50 Best Beer Bars near National City

“Meaty double patty smash style burger. Size of patty is generous and seasoned well. Chipotle oil is delicious but not overpowering. Balances the patty and bun. Onions are sliced and grilled. Will have to try garlic crisp next time. Worth a try“

“Everything about it is fantastic! The beers are delicious and the owners are so welcoming! Thank you for hosting my 29th birthday!!!💕“

“Craft beer places are a dime a dozen in SD, but I knew after one visit that Machete is easily going to become a favorite water hole to visit when I am in the mood for a good variety of craft beer. They have a bunch of different styles, and a selection of beers from breweries that I either haven't heard of or never tasted before. Love that. It gets boring seeing the same 3-4 breweries at every place that offers craft beer in SD.Vibe is super chill, casual and divey.Staff here is really nice. I didn't get his name, but he let me try a few different beers and gave great recommendations based on the styles I like.No food here, but the Papi’s Teppanyaki food truck is here from time to time. Check their IG for their schedule. Not sure if there are ever other options since I only recently found out about this place.Cheers!Edit: I came back a second time and the super cool bartender's name is Jett. If you come in on a day he's manning the bar, you're in great hands. :)

Kid-friendliness: There was a young family here with a stroller, but it wouldn't be my first choice for places to visit with kids.“

“Good job n thank you so much“

“My family and I had a wonderful experience. The food, drinks, atmosphere, staff and price were on point. We definitely will be back to this restaurant.“

“Great hidden gem in the heart of National City’s Market on 8th food hall!Excellent craft beer tap list goes along perfectly with the vast food options available in this open air food hall.Bar staff was very knowledgeable about craft beer and made some great recommendations.Came on a nearly 100 degree San Diego day and couldn’t even tell it was hot out with all the windows open & the cool ocean breeze blowing through.Highly recommend grabbing a beer here whenever you can“

“Pero mad Chingona! The shrimp basket was excellent. My guy brought me another beer since the kitchen was taking forever. 5/5. This place gets it and there is no better seafood on the peninsula!“

“Happily went to the wrong location! Awesome beer!“

“A place that makes you feel right at home!
The beer selection are their own brews and covers lagers to IPAs! The Japanese Lager is a personal favorite! They did bring back an old fave too of Mango Toasted Rice Lager!
Their burgers are full of flavor! A choice of 4/6/8 chicken strips that are a kid pleaser!
The swag and beer collection are a must to check out!
The place does get a little packed at end of school due to parents enjoying a pint while they wait for their little ones. I definitely did when my son went to Albert Einstein!
Come in and enjoy a pint or two! Oh yeah, they do have coffee til 3pm!“

“Great customer service! And the burgers were so darn good. Of course the beer was ice cold!“

“My roommate and I have been coming here for a while, it's easily one of our favorite regular spots. The atmosphere is stylish and gives off great vibes and always feels welcoming. The food is always fresh coming from local California farms. The drink menu is solid with all of the staples and some with added twists. The owners Chris and Jenn are amazing, they and their staff are always kind and provide incredible service. Other points to consider are the burger of the month, a rotating culinary delight often themed and always delicious, and the establishment holds many different events from art shows, drink and paint, trivia and so many others. Honestly, it's always a great place with friendly people. Chris and Jenn are leaders in the community and work to not only provide delicious food, and a great experience but also work hard to make the community better. Would recommend, and do recommend to everyone and anyone. 5/5 stars.“

“Great burgers, quick service. Good value for money.“

“It's a place to drink a beer, there's food and you can stair out the window at the street. Lots of sandwich options, looking forward to next visit and trying pastrami. Jokes are frowned upon or maybe the IQ inhibits the point and punch not sure.
Worth a stop if you wanna try some CA beers and relax.
Plenty to do around this area so go relax and try a beer“

“Comida riquísima!!! Authentically delicious! 🔥🇲🇽“

“Great space and good beers. Always good for that sunset on the patio.“

“The absolute best little diner that I have ever eaten in. You have to sit at the bar to get the full experience. I come eat here every time I visit my son that’s in the Marines.“

