34 Best Cocktail Bars in San Diego

“This was a very interesting experience! We were recommended this place and we are glad!!! So unique and different! Excellent customer service! Definitely have to try if you’re into the unconventional and unfamiliar👀☺️! Quinton is fantastic!“

“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.“

“Great music with Whitney Shay“

“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.“

“Very intimate and romantic setting and great drinks.“

“Always an amazing experience at Animae!“

“We had a great time visiting during the Mistletoe Pop-Up. The Christmas cocktails were delicious and we tried a few regular offerings. The food menu was underwhelming, so we ended up going elsewhere for food, but the vibe and drinks were great.“

“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.“

“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.“

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

“I always love a good speakeasy and this place did not disappoint. I love the concept. As soon as you walk in the room, you feel like you're being transported inside of a ship. The staff was friendly and the service was great. The drink menu is robust and I enjoyed the cocktails. My wife and I tried the Island Bird and La Vela. Both drinks were great. I was a bit disappointed with the food. We ordered the Tacos and Papas Bravas. Food was a bit underwhelming. But I would absolutely return just for the cocktails, vibes, service and ambiance.“

“🙂👍 Manny's an awesome bartender!“

“What a fun local pub and the BEST girl bartender! Had the Guinness. Went on a Wednesday afternoon/ night and it was hoppin.. Highly recommend.“

“My absolute favorite place“

“Ally is probably the the best bartender I have encountered in the San Diego area hands down. It's a must on your San Diego tour.“

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

“best ol school bar in town!!“

“Went there to see my good friend DJ Yodah spin, and enjoyed the views and rooftop views for photo opps/selfies…“

“First time here. It’s your typical dive, don’t expect anymore, don’t expect any less. Quarter machine was out of order so could play some of the games we wanted to but the bartender was pretty nice which is always great when it comes to drive bars“

“Delicious Happy Hour today at Bar by Red Door!! �“

“One of the coolest new spots in San Diego in my opinion. This is the original location of the Casbah, it then languished for years as the Kava Lounge, a strange spot for wooks, and finally it became Kiku Room.

Kiku Room has a chic minimalist interior, with polish concrete, metal, and glass as the primary backdrop. The DJ booth is large and separates the front sitting area from a lounge in the back that is draped in deep red lighting.

The bartenders are cool and welcoming, the DJs who come through are usually really good, and the lounge is quite comfortable as well. Pretty good price on drinks overall, too. You can get a glass of draft Asahi here for $7, for instance, which is pretty good for a place that’s in this DTSD-adjacent area.“

“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!!!!!!“

“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!“

“Very friendly environment, bartenders are very nice and inviting, fun karaoke/pool/darts. Great time every time i go!“

“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!!“

“Nunu's is incredible. Lighting, atmosphere, and, as if this wasn't enough, the food is absolutely remarkable!

The chef is clearly in love with taste and takes his craft very seriously. Please retain this man at all cost.“

“great cocktails...... ....“

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

“I personally love coming here - this trip was the first time in a couple of years - but the atmosphere is really welcoming for a bar. The owner and his staff are very friendly, and the karaoke host is very professional, but you can also tell he enjoys what he does. That means a lot for me. I want to make it at least a monthly thing going forward.“

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

“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!“

“I came in to Lucys for the first time after a horrible lay off. I never knew this place existed! My friend works at the pottery place next door. Not only did all the locals help me with my headspace but they helped me with understanding it’s ok to have a fall out I love ocean beach locals for helping me in my time of need and I’m so glad I moved here!
The bar group that owns this place should always hire people named Erin!“

“Kensington Club delivers an exceptional experience from start to finish. The ambiance is elegant yet welcoming, making it perfect for both relaxed evenings and special occasions. The staff are attentive, professional, and genuinely friendly, ensuring every guest feels valued. The food and drinks are top-notch, with great attention to quality and presentation. Everything runs smoothly, creating a comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere throughout. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a premium and memorable experience.“

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