43 Best Dive Bars near Chula Vista

Wild Wooly's Saloon Bar • $
247 Broadway, Chula Vista

“Definitely not a place that gets going all night like a club would but a very cool and quaint spot to grab a drink with a group friends. Pool tables and a variety of drinks on tap. Bartenders are receptive as well. Juke Box is a plus to play music of one’s choice.It’s honestly kind of it’s own place in the middle of everything, but wouldn’t mind staying here for a night and drink the night away. The Elwood is nearby too.“

4.8 Superb20 Reviews
Formosa Club Bar • $
840 Broadway, Chula Vista

“GR8 service, friendly atmosphere, cold drinks and Happy customers.“

4.5 Superb15 Reviews
Silver Dollar Cocktail Bar • $$
341 3rd Ave, Chula Vista

“Great bar“

3.8 Good44 Reviews
The Manhattan Bar • $
400 Broadway, Chula Vista

“Love the 80s night and the live music“

3.8 Good53 Reviews
On the Rocks Cocktails Bar • $
656 E St, Chula Vista

“I love it here and love the bartender Jess and Bernie and the djs“

3.5 Good25 Reviews
Aero Club Bar Bar • $
3365 India St, San Diego - 8.64 miles

Customers` Favorites

Brisket Sandwich and Mac & Cheese
Charcuterie Board
Miller High Life
Tri Tip Sandwich
Whisky Tasting
Buffalo Trace
Whiskey Bar
Ribs Half
Popcorn

“I know I shouldn't write anything because I love to keep this place a secret. It's been great for years. But it got a lot better when they put the little mini arcade in awhile back. The whiskey collection will either blow your mind or your wallet. I've never seen anything in San Diego like it. The pop-up food vendors come and go, but they're typically really good if they're they're working. ...check the chef's hours. The bar staff has always been top notch. Personally, I'm older now and I prefer to go before 9:30 p.m. After that it's just a bunch of hipster younger adults or college kids, which then becomes a messy packed room of drunks. Unless you're into that. I used to be. Park in the lot next door only after the company that owns it closes. Leave your LA or SF vibes at the door.“

4.7 Superb135 Reviews
Red Fox Room and Steakhouse Steak House • $$
2200 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego - 8.64 miles

Customers` Favorites

Ground Sirloin Burger with Steak Fries
8oz Top Sirloin Steak & Fried Shrimp
Broiled Pork Chops with Applesauce
Filet Mignon with Baked Potatoe
Ribeye Steak and Rice Pilaf
Ribeye Steak with Mushrooms
Side Salad and Garlic Bread
Dinner Salad w Garlic Toast
Irish Cream Cheesecake
Steak and Lobster Tail

“Thank you so much Susie for the excellent service and being so helpful. You are an asset to the Red Fix Inn It was our first time but won’t be our last. From happy snd satisfied customers 😊“

4.4 Superb106 Reviews
The Tower Bar Bar • $
4757 University Ave, San Diego - 7.57 miles

Customers` Favorites

Popcorn

“Cocktails are great and the kale salad cannot be missed. I've just found on the last few visits the pizzas and patas are very tired though and haven't been changed in so long. Menu needs a little liven up. Wine by the ounce is so good though!“

4.5 Superb54 Reviews
Sidecar Bar Bar • $
1310 Morena Blvd, San Diego - 11.41 miles

Customers` Favorites

Truffle Fries
Beef Taco
Coors

“Love the food joint that’s been added to this bar. Amazing food and people!“

4.6 Superb75 Reviews
CJ's Club Bar • $
222 W Washington St, San Diego - 8.95 miles

“Depending on the day you will see some seedy characters. People of the streets often frequent this bar. But it is a neighborhood bar and the drinks are inexpensive and have a decent amount of alcohol in them. It is worth it to stop by and have a drink or two after a hard day.“

4.8 Superb18 Reviews
The High Dive Bar & Grill • $
1801 Morena Blvd, San Diego - 11.99 miles

Customers` Favorites

High Dive Nachos & Pork Belly Tacos
Fried Buttermilk Chicken Sandwich
Giant Bavarian Pretzel
Damn Good Gravy Fries
Mac and Cheese Balls
Chicken Chicharron
Chicken Tenders
The High Dive
French Fries
Irish Nachos

“Great local hangout!!! Great food!!!“

4.5 Superb95 Reviews
12

Casbah

Casbah Dive Bar • $
2501 Kettner Blvd, San Diego - 8.05 miles

“The Casbah is one of San Diego’s coolest, most iconic spots for live music. Since opening in 1989, it’s hosted tons of great bands in an intimate, dive bar setting. The small stage makes every performance feel personal, and the smoking patio at the venue entrance is a great spot to hang between sets. The bartenders are awesome, and they’ve got a solid beer selection. Plus, there’s a pool table if you want to kick back and relax before the show.

