50 Best Bars near Santee

“The beers were good and the atmosphere was also excellent. There was a private event in the 'dance hall' so can't comment on that but those folks seemed to be having a good time.
The food options were good. I had the loaded nachos with BBQ pulled chicken. Pretty good.
I'd go again.“

“Casual, fun, good music, cool workers.“

“If you like whiskey then you gotta try Woodson Whiskey 🥃 🔥 Back home in Nor Cal, the liquor stores sell out same day it’s delivered and I can see why. My husband is a chef & uses it as a marinade… and let me tell you, it’s 🔥🔥🔥“

“The Alibi is no longer, it is now the Malt House. What a refreshing difference. From the lighting to the layout this place is fab. They have pool and shuffle board and plenty of TVs for all of the sports fans. The bartender that I met is Eric and he is a really nice guy. He is courteous, sociable and efficient, these are qualities all bartenders should have. For those of us who were not regulars of the Alibi were not treated very well by the night bartender Laura. Well, she's no longer tending bar and it's a whole new atmosphere. If you're going to Santee or even just passing through I recommend a visit to the Malt House. Oh, I almost forgot, the bathrooms and patio that were in desperate need of an overhaul were remodeled, job very well done. I will definitely be patronizing the Malt House more often.“

“Outstanding service and food was very good! Great atmosphere 😊“

“Relaxed atmosphere, and quick service. Server took and delivered my order fast, and made sure had everything I needed.“

“Fun atmosphere, fun drinks and great staff!“

“Absolutely outstanding experience at The Tower Bar! From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere was warm, stylish, and inviting. The staff were incredibly attentive and friendly, making sure everything was perfect throughout the visit. The drinks were expertly crafted—balanced, creative, and beautifully presented. The food was just as impressive, with every dish full of flavor and clearly made with care.

What really sets this place apart is the vibe—perfect for relaxing with friends or enjoying a special night out. Everything felt top-notch, from service to ambiance. I’ll definitely be coming back. Highly recommended!
★★★★★“

“All good dudes hang out at Clem’s.“

“Everything about Fernside is great!“

“We wandered into Coin Haus during the Oktoberfest and were thrilled we did so. It has a great business model where you fill your own cups. Since I really enjoy the variety of different drinks this was exactly what I wanted but didn’t know existed. I spent probably 30 minutes working my way around the different beverages. Plus there are super fun arcade games on the perimeter that use the same payment system, so it’s a one stop shop.

Big fan and I can’t wait to come back in a bit to try their new seasonal flavors.“

“Favorite college neighborhood bar. Their natural wine selection is always on point as well as their beer selection. Food is delicious. I love that they always have seasonal menu items depending on what’s in season. Pool is free, AC kicks butt, and they have a great outdoor space if you ever did have a larger group. Dogs are also allowed which is nice if we ever wanna bring our pup.“

“Great aloha vibe, cocktail selection and live music. Perfect spot to chill with friends.“

“What a great place!! We stumbled across this place when we were out to dinner. The staff is friendly and kind. The owner Deano does all the work with the awesome bands they host on the weekends. From Country to hard rock. We haven’t heard one band we haven’t loved. If your looking for a great bar with great music this is the place. Everyone is welcome in this bar. Great atmosphere and you can even order food and eat while while you listen to fantastic music or play pool and watch sports. This is a true fabulous neighborhood bar. Come And enjoy. Char and Mark Handy“

“Music 4-5 nights a week!“

“First time going here! I was skeptical at first because it’s a bit smaller than i’d like, but it turns out its a lot of fun and not as intimidating as the bigger places and $7 for 1 good sized beer, that’s a good deal! I will be returning soon, so much fun and they play plenty of todays hits and songs I know how to dance to, also no cover charge on Wednesdays!!“

“I stepped in here looking for a friend, and the place was packed. It was loud and there was a happy vibe. Lots of folks having a good time and more people showing up as I left. I've never been here before, but the crowd suggests they're doing something well.“

“great Club to play music at. Friendly staff and patronage“

“good place to eat and relax“

“5 out of 5 for stars.... best hidden gem in San Diego“

“🙂👍 Manny's an awesome bartender!“

“A local fav! Laidback friendly atmosphere.“

“THANK YOU CINDY ❤️I won $466 in my first try gambling. Good luck to anyone returning or first visiting. I passed by here while getting my cars windows tinted and I would never regret the comfy environment they introduced me in.Served the special they had on the board and beers I was happy with entering and leaving.The taco shop next door served me rolled tacos fast so If your hungry that’s ++Chill served liquor is available. Games like Pool and table tennis or ping pong are at the ready with regulars. A lot of hugs I notice.Small but cozy with food on the side ~Zen“

