1. Charade

    1. Charade

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    San Diego, CA

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    Charade

    4.5 (83 reviews)
    Open 6:30 pm - 1:00 am (Next day)

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    Jill S.

    Incredible spot if you want a fun and unique night out! It's always fun having a little show to watch! The show was so different from anything else I've ever experienced! The vibe of the place was great with its dark setting and moody lighting. The drinks were great! The only reason it didn't get 5 stars is because the food options were limited. They only had 4 options for food and they were out of 2 of them. And they're extremely small appetizers. If you're just looking for drinks and a show, this is the spot!

    Lenny Sands
    Denny V.

    My partner and I were excited to check out Monday Jazz Night and their drinks! We got dinner at The Balboa before hand which is where Charade is located. On google it says opens they open at 7pm. But they dont let people in until 7:30pm. So keep that in mind if your planning on checking out Jazz Night. The space itself was very cozy and intimate. We got there early so we were able to get a table. It filled it pretty fast so I would recommend getting their early. I got their Lenny Sands. Very tasty. It was a good take on an old fashion. Will definitely be back and try out their other drinks. Our waitress Cassandra was actually their sommelier! Which was pretty cool! She mentioned that they could be doing more wine options and tastings. We will definitely be back for that!

    Performance area
    Jennifer C.

    Such a vibe I loved it here. Located in the back of The Balboa. You enter through the back wall of the arcade room off the main bar. We got there at 7 thinking it opened then and was told to come back at 7:30. Music actually starts around 8. You can't bring drinks or food in from The Balboa. The have mostly cocktails but also offer beer, wine and some non alcoholic options. A few snacks are offered (popcorn, nuts, etc) but don't expect anything substantial. The space is very intimate and cozy. Not a huge amount of space so better for groups no bigger than 6. We came on a Mon for jazz jam. It starts with the house band playing for 45ish minutes. They take a 15 min break and then the lead brings on people from the crowd to jam. Music was great! Very laid back. The lead was a great xylophonist which I don't hear as often in jazz. Cassandra was helping us all night and was wonderful!

    Randall B.

    A truly original and fun place. Been going here since the day it first opened. Last night the show was over the top fun but the bar service was terrible. Full house. One bartender and one server. And.... We could not order from the bar. Just really made the night less than it could have been

    Dagmar S.

    Honestly this was a night my man and I will never forget. Drinks, service and entertainment was incredible. Definitely will revisit !

    Alex S.

    The experience was alright. It's definitely unique.. We made reservations for this place close to 7pm when the show starts. The place was empty except for the host and the bartender. We could choose anywhere to be seated and the seats are arranged such that you're facing the stage. The drinks menu is limited; about 5-7 cocktails, beer and wine. There is a 2 drinks minimum policy. I had the Perfidia and white jazz and they were both good. If you're looking for a unique, more adventurous cocktail, you probably won't find that here. The first show was a little.. odd. It reminds me of David Lynch's Mulholland Drive for some reason. Weird but I was strangely drawn to it. Come 8:15ish, that's when most people came in. Now it makes sense, the burlesque show starts at 8:30 and that was fun and hilarious. I enjoyed that. No food. But go outside the room and enjoy the burgers at The Balboa.

    Elizabeth A.

    Without much context to this bar except that it was a speakeasy vibe, I was surprised and excited that it was a burlesque show night which started at 7pm! There is a 2 drink minimum which is not bad especially with a show included. Tucked away in the back of The Balboa, I liked the contrasting vibes of the speakeasy which was more cozy and intimate. The cocktails were just okay and too sweet for my taste. I tried the lavender vodka cocktail and an old fashioned, both were sweeter than I prefer. The show itself was fun with intermittent acts every 20 mins or so. The venue was just the right size so you can still see even from the way back. Make sure to make reservations as we got lucky to get seated by showing up early during a lull period. It got packed within the hour!

    Stand Up Comedy
    Snowflake J.

