Top 10 Cocktail Bars in San Diego
Explore the Hidden Cocktail Gems of San Diego
As the summer sun shines, San Diego's secret bars offer a refreshing escape. Dive into a secret garden, relax in a 1920s Japanese-style bar hidden in an East Village café, or enjoy the sunshine on a rooftop terrace with the freshest martini in town. Discover Eater's constantly updated Cocktail Map to showcase new openings and exciting menu updates that have the city buzzing.
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Cocktail Bar #1 - Frankie's
Address: 406 Pier View Way, Oceanside, CA 92054
Phone: +1 442-266-2270
Website: frankiesoceanside.com
Budget: €€
Frankie's, run by talented local bartender Leigh Lacap, has become a favorite among Oceanside locals and San Diego's hospitality industry. Their latest innovation is the "What's your Type?" cocktail collection, which redefines Comic Sans (a sort of Long Island iced tea) and Papyrus (a fruit-infused gin) in a cool way. The friendly ambiance and impeccable service make this bar a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts.
Cocktail Bar #2 - Campfire
Address: 2725 State St, Carlsbad, CA 92008
Phone: +1 760-637-5121
Website: Visit website
Budget: €€
The summer cocktail menu, under the direction of beverage director Andrew Cordero, celebrates the lighter side of life. Campfire elements are still present in new cocktails such as Good Fortune, made with tequila, smoked raspberries, grapefruit, and tarragon. The rustic ambiance and warm atmosphere add a unique touch to each visit.
Cocktail Bar #3 - Masters Kitchen and Cocktail
Address: 208 S Coast Hwy, Oceanside, CA 92054, United States
Phone: +1 760-231-6278
Website: mastersoceanside.com
Budget: €€
This family-friendly and cozy space is filled with games and offers a rum-focused drink menu, with cocktails like the "hurricane slushy" and the "Guapo" made with mezcal and Belize rum with almond and lime. The relaxed ambiance and playful setting make it an ideal place to spend time with family or friends.
Cocktail Bar #4 - Marisi
Address: 1044 Wall St, La Jolla, CA 92037
Phone: +1 858-401-6787
Website: marisilajolla.com
Budget: €€
Marisi brings the flavors of the Amalfi Coast to San Diego. Bar and Spirits Vice President Beau du Bois offers a menu of classic cocktails made with unexpected techniques. Each drink is a sensory experience that transports guests straight to Italy.
Cocktail Bar #5 - Realm Of The 52 Remedies
Address: 4805 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
Phone: +1 619-780-6675
Website: 52remedies.com
Budget: €€
Bar director Chris Lee takes you on a journey through South Korea with their summer cocktail menu, highlighting specific cities and unique flavors. A true journey for your taste buds, each cocktail is an exploration of Korean culinary traditions with a modern twist.
Cocktail Bar #6 - Paradisaea
Address: 5680 La Jolla Blvd, San Diego, CA 92037
Phone: +1 858-255-8011
Website: paradisaea.com
Budget: €€
This stylish Bird Rock restaurant houses a lively cocktail bar that crafts trendy drinks like the espresso martini. Paradisaea’s version deliciously marries cold coffee liqueur, cinnamon, and smoked salt. The chic ambiance and attentive service make it a prime spot for a sophisticated evening.
Cocktail Bar #7 - The Fishery
Address: 5040 Cass St, San Diego, CA 92109
Phone: +1 858-272-9985
Website: Visit website
Budget: €€
Eddie Avila's growing cocktail program continues to impress. Known for their "milk punch," their latest oat-based version is infused with Don Fulano blanco tequila, vermouth, mango, and Sri Lankan lemongrass. The maritime ambiance and fresh ingredients add a unique dimension to every drink.
Cocktail Bar #8 - Swan Bar
Address: 2933 Adams Ave, San Diego, CA 92116
Website: Visit website
Budget: €€
Balanced cocktails like the "Little Green Valley" with garden herb-infused gin, Amontillado sherry, and mint are among the menu's highlights. The cozy ambiance and attentive service make it an ideal spot to unwind and savor refined drinks.
Cocktail Bar #9 - Wormwood’s The Secret Garden
Address: 4677 30th St, San Diego, CA 92116
Phone: +1 619-915-6706
Website: wormwoodsd.com
Budget: €€
Nestled behind a hedge wall, Wormwood's much-anticipated secret garden opens this month. In an enchanting ambiance, discover cocktails like "Old Soul" with citrus and ginger notes. The secret setting and magical atmosphere make for a unique experience not to be missed.
Cocktail Bar #10 - The Lafayette Hotel & Club
Address: 2223 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92104
Phone: +1 619-296-2101
Website: Visit website
Budget: €€
The much-anticipated Lafayette Hotel has opened, bringing with it a new wave of bars and restaurants, offering a carte drink experience. Enjoy a boozy milkshake at the 24-hour diner, a Pimm's Cup under the canopy of the Lobby Bar, or a rum in the historic ambiance of this iconic hotel.
Conclusion
Here is our selection of cocktail bars that you absolutely must try when visiting San Diego! We hope this guide will inspire you to discover these exceptional establishments and enjoy their unique atmospheres. Feel free to leave us a comment to share your experiences and discoveries. Subscribe to our newsletter to never miss our articles on the world of mixology and stay updated on all the news from Cocktail Connexion!
