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Local picks

Food with live music in San Diego

Eating while live music plays in the background turns a simple meal into an event.

Based on 862 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
The Pub image 1
The Pub image 2
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Irish restaurant

Proper Irish pub with chill vibes and a homey feel offers live Irish music and an excellent patio. Atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, lively during sports events but sometimes too loud to talk. Menu features authentic Irish cuisine with large, sharable portions and a good whisky selection.

Food offers amazing quality and homemade style at affordable prices. Daily food and drink specials add variety and value.

Live music plays regularly, especially on Thursday nights, creating an enjoyable atmosphere during visits.

People are saying

"The Pub's food is amazing and feels homemade."

"I loved the huge variety of beers they had on tap."

"The food here is amazing, like a slice of heaven."

Good to know

1

The pub is puppy friendly.

2

Expect larger, sharable portions on the menu.

3

Live music happens on Thursday nights.

02
Fonda Del Barrio image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican-inspired interior features hand-painted murals and hand-woven textiles that create an authentic, cozy atmosphere with warm, ambient lighting. Live music with acoustic guitar and saxophone adds a soulful, lively energy. Outdoor seating includes cushioned areas enhancing comfort.

Authentic Mexican dishes use fresh ingredients and show clear care in preparation. Food pairs well with amazing drinks, and the service is attentive with staff stepping in to help when busy.

Live music creates a relaxed atmosphere that feels like a trip to Mexico City. The bar pairs this with meticulously crafted cocktails.

People are saying

"This food, the filet mignon, is so tender and flavorful."

"I loved their great cocktails."

"The live music here was a lot of fun."

Good to know

1

Live music happens from Wednesday to Sunday after 7 PM.

2

Reservations are not required, and you can usually get a table without a wait.

3

Expect small portion sizes, which may be suitable for sharing.

03
Négociant Winery image 1

Urban winery blends intimate indoor space with quaint outdoor patios. Live jazz music on Thursdays creates a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. Small-batch wines and wine slushies complement tasty bites in a setting that balances outdoor feel and cozy vibe.

Food comes from other places and tastes authentic and delicious. The overall experience pairs well with the great ambiance.

Live jazz fills the space on Thursdays, creating a wonderful atmosphere. Weekends feature live bands and music during Sunday brunch, keeping the vibe lively.

People are saying

"The wine selection here is amazing and wonderful."

"The food here was delicious and plentiful."

"I loved the live music on Thursday nights."

Good to know

1

Jazz music is featured every Thursday night.

2

Sunday brunch includes live music entertainment.

3

Non-alcoholic options and tasty bites are available.

04
Tommy Bahama Marlin Bar image 1

Bar with outdoor seating under awnings and live daily music creates a laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere. Fans circulate air at the bar, while heat lamps warm the outdoor tables. Frequented by shoppers and solo visitors, it offers self-seating and a lively crowd.

Food features fresh ingredients and dishes like coconut shrimp and mahi mahi tacos. Drinks come at reasonable prices and pair well with the menu.

Live music features fantastic performances that create a lively atmosphere. It pairs well with great food and drinks, enhancing the overall experience.

People are saying

"The food here is phenomenal, especially the espresso martini."

"This bar has such a relaxing, vacation vibe."

"The live music here is incredible and creates a lively atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 3pm to 6pm with great drink deals.

2

Mai Tai Mondays offer special pricing on cocktails every week.

3

Live music is featured on weekends, enhancing the dining experience.

05
Eddie V's Prime Seafood image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers a refined atmosphere with live jazz music and dim lighting that creates a romantic vibe. Tables often feature decorations like rose petals and personalized cards for special occasions. The space combines an elegant setting with lively, sometimes loud music that fills the room.

Food features amazing quality and uncompromised preparation. Every dish delivers a consistently exceptional dining experience.

Live jazz music plays classic tunes and creative covers like “Creep” by Radiohead. The music adds a strong ambiance and energy, especially in the bar/lounge, with volume adjustable by seating choice.

People are saying

"The service at these dinner spots is friendly and accommodating."

"The live music here really adds to the vibrant atmosphere."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

Live music performances occur on Mondays, enhancing the dining experience.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekends and special events.

06
Nate's Garden Grill image 1
American restaurant

Rustic farm motif blends with a vintage cottage vibe surrounded by a plant nursery and animals. Live music plays loudly, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere. Outdoor patio welcomes dogs, adding to the casual, neighborly feel.

Food comes out fresh and well prepared with a variety of good options. The menu pairs well with a selection of local beer and fits a quirky, fun atmosphere.

Live band playing all day creates a lively atmosphere even during brunch. Music features superb artists that add a fun vibe to the dining experience.

