Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Balboa's Tap House

    4.0 (454 reviews)
    ModerateAmerican, Bars
    Open 11:00 am - 11:00 pm

    Order Balboa's Tap House Takeout or Delivery

    Balboa's Tap House Photos

    Business Info

    BALBOA'S TAP HOUSE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Casual
    Moderate noise
    Good for groups
    Outdoor seating

    You might also consider

    More like Balboa's Tap House

    Recommended Reviews - Balboa's Tap House

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Sergio D.

    Balboa Tap House in Clairemont is a solid neighborhood bar. 30+ beers on tap with a good local selection, plus surprisingly great wings and burgers. Chill vibe, TVs for games, and the patio is clutch when the weather's nice. Gets busy during happy hour but service is fast. Easy spot for a casual beer and bite.

    Football and futbol. Love Sundays
    Matt Y.

    They are under remodel but drink (beer liquor seltzer etc) all super discount. I want to say they have all the games but call for UFC and boxing. Patio is amazing for dogs and daytime. Next to sprouts and a laundromat for those of you who know how to drink multitask. Unlimited parking. Get a taste of the beer first if you wanna snob on fresh. Otherwise $5 .394 or wells. Needed the SDFC game, an owner or son came in yelled at direct TV and got it 45 mins before the playoff game. So if you want Buffalo Wild Wings fine, but support small SD businesses...I'm here.

    Hidden charges with no explanation.

    Rude bigoted bartender. Didn't know it was a maga bar either. Hidden charges in drink prices. Avoid.

    The spicy hummus, babbaganoush, falafel, pita, everything just perfectly prepared. Generous portions too.
    France C.

    The freshest most delicious Mediterranean food in the city. Not everything pictured but, it's all prepared on site & make with care & love.

    Shawarma fries omg
    Sharon F.

    Two years since my first post. Shawarma fries are still epic. Bar still has a great selection and I wish it were in my neighborhood. Cans of Cutwater for $5? Yes, you read that right. Great Kentucky mule. How are more people not flocking to this place??

    They support all sports equally.
    Chris G.

    One star deduction because the air conditioning is nonexistent, we went on the hottest weekend of the year, 09/07/2024. BUT, 4 stars because the food was great and so was the service, thanks Ryan!! Even though there was a few college football games, Ryan was awesome for finding the USC vs. Utah State game on the Big10 network. We kept the volume on the Padres game until that game was over, understandably so, then we piped in the USC color telecast. The Trojans defeated Utah State, 48-0. The place has a good view of all TV's and has a good array of food and spirits. There is a lot of beer on tap and canned alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks. A good place to try if you are around the neighborhood. My daughter lives locally so this was our go to spot for the night. We really liked the chicken tenders 5 pc (tossed with garlic and chili), and the Beef Shawarma bowl with half yellow rice and half Iraqi salad. Balboa's Tap House for the win!

    Adam & Jacob Grilled pastrami, Black Forest ham, bacon, pepperoni, onions, peppers, melted provolone, creamy garlic chill sauce
    Jeremy C.

    Great place to go. The food was great and so was the service. Even though there was a few games on they helped us when needed. The place has a good view of all TV's and has a good array of food. There is a lot of beer on tap and canned alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks. A good place to try if you are around the neighborhood

    Interior
    Audra H.

    The beer is on point! Tons of craft brews to choose from. The location seems a bit interesting but when you get inside, it's super welcoming and very cozy. I quite enjoyed the ambiance! The service was quick and friendly overall. We got garlic tater tots and mozzarella sticks. They were good and crispy and fried! I'd come back here.

    Chicken shawarma and Iraqi Salad
    Jay H.

