Place is Great Every single time... Becoming One of My favorite spots lately. Awesome Beers & Great company. The staff is Awesome, Particularly Brandin. Dude is hilarious and always takes Great care of our Krew every time. read more

We went here on the Fourth of July and the service was HORRIBLE. I really hope the owner reads this and fires the two bartenders that were working. In particular, the guy that was working wearing a black hat and a black shirt. He was the biggest jerk. He blatantly ignored our group to talk to girls at the bar when we had a ton of people ready to spend money on drinks. When he finally did serve us, he had an attitude about it and treated us like crap. Seriously, the worst service I've ever experienced at a bar. Don't go here! read more

Eh. Something in here just gives a bad vibe. Like the place is about to get robbed or a mountain lion is about to enter through the back door and mutilate a guest. I dunno. It's just ok I guess--for like 1 beer on an Encinitas pub crawl or something. PS: keep in mind that it doesn't get better as the night progresses. The best it will be is the minute you step foot in the door. read more

Yes, the bar has been gentrified, which isn't a bad thing, but new owners means remodeling and chancing that old patrons will return while new ones show up. Aside from cleaning up the inside a bit, the new owners put up flat screens which is a sign/a medal of "hey, look peeps, we're hip and technologically current, so you must like us." I'll still come here, but there's a tipping point. With all the TV's they run the likelihood of turning into a sports bar, and I think downtown doesnt' really need a sports bar there - do we? I don't know. read more

Okay I am annoyed with some of these rude comments and I am putting in my 2 cents. First of all -- I live nearby and go here frequently while visiting friends who own businesses in the area and this is a bar/tavern type place a woman of delicate sensibilities such as myself can feel okay in (unlike a couple other places in town that shall remain nameless!). I have been treated with utmost courtesy and niceness. The proprietors are nice, and considering some of the rough trade they must come across some evenings - that says a lot! As far as rats --- I don't know about that but news flash - rodents are endemic around here! Recently I saw a rat as big as a chihuahua run across the parking lot at San Diego Airport. And most likely if someone saw it, it came from the alley where there are multiple dumpsters serving local businesses. It was not coming from the kitchen here, this is a clean place. I have not eaten anything here but the drinks have been generously poured and always with a smile. What more can you ask? Being a non sports fan I do agree I could do with less of that on the tv's though. I would probably be in the minority on that opinion though! read more

The relatively recent improvements have helped improve the interior at the cost of the divey qualities I used to go to 1st Street Bar for. It seems to have gone the way that much of Encinitas is going, upper middle class. Luckily, down the street still has classic dives like the Leucadian and Uncle Duke's. 1st Street Bar is still relatively cheap, but even before renovations it wasn't one of my favorites. Something about it led to it being very crowded on weekends with a relatively post college crowd. Which is fine, but I guess the combo of super crowded plus then didn't sit well with me. I like more laid back and lax, after all isn't that what living in Encinitas is all about? If you want EXTREME, head to Pacific Beach. I'm not sure what direction the owners are hoping to take this place: sports bar, upscale bar, whatever. It's not what first sold me on the place, and with so many worthy competitors, I doubt I'll be back. read more

I so very badly want to give this place 5 stars but I just can't. Disclaimer: This is a Husker bar and I'm a Nebraskan, so I'm completely and unfairly biased. Good: It's a Husker bar. They have pretty cheap beer (for Encinitas). The staff is friendly and fast. I'm typically there when Danny is working and he is especially awesome, however, I haven't had a bad experience with any bartender. The decor is delightfully divey. They have plenty of TVs, shuffleboard, pool, and some standard bar video games. Bad: No food. They're great about letting you bring food in (during the day/afternoon, who brings food into a bar at night?) but no food of their own. The bathrooms have a little more...visibility...than is ideal. There's a tendency for this place to become douche central on weekend nights. Lastly, there's a frequently a lingering foul smell towards the far end of the bar. Nothing that couldn't be solved by a deep clean of the beer coolers, but still an unpleasant funk. As a Husker bar, it's hit or miss. I've been there for games where it's packed and I've been there for games when there were 5 of us sitting at the bar. I haven't quite nailed down a pattern, but it's not as reliably Husker as some of the other places in town. It's still a good spot, and you will certainly see me there again. read more

