38 Best Dive Bars near La Mesa

Chico Club Bar • $$
7366 El Cajon Blvd, La Mesa

Customers` Favorites

Cocktail Shots

“Lived in San Diego for decades. Rarely went out but always passed Chicos. Finally went there. Just found a neighborhood watering hole. Met a nice regular, a chef from the Grant. Bartender was great. Using the website, he made the unique frappe I asked for. Next it was beer for me. The selection was good and prices more than competitive. There are several pool tables and the Padre game was on the biggest screen. We'll be going back.“

4.3 Superb14 Reviews
Parky's Saloon Bar • $
6149 Lake Murray Blvd, La Mesa

“Great dive bar, easy access off and on the freeway and a great oasis on the way to magnolia to see a concert Friendly staff as well as the patrons“

3.8 Good12 Reviews
Wild Wooly's Saloon Bar • $
247 Broadway, Chula Vista - 9.75 miles

“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.“

5 Superb16 Reviews
The Tower Bar Bar • $
4757 University Ave, San Diego - 4.19 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!“

4.4 Superb39 Reviews
Cricket's Pub Bar • $
3339 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego - 5.79 miles

“Didn't eat so hard to rate but anywhere willing to have a kitchen behind the bar has gotta be pretty cool .
Drinks wre amazing. Duno what brand of champagne they had but it was the BEST champagne I've EVER had.
10/10“

5 Superb9 Reviews
Sideways Bar Bar • $
1078 Estes St, El Cajon - 3.37 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“

4.6 Superb30 Reviews
Cherrybomb Bar • $
2237 First Ave., San Diego - 8.62 miles

“great service.....small crowds. the best part is that they have a fuzzball table. whatever you do, do not do not play against Ms. Tracy Osborn. The women will take your soul! great bar“

4.3 Superb45 Reviews
Camel's Bar and Grill Bar & Grill • $
10330 Friars Rd #106, San Diego - 4.8 miles

Customers` Favorites

Mozzarella Sticks w Marinara
Grilled Cheese w Fries
Chicken Sliders w Fries
Mushroom Swiss Burger
Classic Cheeseburger
Loaded Potato Skins
Raspberry Dressing
Torpedo Sandwich
Burger w Bacon
Quesadilla

“Great staff, great food.... one if San Diegos hidden gems!!“

4.4 Superb73 Reviews
Whistle Stop Bar Bar • $
2236 Fern St, San Diego - 6.74 miles

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

4.4 Superb67 Reviews
The Loft Gay Bar • $
3610 Fifth Ave, San Diego - 8.16 miles

Customers` Favorites

Cranberry

“I’m A wonderful place to go. Although I’ve had some experiences with An ex partner who to belittled me and said bad things about me to the ownership. Now I have been a constant customer for the last 10 years. I have done nothing but promote attract customers. Basically an ambassador. However, I was 86 because my ex cast dispersions upon me.And the people that were my friends. Took their back to me. I will not go back as of soon. But once MANAGEMENT and myself clear this up I’m sure that it will be my home bar again. But do enjoy this establishment.!!!“

4.4 Superb43 Reviews
CJ's Club Bar • $
222 W Washington St, San Diego - 8.37 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.“

4.3 Superb21 Reviews
Channel 2 Sports Bar Sports Bar • $
3232 Greyling Dr, San Diego - 7.22 miles

Customers` Favorites

Just Had One Drunk Left

“I came here after work on a Friday night. It just so happen to be a Padres vs Dodgers game and this place was packed! I mean, for your regular local bar... it was poppin'!
Everyone had a good, positive vibe watching the game regardless of the rivalry (there was a mix of both fans here) they didn't have the jukebox playing, so it was strictly game time vibes!
But as soon as the game ended, Jaqui, the bartender at the time, turned the music UP!
Jaqui was the ONLY bartender serving the patrons all night! She not only was running around like crazy but she kept such an inviting, friendly smile the whole time! She made sure to keep a conversation going with her guests as well.
While I was here, I didn't hear of any complaints about the service. Jaqui made sure my refreshments 😜 were always full as well. She's by far the best I've seen yet!!
Overall, it's a cool bar to chill at during baseball games or even to have a night cap after work! & with Jaqui as your bartender, you'll leave here on a positive note and I bet you'll be back 😋😉“

4.5 Superb17 Reviews
Star Bar Bar • $
423 E St, San Diego - 8.81 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 Good59 Reviews
14

Alibi

Alibi Cocktail Bar • $
1403 University Ave, San Diego - 7.56 miles

Customers` Favorites

I Need a Drink Rochelle

“First time here. It’s your typical dive, don’t expect anymore, don’t expect any less. Quarter machine was out of order so could play some of the games we wanted to but the bartender was pretty nice which is always great when it comes to drive bars“

