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We came in on a Wednesday evening and the restaurant was pretty packed. We did not have a reservation so we grabbed drinks at the bar and waited about 45 minutes for a table. The hostesses were very friendly and gave us an accurate wait time. The restaurant is very lovely, dim light, and has a really nice romantic vibe. The service was excellent all around. From the hostess to the bartender to the server and food runners. They were all so friendly, welcoming, helpful and they all worked well together to provide seamless and enjoyable experience. The food overall was excellent. Full of flavor, diversity or ingredients and flavors, and the plates were beautifully put together like artwork. We started with the crudo, broccoli and octopus. All three were excellent but our favorite was the tuna. The flavors were excellently paired together and the fish was perfect and very high quality. The broccoli is a stand out as well and packed with flavor. In my opinion it was a bit too much for me so a couple bites were enough but still a delicious starter and large. For our main course we ordered the market fish which was trout and the pork belly. The flavors for both dishes were very unique and overall really highlighted the dishes. With that being said, I felt like the choice of fish missed the mark. In my opinion, the trout really brought the dish down and was a bit more fishy for my liking. The texture of the fish also didn't pair well with the flavors of the dish. I think a sea bass would have been a much better fit. On the other hand, the pork belly was fabulous. Excellent flavor and texture. The Kentucky crest was an excellent cocktail. The ingredients paired very nicely together and it was refreshing. The edelweiss was not my favorite. I didn't feel like the ingredients paired well together and there was an odd overwhelming flavor that kind of ruined the drink for me. Last but not least, the baked Alaska was fantastic. It was perfectly done and the flavors were absolutely delicious. It was the perfect ending to a great dining experience! Overall, we really enjoyed our meal here and would love to return.
This is a late review, but the ambiance is dark, romantic, and perfect for date night. We came here to celebrate our anniversary and were really excited for the experience. We checked in 10 minutes early for our reservation, and the wait leading up to being seated was a little frustrating. We were just trying to grab drinks while we waited, but there were no seats available and no one really acknowledged us. A lot of people were dining at the counter, but we were just trying to order cocktails, so that part felt a little awkward. The drinks we ended up eventually ordering were Flamekeeper and the Kentucky Crest, which were both phenomenal! Once we were finally seated, the service was great. The cornbread was good but leaned pretty heavy on the blood orange. The broccoli is an absolute MUST order. It was crispy but airy, smoky, and honestly one of the best veggie dishes we've had. The pork chop was a tad dry, but everything else was lovely. The cavatelli reminded me more of a pasta salad than a warm pasta dish. Ending with the s'mores was such a fun concept and made for a cute, interactive finale. The heartfelt card signed by staff congratulating our anniversary was so sweet! The complimentary glass of champagne was also a kind gesture, although it came toward the end of dinner, so the timing felt a bit off. Overall, a really beautiful spot with standout cocktails and some great dishes. A few hiccups here and there, but still a memorable anniversary dinner.
Outstanding Dining Experience in Carlsbad! We booked a large group reservation here during our Carlsbad/Legoland trip, and the team was incredibly accommodating from start to finish. The ambiance was absolutely fantastic, delivering a polished, fine-dining experience with very reasonable pricing. The meal was overall delicious, and while there are already plenty of five-star reviews, a few specific details stood out to us: The Starters Excelled: We actually found the creative appetizers and starters to be the absolute highlight of the meal (my favorite was the oysters but everyone had their own!) , even outshining the more expensive entrees (notably the steak which was a little underwhelming, though the fish was good). The Famous Broccoli Lives Up to the Hype: Yes, the roasted broccoli was truly exceptional! Superb Drinks & Kid-Friendly Touches: The craft cocktails were delicious, and we appreciated that they are highly accommodating to families with a dedicated kids' menu. Room for Dessert Improvement: The only miss of the night was the baked Alaska, which we didn't particularly love. I think I would try the Smores and/or head over to the nearby ice cream shop for another local flavor. Overall, it is a wonderful, highly versatile restaurant that we would definitely recommend to anyone visiting the area. We can't wait to return!
Great food and atmosphere, got a few different dishes and was very impressed with all of them. I can see why they are a tough table to get, recommend planning ahead and trying them out.
