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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in San Clemente

Bars

A quiet corner at a bar is the only place to decompress after a long day.

Based on 592 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Big Helyn's Saloon image 1
Big Helyn's Saloon image 2
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Dive bar with a laid back atmosphere and coastal vibe draws colorful locals. Offers cold beer and standout Bloody Marys on Sundays. Drinks are better made and cheaper than nearby bars, making it a solid local spot with views of the western skyline.

Offers a dive bar vibe with a coastal atmosphere. Drinks come better made and cheaper than nearby bars, making it a solid local spot.

People are saying

"It's a great little local bar."

"The staff and regulars here are super cool and friendly."

"This is a nice local spot."

Good to know

1

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

2

Karaoke night is every Wednesday at 9pm with no cover charge.

3

Cash only for bar tabs; ATMs are available on-site.

02
Knuckleheads Sports Bar image 1

Traditional roadhouse dive bar with a raw atmosphere and live jazz and rock music. Locals and hipsters enjoy the dog-friendly patio and casual vibe. Drinks are cheap, served by friendly staff, making it a great spot for a relaxed night out.

A dive bar atmosphere sets the tone with friendly staff and live music creating a casual, welcoming vibe. Drinks come cheap, making it a solid spot for a quick drink or a relaxed night out.

People are saying

"It's a great dive bar with a fun atmosphere."

"Michael at the Bar made the night unforgettable with his welcoming vibe."

"The live music creates a wonderful, chill atmosphere."

Good to know

1

The venue is small with limited parking options.

2

Dogs are allowed on the patio or inside.

3

Food options are expected to be available soon.

03
Mulligans image 1
Sports bar

Dive bar offers a classic Irish vibe with free pool on six tables and a lively, local feel. Multiple TVs and a back patio create a sports-focused atmosphere with good music and casual energy. Burgers and solid bar fare pair well with friendly service and live bands.

Classic dive bar vibe with live bands and good taps sets the scene. Food includes burgers and other solid bar fare, paired with friendly service at the bar.

People are saying

"This dive bar has unexpectedly great food and drinks."

"They had a wide selection of beer, served nice and cold."

"It's a sweet place with fun people and hassle-free fun."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times on weekend nights due to crowding.

2

Dogs are allowed inside and outside the venue.

3

Taco Tuesday offers great deals on food.

04
The lost Inferno image 1

Small, cozy bar offers Goonies-themed tiki decor and a hidden entrance for a fun, immersive vibe. Cocktails highlight tropical and smoky mezcal flavors served in custom tiki mugs. Seating is tight with stools that may feel uncomfortable.

A Goonies-themed tiki bar with a hidden entrance creates a movie set vibe. The atmosphere is dark and moody, offering pure escapism with a fun, well-themed experience.

People are saying

"This tiki bar's moody, immersive vibe feels like another world."

"This place is so cool with its awesome Goonies-themed decor."

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, was fantastic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended to secure a spot, especially for groups over four.

2

The venue is 21+ and only serves drinks; no food is available.

3

Parking can be difficult; street parking is the best option.

05
Riviera Restaurant & Bar image 1
American restaurant

Modern design and comfy seating create a chill but elegant atmosphere with awesome music enhancing the vibe. Enjoy signature cocktails at this hidden gem bar with impeccable service. Perfect for gatherings, it feels like a local's secret spot to meet and unwind.

A hidden gem bar with excellent signature cocktails and impeccable service. It feels like a local's secret spot for drinks and bites.

People are saying

"I loved the homemade breakfast burrito and chips."

"The shrimp during Happy Hour was the best I've ever had."

"I found this bar to be a total hidden gem."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.

3

The restaurant offers a bottomless mimosa deal during brunch hours.

06
RลŒM Beer Co. image 1

Cozy brewery taproom offers a chill vibe with award-winning lagers and West Coast IPAs. Live guitar music and games create a fun, relaxed space. Bar feels like an Australian pub with a friendly bartender.

Bar resembles an Australian pub with a good vibe. Bartender is very nice.

People are saying

"The beer here is delicious and refreshing."

"The staff at this brewery are super friendly."

"The beer selection here is diverse and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays, attracting local business folks and families.

2

The brewery hosts events like car shows and live music every few weeks.

3

Parking is available in the private lot out front, especially busy around 6pm.

07
Jane image 1
Cocktail bar

Art deco style creates an intimate, moody vibe with dim lighting and cozy design. Craft cocktails bring creative flavors but bar manager changes affect consistency. Music stays low, perfect for easy conversation in a relaxed, speakeasy lounge.

Craft cocktails shape the bar's vibe with a lounge feel. Frequent bar manager turnover affects consistency. It closes earlier than typical bars.

People are saying

"The drinks here are dangerously good and sippable."

