I am floored I have not reviewed False Idol, I've been coming here since they opened many many years ago, and have been coming at least once a month since then. It's located inside Craft and Commerce, I recommend eating there first before enjoying your cocktails at False Idol as they are very sneaky tasty drinks! What I love about FI is that they do Trader Vics originals and then their own take on them as well. They are a perfect mesh of the old and the new. Absolutely worth getting a reservation to! The cocktails take time, they are working hard to make them from scratch. The inside of this place is GORGEOUS!! The balls hanging from the ceiling are so pretty. I always recommend this place to anyone who is visiting or anyone who has not done tiki bars. read more

See all

Epic Tiki Room style speakeasy. This is the most extensive drink menu I have ever seen offered. While the standalone drinks are great, the real star of the show is the punch bowl that comes to you literally on fire. The atmosphere and servers are fantastic and the drinks are reasonably priced. Definitely recommend! read more

False Idol - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

False idol is a neat speak easy in San Diego especially for those who favor rum! Our server was very attentive and helpful with suggestions. Sort of cave like feel that is intimate for a date night or casual drinks with friends. read more

This place is a total vibe. It's really dark but so on theme. We ordered a few drinks but the Mac nut chichi and port au prince were exceptional. The bartenders are what makes this place. They are super efficient and skilled.Our server was super nice and music was cool. read more

False Idol - Mac nut chi chi - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

This is such a fun place to come!! I always take my family and friends when they are in town visiting. The staff is super friendly and the atmosphere is so awesome, it reminds me of an adult version of the rainforest cafe! The speakeasy is located within the restaurant in front and you must check in with the hostess there before they give you a stamp and let you in. Be sure to make reservations beforehand as they are almost always busy. You can always do a walk in and eat at the restarurant while waiting. Do keep in mind they have a time limit and will ask you to leave when your hour and a half is approaching. Their cocktails to share are super fun to order because they are lit on fire while a loud BOOM and thunder go over the loud speakers--it is quite a show! 10/10 reccomended for a fun night. read more

False Idol - Cocktails to share - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

My friends and I had a lot of fun here. The punch bowl was really fun and exciting. The restroom situation is kind of weird because you have to leave the building and text your friends to let you back in read more

We had an amazing experience at this tiki bar! Ordered the Haleakala punch bowl drink and shared it with 2 other friends. Definitely recommend finding this hidden gem and enjoying a drink! read more

False Idol - Bar - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

The most fun and well curated themed tiki bar! Lots of fun, great ambiance, and amazing drinks. Great for pre-gaming or just ending the night with amazing cocktails My husband and I live in the downtown area and this is our go-to place for taking friends in town- we have been here a lot already in the past few weeks. The theme is well decorated. From a flowing water wall on the right when you enter, with dim lighting and surrounded by 'rock wall', red/green/blue tropical lighting, and bamboo tables, they go all out. A fun little thing they do is any time a table orders the group drink (all of the choices have a small fire show that they light at your table), they stop the music and dim the lights and have a "thunder" rainforest sound go off for a minute while they bring the flaming group drink over and light it! Drinks (no food here!) : All cocktails are amazing and a super huge plus is that they have mocktails for those that want to join in sans spirits, and they are just as stunning and delicious. Ask your waiter what can be done as mocktail! What's even more great is that they charge half price for the mocktail version, which is much appreciated. My go to order is the Ube Bae mocktail!! I do not like to drink often but I love to socialize. This mocktail is basically a dessert for me and I love it. I order it every single time without fail. I have tried the Macadamia Nut w/ spirits (but this can be a mocktail too) and it's also delicious. My husband has tried sooooo many items and as an alcohol aficionado, he has loved them all. We have had anyone from friends to in-laws come visit and everyone loves this place! read more

See all

Crizwel was the absolute best the best shist we could ask for she remembered me and gave me the best seats. I've been there 3 times and she remembered me. Here's a picture of her! Tell her your name and she'll reemeber you! read more

False Idol - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

Absolutely love this place! We come here often. They also have a happy hour 5-6pm with big discounts on certain drinks! The vibes are so fun, the staff is always a great time, and the cocktails are all amazing. We have never ordered something we did not like. This is a must go to in San Diego! read more

False Idol - Inside - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

Snuck here on a random night and had a nice time! The drinks were delicious too! Bartenders are nice and friendly! They gave a great recommendation for a non-alcoholic drink! Only downsize of the place is that the area is kinda small, limited seating but has great decorations! read more