We made a reservation the day of. Around 6, I looked on open table and saw that the earliest reservation was for 8:15pm. You have to put a credit card on file. We found street parking nearby. I read in other reviews there's a public lot nearby. The cornbread was interesting - it came out on a skillet with with goat cheese and balsamic vinegar. The crudo and broccoli were my favorite. I would get those again. The broccoli was crispy and there was a sweet buttery sauce underneath. The cavatelli was interesting - it comes with a soft poached egg. I'm not sure I would get it again. The market fish was salmon and it was delicious. It was cooked perfectly. Our server Katie was super friendly and let us take our time.
Another great review for this place Definitely lives up to the hype and everything we ate here was delicious but I have to say the broccoli is a standout and def hands down the best I've ever had .. oyster were fresh and well flavored.. shrimp was tasty but on the spicy side.. my steelhead trout was delish. Cocktails were good n classic. Mocktails were overly sweet for my liking Service was prompt Only thing is that the indoor restaurant had poor circulation, we were there around 6pm and it was warm and there was no air even when they opened the windows and bathroom was unkept
Me and my partner came here because my partner wanted to try their charred broccoli. So we got that, the cornbread (waitress said it was a new item), and the market fish trout. The cornbread was easily the best I've ever had -- warm, flavorful, and moist. I don't like cornbread because it's usually dry but my goodness, this cornbread was anything but. It was the best cornbread I've ever had.The broccoli was also the best I've ever had. I'm not a fan of broccoli, but the cooks charred the outside to get such a nice, crispy texture without it tasting burnt. Meanwhile the broccoli stem was cooked to contrast with the crunchy-like bites of the charred head. The market fish trout was good, granted trout was dry and isn't my favorite fish. But I ordered it to pay attention to the other facets of the dish: the puree and mushrooms that accompanied it were the stars. At least the trout skin was crispy. Campfire has a rustic, cabin feel to it (I thought the arrows on the walls were a cool touch). Servers were great and attentive. I'd come back to try other entrees.
Oh, Campfire, I'm glad you're still here and still have a special place in my heart. That said, my last two visits have been underwhelming. I always order the same dishes: the porridge bread, roasted broccoli, and ribeye for two. Since nothing else on the menu particularly interests me, those dishes are generally good--but when I'm spending $250-$300 on dinner for two, I expect the food to be exceptional, and it just hasn't been. I also haven't found the cocktails especially impressive in recent years. Campfire helped bring craft cocktails to Carlsbad, and my husband and I still reminisce about drinks like the roasted beet and charred corn. Unfortunately, the current cocktail menu hasn't made the same impression. Campfire is worth trying if you've never been, but as a local, it's no longer a restaurant I look forward to visiting regularly. These days, I'd probably go about once a year.
I honestly don't even know where to begin with this review other than just wow. I came on a Friday evening with my family and everything we had was simply phenomenal. I love that everything is intended to be shared so you can try a little bit of everything. FOOD REVIEW: * Cornbread - strawberry, basil, goat cheese, balsamic. Absolutely delectable, moist and flavorful with every bite. * Prawn - ember roasted, prickly pear, mezcal, candied habanero. Literally so good, fresh and full of flavor. * Tomato - smoked blue cheese, piquillo pepper, meyer lemon, opal basil. Very fresh and great for summertime but nothing you can't make at home if I'm being honest. * Broccoli - chermoula, lime, peanut. This was unbelievably amazing and not your typical broccoli. I'm sure even those who don't like broccoli would enjoy this. * Crudo yellowfin - aji amarillo, charred avocado, guava. Omg, I loved this and could have eaten the entire plate by myself. The aji was just enough without being overpowering. * Pork belly smoked - stinging nettle, snap pea, wasabi. Once again, another amazing dish. It had that melt in your mouth kind of texture and was so smooth but not spicy. * Octopus - smoked celery root, spanish chorizo, basil chimichurri. Really amazing & tender + it was recommended from our server since "you can't just get good octopus anywhere" and I 100% agree! They have a fairly extensive drink menu as well with lots of delicious options. I will say their espresso martini is especially pleasant and isn't too sweet. There's street parking in the front or a bigger parking lot in the back area. The place is not air conditioned so keep that in mind if visiting during hotter months. I'm not from the area but I'm already dreaming of the next time I can visit.
