San Diego, a city renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and eclectic culinary scene, harbors some of the most intriguing hidden bars and speakeasies. These secret spots offer an escape into a world of masterfully crafted cocktails, unique atmospheres, and the thrill of discovering something exclusive. Let’s embark on a journey through the hidden doorways and behind the stainless steel doors of San Diego’s speakeasy scene, where the allure of the prohibition era meets modern mixology.
The charm of a San Diego speakeasy lies not just in its cocktails but in the adventure of finding it. From the Convoy Music Bar, known for its listening ambiance, to the mysterious allure of the Noble Experiment hidden behind a refrigerator door, each venue offers a unique experience. The thrill of the hunt, the push through a secret entrance, the walk down the spiral staircase, and the step into dim lighting all contribute to the allure that makes San Diego’s hidden bars a coveted experience.
A Toast to the Prohibition Era: Here are the 17 Most Iconic Speakeasy Bars of San Diego
1. Raised by Wolves
Located behind a bottle shop at the Westfield UTC in La Jolla, this speakeasy transports you with a swiveling mantle into a realm of rare spirits and velvet chairs, where cocktail craftsmanship rivals the intrigue of its hidden entrance. The white marble fountain and emerald-encrusted dome make this cocktail bar one of the most eclectic in San Diego.
Walk in and order from the reserve list, as you won’t find any mixed drinks like these in the area, made in an old-fashioned manner.
4301 La Jolla Village Dr #2030, La Jolla
2. Forbidden Cove
Tucked away in Kearny Mesa, this tiki bar offers tropical flavors and delicious drinks, a nod to San Diego’s love for locally sourced poke and inventive cocktails. Decorated in tropical plants, bamboo, and fishing floats, this hush hush hideaway uses the flavors of fruit purees and tropical essences to make it a proper beer cocktail bar. Being located next to the Kilowatt Brewing in Kearny Mesa, Kilowatt booze sours the fruity additional touches.
Kilowatt’s Oceanside location has its own secret bar, called Space Pad, styled and modeled similarly to Forbidden Cove. Either way, Space Pad or not, this establishment will serve you sweet or sour and remains to be a secret tip of San Diego.
7576 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92111
3. Realm of the 52 Remedies
This East Village gem, inspired by an ancient Chinese medical text, blends the art of mixology with the mystery of its dedicated mezcal tasting room. Alongside your handcrafted potions, order some small plates off their food menu, specifically their smoked pork ribs or Korean fried quail.
This bar is a sight for sore eyes, with its hanging beads and smoking cocktails. Prepare to be amazed by this drinking den and look no further to satisfy your needs for a bar in San Diego. Enter through a white door inside Common Theory and wish your worries away!
4805 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
4. Convoy Music Bar
A standout among San Diego’s listening bars, offering an elevated menu of cocktails in a setting inspired by Tokyo’s sophisticated nightlife. The San Diego bar holsters a custom Japanese sound system to emulate Tokyo’s listenings bars. This vinyl record soundtrack makes for soothing experience and ability to focus on what you are there for (hopefully Japanese whiskey).
Make sure to look for the the “On Air” sign and give the door a knock to be let in. This bar does a great job of prioritizing not one, but two things, and that is classic mixology and even better music.
4646 Convoy St, Kearny Mesa
5. Captain’s Quarters
Dive into a nautical adventure through a secret door in Pacific Beach, where the ambiance is as captivating as the cocktail menu. This bar offers a clandestine haven, reminiscent of Prohibition-era establishments.
Concealed behind an unassuming facade, this speakeasy beckons guests into a world of vintage charm and clandestine allure. Within its intimate confines, patrons savor meticulously crafted cocktails, each a homage to the artistry of mixology.
The ambiance exudes mystery and nostalgia, with low lighting casting shadows upon the exposed brick walls adorned with nautical decor. Jazz music fills the air, transporting visitors to a bygone era of sophistication and rebellion. Captain’s Quarters promises an unforgettable evening steeped in history and clandestine indulgence.
