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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 542 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Puff Hookah Lounge image 1
Puff Hookah Lounge image 2
Puff Hookah Lounge image 3
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Hookah lounge blends ambient lighting with plush seating for a chill vibe. Smooth, flavorful hookah pairs well with well-regarded food. Modern scan code menu and cozy, well-decorated interior add a cool, stylish touch.

A scan code menu adds a modern touch. The lounge features a cozy design and a well-decorated interior that creates a cool atmosphere.

People are saying

"It's a chill vibe with beautiful decor and smooth hookah."

"Carmen, the owner, makes this bar feel like family."

"The interior design here is so pretty and cool."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 7 PM with discounted hookah prices.

2

The lounge is open late, making it a great spot for night owls.

3

They do not serve alcohol but offer a selection of food and Turkish coffee.

02
DASHI image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi spot shines with fresh ingredients and creative rolls. Cool vibe flows from modern murals and chic layout. Warm, welcoming feel balances occasional loud music.

Decor stands out with a really cool style. The overall vibe stays cool and chill throughout.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is incredibly fresh."

"You have to try the matcha flan; it's the best dessert I've ever had."

"The food here is delicious and super fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Parking is limited; allow extra time to find street parking.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is preferred.

03
Cigar Cave image 1
Cigar shop

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 bar staff here are so knowledgeable and make you feel comfortable."

"The staff's friendly service makes the nightlife here amazing."

"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.

04
Rosemary & Thyme Cafe image 1
Breakfast restaurant

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 food here is amazing, especially the chilaquiles."

"I found the breakfast here to be amazing and delicious."

"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.

05
Massachusetts Mike's Pizzeria image 1

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 the best I've ever had."

"Their gluten-free food options felt safe and tasted delicious."

"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.

06
Alibi image 1

Dive bar offers free pool tables and a chill vibe with friendly staff. Outdoor patio and jukebox music shift from 70s tunes to contemporary hits. Cash-only and mix of seating create a relaxed, social spot loved by regulars.

A dive bar with a chill vibe and friendly staff. Regulars add to the cool 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."

"It's a chill spot with cool people and a good atmosphere."

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.

07
EQ San Diego image 1

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

"The bar staff are so friendly and welcoming."

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

"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.

08
Quiet Storm Roasters & Bakers image 1

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 thought the coffee was great and smooth."

"It's a great work-friendly spot with chill vibes and excellent Wi-Fi."

"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.

09
Sushi Deli 1 image 1
Sushi restaurant

Walls covered in manga pages set a casual vibe. Fresh sushi and sake cocktails draw an energetic crowd. The place buzzes with a cool, lively atmosphere unlike any other on the east coast.

Energy pulses through the space with a cool and energetic atmosphere. It offers good sushi and sake in a setting unlike any other on the east coast.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is fresh, flavorful, and reasonably priced."

"The sushi service was so impeccable and welcoming."

"This place is a cool spot for good sushi and sake."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday to Friday from 3-6pm with food and drink specials.

2

Daily specials on food and rotating monthly specials are available.

3

Parking is limited, so consider arriving early or using public transport.

10
The Brass Rail image 1

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 bartenders here are so friendly and quick."

"The atmosphere here is so lively and full of great energy."

"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.

11
The Lamplighter image 1
Karaoke bar

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

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

"The DJ here really knows how to get the crowd going."

"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.

12
Bronx Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

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

"I found the New York style pizza to be authentic and amazing."

"You have to try their calzone; it's chef's kiss perfection."

"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.

13
Amore Caffe image 1
Coffee shop

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 had the best vanilla latte I've ever had."

"The cafe staff here are always so nice and friendly."

"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.

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Hillcrest, San Diego

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