Fantastic Bars to Check Out when You Visit San Diego
San Diego’s bar scene has always been appealing and lively, but it also has a tendency to change over time to fit trends and preferences. Still, there are some neighborhood watering holes that tend to be regularly recommended and very much appreciated by locals and visitors alike. If a trip to San Diego is in your near future, keep reading to discover the bars you won’t want to miss, brought to you by the people who know the city best, the friendly team at Sunrise Inn San Diego, one of the top budget-friendly hotels in San Diego.
Tahona Bar
The tasty craft cocktails served here regularly earn rave reviews from patrons. Perched by the historic Campo Santo Cemetery, Tahona Bar offers palate-pleasing, uniquely flavored beverage blends complemented by an assortment of contemporary Mexican dishes.
Location: 2414 San Diego Avenue
Vino Carta
This wine shop and bar is known for giving guests access to smaller sustainable brands and an assortment of tasty brews and seasonable flavors. Even if you’re new to the wine scene, you’ll have a great time at Vino Carta. Tastings also regularly take place here, and notable winemakers stop by often, too.
Location: 2161 India Street in Little Italy
The Waverly
The short trip to nearby Cardiff, which takes about half an hour, is worth the effort to discover this highly recommended bar. It’s a refreshing beachside eatery with a cocktail menu put together by some of the top bartenders in the San Diego area. Selections offered include beer, wine, and nonalcoholic alternatives.
Location: 2005 San Elijo Avenue in nearby Cardiff, CA, in Cardiff Town Center
J & Tony’s Discount Cured Meats & Negroni Warehouse
Come here during your visit to San Diego, and you’ll find a cozy 10-seat bar where you can order savory brews and flavor-infused cocktails. Stop by from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and you’ll be treated to “tiny tinis” for just under three bucks. Right next door is a place called The Invigatorium, where you can sample caffeinated cocktails.
Location: 631 Ninth Avenue in East Village
Madison
Look for the highly visible University Heights sign to find this popular San Diego spot. While Madison specializes in Mediterranean-inspired dishes, the place is also known for its high-quality cocktails, rotating seasonal mixtures, and drink variations.
Location: 4622 Park Blvd.
Sycamore Den
If you have a thing for retro vibes, you’ll want to check out this bar during your time in San Diego. A kitschy 1970s-inspired lounge, Sycamore Den serves up a delicious mix of gimmicky and tasty cocktail blends. Happy hour deals on beer, wine, and cocktails are offered Tuesday through Sunday between 5 and 6 p.m.
Location: 3391 Adams Avenue
Realm of the 52 Remedies
If you’re willing to do a little hunting for your libations, you’ll be rewarded with creative mixed drinks and a swanky interior when you find this San Diego bar. It’s one of the city’s “hidden” speakeasies. Go to the back of Kearny Mesa’s Common Theory Public House to an area known as the Apothecary and head through an eye-catching themed passageway to find this spot. Reservations can be made ahead of your visit to ensure you get a seat.
Location: 4805 Convoy Street
Get a head start on planning your San Diego vacation by making your list of bars to visit and reserving your hotel room today at Sunrise Inn San Diego. If they’re looking for comfortable hotels near downtown San Diego, visitors will be pleasantly surprised by our affordable rates as well as our spacious rooms, exquisite harbor views, and location close to the most popular tourist attractions in America’s Finest City. Call one of our friendly staff members today at (619) 223-5544.