Don't miss a show here, Get $20 off your next show with code WITHTHEBAND on SEATGEEK.COM“

4.4 Superb74 Reviews
ATM Machine at Side Car Dive Bar • $$
1310 Morena Blvd, San Diego - 11.41 miles
4.6 Superb21 Reviews
The Salty Frog Bar Bar • $
992 Palm Ave, Imperial Beach - 4.19 miles

“Had a lot of fun. Highly recommended“

4.4 Superb45 Reviews
Live Wire Bar • $
2103 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego - 8.64 miles

“Great beer selection awesome vibes and great service“

4.2 Good41 Reviews
Cricket's Pub Bar • $
3339 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego - 8.23 miles

“Halloween night at this place was nothing short of amazing. My friend and I decided we wanted to go out, aiming to stay close to home and within walking distance. Surprisingly, despite living just a few blocks away for years, it was our first time visiting. Early in the night, we both wondered how we hadn’t discovered this spot sooner. The atmosphere was vibrant and welcoming, while still fitting the vibe of a great dive bar, setting the perfect tone for the evening.

One of the highlights was Carol, our bartender for the night. She was fantastic—an absolute gem. Her attentiveness and dedication to making sure we had a great experience truly went above and beyond. Carol took the time to check on us frequently, making sure our drinks were perfect and that we had everything we needed. It was clear she genuinely cared about her patrons’ experiences, and her warm and friendly approach added so much to our night.

We couldn’t have asked for a better Halloween outing. The overall vibe, combined with Carol’s exceptional service, made it a memorable evening. We left wondering how this hidden gem had been right under our noses all these years and feeling excited to return. All in all, a great night was had, and we’re already planning our next visit.“

4.8 Superb9 Reviews
Star Bar Bar • $
423 E St, San Diego - 6.8 miles

Customers` Favorites

Chicharron Taco and Cauliflower Taco
Budweiser Bottle

“Old dive bar! Been goin here for awhile… 25 plus years! Xoxox.. glad they cleaned it up but kept the dive feel“

4.1 Good65 Reviews
Tivoli Bar and Grill Bar & Grill • $
505 Sixth Ave, San Diego - 6.53 miles

Customers` Favorites

Beer Battered Onion Rings
Chicken Wings
Cheeseburger

“Its a fun little place to go to before Padre games .. Dorothy ( I think thats her name ) is an AWESOME bartender.. The guy on the grill was funny too .. he can grill a burger 🍔 thats for sure !!“

4.3 Superb49 Reviews
Sideways Bar Bar • $
1078 Estes St, El Cajon - 11.89 miles

“THANK YOU CINDY ❤️I won $466 in my first try gambling. Good luck to anyone returning or first visiting. I passed by here while getting my cars windows tinted and I would never regret the comfy environment they introduced me in.Served the special they had on the board and beers I was happy with entering and leaving.The taco shop next door served me rolled tacos fast so If your hungry that’s ++Chill served liquor is available. Games like Pool and table tennis or ping pong are at the ready with regulars. A lot of hugs I notice.Small but cozy with food on the side ~Zen“

4.3 Superb39 Reviews
Kensington Club Cocktail Bar • $
4079 Adams Ave, San Diego - 8.61 miles

“Love love love this place. It’s the perfect mix of great drinks and mellow vibes always with shows next door. Instantly a perfect vibe for the weekend or last minute after work drink. Padded bar makes it a comfy spot, and Hannah is always pours well.“

4.3 Superb29 Reviews
The Avenue Sports Bar Bar •
3412 University Ave, San Diego - 7.88 miles

“Basic bar serving basically a few Mexican beers. For sure a dive bar with low prices and friendly service. Found it a good place to practice my Spanish with the folks there, if you are in the area and like to explore then put this one on your list.“

5 Superb3 Reviews
Spring Valley Inn Cocktail Bar • $
9034 Campo Rd, Spring Valley - 9.08 miles

“Love this place, the owners and the bartenders. Amazing Blood Mary's and breakfast.“

