50 Best Bars in San Diego

“In town for the weekend and came across this speakeasy! Love that it was a true speakeasy with a hidden entrance. The hostess was super friendly and was able to seat us at the bar within just a few minutes (we didn’t have a reservation). It was a little snug and it took one of the two bartenders some time to acknowledge us and take our orders both times so I’m giving 4 out of 5 stars for these reasons. The hostess really set the bar because she was so nice but the bartenders were just too busy. However the drinks were worth the wait! Great price point and even better taste. We got the pandan and banana cocktails. Will definitely visit when in town and try the food next time, plus more yummy drinks!“

“Absolutely amazing atmosphere, 10/10 service, and bomb drinks. What more could you want. Easily one of the best tiki bars period.“

“Normally I like to keep gems like this to myself, but walking through literal back alleys in San Diego to be introduced to this incredible Hi-Fi listening speakeasy was just too awesome and I hope everyone I love gets a chance to get on the reservation list, stat. I'm a speakeasy veteran with a coast to coast cocktail sipping resume that spans from SF to Boston and New Orleans to Chicago, and this spot has definitely landed in my top ten. The atmosphere, the staff, the tunes, and the drinks are all so special and perfectly curated for maximum delight. Every aspect of CMB is comfortable and balanced, and so very easy to enjoy. They found a great groove and kept it going.“

“Great food, service, atmosphere, and view.“

“If an Old Fashioned had a younger cousin who ditched the cigar lounge, took a red-eye to the tropics, and came back wearing linen with a little attitude Tommy Bahama Marlin Bar is where you’d meet them.

You walk in and the place is doing that effortless “vacation brain” thing: light, airy, calm—but not sleepy. It’s the kind of room that makes your shoulders drop an inch without asking permission. And then the live music hits and suddenly it’s not just “nice,” it’s a whole vibe—that rare sweet spot where you can actually talk, actually listen, and still feel like you’re somewhere worth putting your phone down for.

Now, the bar program here doesn’t feel like it’s chasing trends. It feels like it’s chasing precision. That became obvious the moment I came across Hells Kitchen an Top chef award winning Chef Lawless and yeah, the demeanor was strict. Not rude. Not performative. Just the posture of someone who doesn’t do “close enough.” The energy was: I will tolerate nothing that comes between me and a drink done right. Which, honestly? Respect.

What came out of that seriousness was a cocktail that didn’t have a name at first because some drinks aren’t born with names, they’re born with purpose. It landed somewhere between a mimosa’s bright optimism and bourbon’s grown-up gravity. Citrus forward. A whisper of sweetness. A snap of carbonation that makes the whole thing feel lifted like it’s floating a half inch above the glass. Refreshing. Light. But still with teeth.

I kept trying to pin it down Is this a hazy IPA situation? A beer cocktail? Some clever riff? and the answer was better than any category: it was the perfect collision of beer and Old Fashioned logic, like someone took the blueprint of a classic, opened a window, and let the air in. It tasted like “citrus dream meets Old Fashioned concept,” and the insane part is it didn’t feel like a gimmick. It felt inevitable like a cocktail that should’ve existed all along.

Then came the moment every good bar needs: the naming ceremony. Ask enough questions, show enough genuine curiosity, and you get let in on the lore. That drink? That little bright, fierce, carbonated flex? That was the Lauren Special confirmed with the calm confidence of someone who knows they just made something you’re going to talk about later.

And that’s the thing about Tommy Bahama Marlin Bar: it’s relaxed without being lazy. Polished without being precious. It can sit in the Fashion Valley orbit without feeling like it’s trying to impress Fashion Valley. It’s paradise, but with standards. A place where you can unwind and still be surprised.

If you go, don’t overthink it. Get the drink that tastes like sunshine grew up and learned how to fight. And if Chef Lawless is behind the bar, trust the process. She’s not there to make you a cocktail.

She’s there to make you the cocktail.“

“Good restaurant, delicious food. I recommend everyone to try it“

“If you’re reading this, it’s because you’re desperately hunting for a place that lives up to (or outlives) what you thought was your old favorite spot. We’ve done the rounds. Everywhere. And nothing touches this scene.

Great drinks. Even better people. The kind of place where you walk in for “just one” and somehow look up three hours later wondering how you got so comfortable, so fast.

Whether it’s your first stop of the night or your last, you’ll spend the entire time grinning like you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be and nowhere you’re supposed to be.