    We ate dinner at The Balboa and realized the speakeasy was getting ready to open that evening; so I decided to plant some entertainment into our night unknowingly what we were going to see. We scoured the website for a password and found just a reservation on OpenTable will get us in the door. The entry of the speakeasy is behind one of the walls of the arcade and it looks like an industrial wall of pipes and brick to showcase a glass french door that looks into a very colorful, mysterious, low lit room. Once seated, you're offered beverages of your choice and before the music starts, they collect $10 per person and on the drink menu indicated at the bottom is the two drink minimum. An unexpected evening of delight and cheer. A small intimate crowd with a unique offering of a visual stimulating atmosphere with beverages for all to include (non alcoholic) beverages that range from $9 to $16. You have one server and friendly staff that's committed to make sure you have a good time. We met Sip & Curl, two beautiful voices Danielle and Ruby G and one drummer referred to as Cab Driver on the drums / guitarist. We also enjoyed some stand up comedy too.

    Tiffany T.

    I recently stumbled upon this new speakeasy & was beyond pleasantly surprised to find out that it's a new speakeasy in one of my favorite spots ever, the Balboa Bar & Grill in Bankers Hill! The Balboa is definitely my favorite burger in San Diego, as well as my family's, so us finding out that they incorporated a new performative bar only meant one thing... we had to go immediately. A few weeks ago, a few of us had visited the Balboa & had noticed that they created a new spacious arcade game room area that included a new pool table. However, we had no idea the speakeasy would be part of this area as well. The expansion is awesome! We were able to experience Charade's first week of opening & upon entering, it was seriously so cool, intimate, & I love the projectors that display unpredictable, but captivating scenery (e.g., random aquariums, aurora borealis-looking visuals, & etc). Lighting in here was super ambient & really nice too, which is something I appreciate! Since they're in their beginning stages with recently opening, they have a limited menu for now, but they have a full bar & are flexible with drink orders off the menu. For instance, martinis were not on the actual menu, but they made a mean one upon request :) Drinks were great & service was great too! We really liked the bartender (I didn't quite get his name), but we also thought that our server, Shine, was really sweet & welcoming, & he really cared to make sure we had a drink in hand & that we were enjoying our time there. The most cool & unique thing about this new establishment though is that they have a stage with a curtain where throughout the night (~8 PM - 1AM ish), artists take turns to perform any type of art that they'd like. You really never know what you're going to get & during our visit, we got to see epic guitar playing & singing, a ventriloquist, & another singing bit with comedy mixed in. It's definitely an unpredictable & exciting performative journey & makes the night more interesting & exciting. Overall, I am super happy to see that the Balboa (which was already amazing as is) is evolving & supporting San Diego's local talent, & being an open platform for artists to do their thang. They even let us know that if we, or if anyone that we knew, was interested in performing there, that they would love to learn more about our art & to give us a chance to be a part of the experience. I totally recommend this place & the even better part about it is that after you get some nice drinks in here & you step on out, you can continue the fun by treating yourself to the best burger ever at the Balboa! ;)

    Ann V.

    Had a great time here! There was no entertainment the night I went which was fine cause there was karaoke. Staff was awesome too. Overall great experience

    drink menu
    Roxanne H.

    I have no idea how this place is as low key as it was when I went last night, it was great! The speakeasy is located near the arcade in the back of the restaurant. The bartender was super friendly and made us custom drinks that were delicious and well priced. Mine were about $14 each, which, for a custom drink is super good. The ambiance is incredible, great low lighting, cool displays, small and intimate. The act last night was also interesting. They went on at 7pm and we were there for 2 hours and he did two shows. For the price, location, and quality of drinks this place was amazing. Will 100% be coming back, and during a weekend next!

    J P.

    Charade is one of those places where you walk in and immediately think, "Okay, this is gonna be interesting." It's definitely unique part cocktail lounge, part live show, part "where am I and how did I get here?" vibe. The concept? Super fun. The execution? Ehh... still deciding. It feels like one of those movies you kinda like but know you probably need to watch again to really get it. Service was great though friendly, fast, and nobody gave you the stink-eye for not knowing what was happening, which is always a plus. Cocktails? Solid. No complaints there. They know how to mix a drink, and they don't skimp on the good stuff. Plenty of parking (bless) and yes, they take reservations so you can feel fancy for a hot second. Honestly, if you're looking to switch things up from the usual "drink at a bar and stare at your phone" night, Charade's a fun option. Come for the cocktails, stay for the what-is-happening-right-now entertainment. Might need a round two to really appreciate it but hey, any excuse for more drinks, right?