910 Grand Ave Ste 105-107, Pacific Beach
6. The Grass Skirt
Being a sister venue to Captain’s Quarters, you don’t have to walk very far to get to this beautiful establishment. This tiki bar is accessed through a walk-in refrigerator, leading to a world of stylized music and unique drinks. The Grass Skirt offers a tantalizing escape into a tropical paradise hidden within the bustling city.
Behind an unassuming facade, guests discover a world of exotic cocktails and Polynesian-inspired ambiance. Tiki torches cast a warm glow over bamboo accents and lush greenery, creating an atmosphere of enchantment and relaxation. The menu boasts a tantalizing array of libations infused with exotic flavors and served in creative vessels.
Live tunes set the mood, transporting patrons to a Pacific island getaway. The Grass Skirt Speakeasy promises an unforgettable experience, where every sip is a journey to paradise.
910 Grand Ave Ste 105-107, Pacific Beach
7. Oculto 477
Hidden within Old Town, this speakeasy offers a modern twist on Prohibition-era drinks, complete with a secret tip for entry. Oculto 477 invites guests to uncover a hidden realm of mystery and intrigue.
Concealed behind a nondescript entrance, this clandestine establishment immerses visitors in an atmosphere of secrecy and sophistication. Within its intimate confines, patrons are treated to an exclusive selection of cocktails meticulously prepared by expert mixologists.
The ambiance exudes an air of clandestine allure, with mysterious lighting and opulent decor setting the stage for an unforgettable evening. Live performances and curated events add to the mystique, ensuring that each visit to Oculto 477 is an experience shrouded in secrecy and indulgence.
2414 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110
8. Bar Three-Piece
Nestled within the Seven Grand Whiskey Bar, this spot elevates the whiskey experience with its unique cocktails and live bands. Bar Three Piece in San Diego is a haven for discerning cocktail enthusiasts seeking elegance and innovation.
Nestled discreetly within the city, this speakeasy-style gem exudes timeless charm and sophistication. Patrons step into an intimate space adorned with plush furnishings and vintage accents, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening.
Expert mixologists craft artisanal cocktails with precision and flair, showcasing a blend of classic recipes and inventive creations. The ambiance is refined yet welcoming, with live jazz filling the air and creating a captivating atmosphere. Bar Three Piece offers a distinguished experience where every sip is a celebration of craftsmanship and style.
3054 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104
9. Mothership
With its inventive cocktails and vegan menu, this South Park speakeasy is a testament to San Diego’s creative spirit. Mothership San Diego Speakeasy is a hidden gem tucked away in the city, offering an escape into a retro-futuristic realm.
Stepping through its inconspicuous entrance reveals a space adorned with eclectic decor and neon accents, reminiscent of a spaceship from a bygone era.
Patrons indulge in imaginative cocktails crafted with precision and creativity, while live DJs spin tracks that transport guests to another dimension. Mothership promises an otherworldly experience where nostalgia meets innovation, making every visit a journey to remember.
2310 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104
10. Shibuya Nights
This Little Italy hideaway, inspired by Tokyo’s Harajuku district, offers an immersive experience with its cocktail and food menu. Shibuya Nights in San Diego is a vibrant speakeasy that channels the energy of Tokyo’s bustling nightlife.
Tucked away in the city, it offers a fusion of Japanese-inspired cocktails and pulsating beats.
Guests immerse themselves in a lively atmosphere, savoring innovative drinks and embracing the electric ambiance of Shibuya’s streets. Leave a main bar for another night.
1953 India St Level 2, San Diego, CA 92101
11. False Idol
A hidden gem behind a stainless steel door in Little Italy leads to a Polynesian paradise of masterful cocktails. False Idol in San Diego is a hidden oasis of Polynesian paradise, concealed within another establishment.
Guests venture through a door (next to Commerce restaurant) to discover a world of exotic cocktails and intricate decor with wood carvings inspired by the South Pacific.
Tiki enthusiasts revel in the enchanting atmosphere, sipping on expertly crafted libations surrounded by tropical allure.