Recommended by ChatGPT as matching my vibe. Very aesthetically cute and good, friendly service. Great recommendation. It was a fun sampling menu. Recommend the oysters. I am not typically one to get them but they were warmed and well flavored. I liked trying the cornbread but wouldn't get it a second time. It was dessert-like and well flavored and super fresh. The broccoli is a fav I'm told. I'd agree it was good! It was paired with an aioli or some sort of mayo-based sauce. But it was on the heavier side. Not a healthy, lighter side quite like I pictured. Think deep fried. We of course had to try the s'mores. A little disappointed because maybe our coals weren't warm enough but our marshmallow didn't really "cook." Or maybe we were impatient. All in all, would recommend!
Been here three times now and every time it hits. Today, went by myself and sat at the bar, which is self seating and full service. Passed on the drinks because they start at $18, but went for the broccoli appetizer (incredible as always). Decided on getting the grilled market fish today, but everything I've tried there has been incredible and the fish was no exception. Service is always top notch and everyone is very friendly and approachable if you need assistance. Would definitely recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for a great meal!
Pricey, dark and may have to work on their available ciders, but their food is top-notch! We came here as a walk-in. A reservation gets you a proper table. Walk-ins usually end up sitting at the communal high top tables. It isn't too bad but a tiny bit uncomfortable for people on the shorter side (like me). The ambiance is fine glamping style so you do want to be just a teeny bit dressed up. Dressing as if you were camping won't quite work in this restaurant. The servers are nice enough but the place is quite loud so you really have to yell to hear each other. My friend and I ordered a bunch of things to share. We got the tomato, the carrot, the broccoli, and the pork belly. I ordered one of their newer ciders but it tasted more like beer than a cider. Among the shareables, the broccoli (which is the most popular) was actually our least favorite. My friend's top choice was the tomato and mine was a very very close tie between the carrot and the pork belly. Those three dishes were unique, absolutely delicious, very different from each other and had a medley of different flavors. The broccoli unfortunately was too oily and felt heavy and single flavor dominant. It wasn't bad but I can't quite see why people aren't about the other clearly superior dishes. We didn't get dessert here because it didn't speak to us. Pricing wise, it is on the pricier side. I guess that is expected for Carlsbad and given who owns this restaurant. Parking is in the public parking lot behind the restaurant.
The service is too notch The food selection is plentiful We had the steak and it was the best You have to try the s'mores all homemade - great! A tad on the expensive side BUT worth it! The decor makes you feel like you are dining at a Campfire setting. Very unique and creative.
Reviews are largely positive. People highlight the creative, flavorful food, especially the standout charred broccoli, along with innovative cocktails and a unique campfire ambiance.
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1 year ago
We had a really great experience at Campfire. The vibe is upscale rustic--warm, inviting, and super well put together. From the moment we walked in, the service was on point. Our server was friendly, attentive, and genuinely took care of us the entire time, which made the experience even better. We started off with the fish meal for our kiddo, which came out first and was a solid choice to keep things moving. For appetizers, we ordered the cornbread, which was amazing--crispy edges, moist center, and packed with flavor. The only miss for us was the butter it came with; it just wasn't our thing. Unique for sure, but not what we were expecting taste-wise. For mains, I had the ricotta dish, and my wife went with the octopus. Both were well-prepared, flavorful, and plated beautifully. The octopus especially stood out for its tenderness and smoky flavor. Drinks were another highlight--strong, flavorful, and well-balanced. Not "overpowering" strong, but that smooth kind of strong that lets you know you're getting your money's worth. We wrapped it all up with their signature s'mores, and honestly--what a cool way to end the night. Getting to roast them tableside brought a fun, nostalgic twist that our whole table enjoyed. All in all, Campfire delivers a great dining experience. It's stylish, service-focused, and serves up very solid food. For me, it lands at a 4/5--not because anything was bad, but because I've had comparable meals at slightly lower price points elsewhere. Still, for a special night out in Carlsbad, Campfire is definitely worth a visit. read more
6 months ago