    G F.

    We walked into the wrong room but we still found the place. The ambiance is great and the staff were helpful and well dressed. The drinks were delicious but they were out of some of the food options and the drinks took a minute to come out

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    1 year ago

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    9 months ago

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    The T.

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    7 months ago

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    7 months ago

    Great ambiance very chill vibe with some amazing drinks and the Bartender CHLOE was PHENOMENAL

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    10 months ago

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    2 years ago

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    9 months ago

    Had a reservation. Showed up on time. They sat 2 parties before us who walked in and had no reservations. Left due to this.

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    The T.

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    2 years ago

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    10 months ago

    Amazing vibes at this spot. The employees are amazing singers and it was a great time. Cold beer and great cocktails. Much recommended.

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    2 years ago

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    2 years ago

    The vibe is amazing here! Great service with strong drinks and the Artists keep you entertained and laughing all night.

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    2 years ago

    Great ambiance, good drinks, its different type of speakeasy, love the shows!!! Great drinks and great performers!

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    2 years ago

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    2 years ago

    This place is incredible! One of the best spots in San Diego. An truly unique experience. Lucy Loop is the hottest clown in town.

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    2 years ago

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    2 years ago

    MJ is incredible, the performers are just wow, this experience is amazing, highly highly recommend

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    2 years ago

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    1 year ago

    Regular cocktails at high prices. The staff was top shelf but ambience nothing special. It's pretty new so hopefully will improve.

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    2 years ago

    Fun ambience, great performers, good drinks. Intimate and high quality vibe. Attached to a good bar as well for after/pre party

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    Page 2 of 3

    Ask the Community - Charade

    Do they have shows on Thursday nights?

    Is there a specific start/end time for the performance? Trying to determine what time to make a reservation

    Nope. They just sort of happen. On the weekends it seems to be about every 30 minutes or so. Not sure about weekdays.

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

    Review Highlights - Charade

    The ambiance is incredible, great low lighting, cool displays, small and intimate.

    Mentioned in 6 reviews

    Read more highlights

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    Raised By Wolves - Lots o' Scotch

    Raised By Wolves

    4.3(2.3k reviews)
    10.6 miUniversity City
    $$

    love living in La Jolla so much! had a great time at raised by wolves. The ambiance here is…read more awesome, good place to come with friends or if you're on a date. We had a few drinks (i should say the people i was with did bc i don't really drink) and then headed back to the pool at the apartments i live in. It is so hot out! i jumped straight in the pool too. ha ha. no drinks needed, not a problem!. i will also say, a friend of mine has a super cool glass from here. i have no idea how she got it and that's the only info i have. haha. Def recommend raised by wolves! For more drama free pics, random, cats, dogs, sunsets, life, fun places, check my brand spanking new instagram (no, i didn't find the old password and created a new one) laureen.teresap.

    "A Sheep in Wolf's Clothing."…read more Located in the Westfield UTC mall, Raised By Wolves appears from the front as a medicinal shop or apothecary, but as you enter you come to realize there is more than meets the eye. The shelves are lined with a wide selection of liquors and spirits and everything is tastefully placed. There is even a fun little gimmick: a secret revolving platform that takes you into the main bar. The bar features a beautiful central fountain space with the tables organized along the edges of the room. The room is dimly lit for an intimate mood, but it makes it really hard to see things in my opinion. Unfortunately this is where the curtains are drawn and we find it was a sheep masquerading as a wolf all along. Their cocktail menu was extensive. The drinks had clever names and interesting flavors, but none of them really wowed. The whiskey menu was one of their strengths, featuring a good selection of American, Japanese, and Scotch whiskeys. The service was excellent; our server was super helpful and very knowledgeable of the entire menu. Overall, RBW's strength is in their presentation and vibe, but falls a bit flat when it comes to flavor.