"It's a cool vibe with dim lighting and a cozy, elevated atmosphere."

"The cocktails here are fantastic and handcrafted with care."

Good to know

1

Reservations can be made via Google Assist, but it's often unreliable.

2

Cocktail specials are available on certain days of the week.

3

Prices are on the higher side, so budget accordingly.

08
Los Molinos Beer image 1

Brewery offers a cozy beer hall vibe with shaded outdoor seating perfect for families and dogs. Nitro pub ale tastes very smooth and bartenders are friendly. Live music and surf videos create a vibrant atmosphere welcoming locals and travelers.

Nitro pub ale pours very smooth. Friendly bartenders greet with big smiles. Plenty of shaded outdoor seating and cozy indoor spots near the bar.

People are saying

"I loved the perfectly crafted beer here."

"You have to try the birria egg rolls; they're a standout."

"The bar staff is knowledgeable and the beer selection is solid."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features a special menu that shouldn't be missed.

2

Live music happens every Saturday, creating a lively atmosphere.

3

The brewery is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

09
Outrigger Tavern image 1

Dim lighting and a classic dive bar vibe create a laid-back spot with affordable drinks and friendly bartenders. An outdoor patio with a firepit offers a relaxed space to catch a game or hang out. Locals enjoy billiards and a strong sense of community here.

Dimly lit with a classic dive bar vibe, this spot offers cheap booze and friendly bartenders who make you feel welcome. The outdoor patio area adds a relaxed space where locals gather for drinks and good times.

People are saying

"The bartenders here make you feel like the only one in the bar."

"The dive bar workers here are really friendly."

"The bartenders here are so friendly and know what they're doing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but arriving early is recommended as they sell out.

2

The bar serves frozen pizzas, but they may run out of stock.

3

Beer prices range from $1 to $2 cheaper than most other places.

10
Red Fox Lounge image 1
Cocktail bar

Dive bar boasts a retro vibe with old-school atmosphere and spacious booths. Arcade games and a jukebox playing country music add charm. Sports on TV and a smoking area enhance the cozy, clean setting.

Dive bar with a cool old-school vibe and super clean booths to sit at. Features a jukebox, a smoking area, and friendly, welcoming staff, though service can sometimes be disappointing.

People are saying

"The bar staff here are so friendly and welcoming."

"The staff at this dive bar are always friendly and welcoming."

"It's a really fun place to hang out."

Good to know

1

Breakfast and drinks are available from the neighboring establishment.

2

Breakfast delivery is an option from the attached diner.

3

The lounge maintains a very clean environment.

11
Nomads Canteen image 1
Restaurant

Offers two-level patio with heaters for comfort and a lively surf culture vibe. Features a full bar with local beers and house-made margaritas. Serves flavorful dishes like poke bowls and tacos, attracting a diverse crowd including surfers and locals.

A full bar offers a vast selection of beers, including local and regional choices and monthly specials. The crowd is diverse, with locals, surfers, contractors, and vacationers creating a fun and engaging atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really yummy and enjoyable."

"I enjoyed the great beer selection."

"The outdoor seating here is great, especially the two-level patio."

Good to know

1

Parking on the premises is limited, but municipal parking is available nearby.

2

Nomads Canteen offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

3

The hotel is located in the heart of downtown San Clemente.

12
Goody's Tavern image 1

Dive bar offers pool tables and a few beer options with loud music. Friendly military crowd creates a calm vibe. Convenient parking and busy weekends add to the local feel.

A dive bar with a local vibe and good food serves a few beer options and has pool tables. The bar staff lacks advanced ID equipment and the music is loud, fitting a typical sports bar atmosphere.

People are saying

"This bar is a great local spot with a fun, friendly staff."

"You can play pool and dance to the DJ for fun activities."

"The staff at this Local Spot are fun and friendly."

Good to know

1

There is a sizeable parking lot in the back, which is very convenient.

2

Taco Tuesday offers the best deal in town.

3

Karaoke is available on certain nights; check the schedule.

13
Ole's Tavern image 1
Sports bar

Classic dive bar with a Packers bar atmosphere and free pool tables until 8. Spacious layout invites mingling and casual talks. Staff know everyone, creating a locals only vibe with mellow music.

A classic dive bar with a welcoming vibe and no clicky atmosphere. It serves as a great Packers bar with two free pool tables until 8 each day and staff who know everyone.

People are saying

"It's a classic dive bar with a great local vibe."

"It's a nice place to chill and have a beer."

"I found it to be a great little sports bar for watching games."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers three beers and free pool until 8 pm.

2

Parking at Ole's Tavern is very limited and can be challenging.

3

Only California IDs are accepted for entry; out-of-state IDs are not allowed.