    This place was actually a surprise. I went thinking it was going to be a dive bar with cringy music but it was the complete opposite. It sort of gave me BWW vibes but more pubby. We went around 915p-930p and it wasn't packed at all even for our large crowd. Your order at the register and the first time I ordered with a gentleman, easy and quick. The second time, went back up and there was a woman there packing orders who didn't acknowledge me for at least 3-5 mins - not a "be right you" nothing ; yes I could see what she was doing but there was still a lack of customer service. She made up for it when she brought us our meals and was very quick with all the extra stuff we asked for (salt, pepper, etc). OH!!! The biggest surprise was that they actually served a Greek / Mediterranean cuisine and not the typical bar food. I was impressed and it was actually pretty good! Overall - it was a nice spot, good food, good drinks, and okay service.

    Chicken Burger

    See all

    1 month ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 2
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    14 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    12 days ago

    Great service, delicious food, and a clean, welcoming atmosphere. Highly recommend!!!

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    12 days ago

    This place is amazing has great food and wonderful service! Love the staff here they are so friendly and on point!

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Sergio D.
    4
    596
    1308

    3 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Matt Y.
    60
    163
    97

    9 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jai S.
    0
    14
    2

    4 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of France C.
    0
    109
    182

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Shandelle H.

    Shandelle H.

    Thanks for the awesome feedback! See you again soon!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Aron R.
    14
    26
    1

    6 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Sharon F.
    56
    83
    61

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Chris G.
    1573
    2206
    4925

    2 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Shandelle H.

    Shandelle H.

    Helpful 16
    Thanks 4
    Love this 13
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Shandelle H.

    Shandelle H.

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Shandelle H.

    Shandelle H.

    Cheers Jeremy!

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jay H.
    160
    381
    1251

    3 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1

    2 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Shandelle H.

    Shandelle H.

    Thanks for stopping by! Hope to see you again soon!

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Great hangout for a couple teddy brewskies......beer, burgers, sports...nothing says tap house like this spot

    Business owner information

    Photo of Shandelle H.

    Shandelle H.

    See you again soon! Cheers!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Shandelle H.

    Shandelle H.

    Cheers!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Wendy R.
    13
    61
    24

    1 year ago

    Great food, great drinks, great service, comfortable environment, clean, plenty of screens !

    Business owner information

    Photo of Shandelle H.

    Shandelle H.

    Cheers!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Shandelle H.

    Shandelle H.

    Hope to see you again soon! Cheers!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Aks C.
    80
    35
    25

    3 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Shandelle H.

    Shandelle H.

    Thanks for stopping by! Hope to see you again soon, cheers!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Michael B.
    1241
    34
    6

    1 year ago

    Used to love bringing my family here for the good food. Will never go back again since it's now 21+. Someone messed up a good thing.

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 3

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    1 year ago

    Always simple but fantastic burgers & garlic fries delicious. The ambiance is fantastic very quaint.

    Business owner information

    Photo of Shandelle H.

    Shandelle H.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Shandelle H.

    Shandelle H.

    Thanks for the review Grace! See you again soon!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Michael K.
    41
    204
    25

    2 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Shandelle H.

    Shandelle H.

    Thanks for stopping by! Hope to see you again soon!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Arlene P.
    2543
    1660
    9441

    4 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Shandelle H.

    Shandelle H.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Shandelle H.

    Shandelle H.

    Cheers!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    2 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Shandelle H.

    Shandelle H.

    Cheers!

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 12

    Ask the Community - Balboa's Tap House

    I see some wine in the pics -- anyone know what the selection is like?

    Wine selection is large not sure of the quality. I drank beer.

    Are dogs allowed?

    Yes they are

    View All 4 Questions

    You might also consider

    Common Theory

    Common Theory

    3.8
    (1.7k reviews)
    1.8 mi
    $$

    A popular spot for craft beer and casual gatherings! I've been to Common Theory several times now…read moreand have always enjoyed my time there. It can get busy so if you have a large party, I'd recommend making a reservation! - PARKING - This lot can get pretty full depending on the time of day, but at least there are adjacent streets where you can also find additional parking. - SERVICE/ENVIRONMENT - You seat yourself and they'll bring out a few physical menus, although they also have QR codes for the taplist if you don't want to go up to the bar. After ordering, our drinks came almost immediately, and we only had to wait 10 minutes for our food. - FOOD - Fish Sandwich ($6.00 during HH): They've got great happy hour deals, including this fish sandwich! We had plans to eat dinner later so we just wanted something to snack on. The fish was crispy and juicy, and the slaw was pretty good too! - OVERALL - I only remember the last time I had food here (probably 2 years ago) it wasn't too impressive, but after trying this new item, I'm definitely open to coming back for more of the menu!