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    Raised By Wolves - Tiramitini and Mojito.

    Tiramitini and Mojito.

    Raised By Wolves - The secret panel that rotates like a carousel into the wolf den.

    The secret panel that rotates like a carousel into the wolf den.

    Raised By Wolves - Smells of leather bound books and rich mahogany

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    False Idol - Rum Old Fashioned

    False Idol

    4.4(1.4k reviews)
    0.6 miLittle Italy
    $$

    I love it here; this is one of my go to spots to bring people when they are in town for…read morework/visiting etc. Be warned, you can have a very long wait here if you just pop in, especially on a Friday or Saturday evening. Make a reservation if you know this is your destination. They have some spot on Tiki decor and the staff here is really friendly, happy to share their favorite drinks, or make suggestions based on your likes. If fruity drinks are not your jam... what are you doing in a Tiki Bar!! No really, they have great options for on the rocks or straight as well as ordering your favorite cocktail or beer. They have a ton of options, all sorts of alcohol bases depending on what your vice is, they also have non-alcoholic drinks for those so inclined. Hard to pass on a Mai Tai or a Zombie to start your evening off. lately I have been enjoying the Eastern Sour which is their take on a whiskey sour. It's always fun when someone orders a bowl and the room shakes and the lights flash with thunder and lightning adding a bit of excitement for first timers. Just to recap: Don't get mad if you have to wait and did not make a reservation. While they have lots of options, most drinks and all specialties are Tiki Drinks. Tiki drinks can be strong, mind yourself. If a place like this is not your vibe, that is fine, head back into Craft & Commerce, make room for others who are waiting to get in, just have fun!

    We ate at Craft and Commerce and decided to jump in line for False Idol as walk-ins. Luckily we…read morelined up near opening because there were quite a few reservationists that showed up on a Friday night. We were led into a dimly lit speakeasy soon after lining up. Fortunately we got bar seating. The bar then quickly filled up with many standing as the bar got crowded. As far as drinks, their menu had many listed drinks. Wifey and I started with Rum Old Fashioneds and they were delicious. Our second drink was a King Kong Old Fashioned and it too was yummy. The bartenders were very friendly and attentive. The place was hopping and packed. We will definitely return.

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    False Idol - Isn't it gorgeous?!

    Isn't it gorgeous?!

    False Idol - Tiki themed decor

    Tiki themed decor

    False Idol - Rum barrel

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    Realm of the 52 Remedies - Clouds over Thailand

    Realm of the 52 Remedies

    4.4(891 reviews)
    7.2 miKearny Mesa
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    First thing to note, the interior of this speakeasy is absolutely gorgeous. When entering, my group…read moreand I were impressed. Not only that, but the drinks are strong (a pro for most, con for some). The food is delicious, and the seating is super comfortable! The service was above-and-beyond, as the staff there offered to remake drinks that my friends did not particularly enjoy for free. I do recommend to make a reservation ahead of time as walk-ins are not guaranteed. For reservations, you'll need to make a deposit. This deposit will be refunded once you show up. There was a wait despite having a reservation, but nothing too long. The volume is not too loud, and the speakeasy was very clean. The parking is moderately decent, but hard on weekends. There's a parking lot in the plaza, but street parking is also available as well.

    I have lived in Clairemont for 5 years and just now checking out this Speakeasy!…read more It is so gorgeous rustic vibe. The first room you enter is unique, bright and clean. I liked this part of the speakeasy the most and it was definitely photo worthy. The service was super awesome! Our waiter/bartender was very knowledgeable, helpful and funny. He was really cool and made the experience even more fun. Their menu is now through a QR Code. They offer seasonal drinks as well as house regulars. We all ordered a different drinks. They were Seoul City Hipster, Kasato Maru and Purple Petunias. Each was $20, but they were so tasty. I got the 52 Burger for $16 which was mouthwatering. One of the best burgers I have eaten. My friend got the 12oz Bone-In Pork Loin for $27. This was pretty decent. I thought the burger was better. Now that I have been here, I definitely recommend checking out this speakeasy if you haven't and I look forward to another trip!