4.3 Superb17 Reviews
Gilly's House of Cocktails Bar • $
2306 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego - 8.61 miles

Customers` Favorites

Grab a Gilly's Lager at Gilly's
Bud Light & Jameson
Miller High Life
Steak Dinner
Stella
Tecate
Karaoke
MGD

“Great staff, great atmosphere, great karaoke!“

4 Good93 Reviews
Whistle Stop Bar Bar • $
2236 Fern St, San Diego - 6.72 miles

“Great little tavern in South Park. Nice area, amazing old school vibe. Friendly staff, reasonable drink prices. Good music!“

4.2 Good81 Reviews
Nunu's Tavern Cocktail Bar • $
3537 Fifth Ave, San Diego - 8.34 miles

Customers` Favorites

Bowl of Homemade Chili
Chicken Caesar Wrap
Mozzarella Sticks
Grilled Cheese
Yard Bird Club
Nunu's Burger
Onion Rings
Nunu's Wings
Patty Melt
Quesadilla

“The best late night bar with food orders taken up to 12:30pm in the neighborhood!!!!
Great food and great people..........just saying!

Vegetarian options: Plenty of options available for late night bar food in Hillcrest.“

4.2 Good73 Reviews
Stoney's Bar & Grill • $
108 W 25th St Suite Q, National City - 1.78 miles

Customers` Favorites

Super Club Dine in: Yes Outdoor seating: No Takeout: Yes Delivery: No Curbside pickup: No
Bacon Cheeseburge
Chicken Strips
Grilled Chicken
El Borracho Ipa
Chicken Wings
Club Sandwich
Stoney Burger
Onion Rings
House Salad

“Great local vibe. Competent staff...friendly. Wings and Philly quesadilla were wow. I needed a chill night on my travels and they delivered Cool dive bar experience.“

4.2 Good50 Reviews
27

Alibi

Alibi Cocktail Bar • $
1403 University Ave, San Diego - 8.43 miles

Customers` Favorites

I Need a Drink Rochelle

“Honestly was not expecting to find this kind of vibe in Hillcrest. Free pool tables, great patio, not overcrowded, good selection of divey but not biker gang music at just the right volume to have light conversation, chill patrons, great drink specials, friendly service. Went on a Sunday night and Nico is a great bartender with helpful drink recommendations. I will definitely come back when I'm the area!“

4.2 Good43 Reviews
De Oro Mine Co. Bar • $
9924 Campo Rd, Spring Valley - 9.53 miles

“good place to eat and relax“

4.2 Good27 Reviews
29

Club 13

Club 13 Bar • $
640 Civic Center Dr., National City - 2.6 miles

Customers` Favorites

Aguachile
Carnitas

“Used to go there after work at. USN. back in 1982-3. They had excellent chili and a great cheeseburger. I think it only cost a buck at the time😀“

4.2 Good9 Reviews
Grovers Tavern Bar • $
3315 Buena Vista Ave, Lemon Grove - 7.63 miles

“I love coming to Grover's Tavern to grab an Ice cold $10 mini pitcher of space dust or modelo, when the beautiful bartender Ruby is working.On Friday Night's & Sunday afternoon's She is a whole vibe. Her happy, positive energy is contagious & unforgettable. What a wonderful time it is when Ruby is serving her specialty drinks while providing amazing spectacular hospitality. She is pure Gold. Ruby Keep shining bright like a diamond ?“

4.2 Good7 Reviews
Chee-Chee Club Cocktail Bar • $
929 Broadway, San Diego - 6.68 miles

“Cool Spot! Always an interesting spot to hang out, have a few pops and people watch...“

3.9 Good16 Reviews
Dirk's Nite Club Cocktail Bar • $
7662 Broadway, Lemon Grove - 7.71 miles

Customers` Favorites

Empanadas

“Service was great! There is a newer bartender in there who is not so friendly! Younger chick! But the other ones that have been there a while are excellent! Tacos and burritos were served in the back YUMMY! No pics to show but the new Dirks is nice and chill atmosphere.“

4.1 Good32 Reviews
The Lancers Bar • $
4671 Park Blvd, San Diego - 9.19 miles

Customers` Favorites

Pliney

“First time back in 19 years to what used to be our Tuesday date night spot. Still a great bar.“