See all

After waiting in a line to get in, the line started moving quickly and about 6 people went in, including myself and one of my girlfriends. This was my first time ever coming here so I thought the hostess was letting people in. I get singled out to leave because we were not allowed to go in. Not even my girlfriend who came with me was told to leave. (I'm brown skinned and was the only brown skinned person) I hate to point this out but immediately realized it after looking around and advised the hostess that if she was going to kick me out, she would have to kick out the other 6 people that went in in front of me. This did not happen....I was given attitude and I can say I will never come back. This has actually been a place I wanted to check out for years and was totally bummed by how this place is ran but young absent minded people. read more

Essentially, one of the best tiki bars in San Diego. I've visited False Idol a half dozen times and have loved everything I've tried. The Ube Bae, Painkiller, Tiger's Milk, Mai Tai, and Coronado Luau are all incredible. From the bar's collection of classic tiki menus to the lightning storms that overtake the scene every half hour, the over-the-top atmosphere is extremely well-crafted and wonderfully immersive. Where some bars stumble in execution, False Idol's details are so well-chosen you'll always find something new to discover. Overall, can't wait to visit again. read more

False Idol - Mai Tai - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

This place is fantastic. Lots of great drink options, plus STRONG drink options that are no joke. This bar is toward the back of a separate bar so it is difficult to find, even though we knew it was there. Once you find it, a passageway transforms the experience, and opens up into another world. Everyone here seems happy and the waiters are knowledgeable and happy to help with the perfect drink selection. Note: No food, purely a bar! Would give 4.5 stars because I love snack options with my tiki bar drinks and there are none. Also, if you want to use the restroom it's a bit of a hassle. Great ambiance and photo ops! read more

False Idol - Backdrop - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

A fun spot located inside another establishment so it's difficult to locate at first. Once we figured this out, we got in line to put our names on the waitlist, and the wait thereafter was 30+ mins. The entrance behind the hostess felt like a mysterious cave and has a similar vibe to the Pirates of the Caribbean ride before the first drop. While waiting, you're left wondering what's behind this dimly lit cave decorated with these cute but scary skeleton skulls? Definitely added to the anticipation. When our reservation name hadn't been called after the expected wait time, we checked in with the hostess who claimed she texted to let us know our turn was up. We didn't receive that text. Glad we asked, and we were led to the back, where we encountered a festively decorated space and crowded scene. Now we know why there's a wait. Since we didn't make reservations, it was standing room only, and it was awkward just standing the middle of a crowded room. In a few minutes, a server spotted us and took our orders. She was friendly, giving us her recs for mocktails. We opted for the sidewinder's fang (for the passion fruit juice) and the ube and asked that they be made into mocktails. We eventually found vacant seats at the bar, where the bartender served our drinks. The ube bae mocktail had alcohol, and we had to flag the server to correct it. On top of that, we were charged cocktail prices instead of mocktail prices. It was all a mess, so the bartender, who was super nice, decided it was probably better for everyone to have the drinks on the house after multiple back and forths to clarify and correct the mistakes. They were super busy, and we intended on staying just for one drink, and this was holding back both their staff capacity and my party's ability to leave soon. After the wait and mistakes, we appreciated it and tipped the bartender for his service and kindness. Now, what about the drinks themselves? The sidewinder's fang was deliciously tart, though I was searching for that distinct passionfruit taste, and it was a bit lacking there. A little disappointing, BUT it was delicious nonetheless, and I enjoyed it. The ube actually really paired nicely with the alcohol and actually tasted better than the mocktail. The alcohol somehow balanced the sweet and nutty flavor of the ube nicely, and without it, the mocktail seemed a bit too sweet. In the end, I'd come back now that I know more about the ins and outs of this place and to plan accordingly. I'll also make sure my orders and receipts are correct and only come when there isn't a wait or only if I have reservations. read more

Still an amazing place. Great drinks & service. Didn't have reservations, but they got us in and made our night memorable. read more

False Idol - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

When they say standing room only they MEAN standing room only. A small speakeasy. We put our names down for two and got in in around an hour for standing room only. We did eventually (after 30 minutes) get a spot at the bar. The drinks were nice. Tropical selection. The vibes are great. With a tiki theme. read more

This place was so much fun! From the very start, you enter through the kitchen, which is just mysterious and cool. The bar itself is well decorated and has awesome lighting. We got the welcome shot, which was so much fun and on fire when we came, lol. We didn't come for the food, but of course we had to order some, and we were not disappointed. In fact, we kept ordering more! It was fresh, delicious, and creative. Our waitress was also so kind! Super fun date night! Check it out! read more

See all

This place is amazing. It's a speaky tiki that's hidden in a cave. Drinks are amazing and the staff are always a good time!