    Photos
    Realm of the 52 Remedies - Sitting area

    Sitting area

    Realm of the 52 Remedies - Entryway

    Entryway

    Realm of the 52 Remedies - Main dining area

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    Main dining area

    Bar Kamon - Hokkaido White Lover

    Bar Kamon

    4.6(282 reviews)
    1.0 miEast Village
    $$
    Family-owned & operated
    Women-owned & operated

    This speakeasy is so u assuming! Enter Asa Bakery, immediately turn right and the hidden door is…read morestraight ahead. But the host is on the other side of the wall. You must ask at the Bakery counter to be let in. HINT: look for the handicap button on the wall. Just push it and the door opens. You will be met by staff immediately inside and seated. Its a small interior with not so intimate seating. The lighting is on the brighter side. Service is superior!! The food is great and the drinks were mostly hit and some misses. But they will remake you a new drink if you let them know. Surprisingly the food was outstanding. The plates are large! We had Chicken Karaage which was cooked perfectly and the sticky sauce was delicious. The Nagoya Karaage Nagoya Style Fried Chicken, Sesame Seeds, White Pepper, Cabbage. The glaze was sweet and delicious! OG Haccho Chicken Sliders were more like full size sandwiches - Miso Glazed Crispy Chicken, Sumono Pickles, Sesame Coleslaw, w Yuzu Togarashi Mayo, on a soft Brioche Bun. The Ronin Fries were so good. All the flavors went well together. Shogoyaki Pork Belly, Mozzarella Cheese, Bang Bang Sauce, Green Onion, and Furikake Seasoning. The Umi No Maboroshi Oysters were a disappointment. Only 2 oysters at this price point is pricey! It was weird- the Edible Tuile Shell, Caviar, Yuzu Caviar, Sancho Oil, Wakame, Micro Greens on top were just too much. The flavors did not show while eating. Too many flavors made the oyster unnoticeable! Next the Drinks!! The White Lover!!! Hands down the best drink we tried. All three of us agreed!!! Its topped w a Sherbet- ish frozen Yuzu ball. Eat it or add it to your drink to change the flavor a bit. Either way the best drink we had. The Tokyo Banana was next best!!! The Yama Matcha was good but lacked matcha flavor. Was a good drink but to me was not a matcha drink. The Sesame Old Fashioned had a slight sesame flavor. However I'd like more sesame myself. But a nice twist on an iconic drink. Overall our experience was 5 stars. Our server was great and she is the one who recommended White Lover. Sorry cant remember her name. But had sandy blonde hair and was on the taller side. She actually jumped behind the bar to make a custom drink for all of us! The shooters were outstanding!! Highly recommend this speakeasy for the Asian inspired drink and food!!

    When we walked into the bakery, I thought, "Wait... where is Bar Kamon hiding?" Turns out, it was…read morehiding in plain sight! The staff welcomed us so warmly and even accommodated our early reservation request such a lovely surprise. This hidden gem feels like a little escape from the city hustle, with such a calming vibe. The cocktails were fantastic Tokyo Banana was delicious, but the Yame Matcha was my favorite! Hubby had his whiskey, and we shared chicken karaage and fries. Such a fun, cozy date night and honestly, such a beautiful experience. We'll definitely be back!

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    Bar Kamon - Hibiki old Fashioned

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    Noble Experiment - Spiced banana flip! Delicious!

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    4.5(1.9k reviews)
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    My husband and I recently spent some days in San Diego. He found this speak easy and we decided we…read moreneeded to try it out. This was definitely the highlight of our trip. From the spooky, dark, skulls old school ambiance and decor, to the experience of not ordering from a menu, everything about it made it feel unique and curated making it feel like a true individualized experience. As mentioned, there are no menus. We sat at the bar, the bartender makes casual conversation with you regarding the types of drinks you enjoy. He curated something for both my husband and I based on what we shared we enjoyed. The drinks were delicious. The entry was very cool! It felt as if you were entering a hidden spot - which you do. When you enter the restaurant, you let the hostess know you're there for the Noble Experience. She let us know to head to the wall with the kegs (which is actually a door). You enter and there's a small waiting area where you're greeted by another hostess. This place is a 20/10. We can't wait to return on our next visit to SD.