Pro tip: mention the name Lee at the door for free popcorn all night.
(Okay, fine. The popcorn’s already free. But now you’ve got an excuse to say Lee’s name with confidence.)

Get yourselves down here and plug into the energy. We’re officially hooked.

See you at Aero Club.“

“Fun atmosphere, fun drinks and great staff!“

“I visited the Good News Bar for the first time last week and returned again today. The customer service is phenomenal. Feli helped me both times and was incredibly patient while I decided on my order. She even remembered my drink from my last visit! Everyone here is welcoming and friendly, and the atmosphere is super chill—perfect for hanging out or studying.“

“Hated that my friend who was over fifty was refused to be served bec she forgot her ID. Really guys. I get the need to card ppl but at some point it is more flattering then necessary.“

“Yes, if you say no, you’re wrong.“

“What a fantastic place! Food was excellent and great proportions, likely the best flatbread I’ve ever had. Staff were friendly and knowledgeable. Would highly recommend and will return if in the area again.“

“Great music! Fun space! Friendly staff. I would love to hang out here again.“

“Great all around dining experience.“

“A Hidden Gem in an Office Park: A Night at The WineSeller & Brasserie You wouldn’t expect to find a culinary treasure tucked away in an office park, but The WineSeller defies all expectations. Downstairs, it’s a literal wine cellar where patrons can store their own bottles. Upstairs, you step into a dining room that feels like a delightful throwback to the ‘90s—nostalgic in the best possible way. What made our experience truly exceptional was the personalized seven-course tasting menu. Our friend had a collection of his own wines stored there and gave them to Lisa, the warm and welcoming owner. She and Chef Oscar then crafted a menu specifically to pair with those wines. The result was simply unforgettable. Every course was amazing, but a couple stood out as pure genius. One highlight was a half lobster served two ways: one side topped with beef tartare, the other with lobster tartare. As someone who loves tasting menus, I was blown away by the creativity. Another standout was the clams with chorizo in a broth that was just out of this world. And who knew chicken could be so extraordinary? The chicken roulade was unbelievably tender and flavorful. Finally, the venison with mole sauce was cooked to absolute perfection and left us all speechless. Chef Oscar’s talent and humility shone through each dish, and Lisa’s hospitality made the night even more special. While we didn’t try the regular menu, I have no doubt it’s just as delightful. If you’re looking for a unique dining experience with a personal touch, The WineSeller is a must-visit.“

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

“Finally a bar that knows how to treat paying customers!!! Your stuff (Al and Sky)are on point with serving water and coming back to the table for fill ups. Food is solid! Other bars could take advice from you're management. Thank you and see you soon!“

“My husband was in a business dinner and they walked some of gaslamp afterwards. After they parted ways, he needed to use the bathroom so he ran in the closest restaurant. They said he couldn't use it unless he was a customer. I totally get that but they were packed out so it made no sense.... Either way, he bought a chicken quesadilla to go. He brought it back to the room for me and our sons to have. It tasted good...until my youngest son spit out a piece of plastic he found inside the quesadilla. My Husband called about it the next day bc they were then closed. Their response was "oops sorry" like wth?! They then said "bring it back along with the plastic." No mention of a refund or investigation of how it happened. And by that point, room service had come and took the box of the rest of the food plus no one wanted to fight downtown traffic and pay to park to have them possibly offer us another quesadilla . 🙄 Again the food we did eat, minus the plastic, was good but the service wasn't.“

“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!“

“Excellent food and very good service. Everything was delicious and the portions were huge. It was expensive for breakfast, but great for a special occasion.“

“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.“

“All good dudes hang out at Clem’s.“

“Great aloha vibe, cocktail selection and live music. Perfect spot to chill with friends.“

“Everything about Fernside is great!“

“Literally one of the best cheeseburgers I’ve ever had. They delivered 25 min after my order was placed. Fries were still crispy!!! Very delicious.“

“An incredible experience across the board; expertly crafted - and I mean crafted - cocktails, unique recipes. Fun, intimate, highly recommend for couples, too small for groups, but can’t beat for date night. And then step outside the speakeasy into the small Tahoma restaurant/bar for exceptional tacos, empanadas, and Mexican or Mexican- influenced dishes at very reasonable prices given the very high quality: simply hard to beat. Service brings the experience together - we went twice in one week, first time just for dinner, and both times the service was genuine, knowledgeable and friendly. Almost don’t want to give such high praise, as the venue is small and will be increasingly hard to reserve!“