3.9 Good39 Reviews
The Loft Gay Bar • $
3610 Fifth Ave, San Diego - 8.42 miles

Customers` Favorites

Cranberry

“Always a great place to spend time!! Friendly staff. Always busy and the crowd is ever changing. I describe it as an ocean wave. The crowd washes in and washes out, then a new wave washes in and washes out. So there's always a new vibe.“

4.1 Good50 Reviews
Ye Olde Plank Inn Bar • $
24 Palm Ave, Imperial Beach - 4.77 miles

Customers` Favorites

Tequila 1800 Silver
Loaded Fries
Great Prices
Jameson
Hot Dog

“Great venue. Right on the beach. Has inside bar area and great outdoor patio. Knocked off 1 star because the drinks are pretty weak. $9 for a tito cranberry in a small glass with a 3 count pour. They could suffer to be a tad more generous with the booze at a dive bar.“

4.1 Good85 Reviews
Wave ATM Dive Bar • $
132 Orange Ave, Coronado - 6.55 miles
3.9 Good15 Reviews
Cherrybomb Bar • $
2237 First Ave., San Diego - 7.69 miles

“Im remise to review this place honestly. For others might taint that which makes Cherry Bomb.
What it is not:
It is not a place for cheap drinks.
It is not a place for popular music.
It is not a place for topical conversation.
And I love it for all that it is not.
If you don't get it. Don't bring it. Leave it be. As for me. It's my new secret spot.“

3.8 Good34 Reviews
Chico Club Bar • $$
7366 El Cajon Blvd, La Mesa - 9.3 miles

Customers` Favorites

Cocktail Shots

“I am a bit biased because I work for the Chico Club. I must say as time goes by I find myself more and more drawn into this place. It is a diverse crowd of neighborhood people out looking to have a drink and socialize. Not a real busy place which makes it easy to get a seat at the bar or a pool table to shoot pool with a friend or someone you just met. In the 6 months I have worked there I have seen a major increase in returning old and new patrons. I believe if you are in the mood for a drink or socializing with some of your La Mesa neighbors give The Chico a chance I promise you won't be let down.“

3.9 Good20 Reviews
39

Cheers

Cheers Bar • $
1839 Adams Ave, San Diego - 9.17 miles

“Great neighborhood bar. I've gone there off and on for 30 years. One pool table. Touch Tunes jukebox, smoking area. Close to restaurants. Only packaged snacks are available. Affordable prices. An intimate and friendly atmosphere. This is a gay bar and welcoming to respectful non-gay clientele as well.“

3.9 Good27 Reviews
The Hole In The Wall Bar • $
2820 Lytton St, San Diego - 10.26 miles

Customers` Favorites

Burgers
Weiners

“I’ve been literally obsessed with this place for the longest time. However, it’s EMBARRASSING that their playlist is repeating itself every hour-ish! Seriously!? Their busiest day!? The music was so much better when there was a DJ. He was really good. Bottomline is: if you’re going to save money, at least make a proper playing to avoid embarrassment. 😘“

3.9 Good34 Reviews
Little Club Cocktail Bar • $
132 Orange Ave, Coronado - 6.53 miles

Customers` Favorites

Bottomless Chips and Salsa
Revolutionary House Salad
Juan's Guacamole
Chilaquiles

“"Hi Barbie!"
"Hi Ken!"
Team Barbie and I rolled in Coronado's sole dive bar around 9:30am on Thursday, July 4th. A little preparty before marching in the famous Coronado 4th of July Parade. Interior is from the 1980s or 70s...but still clean, dark, faded red carpet, vintage wood panel walls, beer decor, a single pool table in the back, an older, friendly and gentlemanly bartender, and a clientele that was 90% men at this early hour.

Three craft lager beers and a generous mimosa was $29, which I thought was very reasonable in an expensive, ritzy, and yuppy filled city like Coronado.“

3.9 Good60 Reviews
Rosie O'Grady's Bar • $$
3402 Adams Ave, San Diego - 8.79 miles

Customers` Favorites

Fried Goat Cheese Balls
Chicken Cutlet Grinder
Chicago Dog
Burger

“Better than ever! Grew up in the neighborhood and spent many nights there in the 80's and early 90's.I moved away in 92'. Back for a family reunion of sorts, and had to have a visit. Rosie's was still a great neighborhood hang out. Enjoy!“

3.8 Good68 Reviews
The BLVD Bar Bar • $
6949 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego - 9.12 miles

“Love Jaime and the chill environment“

3.7 Good49 Reviews

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