    Drinks are hit and miss. No menu bar is more gimmicky than anything…read more I'm sure there's some set menu that the bartenders just play off of and quality of the drinks really really just depends on who's your bartender. First round was great, not exactly what we ordered but still quality cocoktail. Second round was not good at all. And especially not what we ordered lol The wait on off days can be 5-10 minutes. Busy days it can be 1-2 hours. Drinks: 5/10 Service: 6/10 Atmosphere: 7/10 Value: 4/10

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    Noble Experiment - Strawberry cucumber Gin cocktail

    Strawberry cucumber Gin cocktail

    Noble Experiment - Ceiling and chandelier

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    Noble Experiment - Bartenders creations.

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    Convoy Music Bar - Lychee Martini

    Convoy Music Bar

    4.5(427 reviews)
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    I've been coming to Music Bar since they first opened, and somehow never got around to writing a…read morereview. This one is long overdue--not that they need my review, because by now everyone already knows how amazing this place is. What keeps me coming back is the combination of great music, an energetic vibe, outstanding service, and some of the most creative cocktails you'll find anywhere. Tonight was girls' night out, so we decided to order the prettier, and sweeter cocktails. But don't let the sweet flavors fool you--they are definitely generous with the alcohol. These drinks may taste dangerously easy to sip, but they pack a punch! I don't even remember the names of the cocktails we ordered, but honestly, that doesn't matter because the menu changes so often. And that's one of the things I love most about Music Bar. Every visit brings something new, fresh, and exciting to try. Both of my drinks were absolutely delicious, with the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. I honestly don't know how the bartenders come up with these combinations, but kudos to the team for constantly pushing their creativity while still making every cocktail incredibly well balanced. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular, Music Bar never disappoints. I'll definitely keep coming back to see what new creations they come up with next. Cheers to one of my favorite cocktail spots in San Diego!

    Convoy Music Bar was my first HiFi experience and it did not disappoint! CMB is an intimate…read morelistening bar situated in an alleyway with a dark and moody ambiance. Speakers and vinyls line the walls. Vibes are more elevated here than at your usual bar. I ordered the Nickel Fortune, which came out with a fun tarot card. It was a savory drink with a nice lingering of sesame oil after each sip. Seating is pretty limited inside, so reservations are recommended. CMB's website states that "cocktail attire is celebrated."

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    Convoy Music Bar - Corner table view:  large JBL speakers with Macintosh amps

    Corner table view: large JBL speakers with Macintosh amps

    Convoy Music Bar - Interior

    Interior

    Convoy Music Bar - Interior

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    Interior

    Oculto 477 - Tsunami -- THE BEST

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    2.7 miOld Town
    $$

    I plan to come back to San Diego every few months, and since I'm a creature of habit, I'm looking…read morefor something that I can do every single time. I'm really glad that I found Oculto because it has been one of the highlights of my San Diego trip. First of all, the concept of the seven deadly sins is really cool. The space is absolutely moody, intimate, and thoughtfully designed. It has an atmosphere that makes you want to slow down and enjoy your drink rather than rush through it. And since I don't really drink, I was definitely going slow. And I was alone, but the good part was I found myself just taking it all in instead of reaching for my phone. I started with an espresso martini-style cocktail that was smooth, balanced, and the perfect way to ease into the evening. For my second drink, I asked for the bartender's choice, and it ended up being one of my favorite cocktails I've had in a long time. It featured lychee, strawberry, and cardamom, and was garnished with a beautiful little rose. It was creative, elegant, and every flavor worked together perfectly. The cocktails were outstanding, but what really made the experience stand out was the service. Devin was an excellent bartender and an amazing conversationalist. He was warm, knowledgeable, and genuinely engaging, making me feel welcome from the moment I sat down. He took the time to craft a drink based on flavors I enjoy, and it was clear he cares about creating a great experience, not just serving drinks. If you're looking for a cocktail bar with incredible drinks, a gorgeous atmosphere, and exceptional hospitality, I can't recommend Oculto enough. I'll absolutely be back the next time I'm in San Diego.

