13 Best Bars in San Clemente

“This building was just your average bar, but the service and clientele were phenomenal!! I was in town visiting my son at Camp Pendleton for Thanksgiving. Jess didn't just give suggestions of a place to try and get reservations for Thanksgiving dinner, she called, got reservations set up, and made it happen for us. I instantly felt at home and made life long friends.“

“Fantastic atmosphere. Felt like sitting in the hull of a pirate ship. Best selection of rums I've ever seen (more than 100). All that and surprisingly reasonable prices on expertly crafted drinks!“

“One of the last great dive bars in the US with a great selection of local craft beers on tap. Awesome bartenders, great live music and an amazing hidden wine store and lounge in the back.“

“Great location! The restaurant was a bit small but they had a nice patio set up. Plenty of umbrellas and heaters. We had a party of nine, but since they weren’t busy when we got there, they were able to accommodate us easily. I think if we were to come at a little bit busier of a time it would be harder for them to accommodate just because of the amount of tables that they have. I would suggest calling ahead if you have a group larger than six.
The menu was good, small, but a variety of options. Their margaritas were good, nothing special.
Service was great, and we didn’t have much wait time on anything. Drinks were refilled quickly and the server offered modifications that made ordering for kids easier. She also quietly and discreetly asked if we wanted dessert. We ended up ordering it, but it was nice that she said it quietly that way my boys didn’t here. It’s tough going out and not getting dessert but when my boys hear the server offering it that’s all they want. It was very kind of her.“

“One of my favorite local dive bars. The crowd is always friendly, and it’s easy to strike up a conversation with people. Liz behind the bar is the best—super welcoming and makes killer margaritas and lemon drops. They also serve pizza from Sonny’s, a local Italian spot, and it’s honestly some of the best bar food around. Definitely worth stopping in if you’re in the area.“

“No food but they also have a restaurant attached Flights & Irons which has really good food and large portions. The atmosphere is beautiful at Roost they have music on some Sunday’s and jazz every Thursday night these are reserved events and the talent is top notch. I’d check the event calendar before you go they do have special events like tastings, murder mystery night, when need a reserved seat. Great staff & cocktails and is family owned and they are fun gals. There is a dress code no shorts or flip flops, but you can go casual. They do it up big during all the holidays and have a great Halloween party.“

“A uniquely delicious experience:
Actually ended up here by accident trying to find dinner at the downstairs tiki pub. Were swept off our feet by an intimate and well tailored japanese fishing/90’s citypop culture vibe, insanely good cocktails and the best sushi I’ve ever had. A bit more expensive, but I’d recommend this over its downstairs neighbor.“

“Stumbled across this absolutely gem! The live music really sets the tone for a great evening, and the outdoor seating with the heaters makes a great ambiance. The food was delicious, and reasonably priced for the experience. Highly recommend this place for an evening filled with good food and live music!“

“Excellent experience! Excellent food! Excellent service! Fantastic little owner owned/operated Northern Italian cuisine restaurant. We will return!“

“Came for lunch with my gran about a month after my grandfather passed. It was my gran's first outing since the funeral and i was worried but our server was this adorable silver haired woman named Rebecca. She had my Gran laughing the whole time. We ordered combos and the suggested jalapeño watermelon margaritas, which were spicy and refreshing. We needed a nap afterwards because we were too stuffed! My gran won't stop asking when we can go back. Thank you South of Nicks for lovely meal, and Thank you Rebecca, for helping a family member feel normal after tragedy. You are in our prayers“

“Amazing venue, Great beers and pizza! A must do if you are in the area!“

“This is a great place for everyone to go. Especially if you want good island food, friendly staff and a cocktail even though I don't drink. Portions are great, caution order the Da biggest Mixed Plate with a few friends. Surprised a little that on a Saturday it was not as busy as it should be. More word of mouth and advertising. Nice family owned business.“

“Came in here on our wedding anniversary trip. My husband was a Marine so he wanted to show me around his favorite spots. And I can totally see why! Goody's was such a fun bar on a Tuesday night. We had the BEST, SWEETEST, and most attentive bartender, Holly. It was truly a delight getting to meet her and the other patrons that night. Definitely added to our special trip and we'll be making more trips back to Goody's :)“