A group of us were at the beach all day and figured we'd hit a few bars before heading home. Walking down, most of the spots seemed like everyone was kinda dressed up, and some of the guys in our group were in flip-flops, shorts, and tank tops so we tried to find a drive bar where we thought there wasn't much of a dress code and a friend recommended 1st Street. She lives in the neighborhood and said it was one of her favorite spots she frequents, so we went. The security guard at the door checked our ID's and we went straight to the bar. The bartender was nice and we all got our drinks, then about 10-15 minutes into it, my friend comes back from the restroom and tells me a security guard wouldn't let him use the restroom with the door closed and then told him he had to leave because he was in a tank top. Soon after, another security guard comes up to our group and says, "I know you guys didn't come in looking like that and took off your shirts. You guys gotta leave, you can't wear tank tops." We told him that we would leave after we finished our drinks and ended up staying for 2 more, and I think that got them a little annoyed, so eventually we got kicked out and security was upset we stayed so long. I get it, can't get mad at them, there. Anyway, when we were leaving, I asked the security guard at the door why he let us in, in the first place, and he said that he didn't know tank tops were not allowed because he was new. Understandable on his end. In my opinion, though, your staff should be well aware of dress code and not kick people out because of an oversight made by staff at the door. Not only that, your staff shouldn't accuse patrons of trying to be "sneaky" to get passed security just to wear a tank top. Seriously, who's really gonna do that? Come on, man. read more

Friday and Saturday nights, anywhere you go is going to seem grimly youthful and suffocatingly fratty, chatty and undergraddy. But along with such local spots as The Boardroom, The Office and Bar Leucadian, 1st Street Bar is a pleasant oasis from the polished, entirely devoid of maintained lines (where a place hasn't reached capacity, but keeps a line out the door to appear more in-demand to the passer-by). I've had the pleasure of having my ass kicked at pool many times there. Walk in as you are and never feel underdressed. UPDATE: It's since been gentrified: CON. Now features live music: PRO. Has plasma screens on all the walls playing music videos: CON. Pictures taken from the walls: CON. The place has lost character, but still has quarter pool and beer as of this writing. Watch this space. read more

This place just isn't fun. Bad service and rude bouncers, plus the music is too loud to actually talk to your friends. I'd recommend Saloon if you want a divey vibe. There are many other great spots to hang out in Encinitas. read more

I recently had the first karaoke experience of my life at 1st Street. Let's just say that Sweet Home Alabama was butchered beyond belief, but everyone was supportive and cheered us on! Tuesday nights here are karaoke nights, and usually full of fun, supportive people. I feel like I always meet new people when I go here, and there's no pretense or feeling like you have to look/be a certain way. Great prices on drinks, although there are certain shots they can't make. Pool table is fun, and they have ping pong as well! read more

The good thing about this place is music; bands. Other than that: not enough bar stools, think they kept my debit card, and they can be jerks. I don't get why the 20 something crowd likes it. I think they're trying to be something they aren't yet. read more

Pool table and ping pong table on occasion makes this spot good during the day to just chill and have a few beers. Night time comes and gets a little crazier, music dancing and dranking! Good spot, and accepted my check in offer half off a pitcher...chaaa ching! read more

This bar is a good place to get drunk and dance. The music they usually play is mainstream radio hits and this gets all the drunk people to start their "attempt" to dance. The dancefloor gets crowded when there are a lot of drunk people. The people who aren't dancing can watch those people and mock them. No I'm kidding, but there are always a few white boys on the floor that kill it, or don't. Its a decent place to go to right after work and grab a drink with friends. When it gets busy, it takes awhile to get a drink because there are two bartenders, one on each side. So if you're trying to get a drink and you're in the middle section, good luck. The men's bathroom has no door for some reason and don't try to go in there if you're not 21. Several of my friends who are over 21 still get questioned about their age when they go. If you check in on Foursquare, they'll give you half off on pitchers, so check that out. read more

I'm not a huge bar fan I am more of a club guy. The bars I do visit I take notice of which brings me to this review. I was in california on vacation and some friends of ours asked us to meet them at the 1st Street Bar. I got to admit I really loved the atmosphere it was very welcoming and unique. On top of that the drink prices were very competitive and the bartenders sure knew how to make some amazing drinks! I most definitely will come back here again. I got to meet Mike Chopp and after getting to know him I knew that 1st Street Bar was doing something right! Thanks again, Justin read more

If I had to count how many times in the last year "1st for a drink?" has come up in conversation amongst friends, I would still be counting. Recently, Encinitas has seen a boom in drinking locations, and although I've enjoyed all of the new places, 1st is still the standby. Between their promotion of local music, and drink specials, I just don't know what more people want out of a bar. And where else can you find local musical talent strutting their stuff on a Wednesday night in an open mic forum? Beyond open mic, there's something planned almost every other night of the week, DJ's, live bands, karaoke...me personally, I carry no key... Reading some of the reviews on here just cracks me up. It actually makes me laugh a little bit. Seriously, there are people complaining about having to wait to get a drink? It's a line! Maybe this will help: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Standing_in_line 1st Street is simple. It's no frills, for sure, but sometimes that's all a person needs...besides a drink. read more

