Best Cocktail Bars in Downtown

29 restaurants available nearby

1. Lumi

4.6

Exceptional(685)

Price: Expensive

• Cocktail Bar • Downtown

Booked 28 times today

At Lumi, nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown San Diego, the essence of authentic Japanese cuisine is elevated by the innovative genius of celebrity chef Akira Back. This upscale rooftop gem dazzles with its "exceptional service and ambiance," perfectly complementing an "interesting sushi/Japanese/fusion menu" that leaves patrons raving about its uniqueness and quality. Guests consistently laud the "amazing food" from the "tuna pizza" to the "Seabass roll," each dish crafted to perfection. With its combination of a "super cool vibe" and expertly curated flavors, Lumi is a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier Japanese dining experience.

2. Grant Grill

4.7

Exceptional(1620)

Price: Expensive

• Cocktail Bar • Downtown

Booked 14 times today

Grant Grill, nestled in the heart of Downtown San Diego, offers a truly remarkable dining experience with its focus on Contemporary American cuisine. Since opening its doors in 1951, this iconic spot has been celebrated for its "exquisite" food and "superb" service. Diners rave about dishes like the "out of this world" mock turtle soup and perfectly seared ahi, emphasizing the grill's commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients. The ambiance, described as "perfect for our dinner date," complements the culinary delights, making every meal memorable. Whether it's the innovative libations or the "party in our mouths" flavors, Grant Grill stands out as a pinnacle of dining excellence in San Diego.

A photo of Fifth and Rose at Pendry San Diego restaurant

3. Fifth and Rose at Pendry San Diego

4.5

Awesome(37)

Price: Moderate

• Cocktail Bar • Downtown

Booked 5 times today

A sophisticated watering hole with elevated bare fare. The Pendry San Diego hotel bar, Fifth & Rose, is a classic cocktail bar in an elegant, chic, and comfortable room. A classic setting for a fitting drink, it is a place to engage in conversation, enjoy bar fare, and linger over the perfect cocktail. Rich stone stands out amidst a black and white palette with crimson details, while candles and fresh roses accent tables. Fifth & Rose is inspired by a host’s living room: comfortable, always welcoming, a place you never want to leave.

A photo of Year of the Fortune restaurant

4. Year of the Fortune

new

(0)

Price: Moderate

• Cocktail Bar • Downtown

Our Year of the Fortune is a vibrant new Chinese restaurant located in the heart of Downtown San Diego. Inspired by the Lunar New Year, this unique dining destination offers an immersive experience where flavor meets festivity.Menu Highlights:Asian Cuisine: Enjoy a diverse menu featuring traditional and modern Chinese dishes that will tantalize your taste buds.Signature Cocktails: Sip on inventive cocktails crafted by renowned mixologists, inspired by the Chinese zodiac signs.Event Hosting: Ideal for private parties, corporate events, and special occasions with tailored services to meet your needs.Ambiance: Step into a world adorned with parasol Chinese umbrellas, sky lanterns, and dragon motifs, creating a festive and welcoming atmosphere.

5. C-Level

4.7

Exceptional(4906)

Price: Moderate

• Cocktail Bar • Downtown

Booked 109 times today

Located in the heart of Downtown San Diego, C-Level Lounge offers a cocktail bar experience that is as exceptional as its breathtaking waterfront views. Guests rave about the unique and masterfully crafted cocktails, highlighting favorites like the "spicy and perfectly balanced" Bloody Mary. The atmosphere is described as "upscale-casual," perfect for both special occasions and casual outings. Reviewers consistently praise the attentive and personable service, enhancing the overall experience. "The drinks were amazing," notes one satisfied customer, encapsulating the high standards of the cocktail bar at C-Level, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists seeking a memorable night out.

A photo of Wilma's Carousel Bar restaurant

6. Wilma's Carousel Bar

4.7

Exceptional(68)

Price: Expensive

• Cocktail Bar • Little Italy

Booked 29 times today

Step into Wilma's Carousel Bar in the vibrant neighborhood of Little Italy, San Diego, and discover a Wine Bar that's all about authenticity and quality. This establishment stands out not only for its unique carousel feature but also for its exquisite selection of wines meticulously paired with French-Creole cuisine. Patrons rave about the atmosphere and service, describing it as "a whimsical Parisian dream" with a "French flair atmosphere." The expertly curated cocktails and the extensive wine list make Wilma’s a must-visit destination. As one review aptly puts it, "the drinks were delish," highlighting the bar's commitment to providing a memorable and delightful experience for all its guests. Whether you're in for an intimate date or a lively night out, Wilma's Carousel Bar promises a spectacular setting with top-notch beverages that truly elevate the Wine Bar experience.