“Laidback, good wine and friendly“

“Great little dive bar with awesome live music and reasonably priced drinks. Friendly staff and dedicated owner who has improved the place continually since he bought it.“

“This is my kind of place! It's cozy, the person at the door and the bartenders were friendly and welcoming, the beers were *reasonably priced*. There were a couple of street taco vendors outside, where we had some delicious tacos during the band's break (just enough room in front of the stage to dance!). I'll be back, for sure park nearby, in a well-lighted area and have someone walk you to your car when you leave. Better yet, rideshare. The area can be sketch. Just saying. Besides, the money you save on the drinks will more than pay for your Lyft or Uber.“

“great service.....small crowds. the best part is that they have a fuzzball table. whatever you do, do not do not play against Ms. Tracy Osborn. The women will take your soul! great bar“

“Visiting this fest in particular was a first for me. I thought they did a good job about having variety among vendors. It would be nice to see more authentic oktoberfest food options, although I'm new to CA so- not sure if that cuisine is here or not. Great Brat/Sausage varieties and a couple pretzel spots. That was the most I saw within Bavarian cuisine though.

Could also use some seating or public restroom Options outside of the ticketed Beirgarten areas. Overall a nice visit though.“

“Great little tavern in South Park. Nice area, amazing old school vibe. Friendly staff, reasonable drink prices. Good music!“

“Didn't eat so hard to rate but anywhere willing to have a kitchen behind the bar has gotta be pretty cool .
Drinks wre amazing. Duno what brand of champagne they had but it was the BEST champagne I've EVER had.
10/10“

“I love coming to Grover's Tavern to grab an Ice cold $10 mini pitcher of space dust or modelo, when the beautiful bartender Ruby is working.On Friday Night's & Sunday afternoon's She is a whole vibe. Her happy, positive energy is contagious & unforgettable. What a wonderful time it is when Ruby is serving her specialty drinks while providing amazing spectacular hospitality. She is pure Gold. Ruby Keep shining bright like a diamond ?“

“Cool fun little quaint corner bar in the central normal heights section. Bartenders are receptive and friendly. Lively crowd and there are occasions where they host a DJ which is always fun. Located within a block radius of other bars nearby so a perfect spot to start or end a bar crawl with friends.“

“If you’re looking for a spot with great vibes, good people, and live music, Poway Irish Pub is the place to be. I’ve been coming here every weekend, and it never disappoints. The live bands always bring energy, the pool tables keep things fun, and it’s super easy to meet and socialize with genuinely cool people.

It’s one of those rare places where you can just relax, enjoy the music, play a few games, and feel right at home.
Definitely my go to weekend spot, highly recommend checking it out!“

“disclaimer, this is a bathroom review, line was short, bathroom was clean, plenty of soap, toilet covers and paper towels, toilet paper. Very colorful graffiti, lots of character in this bathroom. Overall fun and safe vibes, and the bathroom itself is pretty quiet if you even just need a little moment of peace✨️
would definitely come back to hang out with a drink. really lively, everyone seems like they're having a good time, people playing pool and being outgoing.“

“Been going to Kelly's for a few years now and mad a few friends here. The ladies behind the bar are all friendly, gorgeous and good people. I never have an empty glass when at Kelly's and prices are affordable.

Kelly's has fresh popcorn but doesn't serve food. There is a Mexican Take-out next door though if you get hungry.

-Tiny-“

“This place is like Cheers. So many fun games to play as well“

“Good people and great location. The owner is great . Definitely recommended“

“Great dive bar, easy access off and on the freeway and a great oasis on the way to magnolia to see a concert Friendly staff as well as the patrons“

“I love their chicken wings mostly, with buffalo sauce. Other recommendations include their mac n cheese, chicken alfredo, and loaded fries.“

“Although service is slow and you need plenty of patience. They only have one bartender at a time She's awfully busy and never stops. The She's great at what she does. never misses a beat. I like that she cleans my glass before she serves my wine.“

“Lived in San Diego for decades. Rarely went out but always passed Chicos. Finally went there. Just found a neighborhood watering hole. Met a nice regular, a chef from the Grant. Bartender was great. Using the website, he made the unique frappe I asked for. Next it was beer for me. The selection was good and prices more than competitive. There are several pool tables and the Padre game was on the biggest screen. We'll be going back.“

