25 Best Dive Bars in San Diego

Club Marina Bar • $$
1310 Scott St, San Diego

Customers` Favorites

Popcorn

“Staff was friendly... I don't remember closing out but I had my card the next day... In fact much of my time there I don't remember which, for a bar night, means it must have been a good one! So I'll give them 5 stars... My friends said they all had a good time and I briefly remember petting a dog which always makes for an even more enjoyable experience...“

4.6 Superb67 Reviews
Aero Club Bar Bar • $
3365 India St, San Diego

Customers` Favorites

Brisket Sandwich and Mac & Cheese
Miller High Life
Tri Tip Sandwich
Whisky Tasting
Whiskey Bar
Ribs Half
Popcorn

“I went on Monday and it was such a fun experience! The lovely bartender made the most refreshing margaritas, and the last word was perfectly balanced. She was very helpful and patient with it being our first time and birthdays. We had such a great time we stayed into the next shift, and the crew was equally as amazing and helpful. Thanks y'all !“

4.7 Superb102 Reviews
The Tower Bar Bar • $
4757 University Ave, San Diego

Customers` Favorites

Popcorn

“Dropped in at Tower Bar after happy hour at Key and Cleaver. Met Mick and he was so cool. He played yacht rock on the tele for us old farts. The Eggo liqueur from Gatlinburg, TN was the bomb. Had the waffle, syrup and butter taste to a T. Friendly folks at the bar. Such a cool vibe. We'll definitely return.“

4.6 Superb41 Reviews
Red Fox Room and Steakhouse Steak House • $$
2200 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego

Customers` Favorites

Broiled Pork Chops with Applesauce
Filet Mignon with Baked Potatoe
Ribeye Steak with Mushrooms
Side Salad and Garlic Bread
Dinner Salad w Garlic Toast
Steak and Lobster Tail
Irish Cream Cheesecake
Classic Caesar Salad
Petite Filet Mignon
1 2 lb Hamburger

“Excellent food. Atmosphere was fun and a bit positive quirky blast from the past ol' time steakhouses. Enjoyed the experience and the people. Will put the Red Fox on our to do list for dinner each time for our trips now that we have regular meetings to San Diego.“

4.3 Superb112 Reviews
Nite Owl Cocktail Lounge Lounges • $
2772 Garnet Ave, San Diego

“My wife and I had to pull into their parking lot with a blown rear tire around 8:30 one night. We were driving to SD from Oakland in the pouring rain when the tire blew and completely shredded. A group of guys from the bar offered to help us get back on the road. I went in to let the the bar keeper know what was going on. "No problem, let us know if there's anything we can do to help", was her reply. Helpful staff and helpful patrons. It made a bad situation a positive experience.“

4.7 Superb35 Reviews
Star Bar Bar • $
423 E St, San Diego

Customers` Favorites

Chicharron Taco and Cauliflower Taco
Budweiser Bottle

“Hi Star! I'm Bob Kelly, Back in 1988-91, I worked there as a doorman. I knew your Dad, Lloyd Thompson. Great guy, a legend in downtown San Diego. Big, "John Wayne type" guy! Good businessman. He kept the beer & booze prices low & he reminded folks, "This ain't no Fightin bar!" He was full of stories of the past & loved to meet new, younger customers. I miss him!I came back in 2018...saw VietnameseLonnie at the small bar on left side...Glad your still in business...TheOrient bar is closed on F Street.I'll try & drop in soon, I live in Las Vegas & Philippines now. I'm retired (72) yrs old. Healthy & still sitting high in the saddle! Take care & don't ever forget your Dad. He was a Winner! ??“

4.3 Superb75 Reviews

7
Casbah

Casbah Dive Bar • $
2501 Kettner Blvd, San Diego

“My favorite music venue ever. I don't drink so the booze selection doesn't matter. I am there for the music. Here is a short list of the reason why I love this place.The sound.It is really loud.The booking person has a great taste in music.The ticket prices are always reasonable.The allow you to leave and renter the venue.It's really loud.The security guards keep the place under control.21+ only admitted.Great location by downtown but with a much cheaper parking situation.Local musicians are always hanging out there.It is really loud.They sell earplugs at both bars.It is really loud.You get to see you favorite band and be, at most, only 20ft away from the stage.It is really freaking lous in there!!!!!“

4.5 Superb59 Reviews
Sidecar Bar Bar • $$
1310 Morena Blvd, San Diego

“A fresh take on gourmet donuts. Vegan donuts are excellent, even if you do not have diet restrictions. I have been to this place for years and am glad to see seasonal items popping up now and then. Service is quick, and there is a friendly staff--the fantastic smell of donuts inside the store. The area does not have a lot of seating, but Paseo One has enough seating area you just have to find a spot. Great place for sweet“