4.3 Superb41 Reviews
Live Wire Bar • $
2103 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego - 7 miles

“Great beer selection awesome vibes and great service“

4.1 Good34 Reviews
Stadium Club Bar • $
6065 Fairmount Ave, San Diego - 4.69 miles

“This place is like Cheers. So many fun games to play as well“

4.3 Superb27 Reviews
The Lancers Bar • $
4671 Park Blvd, San Diego - 7.16 miles

Customers` Favorites

Pliney

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

4 Good41 Reviews
18

Club 13

Club 13 Bar • $
640 Civic Center Dr., National City - 8.54 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😀“

4.3 Superb9 Reviews
Tivoli Bar and Grill Bar & Grill • $
505 Sixth Ave, San Diego - 8.83 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 !!“

4.2 Good36 Reviews
The Avenue Sports Bar Bar •
3412 University Ave, San Diego - 5.77 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 Superb1 Reviews
On the Rocks Cocktails Bar • $
656 E St, Chula Vista - 9.8 miles

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

4.2 Good18 Reviews
Chee-Chee Club Cocktail Bar • $
929 Broadway, San Diego - 8.52 miles

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

4 Good16 Reviews
Spring Valley Inn Cocktail Bar • $
9034 Campo Rd, Spring Valley - 1.64 miles

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

4.2 Good12 Reviews
24

Cheers

Cheers Bar • $
1839 Adams Ave, San Diego - 7.13 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.“

4.1 Good16 Reviews
Kensington Club Cocktail Bar • $
4079 Adams Ave, San Diego - 4.93 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.“

4.1 Good26 Reviews
Blarney Stone Pub Pubs • $
388 N 2nd St, El Cajon - 5.47 miles

Customers` Favorites

Broasted Chicken Dinner
Irish Broasted Potatoes
Black Irish Burger
Large Pizza

“Great people, lots of fun!!! Pool 🎱, partying karaoke, amazing friendships pool tournaments are awesome bartenders are the best couldn’t ask for a better place to hang out at...“

4.1 Good34 Reviews
Nunu's Tavern Cocktail Bar • $$
3537 Fifth Ave, San Diego - 8.17 miles

Customers` Favorites

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

“I first started going to Nunu's in 2000, way before it became hip. On a recent trip there, I was happy to see that it still has a fair amount of seediness, although I prefer my seedy bars to be more dimly lit! Btw, what happens at Nunu's, stays at Nunu's!!!“

4.1 Good63 Reviews
Gilly's House of Cocktails Bar • $
2306 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego - 6.84 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!“

3.9 Good86 Reviews
Grovers Tavern Bar • $
3315 Buena Vista Ave, Lemon Grove - 1.89 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 ?“

3.6 Good4 Reviews
Stoney's Bar & Grill • $
108 W 25th St Suite Q, National City - 8.77 miles

Customers` Favorites

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

“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 Good41 Reviews
De Oro Mine Co. Bar • $
9924 Campo Rd, Spring Valley - 2.72 miles

“good place to eat and relax“

3.8 Good14 Reviews
Dirk's Nite Club Cocktail Bar • $
7662 Broadway, Lemon Grove - 1.81 miles

Customers` Favorites

Empanadas

“I had long time that I didn't really like going out until I came across this place it's very welcoming and the vibes are great I also feel taken care by the bartenders nino and nena are great and friendly. I just love how comfortable and safe I feel there 😊“

3.9 Good25 Reviews
Silver Dollar Cocktail Bar • $$
341 3rd Ave, Chula Vista - 9.42 miles

“Great bar“

3.9 Good27 Reviews
The Landing Bar & Grill • $
1185 E Main St, El Cajon - 5.11 miles

“I was only here for a few minutes in the early afternoon, so there wasn't very much excitement happening. But the bartender was incredibly nice and very helpful.
It must be a great place though because when they are busy, they are BUSY!“

3.3 Good7 Reviews
The Manhattan Bar • $
400 Broadway, Chula Vista - 10.05 miles

“Love the 80s night and the live music“

3.7 Good38 Reviews
Rosie O'Grady's Bar • $
3402 Adams Ave, San Diego - 5.67 miles

Customers` Favorites

Fried Goat Cheese Balls
Chicken Cutlet Grinder
Chicago Dog
Burger

“Been coming here since 2021, love the staff and the people that come in. The one neighbor upstairs sucks tho and deserves a wedgie; constantly crying and complaining about anything that happens at the bars/restaurants in that neighborhood. It’s like moving to lower manhattan and complaining that there’s too many skyscrapers or purposely moving next to an airport and complaining that they planes flying over you is too loud. But nonetheless, it’s a great bar for both regulars and newcomers. Decently priced drinks and pretty good food.“

3.7 Good53 Reviews
The BLVD Bar Bar • $
6949 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego - 1.45 miles

“Love Jaime and the chill environment“

3.4 Good37 Reviews
San Diego Eagle Gay Bar • $
3040 N Park Way, San Diego - 6.3 miles

“Been a hot minute since going … but from last visit:

Mixed feelings. Went on a very busy pride night. If you've been to a leather bar before, you know the drill.

**Please do not be that friend who brings your sassy girlfriends to what is considered a “men’s” leather bar.**

Very small location. But there is a dark room. Just very very compact!“

3.1 Average25 Reviews

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