The entrance is subtle and the bar takes you into a tiki bar setting. It's a busy spot but don't be afraid to bring your crew for a cozy cocktail experience. There are lots to choose from and everything coming out of the mixologist's hands looks tropical and fun. Enjoy! read more

See all

When I think of a speakeasy, I think of a hidden bar with a unique or creative entrance and I was a little disappointed with the entrance here. While this is a bar that is tucked to the side on the inside of a restaurant, the entrance is just a separate open doorway that the host will walk you through. The ambiance of the bar is great though. It's a fun tiki bar with tropical themed decor and drinks. I highly recommend trying to get a reservation so that you have a table for your party instead of having to stand. They gave us two hours for our reservation, which was the perfect amount of time to have a couple of drinks and hangout with friends before heading to our dinner reservation in Little Italy. Our party tried several different drinks on the menu and we enjoyed all of them. I would definitely come here again! read more

This place has a piece of my heart. A truly legitimate tiki bar (even cited on a well respected cocktail book called Smuggler's Cove!) This place is INSIDE Craft & Commerce We did a walk in on Saturday around 5:15pm. It was standing only (no wait), but we got lucky with getting seated in about 15-20 min at a table because a party didn't show up for their reservation. Drinks are fantastic - menu is absolutely extensive. For those who like sweet, nutty drinks, highly recommend UBE BAE & MAC NUT CHI CHI We will be back for sure! read more

False Idol - Mac Nut Chi Chi - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

What's not to love? Nice little tiki bar/speakeasy in SD. Theming on point, with complimentary music. Drinks were amazing! We got the Jet Pilot and Ube Bae. So damn good! Our waitress was really cool. Purchased a couple of rad tiki mugs. Definitely get reservations, as the bar is smallish, and it fills up completely. read more

See all

If you like rum, this is the speak easy for you. The drinks are so creative and fun. It's not everyday you're in a dark cave with a bar and your drinks are on fire. Can't wait to go back. read more

Not a good impression. I just tried to walked in there for a party of 3. They quoted us 30 minutes. Then took 2 party's of 2, one was there before us and one couple came after us. That doesn't make sense to me. Clearly they only wanted a certain type of people in there. read more

Delightful! Hard to get in, so my friend booked our reservation a month in advance to get a table for 6 on NYE. Only my second speakeasy experience, my inner child was content: I loved the creepy skull entrance, stone walls reminiscent of Pirates of the Caribbean at Dland, and occasional thunder rumbles (reminded me of Rainforest Cafe). Drinks were overall delicious. I was very satisfied with my Painkiller, which felt decently strong to me. The Mac Nut chi chi was delightful (though I didn't notice the mac nut personally), and the Ube Bae was creamy and smooth. There was a lot of ice, but at least the cups were large; so overall would consider it on the as-expected pricier side. Waitresses were so cheerful, which was nice. Noise level was higher, but I didn't feel like I had to yell, which was great. Would definitely come back for a special occasion or to bring friends/family for a fun tiki experience. read more

False Idol - Painkiller + Mac Nut chi chi (rum though) - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

had a reservation on NYE for a quick drink here. they closed early since the had a private event. i got the ube bae and it was so good. the ube flavor was nice and strong without overpowering the alcohol toooo much. overall fun environment and nice place to grab a drink or two with friends. read more

False Idol - ube bae - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

Fun little spot "hidden" inside another restaurant. Definitely worth a drink or two. Fun setting, kind staff, and cocktail prices were shockingly lower than other bars in the neighborhood. read more

This place is unique & amazing! Super chill & strange ambience. Taxidermy all around. Kinda feels like I'm waiting for Indiana Jones or Pirates of the Caribbean @ Disney Drinks are potent & delicious! Navy Grog is & their Jaguars Anus drink is a must. 10/10 read more

I have never not had an amazing time at Falso Idol, but this trip was AMAZINGER.... is that a word? Here's why I tend to come to False Idol during the holidays because its so fun to try the normally not on the menu drinks and there is the butter booze! I was a little disappointed that the holiday menu seemed smaller than normal, until I noticed the special bottles available for purchase and OMG they were selling Butter Booze! THE ACTUAL REASON I GO TO FALSE IDOL THIS TIME OF YEAR! I am so thrilled I acquired a bottle of butter booze and I will try not to drink it all at once. Its also the first time I visited and they actually had mugs available and one was a special edition. When the waitress asked if number 48 would work for me, I knew it was KISMET because 48 hasbeen a lucky number, my NASCAR driver's number in the old days and overall, a number that makes me say "whoooooooo" It was like the stars just aligned on Sunday night. We arrived waaaay too early for our reservation, but were lucky to get seated quickly and the drinks were fantastic. It is so hard not to drink like ten cocktails there. The staff that work there are kind and fun and simply amazing. If you haven't been, you really should make plans. Its wonderful. read more

