Dining, California-Mexican Cuisine

Ensalada Salmon at Casa de Bandini: Fresh, Grilled & Perfectly Californian

A coastal California-Mexican favorite that brings together grilled Pacific salmon, crisp garden greens, and vibrant flavors in every bite.

Where the bold flavors of the Mexican coast meet California's sun-kissed freshness, you'll find the Ensalada Salmon at Casa de Bandini in Carlsbad. A beautifully grilled fillet of Pacific salmon rests over a bed of crisp seasonal greens, accompanied by ripe avocado slices, cool cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a vibrant house-made citrus-herb dressing. It's a dish that embodies the spirit of coastal California-Mexican cuisine — light, fresh, colorful, and deeply satisfying.

A Salad That Doesn't Play Small

This isn't your average side salad. The Ensalada Salmon is a full, generous entrée built around a substantial grilled salmon fillet — the kind that earns its own applause when it arrives at the table. The salmon is prepared fresh to order, grilled to a beautiful caramelized crust while remaining tender and flaky inside, with the natural richness of Pacific salmon shining through every bite.

The greens beneath are crisp and fresh, providing the perfect textural contrast to the warm, grilled fish. The entire dish is unified by a house-made dressing that brings bright citrus acidity and a subtle herbal character, lifting every component without overwhelming the salmon's natural flavor.

“It’s the kind of salad you remember long after lunch is over — bright, satisfying, and just a little bit indulgent.”

Pacific Salmon: The Crown Jewel of the Dish

The quality of the salmon is what makes this salad special. Casa de Bandini uses fresh Pacific salmon — known for its rich, deeply flavorful flesh and naturally high omega-3 content. Pacific salmon brings a depth of flavor and a beautiful deep-orange color that transforms what might otherwise be a simple salad into a truly impressive plate.

The preparation is thoughtful and respectful of the ingredient: seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and a touch of house spice blend, then grilled over high heat to develop the slight char that adds complexity while preserving the salmon's delicate moisture.

California-Mexican Cuisine: A Natural Marriage

California and Mexico share more than a border — they share a culinary soul. The Ensalada Salmon reflects this heritage perfectly. The grilled salmon speaks to California's love of fresh, local seafood and healthy, vibrant eating, while the house-made dressing draws on Mexican flavors — citrus, chili, cumin, and cilantro — to create a profile that is distinctly regional and entirely delicious.

Behind that harmony of flavors is the vision of Diane Powers, often lovingly called the “Mother of Modern Old Town San Diego.” From the very beginning, Diane dreamed of restaurants where homemade tortillas, hand-crafted sauces, and genuine family-style hospitality would be at the heart of every meal. Her lifelong dedication to authentic Mexican cuisine and warm, welcoming spaces shaped the way we cook, serve, and celebrate today — you can feel her influence in every colorful plate, including the Ensalada Salmon. To learn more about her story and legacy, visit Diane Powers: Mother of Modern Old Town San Diego.

A Naturally Light, Health-Conscious Choice

For guests seeking lighter options without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction, the Ensalada Salmon is an outstanding choice. It is naturally high in protein and healthy fats from the salmon, packed with vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables, and naturally gluten-friendly — a welcome option for guests managing dietary restrictions.

• High-quality protein from fresh Pacific salmon
• Healthy fats and omega-3s for heart-conscious diners
• Crisp seasonal vegetables for color, crunch, and nutrition

The Ideal Lunch on the Carlsbad Patio

The Ensalada Salmon is especially popular as a lunchtime dish, when the Carlsbad sun is high and the outdoor patio is buzzing with energy. It's a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal that won't weigh you down — ideal before an afternoon of shopping at The Forum, visiting the Carlsbad Flower Fields, or exploring the beaches of North County San Diego.

Casa de Bandini: Five Decades of California-Mexican Hospitality

Since 1971, Casa de Bandini has been welcoming guests with the warmth and generosity that defines the best of Mexican hospitality. The Carlsbad location at 1901 Calle Barcelona, The Forum, Carlsbad, CA captures that same spirit, bringing authentic regional Mexican recipes and fresh daily preparations to North County San Diego.

Phone: (760) 634-3443  |  Address: 1901 Calle Barcelona, The Forum, Carlsbad, CA 92009

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Outdoor and indoor seating available.