People are saying

"I loved the live music here; it was superb."

"I loved their hearty and delicious vegan options."

"I thought the food here was great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great prices on drinks.

2

Brunch is available on Saturdays and Sundays with a special menu.

3

Trivia night happens every Wednesday at 7pm with a fun atmosphere.

07
Deft Brewing image 1

Courtyard brewery shares a dog-friendly beer garden with live music and multiple food vendors. Atmosphere feels laid back and lively, with families and groups enjoying outdoor seating and a cozy vibe. Offers a variety of German-style beers and fresh pizza in a warm, inviting setting.

Food arrives quickly, within 20 minutes even when busy. Offers affordable, tasty options alongside good German beer.

Live music fills a warm, inviting courtyard creating a lively atmosphere. The sound blends with dancing and playful kids, making the vibe energetic and family-friendly.

People are saying

"I found the European style beers here to be really great."

"I thought the pizza here was awesome and super delicious."

"The food here is fresh, hot, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Cask beer is only available on Mondays.

2

Open Mic and Trivia nights are hosted regularly.

3

Euchre games take place on Tuesday nights.

08
Frenchy's Hideout image 1

Restaurant offers cozy, intimate atmosphere with live music and an upbeat vibe. Decor includes visible kitchen and playful signs, creating a special feel. Wine selection features top-notch French and Italian varieties, enhancing the dining experience.

Food here is fresh and well-made with a cozy, intimate vibe. Dishes stand out for their quality and flavor, making the dining experience consistently excellent.

Live music features performances by Kevin Moraine and Carlos, adding to the fun atmosphere. The venue regularly hosts live music performances that complement its vibe.

People are saying

"The French food here is delicious, especially the steak frites."

"The food here is amazing, especially the tender beef bourguignon."

"The live music here adds to the already delightful atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended because the restaurant fills up quickly.

2

The happy hour offers $10 glasses of Sancerre and Caymus.

3

Parking in Hillcrest requires circling around for street parking.

09
IZOLA image 1
Bakery

Bright, open bakery with heated patios and live local music creates a warm, inviting vibe. Small indoor space fills quickly, making it lively and social with families, dogs, and shared tables. Unique entry by buzz-in adds a speakeasy feel to the experience.

Food features Bibimap croissant as a standout item. Service and food quality stay consistently excellent with friendly, informative staff.

Live music performances fill the space with a warm, relaxing atmosphere. Natural light brightens the room while you can see the baker just upstairs during shows.

People are saying

"This croissant is impossibly flaky, buttery, and fresh."

"The croissants here are impossibly flaky, buttery, and light."

"I heard awesome live music every Saturday morning."

Good to know

1

Live music performances happen every Saturday morning.

2

Pre-ordering is recommended as popular items often sell out quickly.

3

Expect long lines on Saturday mornings, especially for croissants.

10
Good bar image 1
Bar & grill

Dark, divey bar with local live music and an outside food truck creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Music balances well with conversation, and energy builds late at night. Regulars enjoy cold, refreshing beer and standout bar food like Philly cheesesteaks and fish tacos.

Cheesesteaks and fries come out hot and cooked perfectly. The food is consistently tasty and satisfying with a dive bar vibe but better quality than expected.

Live music features bands like Lords of the Satellite that bring strong energy. The venue offers a cozy bar setting with a mix of karaoke, trivia, and comedy nights alongside the music.

People are saying

"The food at this bar is tasty and beautifully presented."

"It's the local spot with a great local feel."

"The cheesesteak food here is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 12 PM to 6 PM with food and drink specials.

2

Karaoke is available on Tuesdays and Thursdays starting at 10 PM.

3

The bar hosts trivia nights most Wednesdays at 8 PM.

11
Havana 1920 image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers authentic Cuban charm with live music and vibrant atmosphere. Decor includes folk art and vintage details creating a cozy, immersive vibe. Guests enjoy energetic evenings with Cuban sounds and themed seating.

Authentic Cuban cuisine shines with consistent quality and flair. Dishes deliver excellent, delicious flavors in a comfortable setting at affordable prices.

Inviting live music fills the space with a distinctive ambiance created by the decor and tables. The music pairs well with the atmosphere, making evenings lively and enjoyable.

People are saying

"The live music here is great and people were dancing."

"The cocktails were gorgeous and tasted even better than they looked."

"The Cuban food here is delicious and full of bold, authentic flavors."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily with great prices on drinks and appetizers.

2

On Tuesdays, enjoy 2-for-1 empanadas during happy hour.

3

Thursday specials include half-off sandwiches at 2:30 PM.