4.5 Superb58 Reviews
Live Wire Bar • $
2103 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego

“Live Wire is a hidden gem tucked away in the neighborhood, and if you're into the laidback, dark, and grungy dive bar vibe, this place is a must-visit. One of the things that struck me immediately was the ambiance – it's unpretentious, cozy, and gives off that perfect dive bar feel. The heavy pours here are legendary, and what's even better is that it won't break the bank. This place is one of the few in the area where you can actually enjoy your drinks without feeling like your wallet's on a diet.One thing that sets Live Wire apart is that it's an affordable neighborhood bar that doesn't discriminate against cashless folks – a rarity these days. It's a small space but always filled with a fun-loving crowd, and the music they play adds to the lively environment. Plus, the fact that it's right next to Luigi's pizza is a double win. Live Wire is a fantastic place to hang out, whether you're unwinding after a long day or looking for a low-key night out. If you're in the neighborhood, I'd definitely recommend swinging by for a drink or two – or three. Cheers!“

4.4 Superb33 Reviews
CJ's Club Bar • $
222 W Washington St, San Diego

“If youre looking for your next favorite bar, please look no further. Cjs is one of my favorite places to be, with the best bartenders, cheapest drinks, and best vibes. Music, tvs, sports, trivia, etc. Love living in the neighborhood bc CJ's brings everyone together w its inclusiveness. Next to great restaurants and located in a beautiful part of town.“

4.6 Superb17 Reviews
The High Dive Bar & Grill • $
1801 Morena Blvd, San Diego

Customers` Favorites

Giant Bavarian Pretzel
Damn Good Gravy Fries
Mac and Cheese Balls
French Fries
Sandwiches
French Dip
Chili

“Visiting San Diego this past weekend and meeting up with my long time friend. He recommended this place cause it was on the way to the airport. Place gives you definite dive bar vibes in a Cheers settings. Place was filled with locals enjoying a San Diego morning. Got there early and our waitress greeted me quickly and took my drink order as I was waiting for my friend. Ordered the moco loco breakfast-food came out hot and was very tasty. Got the chance to catch up with my friend and noticed how busy the place got but the patrons were greeted quickly and lead to a place to sit. Have lived in CA my whole life - driven past this place but never tried it. It is truly a great local place and will make a point to visit again.“

4.4 Superb96 Reviews
Nunu's Tavern Cocktail Bar • $$
3537 Fifth Ave, San Diego

Customers` Favorites

Bowl of Homemade Chili
Mozzarella Sticks
Grilled Cheese
Yard Bird Club
Onion Rings
Nunu's Wings
Fried Egg
Fries

“Drink and eat here! Nunu’s has good food (patty melt), great service (Jeremiah) and a comfy vibe.We are in San Diego for a month and are walking the neighborhood to find places to eat drink and to socialize. Nunu’s does not disappoint! We had the sneaky Tiki and my go to Rum&Coke. We will be back to try the Hemingway daiquiri and the Mezcal Collins. I needed beer sponge before having another drink. The patty melt was perfectly cooked and had the right ratio of onions and cheese. The Rye bread was buttered and toasted. The chef made it so that every bite was a perfect bite. I did not need to move any of the ingredients around, It was lovely.“

4.5 Superb44 Reviews
Chee-Chee Club Cocktail Bar • $
929 Broadway, San Diego

“A group of us came here as we waited for others to arrive in the area for dinner. We each got a mixed drink. Total was $20 which isn't too bad. Forewarning the place is CASH ONLY. There is an ATM machine in there. There is also two pool tables and art on the wall that can be purchased. Overall, is a chill spot.“

4.5 Superb18 Reviews
Gilly's House of Cocktails Bar • $
2306 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego

Customers` Favorites

Grab a Gilly's Lager at Gilly's
Bud Light

“The staff is fantastic, the pool was free and the drinks are original and priced right!Parking: I was informed the tow truck doesn’t check the Arco parking lot abutting Gilly’s building until 7:pm. I’ve parked there often to do work and never any problems. Always blaze before 7pm!“

4.2 Good66 Reviews
Champ's Lounge Cocktail Bar • $
3050 Clairemont Dr, San Diego

“I visited Champs last Sunday with my Sister- in- law as we were waitng for a local restaurant to open. We were pleasantly surprised to find a clean bar that did not smell like cigarette smoke. Most bars in San Diego reek like that. This bar is clean, well stocked, and the bartender Ryan was a sweetie. Easy on the eyes and very friendly. Love this place. They have pool tables and dart games. And the prices are great! It was my B-day so got a free Bloody Mary. Will def come back here.The locals in here were fun to talk to.“

