False Idol

356

172

8 months ago

Maybe I'm just too old... but I feel like this was just ok Walk-in is standing room only or if you can find bar seating. Drinks were decent, very expensive, but that's to be expected Inside was kind of small and very crowded.. Bathroom is outside .. you have to walk down a hallway outside to get to it It's cute, but nothing that super stuck out to me. I don't think I will be back, but it was nice to check out once read more

Business owner information

Lamar K.

-FI management

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David T.

1 month ago

First time here and was not disappointed. Fun atmosphere, great service with a wide selection of drinks. Reservations recommended but if not, you still might be able to get a seat at the bar. Enjoy. read more

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

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Ploy N.

Elite 26 All-Star

253

1659

2605

1 year ago

Super cool speakeasy Hawaiian bar serving creative (and strong) drinks! Some even came with lightings and thunders. We enjoyed everything we had. The bartenders were friendly and energetic. Inside gets packed fast since they're very popular but it's totally worth it with the extensive drinks menu there is bound to be something for everyone. read more

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

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Stephen C.

1 month ago

Super fun vibe. The Enigma De Muerte was a delicious, sweet drink balanced with a "side of danger" aka mezcal. Volcano erupts when someone orders a punch bowl. We got there early and could walk in in 10 min, standing room only. read more

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Allyn P.

127

1 year ago

My wife and I really enjoyed this place. It's like a 21+ rainforest cafe So be prepared for thunders storms every 7 minutes It's all in good fun though. It's a bit confusing to find at first. Give a sweet little speakeasy vibe The drink menu has some weight on it. And it's very beautifully put together. Our server was very attentive. Great on Friday nights read more

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Alyssa N.

140

372

502

1 year ago

We were in the area looking for a place to get casual drinks and found this place on yelp! We got there around 11pm on a Thursday and there was a small wait but nothing to complain about. It's your perfect tiki bar with the decor and soundscapes to match different drink orders. Service was nice and drinks were very strong. Nothing unique from other tiki bar menu items, but still solid! Docking 1 point because there is very limited seating! We had to stand for 15 minutes in the corner before a party left. read more

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Sabrina C.

295

784

9 months ago

I absolutely love tiki bars and this one is a super cute speak easy type. Cocktails are yummy and service is great. read more

False Idol - Jet pilot and Ube Bae - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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Stephen R.

Elite 25

241

9 months ago

Top notch tiki bar. Full-on authentic tiki decor. I never leave San Diego without paying this bar a visit. Skip the classics and try one of their originals - very unique and all outstanding creations. Great attentive service - especially if you score a seat at the bar. read more

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Roy R.

4 months ago

Amazing drinks and vibe, loved our experience here. Will be coming back for sure !!! We highly recommend the zombie drink ‍ read more

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Charissa H.

218

10 months ago

When in San Diego - go to a speakeasy...and one with tiki drinks!!! We had a reservation and knew where to go (not difficult to figure out and find). Once inside it's all you could wish for in a tiki bar: small, dark, great decor, and a BOOK of drinks to pick from...plus friendly bartenders that have been there for years. Can't wait to visit again when we are back in town. read more

False Idol - Happy days! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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Brian F.

Elite 26 All-Star

972

2576

14344

2 years ago

False Idol is a tiki bar in the Little Italy area and is located inside Craft and Commerce. It's a bar I've been wanting to visit for years and I finally had the chance to on a recent trip to San Diego. We went right when they opened at 5pm and there was already a line waiting to get in. We didn't have reservations so it was just standing room only. However, later we were moved to a table when another party didn't make their reservation. My first drink was the steve's rum barrel ($20) which was strong but balanced. My second drink was the zombie ($20) which was also strong (probably even stronger) but didn't taste like it which made it dangerous. We also had the missionary's downfall ($13) which was minty, refreshing, and really easy to drink. All of the cocktails were delicious and I can see why there would be a line out the door even before they open. The decor and vibes were great and the drinks were pretty reasonably priced especially for their potency. read more

False Idol - Menu (December 2024) - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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

False Idol - Zombie ($20) - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

False Idol - Left: missionary's downfall ($13). Right: steve's rum barrel ($20) - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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Marisa T.

195

572

2544

1 year ago

We had reservations for 10 pm to stop in for some after dinner drinks. This place is so well decorated! t's really charming. Service was friendly. The ube bae was okay. The ube was a little overpowering for me. That's just my taste. I'll return when in town again & try something different. If you love tiki bars like we do, stop in...you won't be disappointed! Extensive menu with tiki classics & others that are exclusive to them. read more

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DeAnna G.

356

1425

10 months ago

Such a great place, with fantastic vibes and amazing service! We made reservations and were seated immediately buy the friendly hostess. One wall gives it an underwater feel. Lots of amazing drinks to choose from. We ordered the Hawaii Kai, the Painkiller, and the Coronado Luau. My favorite was the Hawaii Kai, it tasted like a popsicle. The bathrooms are in a back hallway and your greeted by Kool-Aid. Fun experience! read more

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

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

False Idol - Walking into restaurant, the second stand is for the False Idol - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

False Idol - Kool-Aid mural by the bathroom - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

False Idol - Drinks by candle light - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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Srey Y.

407

501

5 months ago

The ube drink was probably the best ube cocktail I've ever had! It was sweet and addicting. The interior was designed so cute - Hawaiian theme with their cool Hawaiian drinks. If you come during a busy time, you will be taken to a spot near the bar that will be your stand spot. Until a bar seat is open you will stand there until then. They have a drink that causes some thunder and fire and its really cute. read more

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Natalie O.

101

10 months ago

Really cool bar!!! I always wanted to come here so I made a reservation for two. When you first walk in, it's misty and you definitely feel like you're in a tiki bar. The ambiance is beautiful and definitely unique. We got seated right away and our server was always so attentive. She gave a good recommendation and I loved the drink! It was so so yummy! It is sort of loud, but that's to be expected and I didn't mind. At some point, there is actually thunder/rain sounds playing which I thought was so cool and definitely set the mood. I would definitely come here again! The vibes were very nice :) read more

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Robert H.

274

5 months ago

My favorite cocktail hideaway in San Diego! Great strong drinks, great ambiance, and my favorite Bartenders. read more

False Idol - Some of the best drinks I ever tasted were made by this man Lamar! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

False Idol - You can't go wrong with False Idol! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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Noah K.

164

258

11 months ago

Super cool speakeasy in Little Italy. It's a little loud in there so it was difficult to have a conversation. The drink menu is pretty extensive and there's a lot of good drinks but I wasn't a fan of all the drinks. We didn't have a reservation but we were able to get in still with a pretty short wait. Our servers were great and checked in on us pretty regularly. Their punch bowls are pretty cool (and very boozy) and they make a show out of it every time someone orders them. It's a fun little twist. read more

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Ileana A.

5 months ago

I truly don't understand the hype, because the drinks here were borderline undrinkable. Nothing was balanced...simultaneously too sweet, too tart, and aggressively strong. Yes, the bar is beautiful and the vibe is cool, but aesthetics can't save the cocktails. I couldn't make it past one drink. The bartender even gave us the wrong drink and told us it was on the house... and we couldn't drink it. That pretty much says it all. read more

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Laura C.

214

646

11 months ago

SHHHHHH! It's a speakeasy. Very tropical. Very fun. Pretty cute! Very themed which I absolutely adore. I really don't remember the drink names we had but I guess that means it was strong and good. What I can tell you is one drink had coffee and liquor, another friend had the Singapore slinger which was strong, and I had some sort of juicy fruity drink recommended by our amazing hostess. We also ended up getting the sticky mango rice fire drink in which we got smashed on which was fabulous because the room shook, it stormed and thundered, and it was super epic! read more

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

False Idol - Secret entry... - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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

False Idol - I cool stranger let me take a photo of his cool cat cup - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

False Idol - Sign in the women's bathroom - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

False Idol - Ceiling! I wonder how they dust it lol - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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Shaylee C.

1 year ago

Love this speakeasy so much! The vibe and lighting inside is fantastic and the drinks are delicious. It's a little pricy but whatever it's a tiki bar and the drinks are strong. Bartenders are great as well and very knowledgeable. Definitely try this place at least once yall! read more

False Idol - We got the Passion fruit drink and Mai Tai and a Whisky Something - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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Karen P.

5 months ago

The service, atmosphere, live music, and specialty cocktails were amazing! The perfect way to end a fabulous evening in San Diego! read more

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Emmanuel T.

135

429

1 year ago

This place was such a VIBE! I loved the ambience! Whoever decorated this tiki bar took a lot of care of being very detail oriented! The staff was super friendly & attentive also knowledgeable about the menu & drinks my wife & I had the Ube Bae ummm WOW! What a great drink! It's a hidden gem for sure! Can't wait to come back for another round of drinks! Great place & worth checking out for sure! Mahalo! read more

False Idol - Awesome art work in the menu! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

False Idol - UBE BAE! Try this drink if you love Taro! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

False Idol - If you need to use the restroom you're greeted by the koolaid man! oooh yeeeah! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

False Idol - Out to enjoy a nice night cap. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

False Idol - Such a great menu layout & overall look! Check those drinks out! I had a painkiller somewhere else that day but I want to try one here!!! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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Rachel B.

422

1 year ago

This is a fun kitschy tiki speakeasy. Drinks were tasty and I loved the decor. We stopped in for one drink and that was perfect. Definitely worth checking out if you're in the area. read more

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Gray S.

320

1 year ago

This place was one of the coolest bars I've ever been to. The decorations inside really just take it over the top and the lighting, music, and sound effects that happen are just incredible and make it such an amazing tiki bar. We went during the happy hour and we didn't have a reservation so it was standing room only but we were able to snag two stools at the bar. The drinks were really yummy and the bartenders were attentive. I wish I was local to here because I would come often if I could. A bonus note, the thunderstorm sound and light show was just so cool, never seen anything like it at a bar and it was a fun surprise. read more

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

False Idol - View of the bar - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

False Idol - Drinks at the bar - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

False Idol - Happy hour menu - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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Don H.

5 months ago

My Daughter booked us a table so we didn't know what to expect, wow what a fun night. Everything was amazing, the drinks, the service, well that's what there is and the totally fun atmosphere. We didn't know that food was not served, on us, we just assumed. But, the bar staff had the restaurant reserve some seats for us, so we walked out and right to our seats and the food was awesome . Onion rings with corndog batter, Crème fraiche and trout roe. Wow, who thought of that Thank you False Idol for an unforgettable night. One last thing . Be careful where you park. The garage we parked in was closed when we got back afterwards . We could not get to our car. There was supposed to be a night guard but he was not there. This has nothing to do with the bar itself but I saw another review somewhere that described the same situation, so I asked the parking attendant about closing time and he assured me the garage was open all night. We were able to access our car only because some unsavory local was Able to "Get us in" Be careful with that read more

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Haleh H.

Elite 25

100

544

1432

6 months ago

Great ambience, nice staff and big variety of delicious drinks. Everything we visit SD, we come here for drinks. Highly recommend. read more

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Joseph D.

204

186

532

1 year ago

Have tried to do walk-ins for this tiki bar in the past but haven't been successful. Finally was able to book a ressie and it wasn't disappointing. It gives me Rainforest cafe vibes down to the random storms mid-drink. The drinks are all pretty good and tiki themed, and strong. It gets super packed though so def make a ressie if you want to sit. They have standing room as well, but sitting is my preference. I got the Zombie and wasn't disappointed but I love strong drinks, so expect something boozy if ordering what I got. read more

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Steve A.

126

11 months ago

Great drinks, great service, great Vibez!!! I felt the love from the Hostess to our server. They do an amazing job and I'll definitely be back. read more

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Maria A.

7 months ago

A secret gem; every drink was perfect well balanced and aesthetically pleasing. They are serving some cute seasonal drinks read more

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

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Ashley M.

149

1 year ago

Such a cute bar I like to show people Drinks not only super cute but so good! I love it read more

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Matthew L.

1 month ago

John was a fantastic bartender - he was very friendly and made great cocktails. Ambiance was top tier as well. It was my first time here and I'll absolutely be back. read more

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Lisa S.

100

1 year ago

What a fun find. Every few minutes a storm comes through and you feel like you are not in California! You are on a tropical island somewhere in Tahiti. The drinks are hard to pick just one. Reasonable prices for happy hour with about 6 drinks to choose from. The hidden bar is in the restaurant and you need to wait for them to get you. Enjoy the experience and know there is no food served! Great pre or post dinner stop. read more

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

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

False Idol - Two happy hour drinks - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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Kate M.

772

9 months ago

Tiki speakeasy bar hidden inside Craft and Commerce. Completely different vibe with light and music features. Also, make sure to take an advantage of their generous happy hour! read more

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Michael G.

602

1428

4364

10 months ago

As someone of half Sicilian descent who is obsessed with tiki bars, you tell me there's a tiki bar in Little Italy and I am so there! Had such a nice evening enjoying tiki drinks. We arrived when they opened so there was happy hour specials. I tried two of the drinks off their happy hour menu. The Forbidden Float, which contains: Worthy Park 109, Amontillado Sherry, Banana Liqueur, Condensed Milk, Cane, Lime, and Clarified. The other happy hour beverage I had, was the Chata-Lada: Demerara Rum, Dark Jamaican Rum, Cinnamon Coconut, Pandan, and Pineapple. Both drinks were excellent but I'd say the latter drink was my favorite. I did have a third beverage, a piña colada, my go-to tiki drink and I was actually a litttle disappointed. Only knock I do have is that you've gotta do the basics right and this basic staple of a tiki drink was not done right. But my experience was mostly positive. From the great and friendly service to the amazing tiki decor, I felt like I was at a tropical getaway and I cannot wait to get back there for another tiki staycation. read more

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

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

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Vida K.

157

182

539

1 year ago

Great experience! Make sure to make a reservation welll in advance and I think it is worth the wait. Went here for a date night last night and the ambiance and cocktails didn't disappoint! Their happy hr was til 6pm and I got the POG-olada which was pretty good! Also got a mai tai which was pretty tasty and strong. I think the hidden gem though is their other menu drinks, there's many other cocktails to choose from and personally I'd rather pay the extra few bucks more and get those because they were seriously really really good. The service was really great too, our server came by regularly to check on us and was super friendly. Even tho they don't have food, she brought us the menu for the restaurant upstairs (craft and commerce) to look at which was nice. The place smelled like incense and was pretty dim lite but lively. It's definitely a good date night place to check out. read more

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Josh M.

448

583

9 months ago

Pretty cool for what it is. If you're looking for a theme...they've got you covered. Drinks were sweet and expensive. The service was pretty good. Worth a stop for a drink just to check it out. read more

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Cedric L.

328

9 months ago

Speakeasy tiki bar inside of another bar, pretty cool. Drinks are strong but tasty and the line looks worse than it really is. Went on a Friday night and waited around 20-30 mins. Just grabbed a drink from Craft & Commerce and wait went by quick. read more

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Tyler D.

106

1 year ago

A lovely & magical tiki bar hidden ever so casually inside of Craft & Commerce. Funny enough, we couldn't find the entrance to the place until a kind patron sent us in the right direction. We did have a reservation, and there was very little wait at the hostess station. The inside of the bar has splendid and varied decor from the tiki mask wall art, to the fish bowl ceiling, and immaculately adorned bar top. We had 5 drinks total on the night: Alkala Rum Barrel, Panther's Tooth, Coronation, Malambo #1, and Reserve Mai Tai. The Alkala Rum Barrel was spicy, juicy, and proficiently punchy. Panther's tooth is a false idol house-made creation. It is pleasantly unique, fairly sweet and indulgent. Coronation was probably the 2nd best drink of the night. Another false idol creation. Elaborately tasty. It was incredible. Malambo #1, yet another false idol concoction. This drink was crafted to emulate the idea of mango sticky rice, and good lord does it really take you there. The blend of ingredients really shine, and make the flavors stand out. Last on the night was their top shelf/reserve Mai Tai. Our palates appreciated the higher end rum. The Mai Tai is THE Tiki cocktail to rule them all, and it was a perfect treat to finish with. The service was pretty good given how busy the bar was. Our server was friendly and sweet. We also ordered a custom rocks glass, that came with additional goodies courtesy of the staff. This bar is a standout amongst the crowd, and I highly highly recommend. It does Tiki justice and even more on every level. Great drinks, decor, ambiance, staff. I would love to come back and try more of their menu! read more

False Idol - Malambo #1 left, Coronation right. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

False Idol - Panther's tooth left, Alkala Rum Barrel right. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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Back

Page 2 of 35

675 W Beech St
San Diego, CA 92101
Little Italy
Directions
Visit Website
http://www.falseidoltiki.com

Hours

What time does False Idol open?

False Idol opens at 5:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday, Friday and Saturday.

What time does False Idol close?

False Idol closes at 1:00 AM (Next day) on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday.False Idol closes at 2:00 AM (Next day) on Friday and Saturday.

Mon-Thu, Sun 5:00 PM - 1:00 AM (Next day)Fri-Sat 5:00 PM - 2:00 AM (Next day)

Payment methods

Does False Idol take Bitcoin?

No, False Idol does not take Bitcoin.

Does False Idol take credit cards?

Yes, False Idol takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does False Idol have a happy hour?

Yes, False Idol has a happy hour.

Does False Idol serve alcohol?

Yes, False Idol serves alcohol. Full Bar

Services

Is False Idol by appointment only?

No, False Idol is not by appointment only.

Indoor Amenities

Does False Idol allow dogs?

No, False Idol does not allow dogs.

Does False Idol have TVs?

No, False Idol does not have TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does False Idol have bike parking?

Yes, False Idol has bike parking.

Does False Idol have outdoor seating?

No, False Idol does not have outdoor seating options.

Does False Idol have parking?

Yes, False Idol has parking options. Street Parking

Other Amenities

Is False Idol wheelchair accessible?

Yes, False Idol is wheelchair accessible.

Does False Idol allow outdoor smoking?

No, False Idol does not allow outdoor smoking.

Does False Idol have free WiFi?

Yes, False Idol has free WiFi.

False Idol Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - False Idol

Are kids allowed?

No. 21+ only.

Coming from Wisconsin (where we are used to some pretty lax rules) next month and wondering if we come around opening time on a Wednesday evening, are school - age children allowed inside?

I would say no, because it's a bar. But you could call and ask just in case.

Are there tiki mugs available for purchase?

Yes! Currently we have 4 different mugs for purchase only at the bar.

Are the reservations still available? It looks like the site on opentable is down on my end

Yes! We do book up quite fast. We always run a waitlist, nightly. The waitlist can be for standing room, the bar or a table if we have any cancellations.

Can't get a reservation! What's the chance of getting a walk in? Late on a Friday night for 2.

They'll let you in on a space available basis. It's tight in there, and weekends are usually packed. You may have to just stand the entire time you're in there. If you're only planning to have a drink or two, it won't be too bad.

How do I make reservations? I tried sending a DM on Instagram because I can't find a phone number? I'm trying to make a reservation for 12 people but the website leads me to open table and it says my party is too big and doesn't allow me to

https://falseidoltiki.com/

Do I need a reservation or you take walk ins?

Reservations are recommended but not required. Walk-ins accepted.

For Dec 2022 Xmas, when is the Xmas decor put away? Please say February 😬

February

If I come on a Friday between 8-9pm with 4 people, what would be the estimated wait time?

Anywhere from 30-60 minutes, and you'll very likely be standing. If you want to sit, you need a reservation.

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Are you having special hours this week for Tiki Oasis?

Normal hours.

Would like to visit, but have 2 people in our group who do not drink. Do they serve any mocktails or non-alcoholic beverages?

They have mocktails

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Can you take drinks to go?

I don't think you can. They don't have prepackaged ones to go

Is there entrance fee?

Nope! Free to enter

When do they release reservations?

30 days in advance.

Hello - I am trying to book a table for 8 people but OpenTable does not allow for that large of a party size. There doesn't appear to be a phone number anywhere to reach them. Any ideas on how to get that booked?

This number was on their OT page. +1 (619) 365-8454… Read more

Are they open Christmas Eve?

Yes

Do we need a reservation on Wednesday nights?

Yes and no. It is highly recommended to get a reservation but I was able to walk up (party of 2) and get accommodated for less than 45 minutes. Note that when you get in, you might not get a seat until a spot opens up. We were standing near a… Read more

Does this place have a phone number? If not, is there someone to talk to for larger reservations?

No phone number. You can try calling Craft and Commerce (False Idol is inside the restaurant) but I'm not sure if they can help.

Does anyone know if they do reservations for 2? I've been trying but it says that there are no tables available, but when I put 6 people it says there are several tables available?

Two tops go pretty quickly via Opentable! The waitlist is a great tool. We fill the bar and our high tops then move to standing room. Just come in any day during service and add your party size, name & number. We’ll text you once we have any space.… Read more

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Do they take walk-ins?

Yes they do take walkins. For small parties of one or two. Only if they do have room. The earlier in the night the better. I think they open at five or six.

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Raised By Wolves

The innovative approach begins with the super cool entrance. You pull a lever and the chairs you're…read moresitting in begin to turn and all of a sudden you're in a gorgeous dome ceiling speakeasy. Then for the cocktails. These folks are innovating out on the bleeding edge of using those ingredients you've never heard of to make a drink that you'll never forget. And to top it all off, we had some of the best, most friendly and informative service I've ever had at a speakeasy. This place rocks.

For our first and only visit, my husband and I were looking forward to trying this local spot. We…read moreput the kids at the gym who hosts a "kids night out" so us parents could enjoy some alone time. We made a reservation and although we arrived on time, we had to wait about 10 minutes to be seated. I agree with some of the other commenters when they say that the revolving fireplace needs some love. It has the look and feel of needing to be updated. Also, for it to be a "speakeasy" vibe, you could hear the loudness of the bar through the walls. It just kind of ruins the facade a little bit. Regardless, we enjoyed the novelty of being slowly admitted to the speakeasy on the opposite side. We were given seats and upon first glance it was a dark lit space with an old fashioned aesthetic. I was surprised to see how casual everyone was dressed- I assumed there was a dress code, but I guess flip flops made the cut ‍. It took a few minutes for our server to attend to us, and when he did you could tell he was slammed. We just didn't get the table side manner one was hoping for an establishment like this. Peeking at their drink menu, I found myself disappointed that much of their options had a lot of sweet or fruit juice ingredients. So, I went for their old fashioned. For the price, it was just okay. Another disappointing moment. In all, it wasn't terrible, but it just isn't worth the hype. Overpriced and mediocre drinks and a seemingly overworked staff didn't make for a memorable experience and ended up not being for us. Glad to have tried it...but look elsewhere if you've actually been to a speakeasy. This just doesn't live up to what it's trying to sell you.

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

Tiramitini and Mojito.

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(stole this pic from my friend)

Starlite

Service was friendly, though a little inconsistent when it got busier, with longer waits between…read moreorders. Overall, it's a solid place for drinks and atmosphere, but the food and consistency don't quite match the upscale vibe it's going for.

Our first visit to Starlite was very memorable. It was a great way to celebrate our wedding…read moreanniversary. Exceptional service by all staff. Food and ambiance was AMAZING!! What we ordered: * Wagyu & Local Yellowtail Tartare * Dry-aged Half Duck * Herb Scalloped Potatoes * Roasted Broccoli Kristina was our waitress. She was very friendly and attentive. We felt very welcomed. We even got complimentary champagne for our anniversary dinner (special touch). Our food was a special culinary experience. Everything was so full of flavor. Nice shareable portions. This business really shined..... Just like their name Starlite. This is a must try place. Especially for a special occasion. #DiningWithTheAndersons #TryingNewPlaces #ExceptionalExperience #CelebratingUs #WeFancyNow

Bar area after entering

Starlite Burger

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Cocktails are fun!

Noble Experiment

I'm not an often a cocktail drinker. So when the bartender asked what I'm looking for I was ill…read moreprepared. From his view, it probably sounded like "I'm Ron Burgundy?" (It definitely did). His questions guided my indecision towards a Berkshire Old Fashioned that was fantastic despite my fumbling to get there. With the warm up round over and the old fashioned loosening up my creativity, round two was set to be a knockout. I love coffee (specifically strong espresso drinks), so I asked for a strong, coffee infused, punchy cocktail, but with a different base of alcohol from the old fashioned. What came out was the best cocktail I will probably ever have in my life. The bourbon cocktail with coffee liqueur (and a number of other garnishes I will never remember) hit the bullseye. Flavorful, strong, bold, delicious all at the same time. Unfortunately (?), this was a noble experiment so I'll forever be chasing the white whale of what this drink was. But that's the allure.

My brother-in-law and I were looking for places to drink....And we just wanted somewhere chill. We…read moreknew that any bar by tacos el gordo would be too wild for us, so we walked a couple blocks and approached Noble Experiment. I would say this was probably our highlight of our trip in San Diego. Garrick, the bartender there, was super accommodating. Not only was he and the other bartender were making damn good drinks, they would legit talk to you. The ambiance of the place is cool too. Felt like I was going inside some continental room like John Wick. Definitely my vibe and definitely coming back. But if you ever get Garrick as your bartender, you're in for a treat!

Strawberry cucumber Gin cocktail

Bartenders creations.

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Skull wall

Mothership

Cool speakeasy. Haven't tried the food yet but the drinks are unique, space themed and large…read moreportion sizes. Best thing is their dedication to the theme. Lots of ambient space sounds, a menu that resembles an engineer's blueprints, and beautiful lights and seating everywhere you look. Even the bathroom has a looped audio of space commands.

This was my second visit to Mothership, and while I appreciate the unique vegan speakeasy concept,…read morethis experience didn't quite live up to the excitement of my first visit. The atmosphere is definitely creative and fun, and I like that there are several food options along with a large selection of cocktails and mocktails. On this visit, we tried the rice dish and the pancake, and while both were okay, the flavors seemed just a little off compared to what I was expecting. The cocktails were also much stronger than anticipated. We sat at the bar this time instead of at a table, and the seating felt very cramped. The bar stools were so close to the standing area that it was difficult to even pull out a chair without people brushing past. Because of that, we ended up finishing our food and drinks and leaving pretty quickly instead of lingering and enjoying the experience. Mothership has a really cool concept and a unique vibe, but for me, it's more of a place to try once in a while rather than somewhere I'd be rushing back to visit.

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Bar Kamon

WOW i was so happy with this speakeasy !! finding the entrance was a bit tricky at first, but we…read morewalked into the bakery with 2 other parties and we all helped each other LOL. so cute that it's in a bakery though - definitely wanna come back to try the bakery goods and drinks! we had a reservation for 2 @ 8:45pm, and we got seated at a table. loved the ambiance, dimly lit but still a good amount of light, the japanese decor - it was all so great and immersive. our server Moe was so kind and explained the concept + menu to us, and she also helped me with choosing a drink after i told her i like sweet flavors :) food we ordered: - korean cucumber salad: smashed cucmbers in a korean chili sauce that was yummy but pretttty salty. i do think though that it paired really nicely with my sweeter drinks bc i love a sweet & salty pairing - alone though, it def could've been a bit much - nagoya karaage: delicious, crispy & tender chicken pieces! the flavor gave orange/citrus-y chicken to us, and we really enjoyed it drinks we ordered: - ao ichigo: this drink was sweet, light, and tart. the strawberry flavor really came through, and i thought i wouldn't feel anything after drinking it but the reposado/vodka/vermouth combo sneaks up on ya haha - sesame old fashioned: my fiancé is a new old fashioned drinker, and he enjoyed this one. he did say it was pretty standard in its flavor and he wishes he could've tasted the sesame more, but that being said it was one of the better old fashioneds that he's had - white lover: i think this drink was my favorite! a perfect ending drink since it was creamy from the calpico. it comes with a little circle scoop of some type of sweet ice cream that pairs PERFECTLY with this drink - you can either lick it as you sip the drink (which i did at the beginning), or just drop it into your drink (which i did at the end). it definitely enhanced the flavor so i really enjoyed this drink overall a great experience, can't wait to come back sometime so try more of their omiyage cocktails! :-)

We walked in after dinner on Saturday hoping they'd be able to fit us in. We were SO incredibly…read morelucky they had availability and sat our party in the back private room. It was absolutely the best way to end my husband's birthday weekend! Big shout out to Ben and Moe for taking care of us! They were both so nice, very knowledgeable and just made our experience at Kamon top notch! We had 12 cocktails and each one was perfection. The Tokyo Banana, The White Lover, Sazerac and Matcha one were our favorites!! Thank you for an amazing way to close out the best day ever!

Japanese whisky Selection

Tokyo Banana

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Convoy Music Bar

Great drinks, friendly bartenders and freaking cool decor. Love the vinyl records…read more They could definitely clean up the alley a bit .... we get it, it's a speakeasy.. there's literally puddles, boxes from the restaurant and dumpsters you have to walk past in heels to get into this fine establishment. I absolutely love the hot towels at entry

Convoy music bar was a cozy and fun place to catch up with friends. We had four people in our party…read moreand made a reservation ahead of time. That's the best way to get in since it really is a small space, not many people can fit inside. When we went on a Sunday night there were some people who were waiting in line outside hoping to get in. The bar is behind the plaza with the Taco Stand. You need to walk down an alleyway to find it. The drink menu is fun to read! I would definitely come back and bring friends from out of town to check out this fun speakeasy!

Corner table view: large JBL speakers with Macintosh amps

Interior

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Interior

Part Time Lover

Finally made it to this cute speakeasy in San Diego! We stopped by on a Sunday around 5 PM and had…read moreno trouble walking right in. There were plenty of seats available, and service was quick and smooth. Cocktails were around $15-18 each. I ordered the Perpetual Motion and absolutely loved it, the sweet strawberry flavor paired perfectly with the creamy Calpico. It's the kind of drink I'd order again and again. I also tried the Piña Colada, which was equally delicious. Even though the cocktails are beautifully handcrafted and easy to sip, you can still taste the liquor, which I always appreciate. This is such a great spot for a first date, a girls' night out, or simply catching up with friends. One of my favorite parts was exploring the vinyl room, it adds such a fun retro touch. The entire space has a nostalgic, vintage vibe that makes you feel like you've stepped into another era. It's the perfect place to relax, enjoy some creative cocktails, and soak in the atmosphere.

This is a nice establishment, especially for lounging with a date. Very clean and nice drinks too…read more A little pricey however that's the norm in this area for the more popular out of towner type spots. The servers are friendly. But you have to be patient as they are often quite busy. The record store and records theme is what they present online but to be honest that is only a minute section of the establishment. It definitely doesn't describe the theme of the place neither. The worker in the record section simply ignored me when I tried to purchase a record and after a minute I had to ask for him to please ring me up. No apology from him. No biggie, I still had a decent time drinking here.

Bikini Kill (Serrano tequila blanco, mango, guava, tamarind, xila, lemon)

Record store to the left. Bathroom straight ahead

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Bar area

Polite Provisions

This place is super cozy. Great drinks and great mocktails. I had a mocktail and I was very…read moreimpressed. I would go back and I would also take friends with me. The bartender's customer service was amazing. The bartender was so attentive and always checked on us.

I feel very meh about this place! We stopped by after eating…read moreat fortunate son on a Thursday night. Not too crowded, we got a booth :) the guy checking IDs said that we can either order at the bar or they'd be able to serve us. We tried both and the folks making drinks took a very long time. Good cocktails, nothing special. Great ambiance for catching up with a friend! Wouldn't go out of my way to revisit

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Realm of the 52 Remedies

Super cool entrance and ambiance of the place. I will say the drinks were quite strong (but I am…read morenot all too much of a drinker/enthusiast). Great service and the music was good. I like the full Asian selection of drinks and there is clear inspiration behind them.

the drinks were reallly strong so it only tastes good if you like the taste of alch which i don't…read moreheh but the vibes and feeling were amazinggg the food was really good, i really liked the 52 wagyu burger and the mushroom fried rice. it was all really tasty. and the food was cheaper than the drinks

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insideOUT

Our servers Allie and Marshal were super kind and helpful. Allie even went out her way to move a…read morevery heavy heater closer to our table to accommodate us. If I'm going to eat here I'm asking for Allie and marshal every time. Thank you for your partnership.

My aunt is a huge fan of this place so she decided to bring me, my sisters, and my mom out for a…read morerooftop reservation. The vibe is really great as it is outdoors but has heaters and small fireplaces available. Everything here is pretty much a hit, and I'm so glad because when I first saw how small their menu is, I was unsure about it! We started off with the onion dip & malt vinegar chips. Somehow I ate so much of it yet still managed to clean my salmon plate. The yuzu addition brought the flavor out really well. Our server Julian was great! He even brought out a chocolate cake and dulce de leche cheesecake with "Happy Birthday" in cocoa powder for the two birthdays at our table. The bathrooms are a fun experience as there are big glass windows behind the sinks so you get a view of the street. Love that both bathrooms are all-gender as well. Great photo ops all around. Parking might be difficult, but we were able to find a spot just around the corner.

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Starlite

Bar area after entering

Starlite Burger

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Cocktails are fun!

Born & Raised

we came here for my friends 30th birthday and hour server honestly made our experience! the vibes…read moreand atmosphere are 10/10 but Marie went above and beyond to make my friend feel special and we couldn't stop laughing and enjoying her company! The service was 1000/10 and we can't wait to come back

Food was out standing, had a beef Wellington and the portion was more than enough. The service was…read moreover the top. We had a really good waitress, Maria was her name. She was very kind and respectful...she needs a raise for sure. The ambiance was very picture perfect I would come here again

Dirty hash browns with trout roe, chives and crème fraiche

View from our table

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BURGUNDY SNAILS BONE MARROW & TOAST

Brigantine - Portside Pier

Just went with a group of 13 to enjoy dinner after a conference and had one of the best experiences…read moreyet! We love this location and often choose this Brigantine over the other locations, because you can't beat the views and the atmosphere. It was our lucky night, because we found parking right away, but I have had experiences in the past where parking took a good 30 minutes. We have also had times where we choose not to go, because we just don't want to deal with parking, but not going means we are missing out on some pretty amazing food. Our server was OUTSTANDING (I believe his name was Josh). He made our night enjoyable and was super patient with our large party! We got the surf and turf special that he recommended and OH MY GOSH....I need to eat it again! I could not get enough; the lobster was so good and flavorful. For appetizers, we did start with the Brussel sprouts and the French onion soup and both were PHENOMENAL. The French onion didn't have the crunch and a lot of cheese like others, but the flavor was amazing! For drinks, I was having their Old Fashions and they were soooo tasty. Was the perfect drink for the night. Dessert, we had a Mud Pie and Apple Crisp. The only thing we were disappointed with was the apple crisp, because we wanted it to be warmer and a little more crispier, but it truly did taste like Thanksgiving in your mouth! I should have taken more pictures, but we were too excited for our dishes, so we just dove right in! Gives me another reason to go back!

Let's start with the parking situation at this restaurant. It's not great. My brother told me to…read moreget valet so that I wouldn't have to worry about parking. It's difficult to even get into the parking lot, which is in a tight strip that's in between the sidewalk where the restaurant's building was located and Harbor Drive, which has its own navigating issues with the street also being the main drag to have access to the airport. I had to circle around the area using PCH to get back onto Harbor, then approach the restaurant from the north. When I got into the "lot," I had to flag down a couple of valets to ask if they had any open spots. One of them told me to circle back around AGAIN to get an open spot. I decided to heck with that and just pulled into a parking garage on Ash St. just 50 yards away from the restaurant. Once inside, we were able to get into a private dining area for my mom's party. The eating space was nice and spacious, acommodating for our party of at least 20 people. The restaurant is also very nice and clean. The entrees and appetizers did seem like standard wedding fare, though. I ordered the braised shortrib, and while it was good, I couldn't escape the impression that it was something that one would normally eat at a wedding reception. The beef was soft and tender, the mashed potatoes creamy, and the carrots were cooked very well. I enjoyed the strawberry lemonade cocktail and appreciated that they reduced the vodka content so that I wouldn't get so buzzed from one drink. Eventually, I had to order a regular lemonade though, which I did enjoy. It was sweet and not overly sour. Also one point in their favor was the clam chowder starter course. That also had a little sweet flavor to it, which was definitely preferable to having an overly salty taste. The bits of bacon in the chowder helped to cut down the sweetness. The desserts were pretty standard fare. I liked the chocolate brownie more than the raspberry cheesecake. I will also note that the two servers we had for the dinner party were terrific. It couldn't have been easy to handle that kind of workload but they looked like they've been doing this kind of thing before.

Shrimp and Crab Louie Salad - half order

Indoor dining space.

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Parmesan Crusted Sand Dabs

Vincenzo Cucina and Lounge

Locally owned & operated

The food and vibes were amazing! Perfect for lunch or brunch, Valentina was very nice and helpful!…read moreI recommend!

Valentina was a kind and caring waitress! I got the shell dish with the creamy pink sauce and it…read morewas delicious. The overall ambience was perfect to people watch and to enjoy the breeze as you eat.

Lobster pasta special of the night

View inside

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Classic Bruschetta

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80 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Aaron R.

141

2 years ago

False Idol in San Diego is an extraordinary tiki bar that transports you to an exotic paradise the moment you step inside. Hidden behind a secret door in Craft & Commerce, this speakeasy-style bar boasts an ambiance that perfectly blends mystery, adventure, and tropical charm. The decor is immersive, with dim lighting, intricate carvings, and a plethora of tiki artifacts that set the scene for an unforgettable experience. The cocktail menu at False Idol is nothing short of impressive, featuring a wide array of meticulously crafted tiki drinks. Each cocktail is a work of art, both in presentation and flavor. Signature drinks like the "Tonga Thunder" and "Navy Grog" are standout options, offering complex layers of taste that balance sweetness, acidity, and a hint of spice. The bartenders are skilled and passionate, often putting on a show while mixing drinks, adding to the overall allure of the place. Service at False Idol is attentive and friendly, making sure that guests feel welcomed and well taken care of. Whether you're a tiki enthusiast or a first-timer, the staff is more than happy to guide you through the menu and suggest drinks that match your preferences. The atmosphere is enhanced by periodic special effects, like thunderstorms and volcanic eruptions, that add an extra layer of excitement to the visit. These immersive elements make False Idol not just a bar, but an experience that engages all the senses. In conclusion, False Idol is a must-visit destination for anyone in San Diego looking for an escape from the ordinary. Its unique ambiance, exceptional cocktails, and top-notch service make it a standout spot in the city's vibrant bar scene. Whether you're on a date, out with friends, or just looking to enjoy a well-crafted drink, False Idol promises a memorable night out. read more

Donald T.

Elite 17

437

131

1 year ago

Folks, let me tell you, I've been to many bars--the best bars, the classiest bars, the most luxurious bars. But False Idol in San Diego? This one is absolutely incredible. Some are even saying it's the Mar-a-Lago of tiki bars, and honestly, they might be right. First off, the entrance--very exclusive, very secretive. You have to go through Craft & Commerce, a fantastic place on its own, and then you find this hidden gem. It's like a speakeasy but with tiki flair. Very smart, very clever. Now, the ambiance--WOW! You walk in, and it's like stepping into a Polynesian paradise. Tiki carvings, exotic decor, and even special effects like thunderstorms when certain drinks are ordered. Very immersive, very high-energy. It's like being on a tropical vacation without leaving San Diego. The drinks? Absolutely top-notch. They have an extensive menu with classic tiki cocktails and unique creations. Each drink is a work of art, served in custom tiki mugs. You can tell they put a lot of thought and effort into crafting these beverages. Very impressive. The staff--fantastic people, real professionals. They're knowledgeable, friendly, and make you feel right at home. Whether you're a tiki enthusiast or a first-timer, they'll guide you through the menu and ensure you have a great experience. Now, I will say, reservations are highly recommended. The place is intimate, and it gets busy, so plan ahead. But folks, it's worth it. Overall, False Idol is a total winner. Best ambiance, best drinks, best tiki experience. Five stars. The most tremendous, most exotic, most unbelievable tiki bar of all time. Believe me. -- Donald J. Tiki Enthusiast & Cocktail Connoisseur read more

Viola B.

9 years ago

Cool hidden tiki bar! A friend of mine told me about this place and I had to check it out. Thank you, fellow yelpers, for the heads up on making a reservation. My friends and I made our reservation about a week in advance. I am not sure if you need that much time to reserve a spot, but a week should be more than enough, unless it is a holiday or special weekend. In my opinion the coolest part about this experience was walking through the freezer to get in. That is correct, you first walk into Craft and Commerce, let the hostess know you have a reservation at False Idol, and then boom, the freezer opens and you walk into a tropical paradise bar. This place has really embraced the tiki theme. The menu was almost overwhelming with all of the tropical cocktail options they had. However, the bartender was really sweet and helpful with aiding us in what drinks to pick. The Ode de Okelenhao he mentioned was a favorite. So I went with this as my first drink. Definitely had an interesting flavor of vanilla mixed with other yummy flavors (that I really couldn't identify), but can confidently say I enjoyed it. The second drink I had was called Doctor Funk. This one was a fresh tasting mix of rum and lime. My friends all enjoyed their cocktails as well. The prices for this place are pretty steep. But I did not mind paying them since the drinks were so unique. Really fun atmosphere and a lot of fun people. Once again make sure you make reservation, otherwise you will be waiting hours. read more

Erin F.

123

3 months ago

False Idol isn't just a tiki bar, it's a full-on underground adventure tucked in the heart of Little Italy. Finding the hidden entrance already feels like you're in on a secret. Yes, there can be a wait, but once you step inside, it's completely worth it. The drinks are next level. The bartenders really know their craft, whether you're ordering a classic like a Mai Tai or Jet Pilot, or letting them get creative and surprise you. Every drink feels intentional and expertly made. The atmosphere is where this place truly shines. The décor pulls you into another world, like you've stepped into a shipwrecked temple beneath the sea. And when certain drinks are served... expect a whole show. