Nick’s on State
American · Carlsbad · $$
American · Carlsbad, CA · $$
Campfire in Carlsbad is more than a restaurant; it's an experience that embodies the joy of gathering around a fire, sharing great food, and connecting with loved ones. Our menu celebrates live-fire cooking, featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients transformed by open flames. Enjoy dishes like smoky grilled octopus and tender slow-cooked brisket, each crafted with care and respect for nature's bounty. The ambiance is inviting, set in a mid-century Quonset hut with eclectic outdoor-inspired decor. At the heart of Campfire is a custom-built 12-foot wood-burning hearth, where chefs create dishes infused with a unique smoky aroma. To complement your meal, our innovative cocktail program features classic techniques and premium ingredients, offering the perfect way to unwind and savor the moment. Join us at Campfire for a culinary journey that warms the heart and delights the senses.
“I've had Campfire bookmarked for a couple years but just never found the opportunity to try it until recently. I was beyond satisfied with the food, everything came out well seasoned and flavor combo of each dish was perfect. Food: We ordered the cornbread, broccoli, crudo, trout, and chicken. I'd order the crudo and broccoli over and over again. The other items were very good but those 2 were my absolute favorite. At first seeing pictures of the broccoli make you wonder what all the rave is about, it's charred broccoli, what could be so special? Like I said, the chef(s) season each item so well and the ingredients they choose to pair the items with, perfection. We were trying to finish up all the sauces for each dish because it was so good. Service: Our waiter and 2nd waiter?? Were nice but it was kind of weird to have 2 and repeat the same things to each and each coming back to say the same things at different times. We didn't mind, but it was just strange. They were quick to clear the table as we finished items and also asked if we wanted fresh plates which was appreciated. Atmosphere: It's quite loud from the blaring music, we opted to sit outside for less noise but it was still extremely loud. All the seating, tables, etc all looked very nice and well kept, but we really wish they'd turn the music down so you can actually hear each other talk. All in all, another favorite restaurant to add to our list. Their menu is seasonal so I'd want to come back during another season to try newish items.”
“Campfire is one of mine and my girlfriend’s favorite restaurants. We love everything in the restaurant starting with the atmosphere when you walk in, it’s a vibe it feels great and the service is outstanding. We start with drinks, always fresh and delicious then appetizers. Enjoy the place the moment. Then the main course comes and it hits the spot every time. Everything is so fresh and seasonal but save room for dessert you just need to end with something sweet. Please let me know if you feel the same.”
“This was our first Campfire experience, and we went with a group of six. Was it worth it? Yes, and here’s why. This place is built for groups. The menu makes it easy to mix and match, whether you order individually or go all-in on shared plates. We chose the sharing route and covered a lot of ground: two Trailhead items (cornbread and porridge bread), three Kindling dishes (crudo, carrot, and their famous broccoli), and two from The Fire (cavatelli and the ribeye with cast iron roasted potatoes). For dessert, we doubled up on the s’mores. Check out the photos. Overall, the food landed at about a 4. The cornbread, broccoli, and cavatelli were clear standouts. The porridge bread had a great texture but needed a little more flavor on its own. The biggest surprise and disappointment was the 18 oz ribeye, which is also the $97 menu item. I had three slices. One slice was nearly half fat, and the other two were tough to cut with noticeable muscle fibers. At that price, I expect all slices to cut like butter. The s’mores were fun and definitely part of the experience, but the vegan marshmallows took a long time to melt. Either smaller marshmallows or hotter baby "campfires" would make a big difference. The vibe here is a big part of the appeal. We lucked out with a table just outside along the street, complete with an overhead heater. It was a nice escape from the high energy inside. That said, even with a reservation for six and arriving on time, we still waited about 10-15 minutes to be seated, even though our table appeared ready. Tony, our main server, however, did a great job guiding us through the menu and keeping everything flowing at a good pace. Would we come back? Yes, absolutely. But we’ve heard they have a whole family of restaurants along State Street, so we may explore those next before circling back. If you found this review helpful, give it a like so it can help others too.”
“We went for so many things in the menu and they were all terrific! Oyster warmed over coals, smoked oxtail dashi, pickled onion Bluefin crudo, strawberry, rhubarb, mint Carrots charred, preserved huckleberry, honeycomb, fromage blanc Charred broccoli, chermoula, lime, peanut Pork belly smoked, rainbow carrot, pistachios Koji dry aged ribeye, chimichurri Potato Au gratin with double smoked bacon, charred onion and raclette cheese Passion fruit sorbet Baked Alaska to finish it off. Service was excellent, ambiance was very nice for a date. It’s mid and family friendly too.”
“Campfire has been on my list to try since it was added to the Michelin bid guide! My husband and I finally had the chance to go last night. And I will say everything lived up to a type! Service, food, food knowledge, and ambience definitely are elevated in all the best ways. Our server Katie was super nice and hospitable. Each of our dishes came out with detailed explanation of every ingredient and intended flavor combination. We started off with the porridge red and oysters in my husband also ordered a prong. We ordered the beats and goat cheese, which are two of my favorite things. And we also order the carrots, which were probably the most elaborate carrots I've ever had in my life. Highly recommend. We ordered the octopus and the chicken to share other means. I will see the octopus was amazing but a pretty small portion. The chicken was a larger portion perfect for sharing for two people however I felt the chicken was a bit dry and underwhelming. Probably my least favorite thing we had. We had to close out our meal with each getting a order of s'mores, I also had a Tawny port wine to go with my smart. As you can see my video they bring you the s'mores with a small charcoal fire to roast table side. Overall really cute spot, I would definitely come back for this s'mores experience.”
2725 State St, Carlsbad, CA 92008-1629, United States
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