12
IMPERIAL STEAKHOUSE image 1

Older building with old school upscale decor creates a dim, intimate atmosphere suited for romantic dinners. Live piano music and a cozy bar attract an older crowd without pretension. Large booths and comfy seats add to the nostalgic, vintage vibe.

Food here is full of flavor and well proportioned. Steaks taste extremely delicious and the overall quality is excellent.

Live piano music plays during the week and often draws attention. The music can be a key part of the atmosphere, pulling people back in.

People are saying

"I thought the steak tasted very well and was cooked as I ordered."

"I'm going back for another burger and fries."

"The food here is full of flavor and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a $30 split plate charge for shared meals.

2

Happy hour is available during the week with discounted drinks.

3

Karaoke happens on Thursdays, hosted by Rotten Ragu Productions.

13
The Godfather image 1
Italian restaurant

Upscale Italian restaurant with old-school decor and dark wood paneling creates an intimate, cozy atmosphere. Live piano music adds a classic, elegant vibe that suits romantic dinners and special occasions. The setting feels authentic and transports diners with its traditional Italian heritage.

Food features excellent quality and remains consistent even after ownership changes. The menu includes delicious dishes paired well with wine and appetizers, supported by attentive service.

Live piano music plays on certain evenings, creating a cozy ambiance with an old school feel in the booths.

People are saying

"The pasta dishes at these dinner spots are excellent."

"It's the perfect romantic spot with a classy and cozy atmosphere."

"The food here is amazing and exceeded my expectations."

Good to know

1

Parking is difficult due to a very small lot, but valet service is available.

2

Prices are on the high end, with many dishes exceeding $50.

3

The restaurant will celebrate its 50th anniversary on 4/21/24.

14
Humphreys Backstage Live image 1
Live music venue

Cozy live music venue with intimate seating and superb sound quality creates a crisp, clear listening experience. Mature, friendly crowd enjoys local and touring bands against a backdrop of marina and city skyline views. Lighting stays dim, enhancing the relaxed, classy atmosphere.

Flatbread pizza, Wagyu burger, and seasoned fried calamari stand out on the menu. Friendly service complements the great food and drinks.

Live bands perform regularly in a room with beautiful views and great seating. The venue features a lively dance floor and hosts an amazing lineup of live music by the bay.

People are saying

"I loved dancing at this great dance spot with live music."

"I loved the scenic views of the marina and sailboats."

"I enjoyed the great live music and the vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour menu is available until 6 PM with discounted food and drinks.

2

Cover charges range from $5 to $15 depending on the event.

3

The venue is cashless at the door; bring a credit or debit card.

15
McGuffie's Live image 1

Small venue with live local bands and a long bar offers a relaxed, festive vibe and friendly crowd. Open, airy space includes pool table and room to dance, with sound quality enhanced by recent renovations.

Ma's kitchen serves food that stands out as bomb. Food at McGuffie's Live is generally good, though the outdoor options are just okay at best.

Recently renovated venue offers great local live music with a nice sound system. Live bands perform regularly, creating a fun atmosphere where dancing happens.

People are saying

"I found it to be a fun place with great live music."

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

"I thought the food here was bomb."

Good to know

1

The bar charges $10 cover for live music events.

2

Outside food is allowed, but no food is served on-site.

3

Karaoke nights feature only a couple of singers at a time.

16
Dorothy's Wine Bar image 1

Wine bar offers an eclectic aesthetic with intimate decor and a vibrant, chill atmosphere. Spacious, dog-friendly outdoor patio features heaters and blankets, enhancing comfort. Live music and on-site art contribute to a creative, neighborhood vibe with unique wine selections from around the world.

Tapas-style food pairs well with a carefully selected wine list. Outdoor patio seating enhances the experience, and vegetarian options like jackfruit sliders are available.

Every Sunday features live music on the patio, creating a beautiful ambience. The live band sets a perfect mood for sipping wine and enjoying the atmosphere.

People are saying

"The wine list here is thoughtfully curated with unique selections from around the world."

"The food here is excellent and perfect for pairing with wine."

"The live music creates a beautiful ambiance on Sundays."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6pm daily with discounted drinks.

2

Every Sunday features live music on the patio, enhancing the atmosphere.

3

Parking may be hard to find during busy weekends at Seaport Village.

17
Salt & Whiskey image 1
American restaurant

Historic architecture with intricate woodwork and opulent decor creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Live music adds to the warm, classic vibe without overwhelming the space. The crowd is steady but not crowded, offering a relaxed setting for enjoying well-crafted cocktails and hearty meals.

