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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of San Diego

Interesting cocktail spots

Made for those who seek out unconventional cocktail menus that challenge their palate.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
Kamon Craft Cocktail Bar image 1
Kamon Craft Cocktail Bar image 2
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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 here offer a unique flavor explosion with drinks like the Clarified Mezcal Milk Punch and the nutty, sweet Stache topped with cheese foam. The menu blends creative and timeless options served by knowledgeable staff in an intimate, cozy setting.

Bartenders craft creative cocktails like a gin martini with strawberry Amaro. Shelves showcase rare Japanese whisky bottles that catch the eye and add to the interesting vibe.

People are saying

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

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

"The vibe here is interesting, with a beautiful 1920s Japan speakeasy theme."

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.

02
Botanica Art & Cocktail Bar image 1

Cocktail bar with an artistic and glamorous aesthetic features intentional decor and an adjacent art gallery. Atmosphere is cozy and lively, often with live music or DJ sets filling the space. Drinks focus on gin-forward and mezcal cocktails using seasonal herbs, complemented by a deep menu and unique food offerings.

Cocktails feature rich, complex flavors and use seasonal herbs and garden ingredients. They include unique gin options and personalized drinks crafted with clarification techniques.

Cocktails stand out with unique flavors and creative mixes. Drinks offer a fun and interesting experience.

People are saying

"The cocktails were delicious and pretty strong."

"The crispy rice with spicy tuna and avocado sauce is a must-try dinner spot."

"The drinks here are really interesting and imaginative."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for evening visits to ensure seating.

2

Happy hour runs all day on Tuesdays with discounted drinks.

3

Parking is limited; expect to find street parking a few blocks away.

03
Craft & Commerce image 1

Eclectic decor fills the space with unique decorations and a tiki bar tucked in the back. Loud energy peaks during dinner, creating a lively atmosphere. Guests enjoy amazing cocktails and a vibe that blends cozy and eccentric elements.

Creative cocktails offer a flavor roller coaster experience with a wide variety of unique drink options. Signature cocktails come at reasonable prices considering the prime location.

Food offers rich flavors and unconventional selections. The menu presents great deals alongside interesting choices. Scenery adds to the overall interesting vibe.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are inventive, complex, and delicious."

"The decor here is unlike anywhere else, very stylish and eclectic."

"The food selections here are really interesting and surprisingly good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-5 pm with a selection of drinks and snacks.

2

Reservations are recommended for large groups, especially for parties of 30 or more.

3

Restrooms are outside and require memorizing two codes to access.

04
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.

Cocktails feature expertly balanced ingredients and creative presentations. Options like the PB&J Old Fashioned and the butterfly effect with pea flower infused elderberry, lemon juice, mint, and Prosecco stand out.

Menu blends Mediterranean and Italian cuisines with an international twist. Offers a unique and interesting selection.

People are saying

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

"The craft cocktails here are impressive and never disappoint."

"The menu here is really interesting, a unique blend of international flavors."

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.

05
Forbidden Cove image 1

Small tiki speakeasy with secret entrance and intimate seating creates a chill atmosphere suited for quiet discovery. Decor and theme are immersive and well-executed, offering a unique hidden gem feel. Crowd stays low, making it less lively than typical bars but more relaxed and cozy.

Special cocktails stand out with unique flavors and creative mixes. Servers explain the drinks well, making it a spot focused on cocktails over food.

Interesting cocktails stand out with unique flavors. The venue features interesting decorations and an interesting menu that adds to the vibe.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative, balanced, and beautifully presented."

"The cocktails here are a tropical escape with a fun, chill vibe."

"The cocktails here are interesting."

Good to know

1

Reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends.

2

Forbidden Cove is primarily a cocktail bar with limited food options.

3

Parking is ample and convenient near the venue.

06
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.

Spicy vodka Bloody Marys stand out as a tasty cocktail option. Cocktails bring fun and excitement to the morning and can be enjoyed at the bar or outside while waiting for a table.

New age vibe shapes the ambiance and decor, reflecting the chef's creative approach. The ube roll features an interesting twist with shredded cheese on top.

People are saying

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

"The Turkish eggs were a delightful twist I found divine."

"The food here is amazing, perfectly executed and juicy."

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.

07
Mothership image 1

Sci-fi themed tiki bar offers an immersive, out of this world atmosphere with unique decor and original music that feels like a movie set. The space features creative cocktails with alien appearances and a lively, cool vibe that attracts design fans and cocktail enthusiasts alike.

Cocktails here have a creative, alien appearance that stands out. The Mind Killer and Truth Serum are notable, with rum-based and tiki-adjacent flavors that feel otherworldly.

