Top 10 LGBTQ-Friendly Bars in San Diego

by Itai Benisty
– May 27, 2024

San Diego is known for its vibrant and welcoming LGBTQ+ community, and the city boasts a variety of bars that cater to this diverse crowd. Here are the top 10 LGBTQ-friendly bars in San Diego, particularly noted for their fantastic happy hours

LGBTQ-Friendly Bars in San Diego

1236 University Ave | Hillcrest

Uptown Tavern

Uptown Tavern is a popular LGBTQ+ bar located in the heart of Hillcrest, San Diego’s vibrant and diverse neighborhood. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and lively social scene, Uptown Tavern has become a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.

The bar boasts a spacious interior with a modern yet cozy design, featuring plenty of seating options, a large bar area, and an inviting outdoor patio perfect for enjoying San Diego’s beautiful weather. Uptown Tavern is celebrated for its diverse menu of craft cocktails, local beers, and delicious food options that cater to a variety of tastes.

One of the standout features of Uptown Tavern is its fantastic happy hour, which offers great deals on drinks and appetizers, making it an ideal spot to unwind after work or kick off a night out with friends. The bar also hosts a variety of events throughout the week, including trivia nights, karaoke, and live DJ sets, ensuring there’s always something fun happening.

Uptown Tavern’s inclusive and friendly environment, combined with its excellent service and diverse offerings, makes it a must-visit destination in San Diego’s LGBTQ+ nightlife scene.

1403 University Ave

Alibi

Alibi Bars are well-known LGBTQ-friendly establishments located in various cities, each offering a welcoming atmosphere and a vibrant social scene. Known for their inclusive environments, Alibi Bars have become popular spots for the LGBTQ+ community and allies to gather, enjoy drinks, and socialize. These bars are often celebrated for their themed nights, live entertainment, and special events that cater to diverse tastes and preferences.

In San Diego, Alibi Bars continue this tradition by providing a safe and enjoyable space for patrons. With a focus on creating memorable experiences, the bar offers a variety of beverages, from craft cocktails to local beers, and often features happy hour specials that draw a lively crowd. The ambiance at Alibi Bars is typically relaxed yet festive, making it an ideal place to unwind after a long day or kick off a night out on the town. Additionally, the bar’s friendly staff and inclusive policies ensure that everyone feels welcome and respected.

Whether you’re looking to dance the night away, enjoy a quiet drink with friends, or meet new people, Alibi Bars in San Diego offer something for everyone. Their commitment to fostering a supportive community and providing high-quality service makes them a standout choice in the city’s bustling LGBTQ+ nightlife scene.

1421 University Ave

Baja Betty’s

Baja Betty’s is a vibrant and beloved Mexican restaurant and bar located in the heart of Hillcrest, San Diego’s LGBTQ+ neighborhood. Known for its lively atmosphere and welcoming vibe, Baja Betty’s has become a staple in the community. The decor is colorful and festive, featuring a mix of traditional Mexican elements and playful touches that reflect the bar’s fun-loving spirit.

One of the main attractions at Baja Betty’s is its extensive drink menu, particularly the margaritas, which come in a variety of flavors and sizes. Happy hour at Baja Betty’s is a major draw, offering great deals on these margaritas as well as other cocktails and appetizers. The food menu includes a range of delicious Mexican dishes, from classic tacos and burritos to more unique offerings like their famous carne asada fries.

Baja Betty’s is also known for its friendly and inclusive atmosphere. The staff is warm and welcoming, making everyone feel at home, whether they are regulars or first-time visitors. The bar frequently hosts events, including drag shows, trivia nights, and themed parties, which add to the lively and inclusive environment. Overall, Baja Betty’s is not just a place to eat and drink but a community hub where people come together to celebrate and have fun.

1458 University Ave

Hillcrest Brewing Company 

Hillcrest Brewing Company is a unique and vibrant establishment located in the heart of San Diego’s Hillcrest neighborhood, known for its strong LGBTQ+ community and lively atmosphere. As the first openly gay brewery in the world, Hillcrest Brewing Company has made a significant mark not just locally but globally, representing a blend of craft brewing and LGBTQ+ pride.

The brewery offers a diverse range of handcrafted beers, each brewed on-site with a commitment to quality and innovation. From refreshing lagers to robust stouts, their beer selection caters to a variety of tastes. Popular options include their “Perle Necklace” Pale Ale and “Hop Sucker” Double IPA, each with distinct flavors that keep patrons coming back for more.

Beyond the beer, Hillcrest Brewing Company is also known for its welcoming and inclusive environment. The brewery’s spacious and colorful setting is adorned with playful, cheeky decor that adds to its inviting charm. It’s a place where everyone is welcome, and the staff prides itself on creating a friendly and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

Overall, Hillcrest Brewing Company is more than just a brewery; it’s a community gathering spot that celebrates diversity, great beer, and a sense of belonging.

3845 Fifth Ave

Number One Fifth Avenue 

Number One Fifth Avenue, often referred to simply as Number One, is a beloved LGBTQ+ bar located in the heart of San Diego’s Hillcrest neighborhood. Established in 1984, this bar has become a staple in the community, known for its welcoming atmosphere, diverse crowd, and fantastic happy hour deals.

The bar features a spacious indoor area with a long, inviting bar counter, cozy seating, and a pool table for those looking to engage in a friendly game. One of the highlights of Number One is its large outdoor patio, a perfect spot to relax and enjoy San Diego’s beautiful weather. The patio is adorned with twinkling lights and comfortable seating, creating a charming and laid-back environment.

