends or take a date. The vibe is modern California: natural wines, fresh ingredients, calm atmosphere. We're red wine people, and Jeremy absolutely nailed the recommendation: a young Sicilian red with great minerality that worked beautifully with food. And the food? Unreal. I want to shop wherever they get their produce. Every fruit and veggie was on point. Ripe tomatoes, honeydew, watermelon, cantaloupe. The menu changes often, but honestly, I'd trust them with anything. The tuna dish wrecked me (in a good way). It came with this watermelon-cucumber-cilantro broth, and yes, we drank it straight from the bowl. We sat at the bar. The staff was relaxed, friendly without overdoing it, and by the end of the night it felt like we'd known them forever. Can't wait to go back when the seasons shift and find a new favorite wine and dish.

Shay R.

Yelp

Ambiance 10/10 Customer service 10/10 Wine was amazing! Parking was a bit limited but the area is very walkable.

Anna C.

Yelp

Love this little wine bar! It's a great spot to chat over a glass (or two) of wine. Menu and wine list changes almost daily as they procure very small batch producers and unique, unconventional wines. If you want a nice glass of Austin Hope cab, you won't find it here. I'm no sommelier, but I've done wine tastings across multiple wine regions, so I'm not entirely clueless about wine either. But I did feel kind of clueless here with so many unique expressions. They explain all the wines to you and let you taste to see if you like it before they pour a full glass. They're super knowledgeable and will not dumb it down for you, so I can see why some people felt it was pretentious or trying too hard, but I really appreciated the education. Another reviewer also mentioned it was not good for dinner, and I agree. It's mainly small plates at entree prices, and tasted just okay. But if you want to graze and sip on wine, this is prefect. Bonus that they share a space with Always Hungry, a small store carrying small, local brands.

Jamy S.

Yelp

This place is absolutely lovely, a true SoCal setting just off the beach, with indoor and quality outdoor seating and a perfect vibe to match -- high quality, professional, sophisticated fare, yet comfortably casual. The wine selections are extensive and offbeat and the staff and ownership are expertly helpful. The hospitality is superb at every element of the staffing. But of course none of it would matter if it wasn't for the food, and indeed the meal was breathtaking, and the experience and setting perfectly suited to match. Tomatoes and peppers on toast; tuna crudo with Thai spices; two melons and prosciutto; summer squash pasta; sea bass done classically meuniere with perfect roasted potatoes; and their signature basque cheesecake. Neither words nor photos can do justice. Simple classic dishes with perfect local ingredients, and every dish reflecting an original take on flavors, spices, herbs. If you are anywhere even remotely in reach of Carlsbad, you simply must go. I guarantee you perfection on a plate.

Joni F.

Yelp

The ambience at this darling wine bar is outstanding. The staff are knowledgeable, engaged & so much fun! We sat up at the bar and enjoyed a bottle of German Riesling with our incredible dinner. We enjoyed the bread and butter with whipped butter and sea salt, the peaches and arugula, shaved fennel and toasted seed vinaigrette, and finally the summer squash rigatoni with ricotta and basil oil. It was incredible. The chefs here are amazing. Everything was fresh and hot and so delicious!

MC F.

Yelp

Its a charming spot for wine and nibbling, but we were there for dinner and left very hungry. We had several dishes: starting with bread, cheese board, salad, romanesco, pasta, seared ahi, and cheesecake. The one standout bite was the cheesecake, which was a spectacular bite! The rest of the dishes were simply "ok," and when we left, we felt quite unsatisfied. Service was outstanding! Every staff member we encountered was so friendly and gracious. Also, the ambiance is welcoming and casually comfortable. I would return for a sip and a bite, but not for a full meal.

Jeff R.

Yelp

It's going to be an excellent atmosphere for the community. Cute atmosphere. Cool place. Still working out the kinks on service.

Walter B.

Yelp

I went there for the third time and the wines are fantastic! All natural wines. And the food is great a great place to hang out in downtown Carlsbad.

Brett M.

Yelp

There are much better wine bars out there! Overcrowded and wines that were just not too great for the price. $9 for bread? Service was also slow and all the employees were trying really hard to "be cool". Don't go on a date here unless you bring a megaphone as it's so loud it reminds me of a 2000's Abercrombie store. Easy pass

C B.