    We stopped by Friday at noon for lunch. It was not crowded. They validate parking for 3 hrs. The…read morehost was really helpful getting us situated on the patio- he set up the umbrellas for us. Things went downhill from there. We saw our waitress 2 times. 1st time to tell us she was really busy & instructed us to use the QR to scan menu & put in our orders 2nd time, she dropped off water. Food was average. We had the beef rice bowl dish, chicken katsu & the cheesesteak. Best dish was the appetizer Thai Brussel sprouts. They were delicious We needed salt & pepper, we went & asked the bartender We needed extra napkins, we went & asked the bartender It was warm on the patio & we'd like more ice for water. We had to ask the bartender. We were there 2 hrs & not once did anyone waitress check on us. I had to go & flag down someone to give me a to-go box Dirty tables/dishes around us didn't get bussed for over an hour++ If the place was swamped, I'd understand the complete lack of service, but they weren't. Just overall horrible service

    Photos
    Bar and seating
    Bar and seating
    Shishito peppers
    Shishito peppers
    Beer Battered Fries / House Chips

    See all

    Beer Battered Fries / House Chips
    Cross Street

    Cross Street

    4.3
    (2.5k reviews)
    1.7 mi
    $$

    Customer service was great and the location has plenty of seating . This is the kind of spot you…read morepull up to with your friends on a Friday or Saturday vibes type, just chill, eat some wings, have a couple drinks, and chill out ,you'll see what I mean once you go. The atmosphere is laid back They've got indoor and outdoor seating, and outside has plenty of tables to just kick back. I tried the chicken wings 5 piece they came out nice and crispy, nothing crazy, just a solid crunch on the outside and juicy inside. If you like them extra crispy you can ask, but they were already on point. The orange sauce stood out too, not sure what it's called but I'd definitely get that again. Original is what I order Overall, good experience. I'd come back and try more menu items for sure. They also have drinks specials and a mini bar #ChickenWings #FoodReview #CrispyWings #GoodEats #FoodieFinds #ChillSpots

    Cross Street Chicken has the best of both worlds- it's where Korean fried chicken meets classic…read moresouthern cooking! They serve creative foods with traditional flavors! Located in the heart of San Diego's Convoy District, this place will not disappoint! The chicken is served to order, each piece shatteringly crisp, with a golden-brown crust and deeply flavorful! Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside (it doesn't get any better than that). For starters, we ordered the fried dumplings, (1) order of Asian sesame seed wings, (1) order of chili oil wings, (1) order of Cajun rub tenders and (1) order of Seoul spicy tenders. The vibe is relaxed with a spacious interior and outside patio, it's the perfect spot for a family or friends gathering. The staff are quick and efficient. Making excellent recommendations for first timer's! Prices are reasonable. And they have a great menu selection! Definitely come check them out!

    Photos
    Cross Street
    Mango Cilantro salad with chicken
    Mango Cilantro salad with chicken
    Chicken and fried rice

    See all

    Chicken and fried rice
    O'Brien's Pub

    O'Brien's Pub

    4.1
    (637 reviews)
    1.6 mi
    $$

    O'Brien's is the original beer bar for SanDiego... This is the place where I first had MANY…read moredelicious IPAs as SanDiego was becoming the capital of HOPPIness and their selection is Still incredible. Old-school dive bar, Field with leather chairs and the staff to match... This place is the real deal. In the middle of nowhere shopping center in Kearney Mesa. It's very unassuming... from the outside ... But this place brought all the GOOD beers to SanDiego in the early 2000s. Thank you, O'Brien's!!