This is a hard one to review. We got here 15 min before they opened since we didn't have a reservation and gambled we could possibly get one of their open tables. While waiting for them to open the line quickly grew to 30 people in just 10 min. This place is wildly popular. I had friends in town from Arizona, LA and NY. They were super excited to try this place out. Since we were first in line they put us 1st on the waitlist and said it would be 30 min. We sat at the bar and all ordered drinks. Dirty martinis (Ketel One $22.00 ea), a specialty drink (Kentucky Crest $18.00) and a local beer on tap ($6). The bartender was great. Very friendly, personal and informative about the restaurant. We asked her for recommendations and she was very helpful. We ordered the most popular dishes. Crudo ($22.00), oysters (4 Dysters Grilled Oysters $22.00), the roasted broccoli (Broccoli $18.00), the Cavatelli ($34.00) and the Octopus ($31.00). Soon after we were informed our table was ready. The actual restaurant has a great vibe. Love the decor. All the servers who greeted us and ran our food were wonderful. My only complaint is... these are hardly "shareable" dishes. The portions are tiny. The prices are inflated. We barely got a bite sized portion of 4 of the 5 dishes. We then ordered 3 desserts to share which was challenging as well. It was tasty but not worth the $300 bill and not being satisfied. Oh. And the hidden 4% Surcharge was not appreciated as well. read more
2 years ago
Recommend visiting this restaurant if you are looking for a higher end dining experience- it will not disappoint. We did have some pitfalls with our experience however that I hope the restaurant works on- Its like almost a Michelin contender! The staff was extremely friendly and we really enjoyed our conversation with them. The rate at which the food comes out however is very slow. For 4 courses we were there over 2 hours. Its a beautiful restaurant and we enjoyed our time but be prepared! (Get a Reservation for earlier if you can) The food was phenomenal until we got to the main course. We tried a new white fish dish that was a big pricey and it fell very short. The fish was bland and the sauce it came in was so salty we couldn't dip the fish in it- it would ruin everything. Dont get the fish. Do get the cornbread and pork belly! They were SO delicious! And of course you have to finish with the novel s'more dessert. read more
6 months ago
We are from out of town. I came across Campfire on yelp. It gave of and upscale/kid friendly vibe so I figured we should check it out. The place is definitely cool and different. Service was okay. She was training another person and it did get annoying when you want refills and no-one stops by for a long time. For food I will say the presentation for everything was spot on and beautifully done. I started out with he oysters which were good. Then on to their famous broccoli dish that tasted and looked like a head for broccoli that you forgot in the oven. It was definitely not our thing. Apparently, everyone else loves it so don't listen to us. Main course I got the market fish and I think it was grouper? It was alright. A lot of pea spread and mint. It wasn't for me. Not like it was horrible but I wish I had gotten something else. Lastly we got the s'more's. Not good. Huge disappointment. A+ on presentation, F on taste. The "marshmallows" tasted like a flavorless tofu/egg white with the stickiness of a marshmallow. The kids had fun roasting the wannabe marshmallows and after one bite no-one went in for another. They have individual bathrooms which I have never seen before. Very cool. So.....atmosphere and food presentation was amazing. Service was a bit of a miss. The food just wasn't our thing. read more
2 months ago
This place was great in so many ways. The food all had inventive flavors and ingredients that hardly ever overlapped so everything was unique. We were early for our reservation but were still guided to where we could get a drink and sit while we waited. The whole place sticks with the camping theme well and has cute touches all throughout the restaurant. Their menu changes with the seasons so they can have fresh ideas and ingredients. They go the extra mile on small things like boxing up leftovers for us, checking if we want clean plates/silverware for each course, pouring water for us. I definitely felt like it made the night more special when going to a nicer restaurant. read more
11 months ago
I ordered the crudo (yellowtail with Asian pear) and the pork belly, and both starters were absolutely amazing. I have zero complaints about the food it was truly excellent. The service, however, felt a bit inconsistent. The blonde server was extremely helpful and kind, and I really appreciated her. But the gentleman who was serving me directly seemed a bit inattentive. He originally brought me a Pinot Grigio that was a little too bitter on the finish, so I asked if there was another option. The blonde server stepped in and helped me, which was great. A few things stood out though: * My silverware was never changed between dishes. * My first entrée plate was never picked up from the bar, even after the second dish was brought out. * I asked the bartender for a specialty drink he was making, but it was never made I'm not sure if he didn't hear me, but it was never followed up on. * My wine glass sat empty for almost 10 minutes, and he only asked if I wanted another glass right before I was about to pay my bill. Again, the food was outstanding, but the service experience definitely had some gaps. I hope this feedback helps tighten things up, because the kitchen is doing an incredible job. read more
5 months ago
