Surf Up Chicken — Restaurant in Carlsbad

You ever have one of those days at work when you’re so busy that allocating a few minutes for lunch seems like an unlikely aspiration? On those days mere survival appears to be the most reasonable goal and time to eat is a cute luxury afforded to others.

When I was still working I recall on more than one occasion ordering something (typically at a drive thru) based upon some glam shot on the window. This form of deceptive advertising always left me wanting when I opened the bag and unwrapped something doing a very poor imitation of the item championed on their ginormous color poster. It always felt like I was another losing participant at one of those street shell games only to find out that the meal I thought I had ordered was actually under the cup on the right. 😡

That exasperated destination is exactly where I figured I was headed when I visited “Surf Up Chicken.” I was intrigued by the featured picture of their “Crispy Chicken Sandwich” and wondered if there was any way it could taste nearly as good as portrayed. I figured no way, but was curious enough to find out.

Given my previously disclosed pessimism I decided to hedge my bets and also sample their “Crispy Chicken Taco”, “Chicken & Waffles”, “Thai Tea Boba”, and “Grass Jelly”. Surely something had to hit for me, right?

When my sandwich arrived it not only looked just as good as advertised, but it also tasted as good as it looked! The food quality here, and their fast-casual format, makes this a formidable opponent to their mega chain adversaries!

While there are several options for the sauce enthusiasts out there, it’s all about the “Yum Yum” sauce for me! 😋

During my visit I noticed a Biblical reference printed on their bag (and given their commitment to truth in advertising) I’d recommend that they add another:

“Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:32

And that’s…Henry’s Take.

#truthinadvertising #yumyumsauce #megachainlunchalternatives

Hand model credit...

I’ve been here 4 times already and each time I’ve come, I’ve brought new family members who are happy with their food & service and want to return! It’s lovely to be greeted and served by friendly staff like Veronica and the food has been consistently delicious! It makes me happy that I don’t have to pay extra for sauces, which are tasty and homemade. Honestly, what makes this hidden gem extra special to me is that this is a business that shares God’s love and His Word with us openly. Thank you for being a great place to eat and for serving the community!

8/30/25 UPDATE: My brother is visiting from Asia and asked where I’d suggest we go for dinner last night. So I said, “Wanna try my fav fried chicken place?!”🤩 He travels the world eating food too fancy for my budget and he thought Surf’s Up chicken, fries, and sauce were delicious!

Shout out to OLLIE for being welcoming, upbeat, friendly, and fun, even when we were there at the last hour of his shift. He even inspired my high schooler to want a part time job there!

I’ve got more family & friends to bring. Keep up the excellence in everything you do Surf’s Up! See y’all next time!

9/10/2025 UPDATE Brought my childhood friend, Emmie, who was visiting from LA. She loved the crispy shrimp and has been craving it since returning home.

9/15/2025 UPDATE My college BFF, Connie, visiting from Boston, brought a Surf Up spread to my house because I’ve told her so much about this place. Her elderly mom who is a stroke victim ate and enjoyed 14 crispy shrimp.

9/18/2025 UPDATE It was my dear friend, Jennifer’s birthday yesterday. It has been on our list for many months, to have lunch here so we finally did it! Btw, the grass jelly dessert was the best I’ve ever had and it brings back...

EDIT: I have been back a few times and I must say the little tweaks and the attention to the customers feedback that I have seen and heard is fantastic. These guys and girls are doing a top notch business. The customer service is amazing and so friendly. The chicken was crunchier and even tasted a little less strong on the seasoning for me. Could be just me growing to like it more but, either way I really enjoy the food here. I will keep coming back for my lunch chicken cravings.

Tried pretty much the whole menu since they had a 50% off for their grand opening. Not a huge fan of the nugget style pieces. They also have a taste finish heavy of I think is Chinese five spice??? Not sure but the flavor finish is a little off for my taste. Would prefer a tender or a large piece of thigh meat as it had just a bit to much breading when its in nugget form. The french fries were good, had a nice crispy texture. The spaghetti was decent I liked it was not sweet like a Jollibee has. The Texas toast was decent as well. Overall it was OK, I was hoping for a better experience as it is close to my work and was looking forward to a new lunch spot. I wish them luck and hope the find their...