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New Yorkers 1st Choice
San Diego's best

Espresso bars

Made for those who want their evening cocktail to start with a shot of espresso.

Based on 567 Opinions
+564
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Updated April 2026
01
bar Ella Pacific Beach image 1
bar Ella Pacific Beach image 2
bar Ella Pacific Beach image 3
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Sleek space with pink and blue lighting and a patio deck overlooking the ocean creates a stylish, welcoming vibe. Atmosphere blends laid-back energy with a female-friendly, girls night out feel, suitable for dates and casual gatherings. Live music and customizable events add to the dynamic, inclusive environment.

An easy-going cocktail bar with clean, inviting ambiance and exceptional service. It handles large events smoothly, offering custom menus and open bars for celebrations like weddings and parties.

People are saying

"The Bar Ella team handled every detail for my event, making it magical."

"The atmosphere here is great for Date Spots, with just the right lighting."

"The crab cakes were delicious with a generous portion for the price."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6:00 PM with great prices on drinks and appetizers.

2

The 'Tinis and Weenies' special on Wednesdays features $8 martinis and $4 hot dogs.

3

Reservations are recommended for private events and large gatherings.

02
Kamon Craft Cocktail Bar image 1

Speakeasy hidden behind a bakery features Japanese-inspired decor and a cozy, sophisticated atmosphere. Background music includes old J-pop songs, supporting chill conversations in a space with a private lounge and a sand garden. Display of rare Japanese whisky bottles adds unique visual interest.

Cocktails feature custom adjustments despite batching, with a standout Tokyo banana cocktail. The bar offers a speakeasy vibe and a strong selection of Japanese Whiskey guided by a knowledgeable manager.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are amazing, with attentive service."

"It's a hidden speakeasy behind a bakery with a Japanese theme."

"The bar's creative cocktails were thoughtfully curated and unique."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to secure a table, especially on weekends.

2

The bar is accessed through a hidden door next to ASA Bakery.

3

Expect a 45-minute wait if you arrive without a reservation.

03
Crafted Coupe image 1

Speakeasy with concealed entrance and brick walls creates an intimate, big-city feel. Atmosphere stays relaxed and cool, welcoming both locals and tourists with outdoor seating and multiple levels to explore. Bartenders craft exceptional cocktails, enhancing the friendly, laid-back vibe.

Exceptional craft cocktails and a friendly bartending staff create a welcoming atmosphere. The bar offers a relaxing vibe that feels like a neighborhood home away from busy streets.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are super friendly and make great drinks."

"The vibe here is so chill, with a cozy and cool atmosphere."

"The bartenders here are so friendly and welcoming."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 7pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended for private events to secure space.

3

You can bring pizza from Caffe Calabria, but not drinks.

04
Tony's Martini Bar image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar offers world-class martinis, especially espresso-style and chocolate martinis. Indoor space features live music on weekends, two pool tables, and a smoking room. Atmosphere stays laid-back and lively, with a mix of ages and late-night energy.

A laid-back dive bar with espresso martinis and two pool tables. It offers karaoke sessions, a smoking room, and screens NFL playoff games late into Sunday night.

People are saying

"The espresso martinis at this bar are the best I've ever had."

"It's a fun, happy beach bar with great activities."

"I enjoyed the fun karaoke sessions on Wednesday and Sunday."

Good to know

1

Karaoke sessions happen on Wednesdays and Sundays starting at 9pm.

2

ID checks are enforced during karaoke nights; bring a valid ID.

3

Tony's Martini Bar is the only bar open late on Sundays.

05
BoujieMana image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers a spacious, tasteful interior with a beautifully designed bar and airy ambiance. The atmosphere balances trendy and exquisite vibes, creating a perfect setting for both casual and company events. Outdoor seating with heaters adds a comfortable option for families and groups.

A large full bar features a beautifully designed space with incredible stone walls. The cocktail menu offers daring options like the PB&J Old Fashioned, and the bar staff stays very attentive.

Espresso beans here are authentic and high quality. The hazelnut affogato pairs creamy gelato with espresso for a smooth finish, and the espresso martini offers a flavorful twist.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has delicious chicken sandwiches on house-made pita."

"You have to try the deviled eggs; they're delicious."

"The food at this bar is exceptional, especially the hummus and pasta."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to limited tables.

2

Happy hour runs Tuesday to Friday from 3 PM to 6 PM and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM.

3

Parking is available onsite, but it can be limited during peak hours.

06
Castelli & Pizarro Coffee Shop - Wine Bar image 1

Wine bar combines coffee shop and wine tasting with indoor Mediterranean-style and outdoor patio seating. Atmosphere feels cozy, quaint, and peaceful, inviting lingering and casual socializing. Offers locally produced wines alongside pastries and coffee, creating a relaxed neighborhood vibe.

Dual purpose as a coffee shop in the morning and a wine bar at night creates a unique vibe. Offers a friendly neighborhood atmosphere with great wine and coffee.

Espresso here is well balanced and less strong than some other roasters. The drinks compare well with Dark Horse Coffee Roasters and are better than some local options. An espresso machine is available alongside pastries, but no other food.

People are saying

"The coffee here is amazing and the staff is so friendly."