We were so incredibly happy we stumbled across this place during our search for great food. This place hit the ball out of the park. We of course tried their famous broccoli and boy did it not disappoint! The textures of it were incredible and the flavor was amazing! We also ordered the Crudo and pork belly. Didn't care for the octopus (unfortunately it was just a slight overcooked). But everything else was amazing! We would absolutely come back and tell everyone to go here! read more
2 months ago
1 year ago
Honestly the food was trash. But the drinks were decent. The oysters were HUGE, HOT, CHEWY and had a bunch of shells in them. It actually burned my tounge it was so hot. The broccoli was burnt but it wasn't horrible. The $70 steak was super fatty and wasn't cooked medium well as I had requested. The potatoes had giant chunks of onion in them and I thought that was weird. Our server refused to take the oysters off the table when I asked them to. I won't say who. It's to bad because the place is actually really pretty on the inside. But I've never disliked so many food items. read more
2 years ago
Food: Michelin Rated, for many reasons... I will forever be dreaming about their well-known Roasted Broccoli. This broccoli is something I have never had before. It's crispy, crunchy and yet very airy and melts in your mouth, with its smooth citrus, perfectly seasoned blend of flavors. OMG, it's soooo good! My family and I came in on a Friday night. Lucky for us, they had the perfect table located on their patio near the fire pit. It was the perfect ambiance for our first time visit, which definitely left a good taste in my mouth. I think what gives this place a perfect 5 stars is not only the ambiance, but the wait service is on point and the food divine. With every bite, the dish just got more and more exceptional. You can tell they put a lot of thought and love with the food served here. If you plan on visiting the area and end up eating here, I hiiiighly recommend making a reservation. Legit 5 stars! read more
Terrific experience trying this cozy rustic, wood fire restaurant. The atmosphere is laid back and relaxing. The attire is casual and comfortable. We ordered simple dishes to share: their signature charred broccoli, smoked pork belly and market fish (seabass), add a few refreshing cocktails and the baked Alaska dessert. Our server Courtney and help from Abby really made us feel welcome and catered to. When you combine terrific flavor profiles and cook the pork belly and seabass to perfection you get a great meal. The broccoli is something pretty unique here. We were very pleased with the food and service and will likely come back when we are in the neighborhood. read more
3 months ago
10/10 experience! Service was excellent, food was incredible, and the outdoor patio was the perfect setting to celebrate a birthday with my family. For food, we got the oysters, crudo, beet salad, and broccoli to start. The broccoli and the crudo are musts! For entrees, we got the ricotta cavetelli and the sea bass. Do yourself a favor and order both!! They were incredible!! I'll definitely be back! read more
If I can give more than 5 stars- I would! Campfire was such an amazing experience that my taste buds were not prepared for! We did one from each. For Trailhead we had Porridge Bread which was so yummy. For Kindling, we had Crudo and Broccoli. Let me tell you, the flavor of the Broccoli is something I haven't tasted before! It's so hard to pinpoint the harmony of flavors because it's so delicious and it takes fine dining to a whole other level. From The Fire, we had ordered Ricotta Cavatelli, Octopus, Chicken, and Pork! Service was great and our server was sweet! The ambiance is pretty loud as it has a large seating area with many groups. Just FYI! So delicious I have no other words. It's worth it to come here. read more
Living local and Having been to campfire a couple hundred times at this point, it's pretty freaking delicious and the cocktails are amazing. I've explored the menu thru the years and you really can't go wrong with much. The broccoli is amazing, the market fish is always solid and I'd recommend the Johnny rooks if you're a gin fan. Close the show with some smores and you're in a good place. Go campfire, love it! read more
3 months ago
Campfire is one of the few restaurants in San Diego that will give you a unique experience. The food is as delicious as it gets. You can order anything from the menu several times and the flavor and texture is consistent. There are several items for you to choose and share. Think of it as gourmet camping food. Also, the cocktails are killers and you can pick anything from the drink menu and is always spot on. From the cold to the fire dishes, each plate offers an elevated twist to traditional camping food. The broccoli and the octopus are some of my favorites. The service is fantastic. The waiter will walk you through the con pet of the restaurant as well as the dishes. Whenever a dish is made a different person will bring it to your table. The ambiance is welcoming. It has a touch of wood cabin nicely decorated. There is good music in the background but it's not too overpowering that prevents you from hearing a conversation. This restaurant is a must have and repeat. Take your friends or family and order as many things off the menu. It's food for sharing that will leaving wanting more. read more