Yelp

Fun new wine bar in carlsbad village. Service was great and the wine was good. Different wines, but nice to try something different. We did not eat, but the menu looked good and simple. We will be back.

Alex M.

Yelp

Suuuuper rude staff. Highly do not recommend. Think they're cooler than they are. Remember we are in Carlsbad which is a casual family area. Ego for zero reason. Won't go back

Marcos L.

Yelp

We were excited to try this wine bar and walked in to find 2 spots at the bar. We sat down and already felt as if we annoyed the bartender. He was busy explaining the different wines and food options, with lots of enthusiasm to his other customers. When he got to us, it was an abrupt "what can I get you?" We asked for a recommendation of a red wine and he interrupted with "there's 4 so just pick one". We couldn't understand why we were being treated this way other than when we looked around we were the only people of color. Such a sad experience and we will definitely not return.

Loren C.

Yelp

Our family's favorite new Carlsbad restaurant! Incredible and inventive chefs with a menu that changes based on what's fresh. If you want a joy filled culinary adventure, this is the place for you.

Brianna R.

Yelp

Such a great new spot! The food and service was absolutely incredible. We got the mussels, Risotto, Broccolini and Crudo. Everything was delicious, but the Crudo was my favorite! It's so flavorful with a Passionfruit vinaigrette. All the staff was super friendly and informative, will definitely be back!

Dave R.

Yelp

Very cool place. Great vibe with an excellent natural wine selection and small plate format. We had the beef tartar, asparagus and risotto and everything was delicious. Definitely worth a visit to this chill new spot in the village.

Nikki J.

Yelp

Just the spot Carlsbad needed. Seriously the best natural wine list with cozy French vibes. The owner is super friendly and knowledgeable and gave great recommendations. The food was sooo good, we can't wait to go back! We will be living there all summer!

Laura J.

Yelp

The food, the vibe, the service, the wine - all absolutely fantastic. Couldn't have asked for a better experience.

Sarah C.

Yelp

Genuinely one of the best meals I have had in a while. I had the honor of meeting the chefs and not only were they extremely charitable and kind, but they had a real love for their craft that shone through every single dish I tried. The waitress was lovely and the food was delicious. Love radiates from this restaurant and I will definitely be coming back. I recommend you do too!

Theresa J.

Yelp

I am so happy that this little gem is in the Village! From the wine, to the food ( the crude is out of this world good!) To the amazing Cheescake for dessert. The ambiance is crazy beautiful, the staff is helpful and the owners are gracious and kind!

Ray B.

Yelp

Bill was way wrong. Ordered a bottle and they brought the wrong one. If I'm going to get a $70 bottle of wine it better be the right one. Food was meh and limited. Service was not great and waitress was rude. They cannot accommodate large groups.

Matthew A.

Yelp

Terrible and inefficient service for overpriced food and drinks. Not much else to say.

Gayle K.

Yelp

Little victory offers a curated wine selection of tasty sips from the best producers out there. Not your everyday selection but delicious wines that will surprise you. The team is passionate and hospitable. I felt like I was hanging in a good friends kitchen island. Pair that with the fresh local fish and produce that the chefs are putting out and there is no way you will not have a wonderful time. Truly a special place with even more special humans.

Theresa H.

Yelp

We loved the vibe, service, and foof. The duo chefs served a fantastic black cod and octopus. They were out of the cavatelli, so we were a little limited on options unless we wanted the expensive pork chop.

D H.

Yelp

Overpriced for what you receive. Mediocre food and pretentious owners/staff. Definitely would not recommend.

Michael S.

Yelp

An unexpected gem.Great wine and small plate offerings that were excellent.A special new adventure in North County.We will return for sure!

Cole Y.

Yelp

New spot! Ambiance 10/10. Great selection of wines. Food menu changes biweekly, local and fresh ingredients. Attached is a local grocer. Lots of fun, unique and tasty food items and drinks. Service is top notch.

https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/best-new-san-diego-restaurants-heatmap

The Best New Restaurants in San Diego | Eater San Diego

https://sandiego.eater.com/2025/4/30/24421152/san-diego-openings-restaurants-bars-rooftops-april-2025

The Most Exciting San Diego Openings in April 2025 | Eater San Diego

https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/best-restaurants-carlsbad-san-diego

Best Restaurants in Carlsbad (2025)

https://www.littlevictorywine.com/

Things to Do in Carlsbad