7. Roma Norte

4.4

Awesome(13)

Price: Moderate

• Cocktail Bar • Downtown

Booked 3 times today

Roma Norte is the newest venture from the expert beverage team behind Puesto and Marisi, set to redefine the cocktail scene in downtown San Diego. Inspired by the vibrant cocktail culture of Mexico City's Roma Norte neighborhood, Roma Norte promises a technique-driven cocktail experience paired with light, refreshing Mexico City-style bites. Please note that we have limited availability on Opentable. We recommend you check for reservations on our website, https://www.romanorte.bar!

8. Nolita Hall

4.3

Awesome(761)

Price: Expensive

• Cocktail Bar • Little Italy

Booked 73 times today

Nolita Hall, nestled in the vibrant heart of Little Italy in San Diego, offers a fresh and modern take on Italian cuisine that dazzles with authenticity and innovation. Since its grand opening in 2018, Nolita Hall has become a culinary landmark, celebrated for its dynamic atmosphere and a menu that features delights from a Fiori woodfire oven, which is the heart of their Italian-inspired offerings. Patrons rave about the "best hot honey pizza" and the meticulously crafted cocktails, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to quality and the integrity of ingredients. With accolades like the Orchid Award for its stunning interior, Nolita Hall is the go-to destination for those seeking a contemporary Italian feast in a chic and inviting setting. Whether it's for a game night or a sophisticated dinner, every visit is an experience to remember, making it a must-visit in San Diego's Little Italy.

9. Roman Wolves

4.6

Exceptional(312)

Price: Moderate

• Cocktail Bar • Little Italy

Booked 53 times today

At Roman Wolves, located in the vibrant Little Italy neighborhood of San Diego, diners are treated to a sublime Contemporary Italian culinary experience that's rooted in Rome's illustrious traditions. With a menu that boasts the ever-popular cheese wheel pasta, described as "the best thing ever," and dishes like the oxtail ragu and guanciale & pepper bucatini, the authenticity and innovation are palpable. Reviewers rave about the "amazing quality food" and the atmosphere that makes every meal memorable. One diner enthused, "If you want true Italian food like Italy, this is the place to go." Whether it's the impeccable service, the thoughtful dishes, or the vibrant ambiance, Roman Wolves represents the pinnacle of Contemporary Italian cuisine in San Diego.

10. Botanica

4.6

Exceptional(28)

Price: Moderate

• Cocktail Bar • North Park

Booked 12 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.

‘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

J
Jill
San Diego •2 reviews
5.0
Dined today
Elegant setting and presentation of delicious entrees. Servers were lighthearted with great timing. Only wish we would have allowed more time for our meal before running out to catch a show. Great start to a special evening.
More info
Grant GrillPrice: Expensive• Californian• Downtown
•
4.7
M
MichelleVIP
Baltimore / Maryland •15 reviews
5.0
Dined today
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
•
4.7
L
LizVIP
Greater Boston •7 reviews
5.0
Dined on Dec 10, 2024
Amazing sushi in a really cool rooftop location. The fish was super fresh and flavorful. The mystery box was an outstanding combination of sashimi and sauces. The service was excellent.
More info
LumiPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Downtown
•
4.6
K
Kylie
San Diego •3 reviews
5.0
Dined on Sep 20, 2024
Me and a friend stopped in and sat at the bar. We were greeted right away. All the bartenders were knowledgeable and friendly. Food was amazing and didn’t take too long. Ambiance was perfect too, not too dark or bright. Shout out to Jad the supervisor for checking in on us and making sure our experience was a positive one. Will definitely be back!
More info
Fifth and Rose at Pendry San DiegoPrice: Moderate• Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service• Downtown
•
4.5

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29 restaurants available nearby

1. Lumi

2. Grant Grill

3. Fifth and Rose at Pendry San Diego

4. Year of the Fortune

5. C-Level

6. Wilma's Carousel Bar

7. Roma Norte

8. Nolita Hall

9. Roman Wolves

10. Botanica

See what locals rave about

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