“Great food, great service. Can't go wrong here.“

“great food and BBQ sauce 🙂“

“Place is fire. So many beers to choose from you don't even know where to start. I'd say ask the bartenders to pick your drinks for you. It's funner that way.“

“Really delicious and reasonably priced food. Love the fusion style. The Tokyo fries are one of my absolute fav things on the menu. As well as the fried kale and Banh mi 🤤 Decent beer, wine, teas, and specialty drinks.“

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

“My wife and I came in last night before the padres game. Awesome atmosphere and location. The cold IPA was honestly the best beer I’ve had in a long time. Brandon the bartender was super friendly and helpful. Definitely check this place out if you’re in the area“

“Acceptable poke. I told the counter service person I don't like spice so hold the spicy house sauce. It was still spicy even after I removed the red onions and cilantro. But that's my taste preference. Clean restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating. City noise not too loud. Service level perfunctory. Clean bathroom.“

“Very tasty beverages. Nice big ice cubes, made from tasty water. Friendly staff, and a back room shrouded in mystery...“

“Hi I recommend this entirely“

“Great little brewery that has freshly made pizza a couple of times every week. Very kind staff. There's a 2 for $30 pizza special and every pizza you buy gets you a 50% discount ticket towards a beer. One of the best deals in town for groups. Will definitely be back to try more of their selection!“

“This place serves 85 years of proven deliciousness. It is simple. It is hearty. These days, it is even out of the ordinary. Just go. You will be glad that you did. If you are like me, you’ll remember how Mom would heat the oven to 450 degrees and place the block of ice Hungry Man pot pie in the oven for one hour till it transformed into a cauldron of molten lava. My mother would even crack open the hood of the pie and load it with an extra cup of frozen peas and carrots that would cook to perfection in the heavenly inferno of scrumptious delight, which made me the muscular hunk of love that I am today. The San Diego Chicken Pie Shop serves up a pie that is an even better recipe than the one in my memories of my dear Mom. If your are nearby, give it a try.“

“One of my favorite bars in the city! Great cigars, deals on drinks, and a vibe that’s always chill but never boring. Staff makes you feel at home every time. I even love bringing in my board games here it’s the perfect spot to relax, hang with friends, and just enjoy the night. Easily one of my favorite bars in the city.“

“My favorite Nashville hot chicken sandwich and tenders!!!!!!“

“It was my first time visiting Coin Haus, and I had an amazing time. The atmosphere was fun and full of good vibes. Jose, one of the staff members, was fantastic—he took the time to explain how everything worked and was super friendly throughout our visit, which made the experience even better. I will definitely be coming back, and I highly recommend this place if you’re looking for a great time with a welcoming atmosphere!“

“Kumi Café is one of those hidden gems you find and just keep coming back to. My husband and I have been here multiple times, and every visit is just as good — if not better — than the last.

The service is always amazing. The staff is kind, fast, and really on top of things without ever making you feel rushed. They create the kind of experience that makes you feel genuinely taken care of.

Today, we had the Korean short rib, the bento box with gyoza and a California roll, and the tuna poke bowl. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. I normally don’t even like California rolls, but theirs are so good — fresh, not too mayo-heavy, and the rice is just right. My husband said his poke bowl was refreshing and delicious, and I couldn’t stop stealing bites.

We’ve also tried the sashimi and the chicken katsu curry on past visits, and both are incredible. The sashimi is super fresh and generous, and the curry — especially the chicken katsu version — is rich, comforting, and packed with flavor. Definitely one of our favorites on the menu.