TL;DR: GOAT. Campfire is unparalleled quality, service, and experience. From beginning to end, the dining experience was great - so amazing! Came for a birthday meal - make sure you make a reservation. With 8+ in our party, we went with the "FEAST" option :D I wish I had time to type out everything I loved about the meal but I'd probably run out of characters. The MVP is the broccoli. Let's be real. This broccoli isn't even a real broccoli - it's f*%&ing DEEEEELICIOUS Cheers Campfire - imma be back ASAP! read more
8 months ago
The food was amazing, but the service was even better. Our server was attentive and our water cups were always almost always filled. The highlight was the broccoli. It is more filling than you expect. I don't suggest the addition of the potatoes unless you love cheese. Definitely a lot of it. The whole restaurant was themed like a high class camping area. Water is poured from Yeti pitchers and the chairs resemble camping chairs. read more
7 months ago
From the moment I walked in, I was blown away by the friendliness and vibe. When I gave the name of my party, an employee said "oh my God, you're gonna love it! It's my favorite table... are you waiting for the rest of your party or do you wanna see it?!" Of course I followed him, to a private bench out front with its own heat lamps and sliding door. It allowed for us to not hear the hustle and bustle inside! Perfect! We tried a bunch of dishes, and everything was fantastic: oysters, smoked olives, cornbread, lamb, market fish, ribeye with potatoes and raclette, pork chop, and smores. I ordered a non-alcoholic drink that was pretty and tart. I LOVED the service. Highlights for me were a card on the table and a non-alcoholic champagne (the other girls in my party got real champagne; our server was intuitive to my preferences and asked the chef to whip me up something that was off-menu! It was so unique, with za'atar, dates, malic acid, soda and house syrup... mostly noting it here so I can ask for it again). They kindly gave us the dessert because the waiter thought it took too long for us to get our drinks and the toast was on the house to celebrate my upcoming wedding! Our dinner took about 3 hours and we were never rushed. I appreciated our seating arrangement because inside was a tad cramped and very warm. Overall, I cannot wait to return! I want to try the broccoli next! Pros: - service! - water glasses stayed full - food quality - food presentation - loud ambience and fun vibe - lots of parking - open kitchen Cons: - single restrooms are a bit tight and it's awkward to stand near the hall - none really! read more
Campfire- A place for family and friends to gather around the fire, return to the origins of hospitality, and enjoy a very creative style of cooking. Wow!! Overall great experience. Interesting and yet delicious food. Exceptional and attentive service. Cozy and calm atmosphere. A must try for the adventurous kind! I can honestly say I was very impressed with everything. It was a different dining experience and very memorable from start to finish. This is definitely not your typical restaurant. The food options and ingredients are different from what I am used to. I would not have come here based on reading the menu alone or after viewing the pictures. So you can say the food was out of my comfort zone and I would have probably ordered from the kids menu. Aside of the seafood items I tried everything. I was surprised to find I enjoyed everything I tasted. The combination of ingredients was unique and the flavors were unexplainably good. The servers were attentive, were always taking empty dishes and bringing out new items. Glasses were never empty and everyone was very helpful and polite. The inside decor was elegant and yet cozy. So if you're looking for something different and willing to step out of your comfort zone, this is a must try. You will be impressed!! read more
We had a wonderful experience here from start to finish. We came here on a Thursday night and it was packed! We parked in the back and got lucky with a spot. The hostesses at the front were really friendly and helpful. We didn't have a reservation and we were seated within 15 minutes at the communal high top tables. Our server was SO nice and extremely helpful with the different items on the menu, and checked on us regularly. We ordered oysters and cornbread to start. Oysters were delicious and I'm not one to usually order them. The cornbread was amazing! Loved the orange zest on top, so unique and worked so well. We got the carrot and the rib eye with cast iron potato side to share for our entrees, all was delicious and presented so beautifully! Honestly, Michelin star worthy with the unique and delicious combination of flavors. We finished with the s'mores dessert and oh my, they actually bring hot coals for you to toast your marshmallow (which was so fluffy and seemed homemade), and make your own s'more with the chocolate and graham cracker. So good and the perfect end to the meal. It's expensive but it's more than just about the food, it's also the experience! It's a perfect date night spot if you want to splurge or if you're celebrating a special event. Highly recommend! read more
What a great concept! We had such a great experience for our first time here! It has both indoor and outdoor seating. We sat outdoors as there were heat lamps available which made it cozy. The draw is the s'mores experience where it's served with a mini coal fire and homemade marshmallows. We ordered a few and had fun toasting them! Pro tip: warm the chocolate while you toast your marshmallows by having the chocolate right next to the coals - thank you to the genius waitress for that insight! We also shared some apps - asparagus, some cornbread, and some rye bread with their signature drinks. Everything was so well done and the service was awesome! Highly recommend for a full meal, or some dessert and cordials - enjoy!! read more
