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.“

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

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

“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.“

“Youngblood no longer offers all 3 personalized cocktails, there are menu options for the first drink, personalized one for the second, and menu choices for the third. It's still really good, and I definitely recommend going. I rated the food as mid range, but there's no food available. That's why the mid range rating.“

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

“Great music with Whitney Shay“

“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.“

“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“

“Definitely some good Negronis and cured meats. I only came in here for the drinks, but loved the vibe of the place and the Negronis were well made and well priced. Some great deals (including their meal deal that has a slider!) and their 3 espresso martini deal for $25.

I’d come back! Would love to try some of their full sandwich options next time.“

“🙂👍 Manny's an awesome bartender!“

“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.“

“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 cocktails...... ....“

“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!!!!!!“

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

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

“best ol school bar in town!!“

“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!“

“Great staff, great atmosphere, great karaoke!“

“Fun atmosphere, fun drinks and great staff!“

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

“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!“

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

“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 🤤“

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

“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“

“This was one of the best restaurant experiences we ever had! The view, the atmosphere, the food, and drinks (must try "Italian Ice") - all great. The best, however, is the staff! Our Maitre De as well as our waiter David C made us feel like VIPs. We had a wonderful time and can't wait to go back.

Parking: Garibaldi will validate your ticket when you spend at least $50 - so parking becomes FREE!“

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

“Everything about that place! Just AMAZING!“

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

“this is an excellent spot for good conversation and relaxation. The bartendar Anna is great. She does a great job of explaining HOW to drink the special drinks they make, takes her time to help us make the right decisions and is very friendly. i highly recommend this place for a relaxing night.“

“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.“

“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.“

“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 !!!“

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

“Great food and very nice atmosphere“

“Austin was a fantastic bartender! I asked the other bartender three times if I could order and she just looked at me and walked away. Austin was super attentive despite it being super busy and my group had a great time thanks to him.“

“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.“

“We had another excellent meal! We were celebrating our son’s birthday and our server Paul really made it a great night . We have had him before and he is really a fantastic server! All of our food was fantastic . Pictured below the ahi ceviche and the jalapeño watermelon margarita . Such a fun atmosphere, too.“

“This was the best Mexican food I've ever had! The service was genuine and sweet, too. Although I did go here alone and felt a little awkward explaining that to them at first, that's most places, so I can't really ding them on that. Atmosphere was fantastic.“

“Dockside 1953 is exactly what you imagine when you want a relaxing meal by the beach. Located in the Bahia Resort, the restaurant delivers excellence in terms of cuisine and service. The plating of our coconut snapper ceviche, pan seared petrale sole, and blackened tuna steak were incredible, and the flavor matched. We also really enjoyed the watermelon breeze and spring cleaning cocktails. We sat on the dog friendly patio. Safer to make a reservation. Recommend!“

“Molly’s is so cutie. Wonderful staff, and great vibes. The place itself is so cute and very inviting! I got a banana bread chai latte and it was heaven. Only thing I’d warn people who plan to come here: if you’re allergic to eggs and avocado (like me) eat elsewhere! Majority of menu items includes such. The waffle is delicious though, and would definitely come back again just for the coffee itself!“