Happy Camper Pizza — Restaurant in Lake View Township

We came for lunch today and upon entering the person at the door and the hostess were incredibly nice and welcoming. However, when we were sat at our table we were waiting 10 minutes to be greeted, but soon overheard a staff member shout to another staff member if we knew it was bar service only. The other staff member said that we knew, but we were in fact never told and had no idea we needed to go to the bar to order. We had no problem with it being bar service only, just wish we were informed instead of sitting there looking like idiots. We also thought we would be served by wait staff as we did, in fact, make a reservation- which usually constitutes getting a server. We looked past it and soon it was just one thing after the next. The bartender made a mistake with the order but we were treated EXTREMELY poorly because of this mistake on her part. After being rude to a member of our party she never apologized or acknowledged her behavior. I think staff was a little bit upset because we had separate bills and couldn't add automatic gratuity, but we literally had to walk up to the bar and order like we were at a fast food restaurant so obviously we would order separately. One of the staff members running food to tables (he was blonde, wearing a jersey and had clear glasses) was so incredibly rude and had the WORST attitude. Our table was in eyesight of the kitchen and the majority of our time spent there he was staring at us and giving dirty looks (like literally borderline creepy staring). He also continually copped an attitude with us and slammed plates down on the table. In other things- hair in one of our meals, one meal came out 40 minutes after the rest etc. We have never complained at restaurants because we ALL work in the industry but this was just so insane. Also keep in mind we were NOTHING but kind and didn't even say a word to anyone about the mistreatment and tipped the bartender 25% and higher on all the tabs. The atmosphere of the restaurant was cool but the staff had the...

We love Happy Camper. First of all, the food is always delicious. It’s fresh, prepared with quality ingredients, and tastes amazing! The pizzas are so damn good. Whether it’s the “Tavern” style or regular crust (both of which we like well done for extra crunch) they never disappoint.

On a recent visit during a cold snap, we had a very nice time just relaxing and enjoying the drinks (which are also all very good and unique) and food. I really love the roasted garlic on my pizza. So when I saw garlic as one of the ingredients, I ordered that pizza. When it came, and after a few bites, I realized there was no roasted garlic on the pizza. When the manager (Kevin) came by to ask how things were, I told him of my disappointment. He was immediately willing to fix the situation and fired up a new pizza for us with the roasted garlic. Now I will admit the error was mine. “Garlic” does not refer to “roasted garlic” which is a separate listing on some of the pizzas. He totally didn’t have to do that after I realized my mistake.

But here’s the thing. We appreciate any establishment that wants to ensure the guest gets what they want. Having a manager that checks in on guests and wants to ensure their satisfaction is a big bonus when choosing a place to eat. Kevin stepped in and made sure our experience was top notch. And our server, Ella, was right there with him making sure we were “happy”. She was great and we made sure to take care of her after realizing our mistake. Happy Camper has always been this way. Our servers are always pleasant, kind, and attentive. Even the bouncer when we first came is was pleasant. That’s rare. They are usually mean and stiff.

So we will return time and again because we feel like true guests at...

At the Happy Camper on the evening of Wednesday August 25th I sit at the bar. Before ordering my Visa card is asked for and swiped as a security measure for the restaurant. I order a pizza and two beers. My bill comes to $44.30. I pay $52.00 including tip. I wait until the money is collected and say “keep the change.” My Visa statement shows I was billed $44.30 by the Happy Camper. I am thinking this is probably a regular occurrence at this restaurant. Clearly I am NOT a HAPPY CAMPER. The pizza and beer were fine. This billing FAILS.

9/8/22: No reply yet. If you still have the CCTV tape please look for a 6’3” man wearing a blue Los Angeles Angels aloha shirt and a Chicago Cubs cap. I sat on the side of the bar closest to the entrance. Viewing from the entrance I was closer to the left corner of the bar than the right. I stayed at the bar until my payment including tip was picked up by the waitress.

I was in Chicago for a week. I did not use my credit card to purchase food at restaurants with the exception of beer at Guaranteed Rate Field and Wrigley Field. That helps make this a glaring error on my Visa statement.

Regarding the greeter/bouncer at the door. As I was about to enter he said “I cannot let you in here because you are wearing a Cubs hat.” He identified being a White Sox fan. I took it as just part of the city rivalry between the two teams as he let me into the establishment with a smile. Reading the comments here I see he frequently he has a discouraging word with several other patrons for no valid reason.

Again please check your CCTV tape. Please refund my...