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!!“

“Very fun and lively atmosphere! The design is very well done. The food was great, I personally loved the oysters as they were served differently than I have experienced. The jalapeño Caesar salad was also amazing! Had a kick! Main dishes I enjoyed were the burger, and the chicken, very good and flavorful. Very fun and different cocktails to choose from along with fun zero proof options which is great if you do not drink alcohol. Service was spectacular, very kind, professional and knowledgeable about the menu. We will be coming back!“

“This place has thought of everything!!! The aesthetic is incredible, every detail better than the next, and the food and drinks are tastyyyyy with just as thoughtful service!! Shout out to our server Emmy, she was so sweet and on top of all our orders, thank you!“

“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.“

“Had a date night here because of a TikTok we had seen. The concept was original. A three course meal inspired drink menu. The TikTok I had seen was 3 custom drinks according to your liking and style. However, the first and third course are now “picked” for you. I was able to make some adjustments to my third however my boyfriend and i still decided to switch, as it was too strong for my liking. Id also like to add that our bartender had left for a break. I feel like this is important because he had got to know us for the first two courses that I feel like my third course would've been tailored a lot better with someone that was more so my style, which is the whole concept. My second course, that's completely tailored to you, was perfect. I asked for tropical, creamy, sweet but not overly sweet, and tart. I got exactly what I asked for! If I came again and my bartender took a break I would simply just ask if I could wait for mine to come back because of them simply getting to know you and your palate for drinks. But overall, the experience was amazing and I'm thinking of coming back with a group for my birthday.... Also, they do not have any food just “snacks”given for a palate cleanser.“

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

“Very intimate and romantic setting and great drinks.“

“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.“

“One of my favorite spots in SD!
Great coffee in the morning and some nice breakfast options. Delicious drinks and friendly bartenders in the afternoon/evening. I made new friends here, since the place has a lot of regulars. Highly recommend!
PS: try the meatballs!“

“stopped by for a drink before heading over to grass skirt. We must have gotten lucky cause everything was awesome! The music level was good, could talk to my husband. but maybe cause it was still early in the night. Drink was delicious & loved the decor. Great date night!“

“great cocktails...... ....“

“🙂👍 Manny's an awesome bartender!“

“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“

“Great staff, great atmosphere, great karaoke!“

“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!“

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

“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!“

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

“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“

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

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

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

“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!“

“Great food and very nice atmosphere“

“We had a cider from here at the San Diego Zoo and had to check it out and glad that we did! What a wonderful place!!!

The bartender was very knowledgeable and we had amazing service the entire time. The decor and everything just fit and suited the vibe. One of the best thing is about this place is that it's DOG FRIENDLY! Met the cutest furry friends here that just added to the experience.

Definitely do the cider tasting and the polenta tots was different and interesting. Seems like a great place for a meal, catch a sports game or catch up with friends or a nice place to chill while you are in between meet ups or appointments.“

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

“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.“

“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 !!!“

“The cocktails were delicious, once I was finally inside, the small bar atmosphere was great. But the San Diego Speakeasy thing was already wearing on me after this had to have been the 8th "speakeasy" I had been to in as many days, so I know my heart wasn't in it for that part.“

“Was here last night after the Padres game and all the staff were so courteous & efficient - cool, calm & collect!! So Impressive!!!⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐“

“Kitchen Sink Gumbo on point as well as the service“

“La Doña is a very casual, comfy, and friendly restaurant with good service and a broad menu. They offer brunch on weekends as well as their typical menu.

The drinks are all very well crafted, and the food is flavorful. My one complaint is that the Mar y Tierra burrito was too wet inside, leading to a subpar texture. However, the other things we tried, from the margarita to the eggs Benedict, were delightful. I would return to eat here again.“

“We all enjoyed our meals. I would definitely go back. The service was very nice except the restaurant was not busy & they brought out one meal at a time. I had Enchiladas Divorciadas & they were excellent. Others had carnitas which they enjoyed. One person had a combo plate with a carnitas enchilada with mole sauce & a taco. Yummy food!“

“Classy and elegant atmosphere perfect for a fine dining experience (without the snobbery)! The table side caviar service is pure ecstasy and a must if you’ve never had it before. The whiskey flights did not disappoint either. Our waiter treated us like family and the entire staff was friendly and knowledgeable. If you’re looking for a memorable meal, the Huntress is a slam dunk! Highly recommend!“

“We sat outside. Beautiful setting but a little cold. Table had a fire pit but we were still cold. The waiter brought us a portable heater which was perfect. We went on a Thursday and there was live music which was nice. The food was excellent. Overall, a great experience.“

“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!“

“The atmosphere and food were top notch. Burger, Mac n cheese, shrimp and ice cream sandwich were the favorites. 1/2 of the fresh oysters were good the other half not so much. As for drinks, the mule was definitely tasty. The 4 star review was for the lack of service. The service was almost non existent. We had to order the burger and to go boxes three times. They never brought water to the table and only two napkins for four people. In 2.5 hours we were able to get three drinks, but not water. Also, never got the to-go-boxes, we finally got up and left. The lack of service will keep us from adding in into local restaurant rotation.“