Our First Visit Since It Changed From West Steak & Seafood to Polo Steakhouse
Both the original West and the new Polo Steakhouse at the West Inn were/are upscale restaurants that feature excellent service, quality steaks in a luxurious atmosphere. We were happy to see that parallel between the old and new establishment as we enjoyed the food and service at the original West.
The decor remains similar and elegant, and the focus on exceptional service is clearly still valued. Service here is excellent.
The wine list features an extensive list of both bottles and individual glasses, and the bar offers true craft-level cocktails and an equally impressive list of individual brand Tequilas (25+), Vodkas, Gins, Rums, Bourbons, Whiskeys of all types, Scotch, and Brandy. If that wasn’t impressive enough, they offer 10+ Amaro/Bitters and 15+ Cordials. Tough decision but I went with a true test – a classic Sazerac – and it was well made.
Polo also features their own high-end cocktail list and a solid selection of craft-level non-alcoholic cocktails. We tried one – the Phony Negroni and it tasted exactly like the full alcohol version – a feat that is difficult to do.
The bar menu itself is 19 pages long and they are clearly dedicated to ensuring they have your favorites and the capability of mixing them exactly as you want. Our experience here confirmed it.
The Best Wedge Salad in Carlsbad?
The over-the-top thick-cut candied pork-belly took the wedge salad to another level, and it is clearly a contender for best wedge salad in Carlsbad – if not the outright winner.
There is a good variety soups, salads and both seafood and meat appetizers but just one vegetarian choice (it called the Polo Steakhouse, so it’s no surprise the vegan/vegetarian choices are limited).
Inline with current restaurant trends – the menu is shorter nowadays – with an emphasis on steaks and a few fish/other meat dishes. The seven steak choices did offer 5 different sauces, and 5 different “add-ons” such as lobster, scallops and prawns. So while there were only 2 fish entrees on the menu, you could add a variety of seafood or unique sauces to customize your steak entree.
I chose to go with the New Zealand Rack of Lamb, featuring a pistachio pesto crust on potato puree with charred broccolini and chimichurri sauce. It was well prepared and seasoned – excellent.
We also tried the Filet Mignon with a Blue Cheese Crust and brocollini. It too was well prepared and delicious.
Prices Are On The Expensive Side - But The Ambiance and Service Are Top-Shelf
The business is clearly targeting the luxury dining market and there is good reason for that – Carlsbad has a wealthy resident population and visitors that often can afford to look for premium places to dine. With Steak entrees running $58 – $195, Polo Steakhouse may not be for everyone – but if you are looking for a quieter, premium steakhouse with superb service to visit – its one of the top choices in the area.
Polo Steakhouse Restaurant Information
Address: 4980 Avenida Encinas, Carlsbad, CA 92008
Phone: 760-930-9100
Hours: Opens at 4:30pm
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