"The wine selection at this bar is amazing and the staff is excellent."

"I enjoyed the good espresso and wine here."

Good to know

1

The winery hosts food trucks on weekends, offering diverse food options.

2

They organize fun events like tapas nights and workshops regularly.

3

Wine tastings are intimate, with limited attendees for a personal experience.

07
Shorebird image 1
Californian restaurant

Waterfront setting offers stunning ocean views and open windows that bring in a cool sea breeze. Atmosphere feels intimate and peaceful, with a quiet vibe even near the bar. Guests enjoy a relaxed, scenic experience that stands out from typical waterfront spots.

More intimate than most waterfront spots, the bar offers a cozy vibe even upstairs. The raw bar and appetizers stand out, with every dish from sushi rolls to fish and chips tasting solid.

People are saying

"The ocean view here is stunning and peaceful."

"The seafood here is so fresh and perfectly cooked."

"The food here is phenomenal and the raw bar offerings are top-notch."

Good to know

1

The location is amazing right along the water and near Seaport Village.

2

Shorebird has an expansive menu that caters to a variety of tastes.

3

Expect a higher price point due to the waterfront location.

08
Granger Hotel San Diego Downtown image 1

Hotel showcases an eclectic design with luxurious touches and a quirky lobby bar offering welcome cocktails. Atmosphere feels intimate and elegant, with ambient lighting and unique decor details. Common areas on each floor provide complimentary snacks and coffee, creating a relaxed, welcoming vibe.

An impressive lobby features a quirky bar behind the check-in counter with a list of welcome cocktails. Every floor has a free flow snack, coffee, and water bar near the lifts.

Espresso lovers find complimentary espresso bars on each floor with an extensive selection. Rooms include an espresso maker alongside premium toiletries and snacks.

People are saying

"This hotel's design is beautiful, with an amazing aesthetic."

"The complimentary breakfast buffet was great and included in the stay."

"The bar's welcome drinks were a nice touch."

Good to know

1

The hotel is located in the Gaslamp District, close to restaurants and nightlife.

2

Parking is not available on-site; a nearby lot is used instead.

3

You need to pick up a parking card at the hotel before parking.

09
Fifth & Rose image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar offers indoor and outdoor seating with an intimate, lively atmosphere that varies by night. Weekends feature a live DJ, creating a vibrant energy without overwhelming noise. Known for exceptional espresso martinis, it suits relaxed conversations and casual drink dates.

Cocktail offerings come with a pricey but excellent reputation. The bar features a beautiful ambience and excellent bartenders who serve simple, quality pub-style bites.

People are saying

"The craft cocktails here are creative and delicious."

"It's a nice place to sit and talk, perfect for relaxing."

"The cocktails here are creative and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended for busy evenings.

2

The bar offers a complimentary drink upon check-in at the hotel.

3

Seating is available both indoors and outdoors, providing great views.

10
The Invigatorium image 1
Coffee shop

Eclectic coffee shop with mismatched vintage furniture and dinosaur decor behind the bar creates a creative living room vibe. Atmosphere feels chill and fun with hi-fi music playing, enhancing a relaxing experience. Regulars enjoy unique cocktails and standout breakfast dishes like poached eggs and avocado toast.

Espresso drinks like the cortado and espresso stand out for their quality. The Spro-Loko espresso martini offers a unique twist, and iced lattes benefit from extra espresso shots for a stronger coffee flavor.

People are saying

"The interior and ambience here are so quirky and fun."

"The hash browns here are crispy and come with two delicious sauces."

"I believed the espresso here was the best you can have."

Good to know

1

The kitchen closes at 2 PM, so the full food menu isn't available after that.

2

At 3PM, the place transforms into a full bar until 10PM under the name J & Tonyโ€™s.

3

The ordering process involves ordering at the counter and receiving a metal stand with a number for table delivery.

11
6th & G Breakfast Co image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Selective eclectic design fills the space with colorful art and unique decor, creating a 1920's speakeasy vibe. The atmosphere feels fun and lively with friendly staff enhancing the experience. Both indoor and outdoor seating accommodate a relaxed, enjoyable breakfast setting.

Seats at the bar come quickly. The bar offers friendly conversation and a chance to chat with the bartender.

People are saying

"The Turkish Eggs here are really great and flavorful."

"The Lemon Meringue French Toast has an exceptional lemon curd sauce."

"The bartender Analysia made tasty, strong margaritas and chatted with us."

Good to know

1

There is a 30-minute wait during peak hours, so be prepared.

2

No reservations are accepted; only a wait list is available.

3

Expect large portions for about $15 per dish.

12
The Vibe image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers a lively atmosphere with modern decor and vibrant colors. Music and clean lines create an energetic vibe that suits brunch well. Spacious seating and a full bar add to the inviting experience.

Full bar serves a variety of drinks and opens all day. Local bars nearby offer fantastic selections recommended by Maya.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The brunch drinks, especially the flights, were the highlight."

"The cocktails here are creative and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-minute wait on weekends during peak hours.

2

Parking can be challenging; consider taking an Uber.

3

Happy hour runs from 8am to 10am on weekdays with special pricing.

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