6 months ago
This place was insane ! this was an experience for-sure. from beginning to end , i had a great time and meal here at campfire. On my way walking i could smell the campfire smell, and upon my arrival the service was very accommodating from start to finish . the market fish is a must try and was recommend by our great waitress katy. the s'mores were also a cool touch. if you are in carlsbad , this is definitely a spot to check out. read more
8 months ago
The atmosphere was really cute and the staff were friendly. Really liked the fire pits. The drinks were delicious. That broccoli did not disappoint, the steak was burnt on the outside leaving a very bad taste in my mouth and was very tough for $97. Those potatoes are so good, a must have. The s'mores were good but the little fire they give you was not hot enough to toast my marshmallow. Overall I'm glad I went but won't be back. Much better restaurants for the money! read more
1 year ago
I've had several good experiences at Campfire in the past but the most recent visit didn't hit the mark. The broccoli appetizer is absolutely the best dish on the menu charred to perfection. The cornbread with blueberry butter was delicate and tasted like a sweet comfort treat. This time we decided to splurge and order the $78 ribeye to share. The meat was quite tough and the few pieces on both ends were basically only fat. The chimichuri sauce was nice but not enough of the meat was edible to justify that hefty price tag. The potato side dish that was an extra $18 was disappointing as well. The raclette cheese didn't mix in well and was more like a greasy layer with a flavor that didn't quite mesh with the rest of the dish. This may just be the wrong entree to order but for that much money I had higher expectations. read more
1 year ago
I've heard really great things about this place and booked a res a month out for my birthday dinner. We had to wait 10min for our table to be ready, but the whole staff signed me a birthday card (super cute personal touch). You order everything all at once, so we ordered the Porridge bread, prawns, broccoli, steak, and chicken. The good: The porridge bread with black sea salt butter was tasty 7/10, the prawns were a solid 9/10, and the broccoli was another 9/10! The apps came out in good timing, were hot, and tasty. The bad: When we were done with the apps we were notified that our mains would be out shortly, however 45 MIN LATER no one has come to check on us - no food in sight for my table or the one next to us. By this time, my food has settled and i'm done. When we asked a server (not even ours) to check on our food, she came back saying that the kitchen was "just going slow tonight". We hardly ate our mains and no server apologized for the long wait or lack of attention. I had high expectations about Campfire, but after last night I don't think I want to experience that again. Good food, bad service. read more
We stayed a few days in Carlsbad and heard great things about Campfire and it did not disappoint! Recommend coming earlier right when they open or making a reservation online. Arrived at 4:45 PM and there was already a line right as it opened. We made a reservation and were seated right away, the restaurant filled up within the hour. We had the porridge bread, broccoli and chicken. All of the dishes were amazing! Porridge bread had a unique taste and texture and the butter provided was great. The highlight of our meal was the broccoli, which is a must try. Service was very friendly and informative, providing us with recommendations throughout. We were overcharged for an item but a quick email resolved the situation. Although it is more of an upscale feel and price than your standard dinner, it is definitely worth a try! read more
Overall Rating: 4.7/5 Ambiance and Atmosphere (5/5) * We visited Campfire at night and loved the warm, modern, and elegant vibe, mixed with a cozy cabin feel. * Warm hanging lights, outdoor fire pits, and lanterns on the tables created a camping-like atmosphere that felt intentional and inviting. * While it was fairly dark, the lighting added to the ambiance without being too dim to see your party or food and drinks. Food Quality (5/5) * The food is all fire-roasted, bringing a delicious smoky flavor to every dish. If you're not a fan of smokiness, this might not be the spot for you, but we thought it added a true open-flame feel to both the atmosphere and the taste. * We started with the olives as an appetizer, which had a slightly sour taste. For dinner, I had the pork and my wife had the chicken--both were absolutely delicious. * The blood orange cocktails were refreshing and yummy! * Everything was perfectly cooked, with a touch of char and expertly seasoned to bring out the flavors. Menu Variety (4/5) * The menu offers a good variety, including some vegan-friendly options for those who prefer plant-based dishes. * I do wish they had more adventurous options, like wild boar or venison, but the menu still offered unique dishes like octopus, which I'm tempted to try next time. * For pescatarians, it's worth noting the market fish dish includes ham, so check with the staff if you have dietary preferences. Service (5/5) * The service was excellent and operated like a well-oiled team. While we had a primary server, multiple staff members helped out, making the experience seamless. * Dirty dishes were cleared quickly, which I really appreciated--never had to sit with a cluttered table. * Everyone, from the hostess to the servers, food runners, and bussers, was incredibly nice and attentive. Cleanliness, Location, Parking, and Safety (5/5) * Though it had a cabin, outdoorsy vibe, everything was very clean. * I didn't visit the restrooms, so I can't speak to them, but the dining areas were spotless. * Parking is available on the street, but I recommend parking in the lot across the street behind Pure Tacos. It's metered and costs around $3+ for two hours--super cheap for the area! * The streets felt safe and were bustling with people hopping between restaurants and bars. Would We Return? Absolutely. The combination of great food, cozy ambiance, excellent service, and the vibrant area make Campfire a spot we'd happily visit again. read more
3 months ago
1 year ago
Absolutely incredible. Hands down one of the best meals I have had in San Diego county. The flavors were so well balanced. Like a symphony in your mouth. The broccoli is the best broccoli you will ever have in your life. Pork belly was sooooo tender, literally melted in my mouth. The crudo was insane. I can't even comprehend how something can be so flavorful but so light and refreshing at the same time. The pork chop dish also incredible. Everything on the plate just blended so perfectly together for the perfect bite every time. And the s'more left my mouth tingling in the best way possible. Well done chef Eric. The rest of your restaurants have made their way to the top of our list for upcoming date nights. read more
1 year ago
Food (5/5): So delicious! Definitely get the broccoli, it was seasoned so well and the depth of the flavors were amazing! We also got the chicken and the crispy skin + aroma was heavenly! Also definitely get a few drinks (I love how the alcohol flavor isn't strong). The cornbread was rich and divine! Overall, this place does everything right from starter to dessert! We were big fans of the baked Alaska and oyster which also had that Smokey taste. Service (5/5): The workers are so sweet and attentive! Lovely service! Ambiance (5/5): The place really gave off the vibe of gathering with friends around a campfire and having a fun time! From the decor to the menu names to the lighting, they really have it all! read more
4 months ago
More info about Campfire
2725 State St
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Directions
(760) 637-5121
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http://thisiscampfire.com
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Ask the Community - Campfire
How come Yelp is blocking me from going to your website to see if I could get a reservation for 4 tonight?
They are likely booked. It's a weekend and they are very busy. It's a great restaurant so I would be very surprised you can get a rezy
Do they have a bar to have a cocktail while waiting for your table?
Yes and great drinks to go with it.
"Campfire" is mentioned many times on the website, however I don't see any campfires in any of the pictures, nor any mention in the reviews. Are there fire pits outside? Is seating better inside or out?
There are options for both indoor or out door. There is a fire pit outdoors. It's called campfire because most of the food is cooked over a wood fire. You find out more info on their actual website.
I'm confused. I see photos and comments about this place being dog friendly but then I see others that say they don't. So are you dog friendly or not?
This place is no longer dog friendly.
How is this place for gluten free guests?
They're great! Lots of options and the staff is very knowledgeable.
Can you accommodate a peanut allergy? I see the broccoli dish has peanuts so I would want to ensure I can eat here safely.
The staff is super accommodating to any allergies and will ask prior to your meal if you have any.
For large parties do you have to pay $70 per baby/ kid as well?
Not sure, that seems extremely expensive for a child who won't eat that much. They have a kids menu though...
I see photos of the most recent menus, but don't see the Campfire Feast. Is that not a thing anymore?
Nope, they got rid of it.
Is take out available before 5pm?
Why take the Wax Bean dish off the menu when it's one of the most popular dishes?
Maybe because it's no longer available, seasonal, or the vendor no longer has it for the Restuarant? Many times popular dishes are discontinued just to make room for newer and possibly improved dishes.
What is the Camp Feast that they serve for dinner?
Do they have a corkage fee option? Or do they not allow you to bring your own wine
There is a corkage fee if you don't buy the wine from next door at Carruth.
Are there and Vegan food options?
There are a few vegetarian sides or dishes that can be made vegetarian (egg & dairy) but this would not be a place for a vegan. They would probably go hungry.
Is brunch daily or just on the weekends?
Just on the weekends. There is lunch on the weekdays and it's delicious!
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