Complex recipes and unique flavor blends create a distinct experience. The spot offers interesting drinks and a fun, themed atmosphere that stands out.

People are saying

"The vibe here is super cool, like a futuristic sci-fi spaceship."

"The rum-forward, tiki-themed cocktails are out of this world."

"The sci-fi vibe here is really interesting and unique."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited capacity.

2

Happy hour runs from 4:30 to 5:30 PM on weekdays.

3

The crash landing scenario occurs approximately every 90 minutes.

08
California English image 1

Sprawling restaurant blends indoor art deco with a lush outdoor patio featuring a grassy area for lawn games. Atmosphere stays cheeky and vibrant with live classical music and a lively crowd. Cocktail menu highlights tea-based drinks alongside unique British-inspired dishes.

London fog cocktail stands out with rich flavor. Cocktails overall show amazing quality and pair well with dinner suggestions.

Menu features California English twists on classic dishes and an authentic curry chup that fits the London vibe. The alcohol list includes unique holiday cocktails that stand out.

People are saying

"The Fish And Chips here are huge and excellent."

"The cocktails here are innovative and delicious."

"The fish and chips here are excellent and comparable to the UK."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 3-6pm with great cocktail deals.

3

The restaurant allows individual payments during happy hour.

09
Flama Llama image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Peruvian restaurant with authentic flavors and a lively, energetic design featuring hanging plants and an outdoor patio. Atmosphere is cozy with fantastic music enhancing the vibe. Popular for unique cocktails and well-balanced drinks alongside standout dishes like mojo fries and lomo saltado.

Cocktails include a Yuzu Mojito with a sharp bite and a Lychee Llama made with sake that is smooth and refreshing. Staff provide detailed descriptions to help choose drinks.

Fusion of Latino American and Asian cuisine creates unique food combinations. Drinks lean sweet and pair well with the menu. Ambience features good music and screens showing interesting videos.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible, full of flavor and fresh."

"The food combinations here are really interesting and packed with flavor."

"The Lychee Llama cocktail is smooth and perfectly sweet."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Reservations are not required but recommended during busy hours.

3

Expect a casual dress code; no formal attire needed.

10
Bosforo image 1
Turkish restaurant

Large open dining area combines modern vibes with authentic Turkish atmosphere featuring Turkish lamps and a stone-accented bar. Noise level is thunderously loud, creating a lively and energetic environment. Guests enjoy live kanun music enhancing the immersive experience.

Incredible cocktails stand out with every order. The drinks pair well with food like Bosforo hummus and Eggplant Atom, making the experience solid.

The bar offers a selection of drinks that are different and interesting. The server shares history about Turkish tea linking it to Siberia and Mesoamerica.

People are saying

"The Turkish food here is authentic and delicious."

"The hummus here is warm and smooth."

"The kabob is grilled on charcoal for a nice smoky taste."

Good to know

1

Reservations are often difficult to secure due to high popularity.

2

Parking in the neighborhood is very challenging.

3

The restaurant will soon offer traditional Turkish brunch on weekends.

11
ARTIFACT at Mingei image 1

Open-concept design inside a museum creates a classy, modern vibe with a loud, energetic atmosphere that sometimes resembles a cafeteria. Outdoor seating offers scenic park views and a quieter experience. The space combines clean European decor with a casual, inviting feel.

Creative recipes define the cocktails here, blending unique flavors with great taste. Both cocktails and mocktails maintain consistent quality and appeal.

Creative menu offers interesting dishes with unique flavors. Pork dumplings stand out with a light zing and thoughtful preparation.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's food is tasty and beautifully presented."

"The cocktails here are creative and tasty."

"The menu is creative and the food is interesting."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity and limited hours.

2

Parking can be challenging around the museum location.

3

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers, making it a popular time to visit.

12
Finca image 1
Restaurant

Small plates restaurant combines curated wine shop and upscale decor with a laid-back atmosphere. Space fills with loud energy, making it lively but not suited for quiet conversation. Vintage thrift store dishware and natural lighting add a unique, earth-conscious touch.

New cocktail program highlights vermouth in fresh ways. Low-alcohol options like The Adonis mix sweet and earthy vermouth with fino sherry and orange.

An interesting wine list changes regularly alongside the food menu to keep things fresh. The bar's shape, interesting art, and lively buzz add to the atmosphere.

People are saying

"The Date Spots here have imaginative flavor combinations, like tuna with guava and chile."

"The food here is interesting, with tasty twists on Spanish tapas."

"I thought the cocktails here were excellent and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's small size and popularity.