14
New OC Tavern image 1
Sports bar

Circular bar with plentiful TVs offers a lively spot for sports fans. Enjoy amazing drinks and a friendly crowd in a welcoming space. New pool tables and an onsite live music venue keep energy high and fun nonstop.

Amazing drinks and friendly customers create a welcoming bar atmosphere. The new layout works well for watching games and enjoying live music with dimmed lights around the dance floor.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is so friendly and professional."

"The food here is amazing, truly unbelievable."

"The beer here is amazing, especially the IPA."

Good to know

1

The venue has limited seating, primarily on the outside patio.

2

The taps are currently out of order, affecting drink options.

3

The bar is clean and well-maintained.

15
Krazy Kooters image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Hamburger spot boasts funky decor mixing pirate, western, and Aztec themes. Live reggae and a magician keep energy high. Outdoor patio shines with a party bus bar made from an old van, serving drinks with fantastic service and a friendly crowd.

A full bar serves drinks with fantastic service and a friendly crowd. The patio features a party bus bar made from an old delivery van, adding a unique vibe.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were amazing."

"The decorations and animatronic displays here are really cool."

"The food at this bar is delicious and outstanding."

Good to know

1

Parking can be a bit of a hassle, so plan accordingly.

2

Brunch features live magic shows that entertain guests at their tables.

3

Reservations are recommended for weekend brunch due to popularity.

16
Daily's Sports Grill image 1

Sports bar buzzes with numerous TVs and team jerseys creating a lively vibe. Bright beer cooler lighting adds contrast while sound delay is common. Bar area is crowded and loud with decent food but uncomfortable chairs.

Lots of TV screens make it easy to catch games. The bar gets very loud and crowded with only a couple of spots available. Bar food is decent but chairs aren't comfy for long sitting.

People are saying

"This bar has tons of TV screens for watching the game."

"It's a great place to watch a game with a great atmosphere."

"I thought the food, especially the wings, was delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted prices on select items.

2

The restaurant has a known audio delay issue during games.

3

Seating at the bar may not be comfortable for long periods.

17
Franco's Famous San Clemente image 1

Spacious Mexican spot shines with an airy patio and pet-friendly courtyard for comfort. Friendly bartenders like Hugo make the lively bar a fun hangout. Enjoy fresh chips and standout margaritas in a relaxed, local vibe.

Friendly bartenders like Hugo, Brandon, and Ali create a fun atmosphere at the bar. It serves as a lively spot to hang out and chat.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and very well priced."

"The airy patio is a delightful spot for tasty Mexican food."

"The bar staff here makes you feel so welcome."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6pm and all evening on Tuesdays.

2

Taco Tuesday offers an affordable menu with great options.

3

Expect a small wait for seating during popular happy hour times.

18
Fettuccine Marcello Italian Kitchen image 1

Elegant interior and live harp music create a relaxing vibe. Outdoor seating offers a partial Pacific Coast view. Menu blends classic Italian dishes with Mexican options. Bar service varies, but Makela provides excellent care.

Service at the bar varies. Makela provides excellent care, but overall bar service tends to be extremely slow.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the Italian food at this dinner spot; it was yummy."

"I found the food at this bar to be marvelous."

"They had an excellent selection of wine."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounts on drinks and appetizers during weekdays.

2

Jazz performances occur every Thursday night, featuring local artists.

3

The restaurant's menu now includes both Italian and Mexican dishes.

19
Flights & Irons Urban Kitchen image 1

Speakeasy-style spot offers a cozy atmosphere with live jazz and a wood fire oven. Friendly bar staff like Lisa serve crafted cocktails and beers during happy hour deals. Guests enjoy intimate seating and a thoughtful dining experience.

Bar service features friendly staff like Lisa and offers a pleasant seating area with a country cottage pub style. Happy hour includes $2 off select menu items and drinks, enhancing the experience.

People are saying

"I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this hidden gem."

"The salmon was outstanding, especially with the golden beets."

"The bartender was friendly and had great drink knowledge."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can sell out quickly.

2

Happy hour offers $2 off select menu items and drinks at the bar.

3

Parking is limited; consider using the shopping center across the street.

20
Rockwell's Bakery image 1

Boston-themed cafe blends cozy atmosphere with a full bar serving strong cocktails and all-day breakfast. Concrete floors and large windows create a loud space where ocean air adds a chill vibe. Enjoy delicious pastries and hearty meals in comfortable seating.

A full bar serves a mix of drinks alongside an all-day breakfast menu. Staff at the bar are consistently friendly, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The coffee here is fresh and has very good flavor."

"I loved their sandwiches, especially the Reuben on rye."

Good to know

1

They didn't accept Apple Pay or Android Pay.

2

The wait time ranged from 5 minutes to 50 minutes.

3

There is a Cars n Coffee gathering on Saturdays from 9 to 11.

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San Clemente, California

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