Food offers well-prepared dishes with tender, flavorful steak and satisfying flavors. Quality and taste exceed expectations for a casual bite.

Good live music plays on weekends, creating a lively atmosphere. You can enjoy it while having dinner or watching sports on TV.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is amazing and makes stellar cocktails."

"I thought the food here was awesome and well-prepared."

"The live music here is good, especially on weekends."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

Expect slower service during events due to increased customer volume.

3

The bar has a limited selection of whiskey compared to other venues.

18
Carruth Cellars Urban Winegarden & Cheese Shop: Liberty Station image 1

Courtyard with live music and dog-friendly patio offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere stays intimate and lively without being pretentious, welcoming groups and casual gatherings. Cheese shop and wine flights complement the cozy, eccentric bar setting.

Delicious food stands out with great flavors. Detailed explanations of the food flights help understand each dish.

A large outdoor courtyard hosts live music every Tuesday and Sunday. The atmosphere pairs well with the music and a fresh pizza stand nearby.

People are saying

"The wine service here is friendly and attentive."

"I loved the cool vibe and live music here."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Jazz night happens every Tuesday evening.

2

The wine club membership includes a bottle and weekly tastings for members and guests.

3

The large back patio becomes 21+ only starting November 1st.

19
Fast Times image 1
Restaurant

Open venue with free live music creates a fun, lively atmosphere that feels friendly and upbeat. Seating includes high bar stools and a heated patio that welcomes pets. Cold drinks and casual food complement the energetic yet chill vibe.

Food here stands out for its great taste and pairs well with live music. The menu complements a lively atmosphere with excellent drinks and attentive staff.

Free live music features a fantastic band that energizes the atmosphere. The venue combines good food and drinks with a lively vibe for an engaging night out.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the good food and great live music."

"The live music here is fantastic and really brings the place to life."

"I found the beer here was cold."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 6pm.

2

Ukulele Night is a fun event for music lovers.

3

The patio is dog-friendly, making it great for pet owners.

20
The Harp image 1
Irish pub

Open space with a wrap-around bar and eight TVs creates a lively setting. Live music fills the air, often featuring traditional tunes in an intimate atmosphere. Regulars enjoy classic pints of Guinness alongside a dance area and friendly conversations.

Food comes plentiful and delicious with solid drinks. The menu pairs well with great live music and a lively atmosphere.

Live music happens most nights with no cover, featuring bands that capture the local vibe. The music pairs well with solid food, cocktails, and a welcoming, unpretentious atmosphere.

People are saying

"The live music here is incredible and next level."

"The Reuben at this Local Spot has perfectly golden, crisp sourdough bread."

"The food here is solid, and the live music is amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price beers every day from 4:20 to 6 pm.

2

Wednesday night features a jam session with local musicians.

3

Reggae music is often played on Saturdays.

21
Beeside Balcony La Jolla image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Open-air Mediterranean restaurant offers breathtaking ocean views and an elevated patio that reduces street noise. Live music sets a classy beach town vibe with a vibrant atmosphere that feels both lively and welcoming.

Food features beautifully prepared Mediterranean dishes with excellent flavors and delightful presentation. The menu offers a charming mix of options that consistently satisfy.

Live music every Friday brings a vibrant atmosphere that feels fun and lively. Weekend performances keep the energy up and complement the beautiful setting.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots was spectacular and did not disappoint."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The food here is spectacular, fresh, and incredible."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great prices on drinks and appetizers.

2

The happy hour menu is available upon request from the staff.

3

Parking is generally easy, but can be difficult during peak hours.

22
Sea & Sky image 1
Californian restaurant

Top-floor setting offers spectacular ocean views and wide windows that frame the coastline. Live jazz music plays softly, creating a luxurious and cozy atmosphere with soft lighting that encourages lingering. Evening energy centers on the sunset backdrop and a full bar serving unique cocktails.

Food features tender scallops with velvety polenta and standout dishes like Crab Cake and Grilled Snapper. Drinks complement the menu well, all served with great views.

Live jazz plays throughout the early evening until closing, setting a luxurious atmosphere. Soft lighting and views on the 11th floor create a mood that invites lingering.

People are saying

"The view here is stunning, especially at sunset."

"The food here is good, and the view is amazing."

"The live music creates a mood with great views."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 5 pm, offering ocean views.

2

Parking is validated for guests dining at the restaurant.

3

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

23
The Shout! House image 1
Live music venue

Live music venue with dueling pianos and high-energy entertainment creates a loud, festive atmosphere. Space includes a large bar area with seating and room to stand, attracting lively crowds. Performances blend music and comedy, making it a unique spot for fun and engagement.