“Was ORIGINALLY disappointed because they didn't serve liquor. HOWEVER, they do have wine and 'sporty bombs', which were actually pretty tasty (shot of sake and cider). Otherwise, have domestics on draft plus a few IPA varieties (Elysian 'Spacedust' and Sculpin in bottle). The two pool tables are clean ($.75/game) and even. Although the place puts 'dive' in dive bar, the atmosphere was pretty cool! Good conversation with the other patrons there and the jukebox selection was a good variety. Look... it is not your typical downtown or PB location, but since I only live“

“I Came Here For Fundraiser Benefit For My Family Member Gabe Garza. We Appreciate The Love And Kindness From This Awesome Little Bar In Lemon Grove. I Definitely Can See Why Gabe Loved This Joint. Oh Yeah The Bar Tenders Are Hard Working & Very Kind. I Seriously Like How You Feel Welcomed Her. I Definitely Recommend This Place.“

“Why Pete’s Place is My Favorite Spot!
The drinks are always tasty and served insanely fast! Jesse is hands down my favorite bartender: incredible bartender with the best personality! Michelle is an absolute angel. I’m so grateful to be so close to the best bar in LaMesa !!“

“My friend and I were looking for a bar and grill in El Cajon the other day and came across this place and I'm so glad we did! Food was so delicious, drinks were nice and cold AND they have a great happy hour selection! Definitely going back!“

“Fun af. Partner went in. We’re gay. Really welcoming straight pool bar. Won 2. Lost 1. lol. For all you straight dudes…. Couple hot women. Nothing Special. Not a hook up bar. Have gone back several times. Clean. Parking great. Fair prices. Amazing pool players. Check it out.“

“Yi Sushi Review

Today I stopped in at Yi Sushi for a quick bite and ended up staying for an experience! I was greeted by a young lady with such a kind spirit, which set the tone for the visit.

They had plenty of specials and happy hour deals that immediately caught my attention. The Shrimp Consomé soup intrigued me right away, and there was also a Salmon Kama special that sounded amazing. I had originally planned to get my food to go, but since the salmon was dine‑in only, I decided to stay—and I’m so glad I did!

I sat at the sushi bar, where the chef served each dish directly to me, fresh from his hands. Let me tell you, that Shrimp Consomé soup was chef’s kiss! The flavor, the texture, and the crunch of the patty with the green onions on top—it was absolutely perfect. I could have easily gone for a second bowl.

Next came the Unagi, served as a pair. Fresh, rich, and so satisfying. Then came the star of the night: the Salmon Kama. I didn’t know what to expect, but it did not disappoint! The salmon was grilled to absolute perfection—tender on the inside with just the right amount of char. Honestly, all it was missing was a side of rice, which I’ll make sure to order next time.

I was so full by this point that I had my Crunch Roll packed to go. But before I left, I couldn’t resist trying a piece of Yellowtail tuna. It was exquisite—soft, delicate, flavorful, and not fishy at all. That’s definitely on my list for my next visit!

Special shoutout to my server, Anne, who was an absolute darling—kind, attentive, and made the whole experience even better.

I came for a quick sushi stop, but Yi Sushi turned it into a memorable meal. I’ll definitely be back!“

“1st time here to watch Monday Night football and I'd definitely return.

Spacious, with roll up doors between the patio and inside makes for a chill vibe. There's a DJ booth but no DJ when I was there. I saw another space in the rear with tables and chairs that had a bar too. Women's bathroom was large and clean-yay!

Happy hour drinks were interesting and tasty but the apps for happy hour didn't appeal. No beers on tap and the Sculpin I ordered came in a can. No beer mug was offered and I had to ask the waitress for a glass. She gave me a brandy glass, so my beer could get warmer faster?

The Honey Bee drink is a good choice with the edible flower garnish. What the server called their spicy drink had little to no heat. I had the Chicken pesto Flatbread and it didn't disappoint. The liberal toppings made it more like a pizza I had to fold to eat. 10/10

It's in the Normal Heights neighborhood so the parking is minimal depending on what time you go.“

“I really want to absolutely love this place but I’ve come in twice during karaoke and had to leave due to headaches caused by the sound system being way too loud or not mixed well for higher harsher tones. Never left a review like this but hoping it helps. I want to come back and not have to leave because my head hurts. Hope you guys can figure out the sound a little better. Love the place though!“

“es un buen lugar para comer rico y es divertido“