Yes, it's very divey, dark, and not particularly unique. However, you can get a pitcher of good ass craft beers (e.g. West Coast Greenflash IPA) for $7.50 during happy hour, which goes until 10:00 pm. YES I SAID ENTIRE PITCHER. For this alone, this place gets 4 stars. This deal is simply too amazing for words. Get it while you can. Perhaps it won't last. I consider telling everyone about this to be a public service announcement. You're welcome. read more

I was there last night for the first time in a while. It's been remoldled and is now much cleaner with flat screen TV's. Overall a lot nicer. If you're just looking to hang out with a few of your friends and play some pool go here. Pool is only 25 cents a game! Drinks aren't too bad either, but bring cash, no credit cards accepted. Aside from that, if you're a guy don't expect to come into contact with too many members of the opposite sex, there's a lot of dudes here. If you're a girl here would be the spot to go fishing, (unfortunately) the pond is stocked. read more

Pros: Recently rennovated- Newer, cleaner Live music- usually good bands Cons: Can get crowded Reputation for having an older crowd read more

Great happy hour! Karaoke on Tuesday nights is fun and if you are into open mics, get in there on a Wednesday night. Julia is the hostess and she is the cutest thing you will ever see (or hear!) She will excite and delight! The not-so-nice things about the bar: -There is only one bathroom stall for the girls. -The men's bathroom door always stays open for some reason and you can see guys pissing. -Agreed on the awkwardly placed pool table. -Not enough seating. -bad PA I'm gonna go eat some sunflower seeds now. read more

My boyfriend and I initially went to the Beir garden last Friday but the wait was about an hour to sit down, we kept our names on the list but spotted 1st street bar from across the way and decided to grab some beers there while we waited. It was pretty early in the night so the crowd was minimal. We got ignored by the two female bartenders but ended up being served by the tall male bartender. The chalkboard said "Fridays: half off pitchers!" So we ordered a pitcher of Red trolley. The bar is kind of a grunge bar, a little outdated but cozy and clean. There was a pool table, a stage, and a few other "bar-like" games around. The bartender was really cool and funny. After finishing our pitcher, we decided we need food from filibertos but wanted to come back afterwards. The bill was $12 for the pitcher. It seemed pricey to me for being half off but my boyfriend said it was somewhat reasonable. (Side note, we had decided not to go back to Beir garden.) After filling our stomachs with Mexican food (of course) we came back to 1st. There was a female bartender there now as well and another younger guy. The female was quiet but pleasant. We ordered the same pitcher. Long story short, this bill was $9. We didn't want to cause a stink and it was too loud to ask questions but my boyfriend later on befriended the younger male bartender and asked "hey how much are the half off pitchers?" He said "$9 usually" we laughed about it and told him the first guy charged us $12 and she charged us $9. Probably an honest mistake, who knows...but now we know for the future. This is right on the outside of the "hip" part of Encinitas. I'll definitely come back here next time I want to go have some fun but don't have to dress up so much to fit in. read more

They get some awesome bands here!!! This bad has been on the road across the US and they are amazing!! Glad they played here! Whitherward!!! Yes!!! read more

1st Street Bar - Whitherward playing at 1st street bar!!! Awesome band touring across the US!! - Bars Near Me - Encinitas, California

Live tunes that are kicking and stiff drinks. Hopefully Brandin is there because he'll make you feel right at home. Always has a smile on his face and a joke up his sleeve!! Party on!! read more

You can find this bar right off the 101. Its the only wooden building in Encinitas that captures your attention as your driving through. Ive been here about 3 times already, and all three times ive had somewhat of a similar experience. The bartenders are quick and attentive, especially on the weekends. They have a DJ that comes out on Saturdays and they turn their small area where the pool/shuffle board is into a dance floor. Their beer choices for drafts isn't anything spectacular, but their full bar makes up for it! Ideally, this is a good stop for bar hopping but I wouldnt spend more than 30min at this joint. Its always filled with issues (jarheads & rowdy ass locals). They have way too many bouncers too that are a bit on edge and seem to come off rude when checking peoples ID's. Overall, its a good place for ONE drink. There is plenty of fun bars just walks away. read more

Great spot. Summer vibes all year. Lots of tvs to watch sports and a food cart! Great staff and the crowd is always great in there.

