The Best Cocktail Bars in San Diego

 

While San Diego is most known in the bar world for its brewery and craft beer scene, nightlife aficionados know that there’s also a draw for delicious cocktails at the city’s best bars and lounges. The ocean breeze adds to the atmosphere at bars with rooftop views, while hideaway hot spots make for the perfect intimate evening. These best cocktail bars in San Diego, each with their own delicious drinks, will have you buzzed and satisfied in any of San Diego’s many neighborhoods.

For an upscale escape into a cozy modern space, Madison is the perfect date night. Their menu uses quality ingredients and spirits to complement the sleek, wooden design.

The ‘70s feeling is strong at this Normal Heights bar. The youthful clientele appreciate the throwback stone and panels that line the walls as they sip the selection of craft cocktails.

This James Beard-nominated bar has a staff that acts more like medicine men than bartenders. Their drug store-inspired drinks will heal all your ailments with a touch of style.

This impressive space, inspired by San Diego’s founding father William Kettner, provides the perfect place for libations no matter your mood. Take a seat indoors or mingle at the outdoor patio bar for an energetic escape.

Just like its Los Angeles and Austin counterparts, Seven Grand offers up an extensive whiskey collection. Test out the variety of unique flavors in the classic, dimly lit hideaway.

Tucked inside the beloved Craft & Commerce bar is a festive tiki escape. Tropical rum drinks will have you feeling a buzz amongst their island-inspired décor.

This eclectic destination mixes edgy gothic elements with a vegan food menu to create a quirky getaway. Their creative cocktails will be the cherry on top when you take in this one-of-a-kind hot spot.

The ever-thriving Little Italy neighborhood gets help from the chic style of Herb & Wood. Their herb-induced cocktails make for a refreshing touch as you lounge amidst the trendy crowd.

Breweries are a popular hangout, but You & Yours makes distilleries worth visiting with a world-class cocktail program. The female-run company uses their flagship vodka and gin to mix up a memorable experience.

This speakeasy destination in the Gaslamp District keeps things hushed, hidden in the back of Neighborhood restaurant. The detail-oriented drinks are sure to impress as talented bartenders show off their skills of the trade.