Carlsbad Brewery-pizza Port

Pizza-Port is appointed with benches to eat rather than tables, and it adds to a lively social atmosphere. The pizza there is fantastic, well apportioned with toppings and cheese and good sauce. There is just the right amount of crust. I would classify it as “California” style pizza because it has the toppings of Chicago, and not too much crust like NY. They also brew excellent beer. The pizza takes a while, but one can sit down at the benches and start chatting with whoever happens to be around you and it becomes a way to meet other pizza minded individuals. Prices aren’t bad when you consider how much you get. They also have salads.

When I think of a pizza place, I don’t imagine a fancy joint, with slick decorations and a relaxing atmosphere. I think of a laid-back place, something like Chuck-e-cheese. Pizza-port is like the equivalent of a Chuck-e-cheese for adults. There are some arcade games neglected in the back, but you go there for the delicious pizzas and unique brews. The way it works: You walk in and wait in line to order you pizza. Afterwards, you hunt for a seat among the long tables, or order a beer (separate line). They have many special beers they only make there (and are terrific), as well as some guest brews. Given the nature of the seating, it is a very social place. It is entirely possible that you may converse a bit with your neighboring pizza-eaters, but it feels natural since the place is buzzing with life. The pizza itself is heavy. The crust is thick, but very soft and pleasingly chewy. There was a nice layer of cheese on our Lahaina pizza, and the toppings went well with it.

This is my favorite pizza in San Diego, and one of my favorites in the U.S. Seating is done in rows of picnic tables, and be prepared for a hunt if you arrive at a popular time. You eat on paper plates and plastic utensils which you fetch yourself. The pizza is tasty, the value good, and beer fresh. Pizza Port brews their own beer, and they do a great job at it. This is the kind of place that makes going out for pizza such a good time.