2

Finca offers a Californian tapas style menu with a rotating wine list.

3

Happy hour features a special menu with discounted snacks and drinks.

13
The Seventh House Speakeasy image 1

Speakeasy with astrology theme and beautiful decor blends wood, gold, marble, and hanging plants for a chic, natural vibe. Atmosphere shifts from quiet mornings to festive yet relaxed energy with tarot card readings and live performances adding unique flair.

Cocktails here are well-made and creative, featuring unique options like signature mimosas and a rich peanut butter whiskey drink. The menu includes personalized choices such as the Virgo cocktail, offering a smooth balance of sweetness and whiskey warmth.

The ambiance reflects the 1950-1960s era with crystal chandeliers, wooden paneling, and antique mirrors on the ceiling. Shared sinks in the restroom add an unusual touch, while the menu offers interesting and tasty cuisine.

People are saying

"The drinks here are creative and beautifully presented."

"The cocktails here are delicious and beautifully presented."

"The ambiance here is interesting, transporting you to the 1950s."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Fortune teller readings are available for $25 during your visit.

3

The belly dancer is scheduled to perform at 9pm, but check for updates.

14
Convoy Music Bar image 1

Speakeasy bar with a secret alley entrance offers an intimate setting and eclectic vibe. Loud, top-tier music plays through large cabinet speakers, creating an audiophile's dream atmosphere. Crowded space fills with guests enjoying bold, creative cocktails and unique decor.

Cocktails here are well prepared with unique ingredients like brown butter washed rum and pandan. Bold drinks like the Special Serve use Angostura bitters for a strong flavor, creating an amazing craft cocktail experience.

A speakeasy hidden in an alley behind a pub offers an interesting entrance. Cocktails stand out for their creative and interesting flavors.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are expertly curated and delicious."

"I had some of the most unique and delicious cocktails ever."

"It's an interesting speakeasy tucked away in the alley."

Good to know

1

Reservations are preferred to ensure a comfortable experience.

2

The entrance is located in a back alley, which may be hard to find.

3

Street parking is the only option available.

15
formoosa image 1
Taiwanese restaurant

Small Taiwanese restaurant features a wrap-around bar with chic modern decor and classic 90s and 2000s hip hop music. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, with lively energy and good music. Seating focuses on bar spots, offering a unique view of food preparation and torch-lit bowls.

Cocktails feature real fruit flavors like lychee and guava, avoiding artificial syrup. Staff are attentive and can create custom drinks on request.

Noodles have a very interesting shape and texture. The restaurant offers a funky vibe and the food overall feels very interesting.

People are saying

"The beef noodle soup here is so flavorful and the beef is tender."

"I found the handcrafted cocktails to be amazing and delicious."

"The food here is spot on, especially the tender beef and tasty sauces."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Friday, 2-5 pm, with discounts on drinks and appetizers.

2

Most happy hour items are $1-3 off, making it a budget-friendly option.

3

Parking is available in a plaza lot, but payment is required.

16
Saint James French Diner image 1

Stylish French-inspired restaurant with a cozy ambiance and classy decor reminiscent of a Montmartre cafรฉ. Brightly lit bar features a stacked bottle display creating a cool vibe. Rooftop lounge offers a breathtaking city view, enhancing the overall experience.

Regal 75 stands out as a memorable cocktail. Daily specials and happy hour drinks like the Parisian burger pairing add variety and flavor.

People are saying

"I found the Parisienne burger to be the best burger I ever had."

"The cocktails here are classic and made on demand by a proper barman."

"The steak and fries were cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

Weekday happy hour from 3 to 6 offers burgers at half off, making it an incredible deal.

2

Happy hour runs Wednesday through Sunday from 3-6, with $10 burgers on Thursdays.

3

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.

17
VULTURE image 1
Restaurant

Speakeasy-style restaurant with unique, otherworldly decor and a red curtain entrance creates an intimate, elegant atmosphere. The vibe blends 80's music with a warm, inviting energy that suits a night out. Fully vegan menu offers plant-based fine dining with standout cocktails and memorable dishes.

Craft cocktails stand out for their creativity and balance. Drinks are carefully curated and consistently delicious.

A Beyond steak fillet comes with an interesting, tasty sauce that stands out. The place offers a fresh new concept with great ambiance and attentive service.

People are saying

"I can't wait to return for the amazing vegan options."

"The cocktails here are creative and stellar."

"The vegan steak here is interesting, mimicking real steak's pink center and texture."

Good to know

1

A reservation is needed to dine at VULTURE.

2

VULTURE adds an automatic 20% gratuity on all checks.

3

Many items on the menu were unavailable during my visit.

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