50 Best Cocktail Bars in San Diego

“Lovely staff and delicious food“

“Amazing food. Delicious & unique drinks. All very reasonable. Will definitely return & highly recommended!!“

“The food was just okay, but the cocktails were absolutely fantastic. Every single one we tried was a true work of art! I was especially impressed by the non-alcoholic option — I honestly didn’t expect it to be so flavorful and unique. Highly recommended for anyone who doesn’t drink alcohol — you won’t feel like you’re missing out at all!“

“Always an amazing experience at Animae!“

“I always wait to post reviews until I've been to a place more than once. This place doesn't disappoint. The Bar Chemists are Masters of Craft Cocktailing. Ben & Frank are super friendly, extremely knowledgeable and untra creative. Room 56 is our new favorite hangout.“

“Service and ambiance, exceptional service and night life… live dj, good musical and still able to have conversation“

“Best food, drink, service and atmosphere I have experienced in a long time. Rivals Michelin restaurants.“

“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.“

“Inspiring, creative menu that rivals the best menus in the world. Surprising affordable and unforgettably crafted cocktails. Entire staff is friendly, approachable and highly knowledgeable.“

“Strongly recommend as best bar in SD right now. Navigating requires going thru 1st restaurant to beer keg door, and no menu so expect a bartender conversation to customize what you get.

Great experience and(relatively speaking) great value“

“Excelente Servicio, Excelente Comida, La mejor Chef De Nolita Hall, Michel Peregrino, Muy Recomendable Todo.“

“This place is awesome! Whether you are vegan or not, the food is delicious and creative! The music, the food and the atmosphere (decor) JUST TRY IT!! It’s set in a great area.“

“I am delighted with my experience at this Italian restaurant! From the moment I walked in, I was transported to Italy with a warm ambiance and friendly staff. The food was extraordinary; each dish burst with authentic flavors that joyfully made my taste buds sing. The attention to detail in every plate was evident, showcasing the chef's expertise and dedication to traditional Italian cuisine. The pasta was cooked to perfection, sauces were rich and flavorful, and the ingredients were fresh and high-quality. Not only was the food exceptional, but the service was impeccable. The staff was attentive and knowledgeable and made the entire dining experience even more delightful. I wholeheartedly recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for an unforgettable Italian dining experience in San Diego. In my opinion, this establishment undoubtedly deserves the title of the best Italian restaurant in town.“

“Great music with Whitney Shay“

“Very intimate and romantic setting and great drinks.“

“Really great for date night/ cocktail hours. It's got a speakeasy aesthetic that brings you in through a hidden door disguised as a wall. Indoor decor is that of a ship, equipped with backlight false windows that mimic a never ending sunset. Good vibes“

“🙂👍 Manny's an awesome bartender!“

“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.“

“Go the Duck Tacos and checkout the voodoo/ black magic background“

“great cocktails...... ....“

“angel was a gem, he went home before we can give him his tip. Give this man a raise! Period, king period! Thank you so much our engagement and sister in laws bday was 10 more times enjoyable because of you!“

“Great food and great service! Food was fresh and expertly prepared! Probably the best service I have ever experienced and the place was busy at the time we were there!!“

“what a wonderful experience. they are so well cared for. beautiful cats that are so friendly and need so much love very clean and the cats have so much to climb on, play with, see and sleep. the hosts were amazing and even let me stay a bit longer. I had the best time. I'm coming bk!!!!!!“

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

“Checked out Garibaldi for dinner. Had the best time with the wonderful ambience. The food was food,
However, the rice in the risotto was slightly undercooked.
Our server David was wonderful and took care of everything. Will definitely return again for the sunset HH.“

“best ol school bar in town!!“

“Great staff, great atmosphere, great karaoke!“

“Fabulous food served in a no-frills, casual atmosphere. The service was excellent and Chef Luciano Cibelli comes out of the kitchen and checks with every table to see how diners are doing. Great place to celebrate a special occasion. We enjoyed the seafood fettucini, chicken parmesian, and the catch of the day, which was sea bass on a bed of roasted vegetables, with beet purée and a delicious beurre blanc. Delish!“

“Fun atmosphere, fun drinks and great staff!“

“One of my favorite barcades in San Diego. We came for the comedy show (which is located in the back) but it was too small and crowded. However, it’s the best place for the vibes to chill and play some games with friends.

Not to mention great cocktails and specials.

My favorite? The New Pink Pony Club!“

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

“Best ever breakfast! Large menu. Breakfast only! Reasonable priced. Great service. 💕“

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

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

“Cannot wait to go back and enjoy the the food, excellent service and ambience of this restaurant. We often each brunch here and their chef events are amazing! I savor every bite 🤤“

“Recomiendo todo Es un súper lugar cómodo ,bendecido Su personal y su comida Es lo máximo Sus bebidas no hay comparación ,su personal de la barra es súper Cada vez que tengo la bendición de estar en ese lugar me hacen sentir muy especial Todo absolutamente todo lo recomiendo Gracias CATANIA“

“Amazing food, amazing cocktails, amazing service, and amazing ambience. Highly recommend!!!“

“The food, drinks & service were amazing!! I’m coming back for sure 👌🏻“

“Cider is delicious, as is the food. As a pescatarian, I really appreciate all the vegetarian options and customizations. I joined the Cider Club and it is great. The ciders and discount are awesome but the camaraderie is the best. They also have beer, wine, and cocktails, so something for everyone! (Even N/A!)
The Mexican Caesar with a side of fries is the BEST light lunch or dinner. I keep coming back for it.
The service is always beyond incredible. Everyone is super friendly and eager to help you find what you want.“

“Great JAPANESE Tonkatsu served with shredded cabbage salad just like in Japan“

“Everything about that place! Just AMAZING!“

“Made a work trip & birthday alone - amazing🤍Thank you! And food/drinks bomb!“

“I had an early dinner with my partner. We had a reserved table on the patio and the weather was perfect. We were warmly greeted by all the staff and made to feel welcome. 0ur waitress/server was so nice and made our evening so special. Several of the staff checked in on as as well and had pleasant conversations. The food/drinks were delicious and very prompt. It was so good we ordered a second serving! The prices were modest and we felt really good about our evening out. I recommend Happy Medium and will be a repeat customer.“

“Love the vibe. Ality is super welcoming and kind. The way she designed the place is amazing and cozy / intimate and engaging. Loved the in the woods mocktail and love the NA beer options. So glad they are here and a perfect place for me and my sober girls to meet up to catch up and play some card games.“

“Great food and very nice atmosphere“

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

“The food and service were great the atmosphere is excellent and the food was extremely good. I Highly recommend this place to everyone in Southern California !!!“

“Absolutely the most creative menu in the City! Great Atmosphere, great choices. We always leave amazed at our experience and eager to return“

“Finally, we have an authentic Turkish restaurant in SD! Bosforo is nothing short of spectacular — from the incredible food to the warm service and inviting ambience. Chef Seckin has truly outdone himself, bringing a genuine slice of Türkiye right to San Diego. Shout out to our Italian server who was super friendly and knowledgeable (sorry forgot his name). We absolutely loved Bosforo and will definitely go back. Highly recommend if you’re looking for authentic Turkish cuisine.“

“It was a cool way to enter a speakeasy. The drinks took a while to come out. Not crazy long though. But the drinks in quality were pretty basic. Most whiskey based drinks tasted like a regular old fashioned.

Update: Decided to try this place again and it was a good experience. Staff were friendly and attentive. My drink was delicious.“