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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Hillcrest

Cool spots

A space with a distinct, unconventional energy is where the afternoon should be spent.

Based on 530 Opinions
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01
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Coffee shop offers a bright atmosphere with Wi-Fi and outlets for work or hangouts. Bubble waffles add a cool treat to the menu. Friendly staff and a dog-friendly policy make it welcoming for all.

Bubble waffles stand out as a cool treat. The vibe feels very laid-back and the staff come across as genuinely friendly.

People are saying

"I found the space to be super cute and bright."

Good to know

1

You can park in the back of the cafe with 15 minutes of free parking.

2

The Latte costs $10.50, totaling over $12 with tip.

3

Alternative milk options incur an extra $1 charge.

02
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Small pizza spot with a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles mural and an urban kitchen feel. Sitting by the oven offers a cool vibe that matches the upbeat staff and 70s dance tunes. Seating fits both quick pick-up and relaxed dine-in.

Sitting in front of the oven creates a really cool experience. The whole place has a cool vibe and a cool feel throughout.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was seriously great and amazing."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Thursday night starting at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

2

Dinner and comedy shows are available on select nights; check the schedule.

3

Parking costs $8 for two hours in the rear lot.

03
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Large venue with a massive outdoor patio and LED honeycomb ceiling lights creates a lively, spacious atmosphere. An iconic 1959 Cadillac centerpiece blends retro charm with modern style. Friendly crowd enjoys diverse DJs and a dynamic dance floor with pool tables.

An iconic 1959 Cadillac hangs from the ceiling as a jaw-dropping centerpiece blending retro charm with modern style. Cool bartenders and a DJ keep the vibe lively, while the lighting and decor add to the overall atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found this spot to be a cool venue."

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.

04
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Open concept space with wall-to-wall windows lets in natural light and fresh air. Unique drink menu blends great coffee and cocktails for a cool vibe. Friendly energy and outdoor seating create a chill spot, though cigar lounge smoke may affect comfort.

Great coffee pairs with cocktails, making the drink menu unique. A wall-to-wall window slides open, filling the space with light and cool air from the side street.

People are saying

"I loved the ube cookie and the Lisa B. drink."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Friday with discounted drinks.

2

The venue allows cigar smoking, which may affect non-smokers.

3

The coffee shop is cash-free and does not provide receipts.

05
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Gay bar with a lively dance floor and amazing DJ offers a cool, chill vibe. Friendly staff and a welcoming crowd create a strong sense of community. Lighting stays relaxed, making it a great spot to hang out and mingle.

Atmosphere feels very cool and chill. Staff are friendly and laid-back. Overall, a cool spot to hang out.

People are saying

"The staff here are really chill and friendly."

Good to know

1

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

2

Cover charge for events is typically around $10.

3

Street parking is available, but spots can be limited during busy hours.

06
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Small Mexican spot offers a cool vibe with friendly staff who remember orders. Clean interior feels welcoming and music adds to the atmosphere. Lunch brings a friendly vibe but parking is limited.

Staff are super friendly and remember orders even when simple. The vibe feels cool and welcoming throughout.

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

The restaurant is open mostly 24 hours for late-night cravings.

3

The fish tacos cost $4.70 each, making them an affordable option.

07
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Eclectic cigar lounge offers a large humidor and 9ft pool table for a cool, relaxed vibe. Comfortable seating and affordable drinks create a chill spot where straight males feel at ease. Friendly staff and carefully curated music complete the welcoming atmosphere.

A pool table and ample seating set a relaxed tone. Conversations with Rocky add a cool vibe to the atmosphere.

People are saying

"The staff here are so cool and genuinely want you to have a good time."

Good to know

1

Cigar Cave offers a selection of well-known cigar brands at competitive prices.

2

Happy hour specials on drinks are available from 4-7pm on weekdays.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

08
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Garden patio offers a calming atmosphere with lush tropical plants and shaded seating. Space feels warm and quiet, perfect for relaxed breakfasts and family time. Community lounge adds a cool, inviting vibe for gatherings.

A tucked away tropical patio offers a quiet, cool spot surrounded by lots of plants. The community gathering lounge adds a relaxed, inviting vibe.

People are saying

"The patio area is really cool and quiet."

Good to know

1

The cafe is only open on weekends.

2

Puppers are welcome in the patio.

3

Breakfast prices are very affordable.

09
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Classic New York-style pizzeria shines with old boxing photos and subway-themed decor. Cash-only policy and takeout window keep it simple and authentic. Vibe mixes New York attitude with California cool for a lively, no-frills experience.

Atmosphere blends New York attitude with California laid-back cool. Decor feels authentic and adds to the cool vibe.

People are saying

"The pizza slices here are awesome and reasonably priced."

Good to know

1

Bronx Pizza only accepts cash payments; an ATM is available inside.

2

The entrance has a half-step, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

3

Parking is limited, so plan accordingly when visiting.

10
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Small Japanese spot shines with fresh sushi and a laid-back Hawaiian vibe. Owners bring great energy, making it a welcoming place. Cozy seating and a neat space keep things simple and inviting.

Owners with great energy create a welcoming vibe. People here are genuinely cool, making the atmosphere relaxed and enjoyable.

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

2

The menu features a variety of poke bowls and sushi options.

3

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

11
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Older building with New Orleans vibe creates a cozy, lively atmosphere. Staff like Angie and Greg add a cool vibe that blends well with the great bartender energy. Outdoor dog-friendly patio offers a relaxed spot with multiple TVs for games.

Staff members like Angie and Greg bring a cool vibe to the place. The bartender stands out as great and adds to the overall cool atmosphere.

People are saying

"The jambalaya was spicy, but the gumbo could have had a better roux."

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.

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Big stage and loud sound system create an electric vibe. Crowd is lively and supportive, with friendly staff and a skilled DJ. Cash-only policy and smoke patio add unique charm to this cool karaoke bar.

A cool stage and spotlight set the vibe for karaoke with a unique microphone setup and a great sound system. The music is loud and energetic, backed by a skilled DJ and friendly staff.

People are saying

"It's a cool dive bar with an awesome karaoke DJ."

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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