    I visited Oculto 477 for the first time recently and fell in love with this delightfully charming…read morebar! Full disclosure, I'm a sucker for a themed speakeasy, and Oculto delivered with its Mexican gothic twist. Entering through a confessional booth, confessing your sins before once again giving over to temptation as you sample seven deadly sins-themed libations; oh yeah, this is the themed spectacle that I adore! For those wanting to visit, Oculto is small and reservations are a must. They also have a two drink minimum and the seatings are timed. Everything we ordered was fantastic and I adored the presentation. My only complaint, and the reason for the four stars, is that despite its small size, service was still on the slower side. I get that the bartenders are making complicated craft cocktails, but when you have a two drink minimum AND a time limit for your guests, maybe speed it up a little bit? We would have loved to order another round but sadly ran out of time on our reservation. But everything else about the bar was fantastic, and I will definitely be back for another night of debauchery in the future!

    Photos
    Oculto 477 - Seat at the bar

    Seat at the bar

    Oculto 477
    Oculto 477 - La Llorona

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    La Llorona

    Mothership - Amazing decor

    Mothership

    4.3(981 reviews)
    1.8 miSouth Park, Golden Hill, North Park
    $$

    Calling all Star Wars and Star Trek fans…read more This place is so fun and home to some of the best tiki-style drinks. So flavorful and not short changed on the booze! Their food is also very good. I ordered the fried tofu and it was the best tofu I've ever had by far! It's also part of the Chase Open Table program through the Sapphire Reserve card with means if you reserve it on open table you can get your $150 bi-yearly credit!

    A couple of my friends were visiting SD and suggested going to Mothership to catch up over drinks…read more I've honestly never made my way down to South Park, but I liked the area and I enjoyed Mothership! It took about an hour for us to be called from the waitlist. We were fortunate enough to secure a table too (otherwise there are standing areas towards the entrance/bar area). The staff, specifically the host and our waitress, were awesome. So friendly and accommodating. The overall vibe of Mothership is great! The decor is definitely out of this world.. As for drinks, we got Homing Beacon and two mocktails: Revival Mission and the Mindchiller. Many of the drinks, including Homing Beacon, are rum forward but they have options for you to switch spirits. I got the Revival Mission mocktail which was a bit sour. I absolutely enjoyed my friend's Mindchiller as it tasted like a yummy pina colada. Hopefully soon, I'd like to come back and get a Mindchiller of my own!

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    Mothership - Mindkiller

    Mindkiller

    Mothership - Away Mission

    Away Mission

    Mothership - The bar area

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    The bar area

    Young Blood - Entrance

    Young Blood

    4.5(365 reviews)
    0.9 miEast Village
    $$$

    Young Blood speakeasy was recommended by another friend so we visited earlier in the day (late…read moreafternoon) & made a reservation for 9PM, as it is very difficult to accommodate walk ins due to limited space. The speakeasy is located within Neighborhood bar, behind a false wall of beer barrels (there is a host for Young blood behind the barrel door) & the large refrigerator door which is the entrance to Young Blood. The menu features a choice of 3 courses of cocktails where the 2nd course is called Dealer's Choice where your mixologist will craft a unique cocktail for you based on your preferences. Service was outstanding & attentive & cocktails were beautifully crafted, balanced & flavorful.

    Drinks are amazing, the atmosphere is incredible, and the staff are knowledgeable and welcoming…read more My only complaint is the change in the overall experience. It used to focus on three personally crafted drinks, which made the experience feel unique and worth coming back for. Now, only one drink is personally crafted, while the other two are selected from the menu. If I wanted to order drinks off a menu, there are other experiences in San Diego that I would opt for instead. I'm a bit disappointed with this change, and after coming here multiple times specifically for the unique experience, I don't think I'll be back or continue recommending it to others as I have in the past.

    Photos
    Young Blood - Single bathroom

    Single bathroom

    Young Blood - Carpeting

    Carpeting

    Young Blood - Entrance

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    Entrance

    Charade - venues - Updated September 2026

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