The place has a chill, modern vibe — clean and simple, but welcoming. It’s become one of our go-to spots when we want something that hits the spot without breaking the bank.“

“Cheddar shrimp and grits were so good!“

“I recently moved to South Park a few months ago and walk past this place daily. Got off work early one day and decided to stop in for happy hour. The place was relatively empty but the food and service were great! The honey chili wings were perfectly crisp, saucy, and delicious! Went great with an ice cold Pilsner. Will definitely be back to try out the dinner menu soon.“

“I picked up some ribs and a sandwich for dinner last night and the food was awesome as always. Portions were big enough that I had leftovers. Corbin O'Reilly and Vince always make me feel special!“

“We had a great lunch and the waiter was very polite and helpful. I highly recommend this place.“

“everything I’ve tried so far has been delicious.

got the salt & pepper tofu bento for lunch at medium spice level — it was delicious & had a good kick.

tried several of the milk breads & pastries - love the classic cream, matcha, and the spicy curry roll.

also got a strawberry matcha drink that was delicious but a little bit too sweet.

can be a little chaotic sometimes as they’re still setting things up, but a nice spot to have in the neighborhood & very friendly owners.

Vegetarian options: Salt and Pepper Tofu“

“Had a quick lunch here today. Yummy salad ( a bit heavy on the blue cheese, but fixable) fun ambiance and very helpful friendly staff. Would definitely recommend this place! Also, kind on my wallet which makes going here a no brainer!“

“We love this place. When ever we are in San Diego it’s a must!“

“A must try the fig Flatbread. So good!!!“

“Passed through while on tour and had to stop at the Philly bar to feel like we’re back home! Best vibes and even better staff and brews and pretzels!!! Such a great environment, wish we could have stayed longer! Can’t wait to come back :)“

“Love the food and amazing service ♥️one a my best place!!!!!!!“

“A great chill place and outside they allow dogs. Usually decent bands on the weekends and no cover charge. It’s a great find and I recommend 🤙🏼“

“I am late to reviewing and forgetting the servers name. She was from Maryland, and the reason we ordered more than just a pick me up coffee before the Japanese Friendship Gardens. Our server (delightful as can be and a great conversation partner) encouraged us to try the Spicy Calamari and Aquachile. It's not the best flavor pairings with coffee. So, stick with a bubbly libation when ordering these delightful dishes. The flavors, however, are divine. Fresh ingredients that remain high quality! We enjoyed a table overlooking the gardens and lucked into it without a reservation. Although, I recommend reserving in advance for optimal seating and table assurance.“

“delicious food and friendly service! I love the soup!“

“This little spot was fantastic! Truly some of the best food I've had in SD. I ordered the Godzilla hot dog, my husband got the Pastrami Tsunami, and we shared the pierogi plus grabbed a couple beers. The service was friendly and super fast. The food was fresh, and I think the sign said they make their own sausages. The sausage was phenomenal: flavorful, spicy without being overbearing, and seemed lean (no squishy, fatty deposits). The food, although very comfort forward, didn't leave us feeling heavy. The seating is all outdoor at little patio style tables just down from a little fishing pier and next to The Rady Shell. This is now one of my favorite spots; looking forward to going back.“

“Pelicana Chicken was a great takeout option experience. I first visited this location and used the kiosk to decide on what to order. But my friend and I had a lot of questions, so we asked the staff a lot of them. She was very nice and explained the differences and gave her recommendations.

We decided to get the signature chicken with sauces on the side. We got the original and honey mustard. We also got an order of the corn cheese. It didn’t take long for us to get our order and leave. However, when we got home, we noticed the radish was missing.

Overall, the food was really great. The signature sauce was better than the honey mustard. The service was fast and quick. We went on a Saturday around 4:30 pm and it wasn’t very busy. But the plaza parking was crowded. They do accept American Express at the kiosk.“

“Great restaurant! Food, service were on point!“

“Tap house with friendly and generous owner.
Keeping one of the most Varietal selections in San Diego. From local California and national breweries
Located on 3rd ave filled with eateries. Always a must to stop by and drink dessert.
You know us adults who choose our sweets 😋 😉 😏 😜“

“This place is a real Gem, excellent coffee, tea & pastries. Cigar friendly, with a nice selection for sale. Even as a tourist you get that local neighborhood vibe and they treat ya like family! Staff was so friendly and hospitable! Loved the decor and atmosphere, this place will definitely be one of my go to stops when we visit again!“

“Delicioso 😋 love it. Ambiente para familia, pareja incluso solos!!“