“Phenomenal food! Great atmosphere, kid friendly!“

“Best Sports bar in North Park! Food is fabulous, great drink selection, and they show soccer women’s soccer (with sound!!!)“

“I’ve traveled all over the country and Bar Ella is far and above my favorite place to relax. The food, the atmosphere, the staff… all top notch and made the evening quite memorable. Congrats on your Grand Opening!! 🥂“

“the food and service here are great! i love the location and design of the restaurant, and was super excited to try out some new vegan food. they have a very solid menu selection, and i like how many protein options they have. i tried the nachos and the taco platter, which were both delicious! the vegan proteins are very well made, and i thought that the sauces and flavor combinations were very well thought out. personally, my favorite taco that i tried was the plantain taco as it was unique in terms of flavor profile. the guac is also made fresh here and was quite tasty. the food also came out really fast given that there were quite a few people ordering and eating in the restaurant. it was a little bit loud inside the restaurant, but it wasn't crazy or anything. overall, i would definitely recommend tacotarian for some quick service and delicious tacos!“

“Very odd little place that has the best name. 🤣 We got a mix of cocktails and some snacks. Service was good, decor was definitely on the quirky side (Ronald McDonald says hi). I also had the No-loko which was a great caffeine boost for midday.“

“You can't call it a dive bar when they have $300 bourbons on the shelf! Erin is great. We went there twice and will probably go back again later. And there are pinball machines and a pool table and other arcade games. Fun place.“

“Best place to watch the Game! Angelo, kelly, Greg, charlie hooks up the best drinks in PB. There wait staff is 2nd to none whether you get Taylor, Cali, Emma, or Emily they will all take care of you. There wings are killer and burgers 2nd only to in and out.“

“Favorite college neighborhood bar. Their natural wine selection is always on point as well as their beer selection. Food is delicious. I love that they always have seasonal menu items depending on what’s in season. Pool is free, AC kicks butt, and they have a great outdoor space if you ever did have a larger group. Dogs are also allowed which is nice if we ever wanna bring our pup.“

“We came here for the first time 2 years ago, and now we’re hooked! The locals are super friendly, and the food is inexpensive and good!“

“We had our pregame, Puerto Rican Heritage Padre, celebration there yesterday and the staff and food were AMAZING!!!!!! 🇵🇷🇵🇷🫶🏽🫶🏽🫶🏽🫶🏽🇵🇷🇵🇷“

“They have the best Kombucha & usually incredible IPAs & Stout. Best brewery in SD. I host Kombucha or Beer & paint parties at this location. Join us, Search original art cafe nova on Eventbrite or Allevents for workshop times & location!“

“One of the best speakeasy’s I’ve ever been to. Been to several in LA, SF, Vegas, Miami, and NYC and this one compares. So glad that it’s in my city! Speakeasy’s are the way to go! Bravo 👏🏻“

“The Whiskey house isn’t just for whiskey! We enjoyed a great brunch outdoors. The cinnamon pancakes are to die for! Great service from Jackie!“

“Music 4-5 nights a week!“

“I over the drinks, ambiance and location/space. I’ll return again soon.“

“The food and service is magnificent. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️“

“Super fun place to celebrate anything!“

“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 🤙🏼“

“🙂👍 Rachel does a great job!“

“I stepped in here looking for a friend, and the place was packed. It was loud and there was a happy vibe. Lots of folks having a good time and more people showing up as I left. I've never been here before, but the crowd suggests they're doing something well.“

“I honestly love coming to this bar — it’s hands down my favorite spot. It’s one of those places where you walk in and instantly feel at home. The atmosphere is always on point, the drinks are great (they make the best tequila mule 👌), and the kitchen never disappoints. Whether it’s a quick bite or a full meal, the food is always solid and hits the spot.
Big love to Amy, Rob, Dylan, Dani, Dobbs, Elise, Elisa, Erica, Dave, and James — you guys are the reason I keep coming back. The laughs, the chats, and the way you remember people and make everyone feel welcome really means a lot. It never feels like “just a bar,” it feels like my bar.
Appreciate all of you (and the awesome kitchen team!) for always making it such a good time. See you again soon 🍻“

“Best dive bar in San Diego“

“I love this place. Good drink prices, plenty of locals , live music, fun bartenders!“

“🙂👍 Robert is a grat bartender.“