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Best Cocktail Bars in University City/Golden Triangle

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7 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Botanica restaurant
1. Botanica
4.6
Exceptional(28)
Price: Moderate
• Cocktail Bar • North Park
Booked 10 times today
Botanica in North Park, San Diego, is celebrated for its exceptionally crafted cocktails and delightful Tapas / Small Plates, making it a must-visit spot for an elevated dining experience. Patrons rave about the "creative and delicious" small bites that perfectly complement their innovative drinks. A standout feature is their Omakase, which offers a sampler of chef's choice bites, ideal for sharing and tasting a variety of what the kitchen has to offer. The ambiance of Botanica, described as a "sexy artsy speakeasy," adds to the allure, creating a perfect backdrop for enjoying high-quality, beautifully presented Tapas. With enthusiastic reviews about the "friendly and attentive" service and the unique, artistic decor, Botanica has secured its place as a top destination for Tapas lovers in San Diego.
A photo of The Grass Skirt restaurant
2. The Grass Skirt
4.7
Exceptional(713)
Price: Expensive
• Cocktail Bar • Pacific Beach
Booked 49 times today
The Grass Skirt in Pacific Beach, San Diego, is a haven for Polynesian cuisine enthusiasts, bringing an authentic slice of tropical paradise to its patrons. Praised for its "amazing atmosphere" and "exotic tropical drinks," this restaurant captures the essence of Polynesian tiki culture with a modern twist. The menu, crafted by corporate executive chef Brian Redzikowski, showcases a creative take on Polynesian flavors, with dishes like the praised "california roll tacos" and "pad Thai shrimp" receiving glowing reviews. The unique entrance through a freezer door sets the stage for an immersive experience, complete with "flaming torches, hula, and giant tiki wooden carvings". According to a thrilled visitor, "The drinks were very flavorful" and "the ambiance and overall atmosphere was amazing!" making The Grass Skirt a must-visit for an authentic and memorable Polynesian dining experience.
A photo of Captain’s Quarters restaurant
3. Captain’s Quarters
4.7
Exceptional(58)
Price: Expensive
• Cocktail Bar • Pacific Beach
Booked 24 times today
Step into Captain’s Quarters in Pacific Beach, San Diego, and experience a Spanish cuisine adventure that truly stands apart. Inspired by the luxurious and moody ambiance of a 17th-century captain's quarters, this restaurant offers an imaginative menu crafted by Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski. Delight in Spanish classics with a twist, such as Manchego-Prosciutto "Sandwiches" and Papa's Braves, which guests describe as "tiny but tasty, like eating diamonds." The authenticity and creativity of the dishes are echoed in reviews, with one guest celebrating the "divine" prosciutto sandwich. This dining gem not only promises exquisite flavors but also an atmospheric journey back in time, making every visit memorable. Whether you're a gin enthusiast or a culinary explorer, Captain’s Quarters offers a unique blend of history, luxury, and exceptional Spanish fare.
A photo of Wormwood restaurant
4. Wormwood
4.8
Exceptional(803)
Price: Very Expensive
• Cocktail Bar • North Park
Booked 16 times today
Wormwood in North Park, San Diego, is a haven for cocktail enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable experience in a setting that balances French elegance with bohemian charm. This outstanding Cocktail Bar is celebrated for its unique cocktails with a twist on classics, guided by a passion for the storied history of Absinthe. Patrons are enveloped in an atmosphere akin to a Parisian bistro yet uniquely Californian, where the "Secret Garden" speakeasy bar offers a secretive allure with its enchanting cocktail menu. Reviews consistently praise Wormwood, noting that the mixology is "ambitious, delicious, and stunning," and the ambiance is "perfect for an intimate evening." Experience the allure of Wormwood, where every sip is a story, and every visit is a cherished memory.
