Possibly the most hipster upscale bar in Little Italy, this dark and stylish gastropub, with its library of books lining the walls, aesthetically pleasing taxidermy, and the faintest aroma of rich mahogany in the air, was ostensibly built with only the most sophisticated bar-goers in mind. Their smorgasbord of small plates-with vegetarian and gluten-free options-is sure to delight all foodies. Just ask to see their many awards, including Best Mediterranean in San Diego. Three floors, including a mezzanine, overlooks the entire Greek experience.Įven more restaurant than bar, there is no shortage of flavor in this open-air, high walled sanctum. Belly Dancers and Fire Dancers roam the floor, and the whole crew yell “OPA” every time their signature Saganaki is lit on fire at tableside. Visit on a weekend, and the entertainment is hotter than a goat in a pepper patch. Remove, for a second, the fact that the staff is extremely attractive (think Greek gods and goddesses). Though it’s hard to go wrong with Gaslamp bars, this venue is on fire. Make sure you try The Tranquilizer, made with smooth Mount Gay Black Barrel Rum. Man buns are all the rage here, and the staff all look as though they may or may not be heading to an Oregon campground after their shift.
The bartenders definitely didn’t miss the camping memo.
The ambiance and lounge-type feel create a certain intimacy, but the massive fire pit and the retractable ceiling, making it possible to have drinks under the stars, is what makes Shelter a delightful, camp-like experience. If you’re looking for a little northern enjoyment, Shelter, at the heart of Encinitas, is where it’s at. When it comes to the food, we must say, friends don’t let friends leave this establishment without trying the Kimchi Fried Rice and Okonomiyaki Fries.ĭon’t forget to call for a reservation if you want to reserve a spot at this exotic oasis, they book up fast! However, they mix it up with the ever-so-fun Tipsy Tentacle, a tropical drink with a smiling banana on top. Their menu is laced with classic 80s beach drinks such as Sex on the Beach and the ever-so-classic Mudslide. Don’t be surprised if a couple of folks give you the “hang ten” hand gesture as you walk in. From the minute you step inside, you forget that the mundane exists. Workaholics be warned, everyone here is in total vacation mode.
If False Idol gives you a taste of the island, The Grass Skirt, located in Pacific Beach, is the island. Throw in a handful of friendly cocktail staff, some spacious communal table seating, and a breathtaking panoramic view of the beach, and we’re in business. Their menu is inspired by East and West Coast Baja cuisines and all of their food, including the fish and chips, is seaside fresh. Local microbrews, a diverse wine list, and craft cocktails served in fish bowls is just a portion is what Waterbar has to offer. Sit along the oceanfront boardwalk and watch the waves roll in at this beautiful five-star bar. This classy surf bar is new to the Pacific Beach neighborhood and is exactly what it sounds like. In fact, in keeping with the sharing theme, there is a “buy a bird a beer” option on the menu, where a portion of your beer tab goes directly to the San Dieguito River Valley Conservancy-a cause we can get behind. The tables, both inside and outside, are communal and is just their way of bringing the community together. Every food item on their menu pairs perfectly with one of their craft beers and they are eager to find the pair that is best for you. Viewpoint is Del Mar’s first brewery, and it’s evident in the way they know their beer and in their commitment to your taste buds. We promise you this is the most serene feeling you’ll have all week. Sit on the gorgeous deck, overlooking the San Dieguito Lagoon, and watch the sunset fall over the ocean while enjoying a drink or two. This huge Del Mar brewery is all about the beautiful setting. Having so many different options means that choosing one can be burdensome, which is why we’ve made things easy for you by rounding up the 10 trendiest bars you absolutely need to consider while in San Diego. Make sure you have a local to give you a San Diego tour, otherwise here are our recommended best bars in San Diego to visit. From a traditional gaslamp lounge to highly acclaimed new bars in San Diego, there certainly is no lack of excitement. Ask any of the locals where to find a drink and they will regale you with a detailed list of the latest additions to the bar scene and claim that you must visit them all, a feat that not even the most outgoing of us can accomplish.