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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Hillcrest

Bars with outdoor space

You want to have a drink outside, but only if the space feels like a proper bar rather than an afterthought.

Based on 641 Opinions
+638
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Updated May 2026
01
The Loft image 1
The Loft image 2
The Loft image 3
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Gay bar

Small, casual gay bar with friendly atmosphere and laid-back vibe. Offers front and back patios plus a pool table, creating a relaxed, neighborhood feel. Patrons represent diverse LGBTQ generations and identities, making it welcoming and inclusive.

Small and busy, this bar has a divey vibe with friendly staff and a dog-friendly policy. It offers front and back patios and a better Bourbon selection than nearby gay bars.

Front and back patios offer outdoor seating with extra tables and chairs in the back. The back patio feels relaxing and quieter than inside. The space is open to the outside and includes a pool table nearby.

People are saying

"It's a super chill LGBTQ neighborhood bar with a great attitude."

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

"It's a great outdoor space with relaxing front and back patios."

Good to know

1

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

2

Beer costs $8, which is reasonable for the area.

3

The Loft is dog-friendly, allowing pets on the patio.

02
EQ San Diego image 1

Large venue with massive outdoor patio and LED honeycomb ceiling lights creates a lively, spacious atmosphere. Friendly, inclusive crowd enjoys diverse DJs and a dynamic dance floor with pool tables. The vibe stays chill and happy, blending retro charm with modern energy.

Large full bar area operates during the day with attentive staff ensuring a great time. It serves as a small venue music club and welcomes the gay community.

Massive outdoor patio offers plenty of space to relax. A chillout and smoking area lets you bring drinks and hang outside comfortably.

People are saying

"The bar staff are so friendly and welcoming."

"I considered this nightclub one of my favorite spots."

"The outdoor space is a nice place to cool off and socialize."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available nearby at the DMV until 3 am.

2

Reservations are recommended for popular events to avoid long lines.

3

The venue hosts a monthly 'Are Night' party on the first weekend of each month.

03
Alibi image 1

Dive bar with free pool tables and an outdoor patio offers a chill atmosphere and jukebox music that shifts from 70s tunes during the day to contemporary hits after work. The crowd grows livelier in the evening, creating a relaxed yet social vibe. Cash-only policy and a mix of indoor and outdoor seating add to the straightforward, unpretentious feel.

Dive bar offers a local vibe with friendly staff who know most people by name. Open garage air and outdoor space create a chill atmosphere reminiscent of hanging out in a friend's basement.

Outdoor space features a patio with an open garage air vibe. The smoking patio adds to the relaxed atmosphere.

People are saying

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

"It's a chill spot with cool people to enjoy a cold one."

"The outdoor space is great for vaping and smoking."

Good to know

1

They only accept cash payments; an ATM is available inside.

2

Alibi is LGBTQIA and ally friendly.

3

There is a smoking area where you can drink and smoke.

04
R Place Bar & Eatery image 1

Gay bar combines multiple festive spaces with an outdoor patio and big screens for sports viewing. Atmosphere shifts from laid-back and casual during the day to electric and energetic at night, welcoming a diverse crowd. Known for its fun vibe, party energy, and LGBTQ+ inclusivity, it offers private back areas and a rich, fabulous design.

Multiple festive spaces create a fun atmosphere with a party vibe and a welcoming feel. Daily happy hour and a patio add to the chill bar and grill experience.

Outdoor seating includes a patio with a big screen and TVs over the bar and in the back room. The patio hosts events drawing crowds of over 50 people.

People are saying

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

"I loved watching the game and having dinner here."

"The staff here are super friendly and accommodating."

Good to know

1

Happy hour menu is available every day from 3-7 pm.

2

Bingo nights are organized weekly with the Queens.

3

Drag shows occur regularly, providing vibrant entertainment.

05
Cork & Stem image 1
Wine bar

Wine bar combines minimalistic decor with interactive flower bar and custom bouquet workshops. Atmosphere stays warm and inviting, suited for quiet afternoons or lively gatherings. Space offers indoor and outdoor seating, encouraging mingling with vibrant floral displays throughout.

Wine tasting happens alongside a flower bar with bright, fun selections. Service and charcuterie complement the experience in a beautiful venue.

Pleasant outdoor seating appears when weather is mild. The layout encourages mingling with a patio for warmer days, but service outside is non-existent.

People are saying

"The staff helped me choose a wine and made me feel known."

"The staff here are excellent hosts and made our event stress-free."

"You can create your own flower bouquet in the Outdoor Space."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features unbeatable wine flights and runs from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Cork & Stem hosts regular events, including monthly flower arranging parties.

3

The venue is suitable for hosting events with a minimal space fee based on purchases.

06
NOLA on 5th image 1
American restaurant

Older building with New Orleans vibe and tiny interior creates a cozy, lively atmosphere. Loud music and bar energy fill the space, especially near the bar area. Outdoor dog-friendly patio offers a relaxed spot for lunch or watching games on multiple TVs.

A sports bar gem with a solid lineup of local IPAs and beers. Upstairs hosts another bar and events, adding extra space and vibe.

Stylish and clean patio area offers a relaxed New Orleans vibe. Outdoor space suits lunch with good people watching opportunities.

People are saying

"The jambalaya and poboy here are top notch."

"The fried catfish at this bar is unreal crispy."

"It's nice to sit on the patio when the weather is great."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour at NOLA on 5th is from 3 to 6 pm.

2

The food price range is from $8 to $26.

3

NOLA on 5th offers limited vegetarian options, mainly two salads at $14 each.

07
Cocina De Barrio image 1
Mexican restaurant

Modern Mexican restaurant offers spacious indoor and outdoor seating with a breezy patio elevated for people watching. Atmosphere feels high class yet welcoming, with artistic plating and a lively bar featuring fresh margaritas and unique cocktails. Crowd enjoys a comfortable, friendly vibe with generous portions and stylish design.

Full service bar offers hand crafted drinks with a bartender who prepares beverages right in front of you. Watching the process adds to the experience.

Covered patio offers dog friendly outdoor seating with chill vibes. Staff keeps drinks and plates topped off even when the patio is crowded.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here delicious and full of flavor."

"The food here is flavorful and delicious."

"It's a cute spot with a relaxed outdoor seating area."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 5 pm most days with affordable prices.

2

Expect a busy crowd on weekends; arrive early to avoid long waits.

3

Parking can be limited with only street parking available.

08
The Lamplighter image 1
Karaoke bar

Karaoke bar with a big stage and loud sound system creates an electric atmosphere where the crowd is supportive and lively. The venue blends an old-school dive bar vibe with modern karaoke lights and a dance floor. A cash-only policy and a smoke patio add to its distinctive character.

An electric karaoke bar with a lively vibe and old world cash-only pub charm featuring beautiful leather booths. It offers fun activities like karaoke and trivia in a classic setting.

A well ventilated smoking patio offers plenty of seating and a relaxed vibe. The back patio serves as a quiet spot for conversations and an industry hangout with bartenders often present.

People are saying

"The karaoke here has so much energy and a cool vibe."

"It's a great dive bar with awesome staff and karaoke."

"The outdoor space is a great place to have a conversation."

Good to know

1

The Lamplighter only accepts cash payments, no credit cards.

2

Expect long wait times for karaoke, especially on weekends.

3

The ATM on-site charges a $4 surcharge for withdrawals.

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Hillcrest, San Diego

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