Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Loved by locals

Whiskey bars in San Diego

A whiskey bar that treats the spirit as a serious pursuit rather than just another bottle on the shelf.

Based on 592 Opinions
+589
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Excalibur Cigar & Scotch Lounge image 1
Excalibur Cigar & Scotch Lounge image 2
Excalibur Cigar & Scotch Lounge image 3
View all

Large indoor seating and patio create a classy, comfortable vibe. Wide selection of whiskey and scotch pairs perfectly with premium cigars. TVs and a bountiful bar keep the atmosphere chill and social for enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

A wide range of whiskey, scotch, and bourbon fills the fully stocked bar. The selection pairs well with a variety of cigars, making it a solid spot for whiskey enthusiasts.

People are saying

"The cigar and scotch selection here is great."

"The bar staff are so friendly and helpful, they make you feel like family."

"I enjoyed the great selection of whiskey and cigars."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for groups of 10 or more for private events.

2

Parking can be tight in the evenings, but ample nearby options exist.

3

The lounge offers a wide variety of high-quality cigars across all price ranges.

02
Storyhouse Spirits image 1

Indoor/outdoor layout creates a vibrant atmosphere with pulsating beats and a chill vibe. Cocktails highlight craft spirits like bourbon and rye, with bartenders mixing a classic Whiskey Sour. Space welcomes dogs and offers cozy corners for a friendly feel.

Bartenders mix a classic Whiskey Sour even when it's not on the menu. Rye whiskey stands out as a favorite choice alongside solid food pairings.

People are saying

"The food here is awesome and delicious."

"I loved their happy hour deals and craft beverage specials."

"I loved the house Bourbon neat."

Good to know

1

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

2

Bingo night happens every Tuesday at 6pm.

3

Trivia night takes place on Thursdays at 6pm.

03
Wooden Cork image 1
Liquor store

Liquor store boasts a beautiful view and a cozy setting. It stocks rare whiskeys like Bourbon and Scotch, plus premium cigars. Fast delivery and easy online orders make buying simple and convenient.

Selection includes premium whiskeys like Bourbon, Scotch, and Canadian varieties. Offers sampler packs from distilleries such as Buichhladdich and Aberfeldy. Pricing on high-end whiskeys stays competitive even with shipping.

People are saying

"I got my delivery fast and it arrived early."

"I found a great selection of premium and specialty whiskeys here."

Good to know

1

Delivery is timely, ensuring you receive your order quickly.

2

The website is easy to navigate for placing orders.

3

Products are well-packaged to prevent breakage during delivery.

04
Kamon Craft Cocktail Bar image 1

Speakeasy hidden behind a bakery offers a cozy atmosphere with Japanese-inspired decor and a sand garden. Bartenders serve rare Japanese whisky and craft cocktails like Black Manhattan. Old J-pop music supports chill conversations in a private lounge.

Unique Japanese whisky selection stands out with rare bottles displayed prominently. Bartenders are highly knowledgeable, offering detailed flavor notes and crafting cocktails like the Black Manhattan and Whiskey Sour that highlight the whiskies well.

People are saying

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

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

"I loved the speakeasy vibe and the unique whiskey selection."

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.

05
Aero Club Bar image 1

Small dive bar buzzes with vintage aviation decor and a huge whiskey selection. Bartenders craft expert whiskey cocktails while arcade games and pinball machines keep energy high. Outdoor patio features a popular BBQ food truck, adding to the lively vibe.

An extensive collection of whiskey and bourbon lines the wall, offering one of the most impressive selections around. Knowledgeable bartenders craft whiskey cocktails and share insights on the best pours.

People are saying

"The whiskey selection here is mind-blowing, with over 1,200 unique bottles."

"The staff here are so friendly and make you feel right at home."

"It's cool how many pinball and arcade games they have here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with $5 beers and new whiskey cocktails.

2

Visiting on 'Whiskey Wednesday' offers rotating specials on rare pours.

3

Monthly pinball tournaments are held, adding a fun competitive element.

06
Azuki Sushi Lounge image 1

Small, intimate space blends classic Japanese style with rustic wood decor. Offers excellent Japanese whisky and standout cocktails like the whiskey sour. Outdoor dining and a sushi bar create a tranquil, authentic atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

An excellent Japanese whisky selection stands out here, carefully curated for variety and quality. Cocktails shine, especially the whiskey sour with house-made lemon cordial.

People are saying

"The sushi here is outstanding, especially the blue fin tuna."

"The seafood here is amazingly fresh and delicious."

"The Japanese whiskey selection here is excellent and thoughtfully curated."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets packed quickly.

2

Curbside pick-up and online ordering are available for convenience.

3

Seating is not wheelchair accessible for parties less than four.

07
Salt & Whiskey image 1
American restaurant

Historic architecture and intricate woodwork create a cozy, welcoming vibe. Astonishing whiskey selection shines with rare bourbons and classic cocktails. Live music adds warmth without overwhelming, making it perfect for savoring well-crafted drinks in a relaxed setting.

An astonishing choice of whiskeys and bourbons fills the menu, including some hard to find options. Classic cocktails like Old Fashioned and whiskey sour come perfectly crafted with complex flavors.

People are saying

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

"They had a fantastic array of whiskeys and bourbons."

"It's a nice, quiet spot to sit back and relax."

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.

08
The Whiskey House image 1

Boasts a world-record whiskey collection with over 4,500 bottles including rare scotches and Uncle Nearest. Offers laid-back speakeasy vibe with indoor and outdoor seating options like bar, lounge, and booths. Background music keeps the atmosphere fun and lively.

Holds a Guinness World Record for the largest bourbon selection with over 4,500 varieties. Offers a vast whiskey collection including hard-to-find scotches and recently added Uncle Nearest whiskey.