    This was a small pub in the Kearney Mesa area that serves craft beer and classic bar food. The San…read moreDiego Brewing Company lager and the Brewmaster Plate paired perfectly together! The service from Tori & Sig was excellent, but I recommend that on busy sports days, bring your patience as they are a bit under-staffed. I was surprised to see so many people with their laptops using the WiFi at the pub. This place seems like it caters to a crowd of regulars who work in the area. The outdoor patio looked like it had more seating outside than there was inside, and there was a large TV outside for viewing of sporting events. Although I wasn't impressed by the specials menu posted outside, the regular menu inside had similar prices and better options. I was also very surprised that they were no women in the pub to speak of, so be aware that this is mainly a guy's hangout, if you're planning a night out. Thanks for the experience, O'Brien's!

    Photos
    Bar
    Bar
    Ahi Nachos  Crispy chips, seared ahi, salsa fresca, avocado, Big Nate sauce, wasabi aioli, scallions
    Ahi Nachos Crispy chips, seared ahi, salsa fresca, avocado, Big Nate sauce, wasabi aioli, scallions
    Pizza Port - Mic Drop

    See all

    Pizza Port - Mic Drop
    Park Social

    Park Social

    4.3
    (645 reviews)
    2.5 mi
    $$

    We visited Park Social back to back during our San Diego trip because it was so close to our hotel,…read moreand we're glad we did! Street parking near the restaurant was a breeze. The service was excellent every time, and the restaurant was clean and welcoming. We especially appreciated that the bathrooms were clean. The food and drinks were outstanding. The latte and chocolate blended drink were both delicious, and the avocado toast, French toast, and 2 eggs any style were absolutely wonderful. Everything was flavorful, fresh, and beautifully prepared. Even on the weekend, there was plenty of seating, which made for a relaxed dining experience. Overall, this was one of our favorite breakfast spots during our trip, and we'll definitely be back the next time we're in San Diego!

    Great place to go with friends and enjoy a relaxed, social atmosphere. The space is very spacious,…read moreand they offer a nice selection of food and drinks. We also enjoyed the live music from a couple performing, it added a great touch to the experience. It's a very kid-friendly spot, which was a plus for our family. I ordered the fried fish tacos, and while they were decent, they weren't my favorite. My son had the birria taco and absolutely loved it, it was packed with a generous amount of meat for a small taco. My daughter ordered the shrimp tacos and really enjoyed them as well. Will be going again to try something different from the menu. The staff was friendly, and overall it was a comfortable place to relax, grab a bite, and spend time with friends and family.

    Photos
    Park Social
    Park Social
    Park Social

    See all

    Maggie's Cafe

    Maggie's Cafe

    4.4
    (1.5k reviews)
    2.9 mi
    $$

    We had an amazing breakfast at Maggie's Cafe! Everything was fresh, delicious, and beautifully…read moreprepared. The strawberry and banana waffle with whipped cream was absolutely incredible, and the stuffed French toast was perfectly cooked. We really appreciated that they were happy to serve the filling on the side for us--it made the meal exactly the way we wanted it. A special thank you to our waitress, Wendy, who was so kind, welcoming, and attentive. She made us feel right at home and provided outstanding service with a smile. Great food, generous portions, wonderful service, and a convenient location. We will definitely be back the next time we're in San Diego. Highly recommend Maggie's Cafe for breakfast! The restaurant has a great vibe, wonderful music and we had a really good time just hanging out and enjoying our coffee

    My wife and I had breakfast here after a long drive from out of town. We immediately got seated and…read morehanded a menu. A server came and asked us what drink we wanted , we said just water for now since we can't decide yet since my wife and i still very sleepy and tired and just want something to eat before going straight home. But this server kept suggesting getting something else to drink other than water and continued to offer my wife an alcoholic beverage and my wife said " NO " and that she doesn't drink any alcohol in the daytime and more at night time. But throughout we were seated there this Server kept coming back offering alcoholic beverages to my wife. My wife got so annoyed but luckily she was very tired at the time, so she didn't burst out at the annoying approach of this server and just ordered her cold Caramel drink, and finally this server left her alone in peace to eat her food. My wife had the Chile Relleno Omelette and I had the Meat Lover's Omelette, both came in big portions, but my Meat was way too salty, so I ended up not eating the meat part. We're gonna try this restaurant again but we are hoping not to encounter a pushy server and enjoy our meal in peace.

