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!!“

“I ordered the salmon sushi and it was so delicious, super fresh and full of flavor. I also tried some of my friend's order (I think it was fries with chicken bites) and it was just as amazing! Definitely comfort food done right.

I had a mocktail which was refreshing and beautifully presented. My friends let me try a sip of their cocktails, super tasty, though they mentioned they were pretty strong (in a good way!).

The vibe was great, the food was a solid 10/10, and the overall experience made for a perfect night out. Can’t wait to go back! 🙌🍣🍹“

“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.“

“This was my second visit and the first for the rest of my group. It was just as good as I remembered and they were able to accommodate one of our group via mocktails. 10 out 10 would recommend and I'll likely go again on my next visit to San Diego.“

“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.“

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

“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.“

“OMG. JUST GO. It is primarily a speakeasy gin bar but is worth trying to find. Classy. Great staff. Very good eats, but a limited selection.

DATE NIGHT place to go. Quiet, conducive to light conversation. The pictures don't do it justice.

Double double burger was dripping delicious.

Tacos superb.

My favorite was the burnt toast. I LOVE burnt toast.

Tiki speakeasy is right next door.“

“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“

“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!!“

“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 cocktails...... ....“

“🙂👍 Manny's an awesome bartender!“

“Friendly service and food was good. Nea, M&M, & Cathy treated me like I was a longtime friend♡“

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

“best ol school bar in town!!“

“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.“

“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!!!!!!“

“Great staff, great atmosphere, great karaoke!“

“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“

“Legitimately inedible. I hate posting this, because we were excited to be here. Cocktails were decent (solid at best), but food has been inedible or forcibly eaten as we just want to leave and don't want to ask them to remake it. The beef was cold and the potato was the worst latke I've ever eaten. The surprise guava on the creme brulee was tough and similarly inedible. Will stop at in n out for a half decent meal on the way home.“

“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.“

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

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

“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.“

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

“Great food and very nice atmosphere“

“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!“

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

“We had a Sunday brunch here. The over the top decor was a joy to be in the midst. The service was top notch. I was there for my birthday and they brought a wonderful, large slice of chocolate cake with a gold candle. Delightful. On the cons: The food was not memorable and no cappuccinos. Bottom line: I would return for a special occasion, take out of town guests here. just would lower my food expectations Everything else made up for it. It is a definite place to take out of town quests as it other worldly.“

“Everything about that place! Just AMAZING!“

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

“We went here to celebrate a birthday and honestly, it was such a great night. The food was amazing. The atmosphere is really cool and our server, Michelle gave us great recommendations and was super friendly and helpful. Awesome place to check out“

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

“There is no better spot for Cider in North Park (if not the WORLD) than Bivouac. A cozy campout aesthetic ran by the CiderQueen of SD herself, and a warm and hospitable staff to boot! The food and cider options are immense, with a delightful rotation of ciders to keep things adventurous! I’ve said it once, but I’ll say it again - if I could give Biv a SIX out of Five, I would!“

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

“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 🤤“

“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 !!!“