A photo of Blanco Cocina + Cantina – Fashion Valley restaurant
5. Blanco Cocina + Cantina – Fashion Valley
4.7
Exceptional(559)
Price: Moderate
• Cocktail Bar • Mission Valley
Booked 11 times today
Blanco Cocina + Cantina in Mission Valley, San Diego is a vibrant oasis for cocktail lovers seeking a blend of creativity and tradition. Known for its exceptional Cocktail Bar, Blanco transforms every visit into a mini-vacation with its delightful concoctions. Guests rave about the "spicy skinny margaritas" and the "mango margarita," which is described as "refreshing" with a "smoky salt rim" that adds a unique twist. The atmosphere is consistently praised, with diners highlighting the upbeat and welcoming vibe perfect for "a great date night spot" or a "fun gathering with friends." Blanco's ability to merge a lively environment with meticulously crafted cocktails ensures an unforgettable experience for all its visitors.
A photo of Cocina de Barrio North Park restaurant
6. Cocina de Barrio North Park
new
4.0
Excellent(1)
Price: Moderate
• Cocktail Bar • North Park
*Brunch hours are on a walk-in basis only.Cocina de Barrio by Chef Jose J. FloresWelcome to Cocina de Barrio, the newest modern-urban Mexican restaurant located in North Park! We are proud to feature the culinary richness of Oaxaca as well as other Mexican regions. Stop by and enjoy our bar stocked with plenty of tequila and mezcal selections, beer, and wines sourced from Valle Guadalupe.Don't forget to join us during our daily brunch (where we add a Mexican kick) and our happy hour every Monday-Friday from 3-5pm! Stay Chido!
A photo of NOLA on 5th restaurant
7. NOLA on 5th
4.2
Awesome(82)
Price: Moderate
• Cocktail Bar • Hillcrest
Booked 2 times today
NOLA on 5th in Hillcrest, San Diego, is a haven of authentic Creole, Cajun, and Southern cuisine that transports you straight to the heart of New Orleans. Featured on Food Network's "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives," the restaurant has garnered acclaim for its traditional NOLA favorites like jambalaya, gumbo, and po'boys, praised for their authenticity and flavor. Ingredients like bread flown in from Leidenheimer's in Louisiana and seasonal Louisiana crawfish boils add to its charm. Patrons rave about the "top-tier food," highlighting dishes like the shrimp po-boy and chicken and waffles as reminiscent of true Louisiana cooking. With a vibrant atmosphere complemented by exceptional service, NOLA on 5th ensures a memorable dining experience that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of the South.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • MichelleVIP
    Baltimore / Maryland •15 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    First time at C-level for a date night! We sat outside at table right next to water. The heaters made it comfortable and it was a beautiful view of the harbor! The server was great-perfect suggestions and attentive at the appropriate times. We had the oysters, artichoke fritters, wedge BLT, and filet. Then, the brownie sundae for dessert! It was all delicious! I will go back for the wedge BLT and sundae alone! It was a great dinner and would defintely recommend!
    More info
    C-LevelPrice: Moderate• Cocktail Bar• Downtown / Gaslamp
    •
    4.7
  • Katherine
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    This past weekend, my sister and I decided to experience The Grass Skirt during the holiday season. I was so happy. I finally got a chance to experience this bar normally it's hard to get a reservation, but if you decide to go to this place, recommend going right when they open so you can be able to get a walk in timeslot or reserve a time early in the day, they open at 5 PM. The customer service was friendly , great selection of drinks and by far the best Poké I've ever had this will become a tradition for me to come back every year. 
    More info
    The Grass SkirtPrice: Expensive• Polynesian• Pacific Beach
    •
    4.7
  • Angela
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Love the vibe, experience and service. Food was decent but this spot is just so gorgeous. You come for the experience and drinks!
    More info
    Nolita HallPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• Little Italy
    •
    4.3
  • teenaVIP
    San Diego •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Loved our time at Wilma’s! From our time at the bar to our experience at the table. Everyone was so kind and thoughtful for our birthday celebration! Highly recommend! Food and drinks were great as well!
    More info
    Wilma's Carousel BarPrice: Expensive• Cocktail Bar• Little Italy
    •
    4.7
  • MIchael
    San Diego •10 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 11, 2024
    Great spot for a craft cocktail. Tuesdays are Tini Tuesdays with a large selection of specials!
    More info
    BotanicaPrice: Moderate• Cocktail Bar• North Park
    •
    4.6

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