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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Townsite

Cool bars

A drink in a room that has a distinct personality instead of just another generic tap list.

Based on 542 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Sound by the Sea image 1
Sound by the Sea image 2
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Repurposed retro furniture store creates a classy bar with vintage vinyl records and a unique DJ setup at its heart. The atmosphere stays relaxed and intimate with curated electronic music spun by rotating vinyl DJs. Outdoor patio offers a comfy spot for socializing while the sound system delivers an immersive listening experience.

Vintage vinyl records and classic stereo systems create a unique vibe. The bar features a DJ controller at its heart and stays open late as a third space beyond a traditional bar.

Very cool atmosphere with old school vibes creates a refreshing spot to sit, work, read, and relax. The bar features DJs spinning music adding to the cool feel.

People are saying

"The live DJs spin exclusively from vinyl records."

"This bar's vibe is all about hi-fi audio and live DJs spinning vinyl."

"It's a really cool place with a warm, inviting vibe."

Good to know

1

Sound by the Sea features a variety of artists and DJs weekly.

2

They have open deck days for locals to spin their own sets.

3

Happy hour offers great drink combos.

02
Larry's Beach Club image 1

Dive bar with two stages hosts live 80s cover bands and karaoke simultaneously, creating a lively and rowdy atmosphere. Interior features comfy high back barstools, a large bar, and a pool table, giving an old, dark, and timeless feel. Crowds mix locals and tourists who enjoy loud, fun music and energetic socializing.

A lively dive bar with two stages for karaoke and live 80s music playing on the other side. Bar seats are notably comfortable, and drinks come with a good pour.

Live music and karaoke create a lively atmosphere. The bouncers and bartender add to the cool vibe, making it a spot for good drinks, food, and conversation.

People are saying

"It's a cool dive bar with live music and karaoke."

"It's a super cool dive bar with live music and karaoke."

"This place is a cool dive bar with live music and karaoke."

Good to know

1

Karaoke is held every night, making it a popular spot for singing enthusiasts.

2

Friday nights feature a lively karaoke host, enhancing the experience.

3

There is no cover charge before 9pm, allowing for early arrivals.

03
Green Cheek Beer Co. image 1

Huge indoor and outdoor spaces include multiple bars and a large patio with secret ocean views. Atmosphere feels casual with open air seating and roomy areas that suit groups of any size. Music adds a fun vibe while the space balances a brewpub feel with a broad, welcoming setup.

A lively bar with a huge indoor and outdoor area features a second bar in the back serving cheeky cocktails. Friendly staff operate with urgency, and the giant open bar spaces shine during sunset, creating a pleasant and peaceful atmosphere outside.

Lots of space creates a cool atmosphere. Staff add to the laid-back vibe and conversations flow easily.

People are saying

"I found the beer selection to be exceptional and huge."

"The beer selection here is huge and exceptional."

"It's a cool place with lots of space."

Good to know

1

Green Cheek Beer Co. is dog-friendly, allowing pets both inside and outside.

2

The brewery does not serve food, focusing solely on craft beer.

3

Trivia night occurs every Tuesday night, making it a fun group activity.

04
Frankie's image 1

Cozy whiskey bar with brick walls and ceiling-high bookcase shelves creates a speakeasy vibe. Comfortable booths and a patio overlooking the street offer relaxed seating options. Craft cocktails feature hand-made infusions and unusual ingredients, served in great glassware.

Creative cocktails stand out with legit flavors. The interior features brick walls, ceiling-high bookcase-style shelves, and tasteful artwork, creating a lively atmosphere with friendly staff.

Unique drinks and postcards create a distinct vibe. The place feels like an old mod bar with cool aesthetics.

People are saying

"I found the cocktails here to be the best I ever had."

"The cocktails here are legit and creative."

"The aesthetics here are super cool, like an old mod bar."

Good to know

1

Happy hour at Frankie's runs on Thursdays with unique drink specials.

2

Children can sit anywhere if food is served, except at the bar.

3

Frankie's does not serve food, so plan accordingly.

05
Mission Ave Bar and Grill image 1
American restaurant

Open air concept with patio seating and earthy decor creates a relaxed vibe. Live music and a dog-friendly bar add energy and community feel. Known for an exceptional whiskey selection and craft cocktails, it draws a crowd that appreciates quality drinks and good food.

Strong focus on friendly bartenders creates a welcoming atmosphere. The bar offers a solid happy hour and pairs well with excellent food options.