675 W Beech St, San Diego, CA 92101
12. Vin de Syrah
Inspired by New York’s meatpacking district, this underground bar in the Gaslamp Quarter offers an array of masterfully crafted cocktails. Vid de Syrah in San Diego offers a sensory journey through its underground speakeasy, tucked beneath a wine bar.
Patrons are transported to a world of mystery and elegance, surrounded by plush seating and soft lighting. Expert mixologists concoct imaginative cocktails while live performances captivate guests, creating an unforgettable experience.
901 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
13. Room 56
Tucked away in the Gaslamp Quarter, this intimate spot offers a timeless cocktail experience, hidden behind a law office facade. Room 56 in San Diego beckons patrons into a clandestine world of sophistication and allure.
Nestled within the city, this speakeasy exudes vintage charm and exclusivity.
Guests unwind in an intimate setting, savoring meticulously crafted cocktails and soaking in the ambiance of live jazz music. Each visit promises a memorable escape into refinement. So, step out the law office and into this gem for a proper drink and even better atmosphere.
831 Sixth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
14. Noble Experiment
A cornerstone of San Diego’s speakeasy scene, located in the East Village, known for its lounge-like atmosphere and cocktail artistry. Noble Experiment in San Diego is a revered speakeasy hidden behind a secret door within a bustling bar.
Patrons step into a world of opulence and exclusivity, where expert mixologists craft inventive cocktails with precision. The intimate atmosphere, dim lighting, and attention to detail ensure an unforgettable experience steeped in sophistication and indulgence.
Noble Experiment serves to be a great secret tip of San Diego.
15. Young Blood
Hidden within Noble Experiment, this venue offers a personalized cocktail journey, showcasing San Diego’s inventive mixology scene. Young Blood in San Diego is a dynamic speakeasy with a modern twist, offering an eclectic fusion of craft cocktails and artistic ambiance.
Guests are immersed in an energetic atmosphere, surrounded by contemporary decor and vibrant beats. The innovative libations and lively vibe make Young Blood a must-visit destination for nightlife enthusiasts.
16. Bar Kamon
Step into the 1920s Taisho-era Japan in the East Village, where Japanese whiskey and unique drinks abound. Bar Kamon in San Diego offers a serene escape into the heart of Japan, with a speakeasy ambiance hidden within a traditional izakaya.
Patrons unwind in an intimate setting, savoring authentic Japanese cocktails and small plates. The tranquil atmosphere and attentive service ensure a memorable experience steeped in Japanese hospitality and culture.
634 14th Street, San Diego, California 92101
17. Prohibition Lounge
Dive into the 1920s in downtown San Diego, where the hidden door reveals a world of stylized live music and elevated cocktails. Prohibition Lounge in San Diego is a homage to the Roaring Twenties, tucked away behind a discreet entrance.
Guests step back in time to an era of glamour and intrigue, sipping on classic cocktails crafted with precision. Live jazz music and vintage decor complete the immersive experience, making each visit unforgettable.
548 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Finding San Diego’s Speakeasies
The journey to uncover San Diego’s speakeasies is half the fun, with each hidden bar offering its own secret tip for entry. From the plain sight of a liquor store in North Park to the iconic vintage whiskey barrels of the Seven Grand Whiskey Bar, the city’s speakeasy bars are a testament to the creativity and history that define San Diego.
These establishments are more than just bars; they are hush-hush hideaways where the past and present merge to create an unforgettable experience. From the velvet chairs of Raised by Wolves to the tropical flavors of Forbidden Cove, each speakeasy tells a story, inviting locals and visitors alike to explore the hidden depths of San Diego’s nightlife.
In the heart of San Diego, behind stainless steel doors, and down spiral staircases, lies a world of cocktail bars that echo the city’s vibrant spirit. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, the quest to uncover such premises offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history, its dedication to craft cocktails, and the joy of discovery that makes San Diego truly unique.
So, next time you’re in the city, keep an eye out for that hidden door or secret entrance—it might just lead you to your new favorite spot.