    Photos
    Interior setting.
    Interior setting.
    Country Fried Steak & Eggs
    Country Fried Steak & Eggs
    3 egg breakfast

    See all

    3 egg breakfast
    Adrian's Surf N' Turf Grill

    Adrian's Surf N' Turf Grill

    4.8
    (842 reviews)
    3.3 mi
    $$

    I get it yelpers probably one of the best Aji tuna sandwiches that I've had in a long, long time…read more This is high-grade restaurant quality with the flavors and not the fluff. My friend and I got fish and chips and then we got the Aji tuna sandwich on the brioche bun. I get why this place is five stars because the mix of the seaweed and the ginger and the perfect cook on both fish and chips and on the tuna sandwich was just divine. Service is good, ambience is really low-key. You can tell. They're running the show off of the food which is the star of the whole show. All of the price goes into the food and I get why they are a five star rated location.

    Adrian's Surf N' Turf is near and dear... to my work. This lowkey spot is family owned and they are…read morereally kind and welcoming. I ordered the fish n chips which we don't really have a good selection of in San Diego and I was craving it. It was a little pricey but it was really good! I would recommend getting it here. Adrian's Surf N' Turf is near and dear... to my work. This lowkey spot is family owned and they are really kind and welcoming. I ordered the fish n chips which we don't really have a good selection of in San Diego and I was craving it. It was a little pricey but it was really good! I would recommend getting it here.

    Photos
    Cool artwork
    Cool artwork
    San Diego cheese steak! Delicious with extra horseradish sauce.
    San Diego cheese steak! Delicious with extra horseradish sauce.
    Partial view of the dining area

    See all

    Partial view of the dining area
    Eat Crispy Burger Convoy

    Eat Crispy Burger Convoy

    4.3
    (174 reviews)
    1.8 mi

    Another slam dunk meal at Eat Crispy Burger Convoy location. We originally ate at the Encinitas…read morelocation, but are so happy a closer location opened up. Today was a takeout day. Good thing too, because there are new parking rules in the lot (I was in a rush and didn't read them or take a photo of them, sorry!) so not sure about the parking situation. We had two double OG burgers and the large onion rings. The onion rings are behemoths with crunchy batter that maintained their crunch despite not being eaten immediately. The OG burgers had nicely charred and juicy patties, contrasting well with a tangy sauce and grilled onions. Service was friendly, fast, and courteous. The restaurant was nicely air conditioned and well-illuminated with natural light. We would have stayed to eat in, but our baby was overtired and not in the mood for Mom and Dad to binge on lunch.

    Came and got a double all American burger with grilled onions and a small fries. It came on a…read morebrioche bun American cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, ketchup and mustard. I opted for grilled onions rather than fresh. It's quite easy to make changes from the touch pad ordering screen. The burger was nicely smashed with crispy edges the brioche bun was soft. The grilled onions, though nicely grilled and delicious were Finley diced, I wish it was a slice of onion that was grilled to give it more substance. The lettuce was also shredded, id prefer a large piece of lettuce. Overall a very meaty and juicy burger. The fries were a little thinner than usual which gives it more surface area and crunch. They are also cooked in beef tallow which is nice. They have their own parking but are located next to ko-li and Yakyudori so it can be difficult to find parking if you go at night. I went for lunch and found parking easily. The place has about 7 tables inside and a few outside. They also have breakfast sandwiches which are served all day. I'll probably come back for the pastrami and egg sandwich.

    Photos
    Seating
    Seating
    Bacon & Eggs Breakfast Sandwich
    Bacon & Eggs Breakfast Sandwich
    Bacon & Eggs Breakfast Sandwich

    See all

    Bacon & Eggs Breakfast Sandwich

    Balboa's Tap House - tradamerican - Updated July 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...