The Lab Collective Restaurant Review
"TLC’s Oceanside restaurant location gives you that true San Diego vibe." - The Lab Collaborative
4.40
Great
Restaurant/Food rating breakdown
Presentation
Service
Likelihood of us eating here again.
Cleanliness
Taste
Value
Location
Food/Drink We Tried
Seafood Linguini ($28)
4
out of 5Menu was not descipt about the inclusions: had 3 shrimo along with salmon & scallops.
Lab Cadillac ($16)
4.5
out of 5Double Barrell Reposado from Herrudara, with Grand Marnier. Delicious with tajin rim.
Chili Lime Wings ($17.50)
4.5
out of 5These were made just how I like my wings. Not fatty at all.
Birria Short Rib ($32)
4
out of 5Tasty, just wish there was more meat.
Bhakta Century Sour ($18)
4
out of 5Bhakta 1928, Lemon, Rosemary Lavendar Syrup, & Egg White
Summer Rehab ($16)
4
out of 5Gray Whale Gin, lemon, palm sugar, Elderflower, cucumber, mint, cranberry
Paloma ($18)
4
out of 5Dahlia Cristalino, Grapefruit, fresh lime, agave, Campari, soda water
Turkey Chili ($7)
4
out of 5Nice rich Chilli
Fried Chicken ($29)
4.5
out of 5Huge portion size
Chicken & Honey Mustard Salad ($23)
4.5
out of 5Sub fried chicken, good flavor & tasty honey mustard dressing.
Potato Leek Soup ($7)
4
out of 5Bottom Line
Verdict
This place was a real find. We loved the generous portions, friendly staff, and convenient location close to our hotel and the beach. The prices were also very reasonable for the area. We enjoyed everything we ordered, especially the Chili Lime Wings, Fried Chicken, and Chicken & Honey Mustard Salad. The Lab Cadillac cocktail was a standout too, perfectly made with a delicious tajin rim.
While the service was generally good, it did slow down a bit during peak hours, which is understandable. Our only real disappointment was the Seafood Linguini. It was tasty, but we expected a heartier dish with more seafood, given the price. Overall, though, we had a great experience. This spot offers good food, good portions, great prices, and good service. We'll visit again on our next trip to Oceanside.