False Idol - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

My nephew was here from out of town and I though he would like this place. I was wrong he Loved it, was amazed at the service we received from Junior and Leo. They recommended drinks and took great care of us. read more

Really lovely time until two self proclaimed "regular's who know the staff" showed up to kick us out of our bar seats. Really entitled "regulars" who told us to go "F" ourselves when we asked them to chill out and disappointing birthday for my boyfriend. Don't think we'll be back. read more

If I'm trying to show off my new city False Idol is my go to cocktail bar. It has an exclusivity matched by no other in San Diego. The drinks are strong, delicious, but reasonably priced for the ambiance. I've always found the mixologists to be very nice and helpful despite the exclusive environment. Any chance I get, I snag a reservation. I suggest you do the same. read more

How was I able to get a reservation on a whim, I'll never know but so worth it! False Idol is a swanky tiki bar decorated to the NINES. I love me a lil secret hallway cocktail bar and it did not disappoint. The drink menu is insane from regular cocktails to drinks that'll have you seeing double. The Christmas vibe is a chef's kiss. read more

See all

Definitely found this gem by accident. Was trying to go to another restaurant and they were packed and this is like inside another restaurant. So we were like let's check this place out. It's like a whole new world inside this bar. The vibes are great! It's a small spot but definitely nice! The drinks were amazing. Got 2 whiskey drinks! (Not sure on the names as they had interesting names). I wanted to order this fancy drink they got that the whole room stops to watch them bring the drink. It's a big thing apparently. Next time I'll def get that. It's a nice vibe and def strong drinks. They do not have food here just keep that in mind. Will be definitely back to try the other crazy drinks on the menu! read more

See all

A hidden gem for sure that is hard to find if you don't know it's located inside the restaurant. Venue - Place is legit a tiki room vibe with all the decor, water fountains, drink menu, and lighting. Decent size seating area and they maximize every single sq ft for seating space. Drinks - Lots of great specialty drinks to choose from with great taste, and presentations. Bar tenders - These guys are great with positive fun attitudes and skills to make some great drinks. Prices - Fair prices for what you get. Service - A lil slow but not too bad. Overall great place and the vibe is pretty cool. Would highly recommend it and would come back again. read more

See all

We didn't have reservations, and I couldn't get reservations despite checking OpenTable multiple times at all hours of the day two weeks prior to visiting San Diego. In other words, make your reservation well in advance or plan to show up right when they open. So we showed up right when they opened, which worked! Wandered in at 5:10, and all the non-reserved seats were already taken, but the hostess offered us standing room around a barrel, which we gladly accepted. She said she'll let us know if any reservations cancel or if we can move fast, we can swoop on a couple seats at the bar when people leave. Turns out the barrel allowed us to enjoy all the kitschy decor. It. Was. AWESOME. The drinks were AMAZING. I drank the first one super fast and had to force myself to slow down. The ube drink and the lychee mix were the two I ordered (I forget the names of them), and the ube was by far my fave and I highly recommend to those who love ube and have a sweet tooth. So good. I would totally go back. read more

First off all the employees are sooo kind, sweet and helpful. They are also sooo beautiful. The drinks and atmosphere is amazing here. I made a reservation so I'm not sure about the wait times. read more

False Idol - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

This is such a cool place. Love their service, fun drinks, and ambiance. The place is a bit small with very limited seatings. read more

See all

This tiki bar is located inside Craft & Commerce. We were at C&C for happy hour and decided to put our names down for False Idol as soon as the waitlist opened. It's a pretty small bar so I'd recommend making reservations if you can. We ordered the LomiLomi Parlor Punch to share between our group of 4, and a few of us got our own drink as well. While I enjoyed my personal drink (unfortunately I don't remember the name), none of us liked the shared cocktail and it was a struggle forcing ourselves to finish it all. Not only that, but they provided super long, straight straws instead of straws that bended. Because of this we had to awkwardly angle the straw and stand either on our tiptoes or super far away from the table to be able to keep one end of the straw in the drink and the other in our mouths. There's artificial thunder and lightning that come on whenever a shared cocktail is ordered, but that was probably the only cool thing about our shared cocktail experience. We were also seated next to the waterfall wall and there was a pretty foul smell the whole time. We didn't even mention anything to our server but he actually made a comment and brought over some Febreze to try and mask the smell, but unfortunately it dissipated pretty quickly and we were left with the nasty smell for the rest of our time there. The waterfall wall was pretty but they really need to clean their waterfall system or just get rid of it completely because the smell really took away from the experience. Overall, very cool environment but I'd likely only return if a friend was adamant about coming here for drinks after eating at Craft & Commerce. I enjoyed the personal drink that I ordered but it wasn't worth sitting through the smell. read more