Cool vibes come from the acoustic live music on Fridays and the bar area that looks sharp. The bartender crafts mocktails that taste as cool as they look.

People are saying

"I found the burgers here to be delicious and cooked to order."

"I found my new happy hour spot with half-price cocktails."

"The atmosphere here is so cool and welcoming."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4 to 6pm with $5 draft beers.

2

Whiskey Wednesdays feature a special pairing event with a 15-person limit.

3

The kitchen closes 30 minutes before the bar, so plan accordingly.

06
Fat Joe’s O’side image 1

Roomy restaurant with picnic-style tables and many TVs showing sports creates a lively, sometimes rowdy atmosphere. Arcade games including classic pinball and mini bowling attract families and kids. Skilled bartenders serve affordable drinks alongside highly rated burgers and California burritos.

A family oriented sports bar with friendly bartenders who stay attentive even when busy. Offers classic burgers and bar food with fair prices and a casual, fun vibe where kids enjoy themselves.

Games include pinball and classic arcade machines that stand out. The vibe feels cool and relaxed, making it a solid spot to hang with locals over wings and beer.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the variety of arcade games and pinball machines here."

"It's a fun, casual bar with lots of games."

"The food here is pretty good and tasty."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays and Wing Wednesdays are weekly events with special menu items.

2

The menu features affordable options, with most meals under $18.

3

The place can get crowded during peak hours, so arrive early.

07
Crackheads Oceanside image 1

Outdoor seating sits on white sand with shared picnic tables around a central bar and multiple food vendors. The atmosphere is lively and family-friendly, often filled with kids running around and loud music. Lawn games, fire pits, and sunny vibes create a casual, social space for groups and families.

A bar sits alongside four food vendors in one spot, creating a casual combo. Orders happen at the bar since there is no table service, which could use clearer signage.

Outdoor venue offers a cool vibe for groups and families. It works well as a hangout spot with a relaxed atmosphere.

People are saying

"The Mexican food options here are great, like a food truck park."

"It's really kid friendly, with lots of space for them to run."

"It's a cool spot to hang out with friends or family."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6:30 PM even on Fridays.

2

You will NOT be served at your table; all orders must be placed at the bar.

3

Seating is limited, especially around sunset hour.

08
The Space Pad image 1

Speakeasy with a retro SciFi theme and intimate, small space filled with 50s style booths and interactive light shows. Atmosphere blends cozy vibes with lively, synchronized music and lighting, creating a unique destination feel. Regulars enjoy specialty cocktails and games, making it a fun, hidden gem for evening visits.

Tiki bar style creates a cozy, speak-easy vibe in a small, well-designed space. The bar fits groups easily and sits tucked behind another bar, giving it a hidden, oceanside gem feel.

A super cool speakeasy with an outer space theme greets you with a lit-up entryway. Cocktails here match the vibe with their cool flavors.

People are saying

"The vibe and entryway lighting here are super cool."

"The cocktails were delicious and unique."

"The drinks here are delicious, innovative, and fun."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating at The Space Pad.

2

Expect to pay around $18 for most cocktails on the menu.

3

The kitchen closes early, so check hours before visiting.

09
The Lobby Tiki Bar image 1

Small tiki bar with well crafted cocktails and highly themed decor creates a cozy, fun vibe. Open concept suits beach proximity, while a rooftop bar offers a lively alternative space. Music leans toward 80s, adding a modern twist to the traditional tiki atmosphere.

Strong, well-crafted cocktails define the bar, with drinks that are refreshing, sweet, and infused with fruit. A rooftop bar accessed by elevator adds a cool vibe to the experience.

The spot offers a cool ambience with a friendly crowd. It features fun drinks and cool t-shirts that add to the vibe.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is so friendly and makes amazing drinks."

"The fish tacos here are a standout, with perfectly crisp tortillas."

"The drinks here are strong, refreshing, and taste amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating and popularity.

2

A 5% service charge is added to all bills, regardless of group size.

3

The bar allows kids to sit in booths, making it family-friendly.

10
Oceanside Harbor Village image 1
Tourist attraction

Harbor village offers breathtaking ocean and marina views with a peaceful, relaxing atmosphere. Visitors engage in water activities like paddle boarding and whale watching, while dining spots provide outdoor seating with scenic vistas. The vibe suits quiet daytime visits and romantic evenings by the fire.

Bars sit close to parking and mix with shops and restaurants. Options include sports bars, dog-friendly spots, and pubs within a quaint shopping strip.

Ocean views and the overflow under the bridge create a cool backdrop. Plenty of shops and jetties offer interesting spots to explore and relax.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful harbor views and watching the boats."

"It's a beautiful and peaceful place to relax and clear your mind."

"I found a good variety of shops, bars, and restaurants."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day with great food and drink options.

2

The village often hosts events like live music and holiday displays.

3

Parking can be difficult, especially during busy times.

11
Sancho's Tacos image 1
Taco restaurant

Indoor and outdoor seating surround a space filled with colorful, edgy artwork and unique, nostalgic decor. Loud music featuring rap and metal creates a high-energy atmosphere that some find disruptive. The bar offers a variety of beers and excellent margaritas, complementing the casual, fun vibe.

Bar service includes attentive staff like Desiree. The beer selection offers a good variety to choose from.

Very cool vibe with a chipster style and excellent service. The decor and atmosphere add to the overall coolness.

People are saying

"The tacos and burritos here are excellent."

"The tacos here are delicious and totally filling."

"You can get adult beverages and tasty drinks here."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays feature half-price tacos on the first five menu items.

2

Salsa must be purchased separately; it's not included with tacos.

3

The special price for tacos is $2.50 each.

12
Haunted Head Saloon image 1

Dark, pirate-themed dive bar filled with signed dollar bills and skull decorations creates a cozy, fun vibe. Constantly changing mix of people keeps energy lively and entertaining. Features include a customizable jukebox, solid pool table, and affordable drinks that attract a diverse crowd.

Cozy dive bar with a full bar and quick bartenders serving a friendly crowd. Foosball tables add a down-to-earth vibe with a mix of locals and new faces.

A pirate theme sets a unique tone with arrrrrrgh vibes. Staff at the door and bar add to the cool atmosphere.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are phenomenal and make excellent drinks."

"It's a dark, pirate-themed dive bar with signed dollar bills everywhere."

"The bar's pirate theme and skulls make it a really cool spot."

Good to know

1

You must be 21 or older to enter as they do not serve food.

2

Drinks are cheap, with some beers a dollar off until 6 PM.

3

The bar gets packed quickly, especially during peak hours.

13
The Rooftop Bar image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop space offers 360° ocean views with a pool and hot tub overlooking the water. Atmosphere blends chill vibes with live DJ music and comfortable heated seating. It attracts people looking for scenic sunsets and a relaxed yet lively setting.

A rooftop bar offers a beautiful ocean view and a friendly bartender who shares local tips. Small plates like an inventive trio of hummus dips and standout dishes such as octopus make it a great spot to relax and share.

An incredible view and great music create a super cool atmosphere. The bar offers a cool spot overlooking the ocean, enhancing the vibe.

People are saying

"I loved the gorgeous ocean and pier views from the rooftop."

"The food and drinks here are delicious and beautifully presented."

"The view overlooking the ocean is super cool."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2 to 4 PM on weekdays with $10 glasses of wine.

2

Reservations are only accepted for parties of six or more.

3

Expect a 20% service charge for large parties, even if you have fewer than six.

14
The Surf Club Oceanside image 1
American restaurant

Open concept American restaurant with a rooftop lounge offering ocean views and live music on weekends. Atmosphere is lively and surf-themed, often loud with music and nearby traffic noise. Popular for socializing and dancing rather than quiet dining.

Rooftop bar offers great views and a lively atmosphere with live music under string lights. Staff like Shay, Irena, Devin, Anthony, and June provide personalized, professional service.

The spot has a consistently cool vibe with good drinks. Evenings feature outdoor dancing and a live band on cool nights.

People are saying

"I found this lunch spot to have delicious and flavorful food."

"The live music on the rooftop creates an electric atmosphere."

"I found the vibe here to be consistently cool."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on tacos every Tuesday.

3

The restaurant only accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted.

15
Joe's Crab Shack image 1
Seafood restaurant

Waterfront setting offers harbor views and an outdoor patio with ample seating. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting with a chill, beautiful environment. Staff engage guests with interactive activities, adding a lively touch to the experience.

Strong focus on bartender service with Ruben and Zach standing out. Appetizers and drinks at the bar get attention, making the bar area a key spot to sit.

Fun lights and surfboard decorations create a cool SoCal beach vibe inside. The view of the marina and sunsets adds a breathtaking atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and tasty."

"The bartenders here are friendly and make conversation."

"The atmosphere here is pretty cool, with a modern vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 pm.

2

The happy hour menu includes blackened fish tacos.

3

Expect a wait during busy hours, especially on weekends.

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Townsite, Oceanside

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