In Carlsbad, we like Tip Top Meats (on Paseo del Norte, I believe). This is a well known German deli and restaurant. Fun shopping and lots of sandwiches, breakfast, hot plates. The market next door has good chips and salsa for snacking. We also eat at the Carlsbad Outlet Mall (also on Paseo del Norte, I think), which is a few minutes north of Tip Top. There is a Ruby's, Starbucks, Panda Express, Rubio's (I think), etc. Your kids may really enjoy Ruby's (50's diner with burgers and shakes and jukebox choices at the table).