Number One Fifth Avenue is known for its generous happy hour, which typically runs from the late afternoon into the early evening. During happy hour, patrons can enjoy discounted drinks, including a wide selection of beers, cocktails, and wines. The bar staff are friendly and attentive, ensuring that everyone feels welcome and well-served.

In addition to happy hour, Number One hosts a variety of events throughout the week, such as karaoke nights, drag shows, and themed parties. These events draw a lively crowd and contribute to the bar’s reputation as a vibrant and entertaining venue. The inclusive and accepting atmosphere makes it a favorite hangout spot for both locals and visitors. For more details visit wutsthedeal!

Overall, Number One Fifth Avenue is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of San Diego’s LGBTQ+ nightlife. Whether you’re there for a casual drink during happy hour or a night of dancing and fun, you’re sure to have a memorable time at this iconic Hillcrest bar.

3610 Fifth Ave

The Loft

The Loft Bar in San Diego is a beloved spot known for its cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Located in the heart of Hillcrest, this LGBTQ-friendly bar offers a relaxed vibe that makes it a perfect place to unwind with friends or meet new people. The Loft is particularly popular for its fantastic happy hour deals, which include discounted drinks and a selection of tasty bar snacks.

The decor at The Loft is charming and intimate, featuring comfortable seating and a laid-back ambiance that encourages conversation and connection. The bar staff are known for their friendly and attentive service, making every visit feel like a gathering among friends. The Loft also hosts various events and themed nights, adding to its appeal as a versatile and inclusive venue.

Whether you’re stopping by for a quick drink after work or planning a night out with friends, The Loft Bar offers a welcoming environment that celebrates diversity and community. It’s a staple in San Diego’s LGBTQ+ nightlife, providing a safe and enjoyable space for all.

3537 5th Ave

Nunu’s Cocktails

Nunu’s Cocktails is a beloved dive bar in San Diego, known for its classic, no-frills atmosphere and strong, affordable drinks. Established in the 1960s, Nunu’s has maintained its retro charm with wood-paneled walls, dim lighting, and vintage decor that transport patrons back in time. The bar attracts a diverse crowd, including locals who appreciate its unpretentious vibe and friendly service.

Nunu’s offers a straightforward cocktail menu featuring classic drinks like martinis, old fashioneds, and margaritas. Their happy hour is particularly popular, with generous discounts on well drinks and draft beers. The bar also serves a selection of hearty bar snacks to complement the drinks. Whether you’re looking to unwind after work or catch up with friends in a relaxed setting, Nunu’s Cocktails provides a welcoming and nostalgic experience.

1807 Fifth Ave

SRO Lounge

SRO Lounge, located in the vibrant Gaslamp Quarter of San Diego, is a well-known LGBTQ+ bar that has been a staple in the community for many years. This iconic bar offers a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where everyone can feel at home. Known for its relaxed vibe and friendly crowd, SRO Lounge is a great place to enjoy a casual night out.

One of the highlights of SRO Lounge is its daily happy hour, which features a variety of drink specials that are perfect for starting your evening off right. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cocktail, a cold beer, or something a little more unique, the bartenders at SRO Lounge have you covered. The bar also often hosts themed nights and events, adding an extra layer of excitement to the experience.

The interior of SRO Lounge is cozy and unpretentious, making it an ideal spot for both regulars and newcomers. The bar’s welcoming ambiance is complemented by a jukebox that plays a mix of classic hits and contemporary favorites, creating a fun and nostalgic atmosphere. Overall, SRO Lounge is a beloved establishment in San Diego’s LGBTQ+ community, known for its friendly service, great drinks, and inclusive environment.

1017 University Ave

Flicks

Flicks is a well-loved LGBTQ+ bar located in the heart of Hillcrest, San Diego’s vibrant gayborhood. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and lively events, Flicks has become a staple in the community since it opened its doors in 1983. The bar combines the charm of a classic video bar with the excitement of a modern nightclub, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors.

Flicks is particularly famous for its nightly video entertainment, which includes a mix of music videos, comedy clips, and popular TV show episodes. The bar also hosts a variety of events throughout the week, including karaoke nights, drag shows, and themed parties. The outdoor patio provides a comfortable space to relax and socialize, while the dance floor inside is perfect for those looking to dance the night away.

Happy hour at Flicks is a major draw, offering discounted drinks that make it easy to enjoy a night out without breaking the bank. Patrons can expect a friendly crowd, with a mix of regulars and newcomers, all enjoying the inclusive and fun-loving atmosphere. Whether you’re there to watch the latest music videos, participate in a themed event, or simply enjoy a drink with friends, Flicks offers a memorable experience that keeps people coming back for more.

1051 University Avenue

Rich’s

Rich’s San Diego is one of the most iconic LGBTQ+ nightclubs in the city, located in the heart of the Hillcrest neighborhood. Since its opening, Rich’s has become a staple in the community, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, inclusive environment, and energetic events. The club features multiple dance floors, state-of-the-art lighting, and sound systems that create an immersive experience for patrons.

Rich’s is well-known for hosting some of the best themed nights and events in San Diego. These include their famous “Dream Machine” Saturdays, which bring top-tier DJs and performers to the stage, as well as special events like drag shows, holiday parties, and pride celebrations. The club’s happy hour offers excellent deals on drinks, making it a popular spot to start the evening. With its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to providing a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community, Rich’s remains a beloved destination for both locals and visitors.

For more visit wutsthedeal or download app