Food here stands out for its excellent quality and very good taste. The menu complements a lively atmosphere with great dining options.

Live music features requests and comedy alongside performances. The atmosphere is lively and fun with beer and entertainment enhancing the experience.

People are saying

"The performers are so talented and create a really fun atmosphere."

"The food here is pretty tasty and delicious."

"The live music here is fantastic and gets the crowd involved."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger parties to secure a table.

2

There is a cover charge to enter the venue, so plan accordingly.

3

Happy hour offers $3 off starters, making it a great time to visit.

24
Lucrezia La Jolla image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers beautiful outdoor patio and lovely bar with live music and romantic lighting. Atmosphere feels crowded yet lively, attracting diners seeking an authentic and vibrant experience. Dog-friendly outdoor seating adds a relaxed, inclusive touch.

Food features amazing flavors and consistent quality. Service matches the food with outstanding attentiveness.

Beautiful and lively atmosphere with breathtaking live music. Romantic lighting enhances the experience alongside delicious food and excellent service.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing and fresh."

"The service during dinner was attentive and warm."

"The live music here is breathtakingly amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Live music is featured on Wednesdays, enhancing the dining experience.

3

Reservations are recommended for special occasions like birthdays.

25
The Observatory North Park image 1

Intimate live music venue with excellent acoustics and fantastic stage views. Spacious layout includes comfortable seating and a VIP area separate from the crowd. Multiple bars throughout keep the energy flowing without long waits.

Balcony seating offers a relaxed vibe with its own bar and food service. A separate bar and attached restaurant serve good food alongside a full bar.

Live music sounds great and feels very up close and personal. The venue offers an excellent setting for enjoying shows.

People are saying

"Parking was easy to find across the street."

"It's an awesome venue to watch live music up close."

"I found the food here to be really tasty."

Good to know

1

Parking is free but can be challenging during events.

2

The entrance is located at the back of the venue.

3

No re-entry is allowed once you enter the venue.

26
The Gärten image 1
Beer garden

Outdoor space centers on a spacious courtyard surrounded by a winery, meadery, brewery, and wood-fired pizza eatery. Live bands perform on weekends, creating a lively atmosphere that draws a local crowd. The setting feels cozy and inviting despite being tucked in an industrial area.

Food shows clear care and love in every dish. Tasty meals pair well with a variety of beer options.

Live music plays on Friday and Saturday nights with a live band performing chill tunes. The local crowd gathers for a fun atmosphere that suits groups well.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great selection of German beer and pizza."

"I loved the cute, fun outdoor seating vibe here."

"I thought the food here was great and very tasty."

Good to know

1

Open mic night happens every Wednesday evening.

2

Happy hour runs from 3 PM to 5 PM with discounted drinks.

3

Street parking is available, but it can be challenging to find a spot.

27
Nautilus Tavern image 1
American restaurant

Small American restaurant with outdoor seating and a friendly, relaxed vibe. Live music and a DJ create a lively atmosphere in the evenings, while multiple TVs show sports. The place is dog friendly and offers free video games for kids.

Food features decent portions and includes tater tots. Service supports the food well, making meals consistently really good.

Live music plays from Thursday to Sunday with bands like Bush Divers performing. Trivia nights, including themed ones like Star Wars trivia, add to the lively atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and flavorful."

"This bar has the best fish sandwich I've ever had."

"The live music here is amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs every day with half-price appetizers.

2

Trivia night occurs every Thursday with a $5 entry fee.

3

Free parking is available in the garage downstairs.

28
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.

Delicious food and fantastic drinks create a standout dining experience. Friendly service complements the overall excellent quality of the meals.

Thursdays feature live music alongside lawn games. A live band often plays nearby, sometimes with dancing happening close by.

People are saying

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

"The food here is so delicious, I loved it."

"You can catch live music on Thursdays here."

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.

29
Casa de Maria Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Charming patio dining offers a quiet, pleasant atmosphere with live music featuring flutes and saxophone enhancing the experience. Outdoor seating creates a cozy, open-air vibe where guests enjoy delicious tacos and margaritas.

Food features excellent Mexican dishes with consistently delicious flavors. The menu offers a wonderful variety that stands out for quality and taste.

Live music plays regularly with flutes and saxophone creating an awesome ambiance. Sundays feature an amazing live singer and performances often take place on the patio for a relaxed vibe.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the carne asada."

"I enjoyed the live music while I ate and drank."

"I highly recommend the surf n turf burrito; it's delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect high prices; a meal can cost around $160 for five tacos and four cocktails.

2

There is a 4% surcharge for additional charges on the bill.

3

Live music occurs on Friday evenings and Saturday and Sunday.

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