Dive bar - check. Pool table - check. But $5 for coors light bottle - I couldn't believe i was at a dive bar anymore. The beers are cheaper across the street st the fancy place. read more

1st Street Bar - a sign for the restaurant - Bars Near Me - Encinitas, California

Cory and Bahae are rad we used to have beef ( with Bahae) but now we are homies 10/10 recommend but do not try if you have a fake ! Best bar love !!! read more

Love this local spot. Strong drinks, good pool table and hot chicks serving. My fave spot so far in Encinitas. read more

1st Street Bar - Bars Near Me - Encinitas, California

Awesome and vibrant scene after 10pm. Great prices for happy hour.

Get the beer of the month its only $8 a pitcher and usually have good beers.

For those who know me, you may be surprised on the 3 stars, since we frequent this establishment often. Don't get me wrong I have fun here, but there are certain aspects that need to be addressed at this place. First the women's bathroom. There is one toilet and a super small separate room to wait in. While this is usually the case in bars of this nature, the door to the waiting room opens right into the main room of the bar. So as a patron standing outside of the bathroom you can watch the girls standing in line. Second are the bartenders. I do not want to complain cause on certain nights I have had amazing service. But there service is not consistent, nothing bad enough for me never to return. The reasons above are why I have rated the place 3 stars. It is a dive bar so bathroom issues are expected. Good live music. Pool tables and darts. Mellow crowd. Good place for a group of friends to come for drinks. read more

Let me be the first to complain about so called happy hour beers being jacked up again now to 7 bucks. Not a deal anymore

went last night BEST DIVE bar I've been at in a long time. Our bartender was a bad ass named Cory. Definitely will be back when I come to visit from Texas. read more

This bar kicked me out for age-ism. It was before midnight. I intentionally left my phone and wallet at the bar a couple of times. When I returned, someone at the bar had taken it. Then, all of a sudden, a barback or bouncer said they needed to escort me from the bar. I was clueless, and so was the bouncer. We both asked the bartender, confused by why I was being asked to leave. Even the bouncer thought I was super coherent. He said i left my wallet at the bar multiple times, and he couldn't understand what I was ordering. Truth be told, I hadn't ordered one drink but was drinking water. I'm 38 years old, clearly too old to be in that establishment at that hour on a Friday night. I guess I didn't fit their demographic. But it seems they had it out for me from the get go. Not a legal reason to kick someone out of a bar. I will be having my attorney contacting them. read more

Came here for the first time a couple weeks ago. We showed up a little early so people were still playing pool and it wasnt too crowded. They have a $10 min purchase on credit cards, which would have been good to know a head of time but o-well. They had a live band "life like" they were pretty good, they knew how to keep the crowd occupied and satisfied. There was a wide range of younger to older people but everyone seemed to get along. I dont go out much but I enjoyed myself there. Once it started to get more crowded they covered the pool table and took down the tables that were around. One bad side to this place are the bathrooms, TINY! only 1 toilet per restroom, Guys bathroom door must not shut cause it was open the entire time, at least there was a wall between the urinal and looking in, girls bathroom you walked into a vanity area that can wait maybe 3 girls and then a door into the room with the toilet. very crammed, I will come again for the music and priced alcohol. read more

This place is awesome the staff the atmosphere at the location pool tables bands everything about this place value for the drinks ask for Danny he's the best read more

Dive bar ! Cheap beers loud music and good times ! We bounced around so many bars and we found this gem ! It was the best time ever and the best part was it wasn't $15 a drink ! They had love music earlier during the day and when we came back from dinner they had a DJ with an awesome playlist ! It was perfect for our night cap ? read more

Great location and awesome beer specials. Check in for $7 pitcher. I plan on coming back again soon :) read more

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I could not be more disappointed in this bar. Me and a group of friends were in town for a weekend from Chicago and this bar refused to let us in with our out of state IDs. They confiscated our IDs and and refused to give them back and threatened to call the authorities which we gladly welcomed since we were all of age. The rude and aggressive manner from the bouncer, manager and bartender in which they dealt with us left me feeling extremely unwelcome and uncomfortable while waiting to get the IDs back. The incompetence from the staff was also alarming when they brought us the ID handbook and told us to "figure it out" when our IDs and designs were clearly listed. The discriminatory system with the lack of desire and pure laziness to provide complete customer satisfaction makes for a very unappealing atmosphere. In the end they "didn't want to deal with it" threw our IDs at us and told us to leave. No apology or anything. I have never felt so disrespected and highly do not recommend attending this bar. read more

Cory is the worst bartender in the world. Fuck that guy. Extremely over priced. Service is overall shitty.