People are saying

"The whiskey selection here is unparalleled and impressive."

"The brunch here is amazing, especially the chilaquiles."

"The bartenders here provide great conversation and excellent service."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great drink specials.

2

The Whiskey House has the largest whiskey collection in the world with over 4,500 varieties.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups, especially during peak hours.

09
Miramar Wine & Liquor image 1

Huge beer cave offers a vast selection of beer, wine, and liquor. Exclusive whiskeys include rare finds packed with care. High-energy vibes and reggaeton music create a lively, clean, and well-organized shopping spot.

An exclusive selection of whiskeys stands out here, including options not found elsewhere. The whiskey is carefully packed and comes alongside a large variety of other liquors like tequila and scotch.

People are saying

"I found the beer selection here to be excellent."

"They have a huge selection of wine and spirits."

"I found the whiskey selection here to be excellent."

Good to know

1

Miramar Wine & Liquor is open until 11 pm for late-night shopping.

2

They offer a huge selection of wine, beer, and liquor.

3

Free and fast delivery is available for online orders.

10
Total Wine & More image 1
Liquor store

Warehouse-style store feels like a candy store for adults with spacious layout and dedicated sections. Whiskey lovers find a massive selection including rare bottles and peanut butter whiskey. Tasting bar with sommeliers and a self-serve cigar bar add to the engaging experience.

Massive selection of whiskey and wine with some hard-to-find bottles available. Staff offers recommendations and the peanut butter whiskey stands out.

People are saying

"I found a huge selection of wine here."

"I found a huge selection of different types of cigars here."

"I always found a new whiskey to try here."

Good to know

1

The store offers a wide variety of wines, beers, and spirits.

2

Prices are competitive, making it a great place for budget-conscious shoppers.

3

Parking is available but can get crowded due to nearby stores.

11
Prohibition Lounge image 1

Basement speakeasy offers intimate atmosphere with dim lighting and vintage dรฉcor. Enjoy live jazz music in a small space that invites close conversation. Whiskey lovers find single barrel whiskey and unique cocktails like pandan whiskey refreshing and tasty.

Selection includes single barrel whiskey and custom drinks. Cocktails often feature whiskey, like the pandan whiskey drink that is refreshing and tasty. Some drinks may have ingredient shortages but still get served.

People are saying

"The live music here has a great speakeasy vibe."

"The craft cocktails here are amazing and set the mood perfectly."

"This intimate bar is a cool, chill place to enjoy whiskey."

Good to know

1

There is a $10 cash-only cover charge for live music events.

2

Live music starts at 9pm every night.

3

Open mic night occurs on Thursdays with a $10 cover charge.

12
Del Mesa Liquor image 1
Liquor store

Three-story store offers extensive wine and beer alongside a deli and mini market. Whiskey selection shines with hard-to-find single malts like Pearse 5 year old, smooth and smoky. Layout feels disorganized but delivery is fast and professional.

Offers a fantastic selection of single malt and hard-to-find whiskeys with great pricing. The whiskey tends to be smooth and velvety with hints of pears and smokiness, including notable options like Pearse 5 year old Irish whiskey.

People are saying

"I got my delivery super fast and it was seamless."

"I found their selection of whiskeys to be fantastic."

"I found a great beer selection down a ramp."

Good to know

1

Del Mesa Liquor is a 3-story store with a deli and a wide selection of liquor.

2

I experienced extremely fast delivery, with same-day shipping for my order.

3

The ordering process is easy, making it convenient for customers.

13
Convoy Music Bar image 1

Speakeasy bar with a secret alley entrance offers an intimate vibe and bold, creative cocktails. Enjoy Japanese whiskey selections and unique blends with artichoke and apples. Loud, top-tier music plays through large cabinet speakers for an audiophile's dream.

A large and impressive selection of Japanese whiskey shapes the drink menu. Cocktails blend artichoke, apples, and whisky for unique flavors, with knowledgeable servers offering solid recommendations.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are expertly curated and delicious."

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

"The whiskey cocktails here are delicious and complex."

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.

14
Huntress image 1
Steak house

Steakhouse shines with modern decor and a live DJ that keeps energy high but conversations clear. Whiskey lovers enjoy a curated tasting with top bourbon and Japanese options. Stylish crowd and varied seating make it perfect for both intimate and lively nights.

Whiskey selection features great bourbon and an incredible Japanese whisky range. Whiskey flights offer a curated tasting experience that stands out.

People are saying

"The A5 wagyu and wagyu bites were perfect."

"The mushroom dessert was beautifully executed and flavorful."

"The whiskey selection here is incredible, especially the Japanese."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups.

2

A 20% service fee is automatically added for parties of six or more.

3

Happy hour runs on weekdays before 7 pm with discounted cocktails.

15
Horton Grand Hotel image 1

Historic hotel blends beautifully preserved architecture with a quiet courtyard full of natural light. Salt and Whiskey bar shines with an incredible whiskey selection and complimentary old fashions served by Rob. Atmosphere mixes cozy charm with bursts of lively music.

The Salt and Whiskey bar offers complimentary drinks including old fashions with excellent service from Rob. Food and drinks here come highly recommended.

People are saying

"Victor gave such helpful recommendations and engaging conversations at the hotel."

"Victor Ivy's tour of historical sites was superb and engaging."

"I loved the whiskey bar; it was amazing."

Good to know

1

The hotel charges a $25 per day destination fee not disclosed during booking.

2

There is no breakfast or coffee available in the morning at the hotel.

3

Expect loud music and celebrations from weddings in the courtyard until late at night.

Discover more

San Diego, California

Area guide
Loading Map...