🎉 Welcome to Carlsbad’s Most Interactive Dining Experience!
Carlsbad, California, is about to get a thrilling upgrade. The nation’s most popular true-crime, murder mystery dinner show—The Dinner Detective—is opening at The Cassara Carlsbad on Saturday, October 25, 2025. Whether you’re a local looking for something fun to do or a visitor seeking an unforgettable night out, this is one event you don’t want to miss.
With complimentary parking, a chef-curated buffet, and a cast of hilarious, hidden actors, this is far from your typical dinner and a show. It’s a murderously good time!
🕵️ What Is The Dinner Detective, Anyway?
Forget the cliché costumed mysteries or cheesy scripts. The Dinner Detective is America’s largest interactive murder mystery dinner show. Set in the present day, you’ll be seated at a table with actors cleverly disguised as regular guests. Clues will be revealed. Murders will be staged. Suspicions will rise. And anyone in the room—even you—could be the killer.
The format?
Four-course experience (in this case, an elevated buffet)
Comedic, unscripted performances
Audience participation encouraged
Prizes awarded to Top Sleuths
Ready to solve a murder while you dine?
đź“Ť Why Carlsbad Is the Perfect New Location
Located at the stunning Cassara Carlsbad, this new venue is nestled near the coast, just minutes from LEGOLAND, Carlsbad Premium Outlets, and the iconic Flower Fields.
This property offers:
âś… Upscale yet relaxed resort vibe
âś… Easy access from I-5
âś… Ocean breezes and panoramic views
âś… FREE guest parking
Whether local to North County San Diego or visiting the area, this location is the perfect setting for a night of mystery, comedy, and cuisine.
🍽️ What’s on the Menu? A Buffet That Kills… in a Good Way
No cold chicken here! The Dinner Detective Carlsbad location features a delicious buffet filled with gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian-friendly options.
Buffet Menu:
Fresh Caesar Salad with Grilled Croutons & Cardini-Style Dressing (GF/V)
Local Heirloom Tomato Caprese with Mozzarella, Arugula, Basil & Balsamic Glaze (GF/DF)
Chicken Cacciatore with San Marzanos, Peppers, Olives & Capers
Penne Pomodoro with Fresh Basil & Ricotta (GF/DF)
Roasted Tuscan Squash (GF/DF/V)
Olive Oil Crushed Potatoes with Fresh Herbs
Mini Desserts
đź’µ Price per guest: Estimated at $99.95 (pending official listing on the Carlsbad event page).
đź“… When & Where: Grand Opening Night Details
🗓️ Date: Saturday, October 25, 2025
📍 Venue: Buena Vista Room @ The Cassara Carlsbad – 5805 Armada Drive, Carlsbad, CA
đźš— Parking: Complimentary
🍽️ Dinner Start: 6:00 PM
🔍 Show Start: 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Additional event nights will follow through February 14, 2026, including holiday shows and private bookings.
When does the Dinner Detective open in Carlsbad?
The Grand Opening is on Saturday, October 25, 2025, with additional shows through February 2026.
Is parking really free?
Yes! Guests can enjoy complimentary self-parking onsite at The Cassara Carlsbad.
Can I book a private event?
Absolutely. Private shows are available with a minimum of 20 guests or a $1,000 food & beverage minimum. Perfect for team-building, birthdays, or group get-togethers.
Is the show family-friendly?
Shows are intended for an adult audience (15+), with themes and language tailored for grown-up fun.
What makes this different from a typical dinner theater?
No cheesy costumes
Actors are hidden in the audience
Every guest is a suspect
Real prizes for solving the crime
It’s scripted improv, not rehearsed theater
Do you cater to dietary restrictions?
Yes! The buffet offers gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian options for nearly every course.
🎟️ How to Get Tickets
Tickets will go live soon! For updates, bookmark the San Diego Dinner Detective page or follow us on social media.
Early bird deals and group discounts may be available—so don’t miss your shot to be among the first to attend the Carlsbad location.
đź’Ľ Planning a Party or Corporate Event?
The Carlsbad Dinner Detective is now accepting private party and corporate event bookings. Whether it’s a holiday bash or a company offsite, your group will get a custom night of laughs, drama, and great food.
Want more details? Reach out through the Dinner Detective Private Events page.
🌊 How Does Carlsbad Compare to San Diego?
| Feature | Carlsbad | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Venue | The Cassara Carlsbad | Courtyard by Marriott |
| Meal Style | Buffet | Plated dinner |
| Parking | Free | Paid valet or limited street |
| Opening Date | October 25, 2025 | Ongoing |
| Atmosphere | Upscale Coastal Resort | Downtown Convenience |
Looking for the urban energy of downtown? Try San Diego’s Dinner Detective. Want a scenic escape with sea breezes? Carlsbad’s your spot.
🔔 Don’t Miss the Mystery—Save the Date!
Join us at The Cassara Carlsbad for a murder mystery night unlike any other. With delectable food, free parking, and an interactive comedy mystery, this Grand Opening will be one for the books.
🔎 Get on the suspect list—tickets go fast.
🎠Experience the laughter, suspense, and great food that only The Dinner Detective can deliver.