4.7 Superb16 Reviews
Channel 2 Sports Bar Sports Bar • $
3232 Greyling Dr, San Diego

Customers` Favorites

Just Had One Drunk Left

“I wasn't aware they had food but the drinks were well made. The staff was super sweet and the music/ambience was fun. Everyone seemed to be in a great mood. No drama. Just relaxed vibe and good people. We will definitely be back to visit again soon.“

4.5 Superb28 Reviews
The Tilted Stick Bar & Grill Bar & Grill • $
4970 Voltaire St, San Diego

Customers` Favorites

Cheeseburger with Fries
Bacon Cheeseburger
Chicken Wings

“You will love this dive bar. Great food (in particular wings, fish tacos, burger special) In fact I'd say this bar has oddly delicious bar food. Also friendly cool bartenders and best prices around. Cold beer and no bullshit. The crowd can look freaky but they're all secretly nice people and friendly. This has been my favorite bar for years, even when I lived in 92109 and 92103. Outdoor and indoor seating, dogs okay and kids okay til 8 pm. Def the best dive bar in OB and one of my all time favorite bars for life.“

4.4 Superb49 Reviews
ATM Machine at Side Car Dive Bar •
1310 Morena Blvd, San Diego

“A fresh take on gourmet donuts. Vegan donuts are excellent, even if you do not have diet restrictions. I have been to this place for years and am glad to see seasonal items popping up now and then. Service is quick, and there is a friendly staff--the fantastic smell of donuts inside the store. The area does not have a lot of seating, but Paseo One has enough seating area you just have to find a spot. Great place for sweet“

4.5 Superb17 Reviews
Cricket's Pub Bar • $
3339 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego

“This is not a place for a 5 star anything. It is an absolute dive which I absolute LOVE. Gritty and grimy with stiff drinks and RAD bartenders! They do have food something depending on the day and it hits the spot. Dart board, pool tables and such! Highly recommend for a chill night out. Ask for Chris or Logan!“

4.7 Superb9 Reviews
Peter D's Dive Bar • $
5149 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, San Diego

“We only had a bag of chips, but the service was the best. Had a mom and pop feel. The bartender was the best we've had in a looooong time. He comes equiped with the best jokes. We came into town for the weekend and so glad we stopped by this lil bar. The other patrons were extremely friendly. If you're in town make a point to stop by.“

4.3 Superb39 Reviews
Tivoli Bar and Grill Bar & Grill • $
505 Sixth Ave, San Diego

Customers` Favorites

Cheeseburger

“Our bartender really wanted to find drinks we would enjoy. She made me a wonderful drink called the white girl which I am and it was delicious. This is the oldest bar in san diego. Check it out beautiful bar back and lots of memorabilia. Walk onto history and just soak up all those who came before you.“

4.3 Superb35 Reviews
Stadium Club Bar • $$
6065 Fairmount Ave, San Diego

“The Victory Kitchen is a wonderful addition to the bar. I've had about 10 different items here and all are a 10 out of 10 for me. The pozole is delicious!! Victor really cares about the food quality!The bar has pool tables a couple classic video games and Golden tee! Wish they would update it. Homer and Tommy are super cool bartenders and the prices for drinks are fair!! i highly recommend it if you like dive bars as i do!!“

4.2 Good50 Reviews
West End Bar • $
5157 La Jolla Blvd, San Diego

“Gr8 place to hang out, chill out, shoot some schtick, talk to some beautiful babes. They have a burger person stop by on occasion to offer up some scrumptious burgers at a reasonable price. All staff is chill, friendly and helpful. They got a jukebox to help pass the time and a good selection of beer & tequila. Cruise by and say hey“

4.2 Good44 Reviews

24
Alibi

Alibi Cocktail Bar • $
1403 University Ave, San Diego

Customers` Favorites

I Need a Drink Rochelle

“An oldie but goodie. They only accept cash, but they have an ATM inside. I like coming here to play pool and drink pear cider ? they have a few games to play, a long bar, a couple booths inside, and now an outside patio space. Not much to look at. This is where you bring old friends you actually like to hang out with.“

4.2 Good42 Reviews
The Lancers Bar • $
4671 Park Blvd, San Diego

Customers` Favorites

Pliney

“Best dive bar in San Diego if you're looking for a real dive bar. Its cash only but the ATM fee is only $1.25 not too bad. Two pool tables available at $0.50 a game which is totally reasonable. (only downside is the sticks are very old, broken, and dirty). Bartenders are always friendly and nice and attentive even on busy nights! I wish they had more tequila options. Restrooms are ALWAYS clean! Love this place!“

4 Good35 Reviews
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