The Camp Store — Restaurant in Carlsbad

Ok…so I live in Maryland, but am frequently in San Diego for work. When I have time, I like to explore around a bit outside the local area.

On this particular Saturday, I searched “top-rated” restaurants on Google maps and found this place! I don’t usually choose pizza, but, the reviews were compelling and it appeared to be right on the water, so I figured I would check it out.

I arrived to find that it was actually on a campground…but again, the reviews were great so I figured I’d give it a shot. The parking lot was full, but the parking attendant advised that most people park just up the street at Ralph’s, and walk down. I did - plenty of [free] parking, and less than 5 minutes to make the walk.

To my shock and delight, I entered the restaurant to discover an entire dinosaur exhibit??? 😂 (This was not mentioned in the reviews?!) I learned that they have this exhibit for about three weeks each year, and it was, clearly, my lucky day!

I ordered a pizza and wings; wait time was listed as 30 minutes but it took about 10. The service was great. I spent about 2 delightful hours eating delicious food, staring out over the beautiful ocean surrounded by wildflowers, all to the backdrop of lifelike dinosaur roars and growls behind me 😂

I did not have ‘Jurassic Beach’ on my bingo card for today but the universe knew this was exactly the vibe I needed, haha! Such a fun spot and I will most...

Great place for pizza overlooking the Pacific. Nice small venue for live music - all outdoor seating on picnic tables with umbrellas. The pizzas are excellent - all are 10" - just right for hungry individuals, or two could share and have some other snacks. We had a Margarita and a Positano - both delicious. I also had the jalapeno poppers, which were the day's special, and those were also delicious. Next time we might try one of their two salads - Mediterranean or Caesar. Music was great - Gary Seiler and "California Dreamin" (or as they also called themselves "Jackie and the Sea Dogs"). Gary Seiler on lead guitar and vocalist, Jackie Powers on steel drum, and Gerry "Dog" Walker on bass. Had a great sunset to finish off the music and dinner. Oh - and they also have a good selection of draft beers. Plus, as an actual store for the campers, they have a well-stocked refrigerator and shelves of other beers, seltzers, kombucha, and wines. The only caveat is parking - or lack thereof. There is no parking for the Camp Store - only for those renting camping spaces in the campground. So, if you are coming for the music, dinner, and sunset, you need to park in the Ralph's parking lot located an easy and safe walk about a half mile east at Poinsettia and...

Crowded and loud. Ordered a few pizzas and we were told we'd get a text when they were ready. An hour or so later, we went to the window and asked if the pizzas were ready and we found out that they were in the "warming" oven. The pizzas came out burned and lukewarm. Not worth the money. Pay attention to the expiration dates on the food items sold in the store. We didn't and were sorry that we didn't check. Except for the owner, who is rude, the staff is nice enough.

In response to your response, I'm not letting you off the hook, Anthony. My experience occurred two weekends prior to my review. We took the pizzas back to our home and did not want to drive back. I'm not sure if you would have made it right if we brought it to your attention, but this review is about doing things right the first time.

I stand by my report of expired products in your store.

As for being rude, your responses to poor reviews are evidence enough of your attitude toward customers. Instead of bullying and denying, try taking constructive criticism to heart and doing a better job.

You have built your business into something special. Don't be so combative toward someone who is trying...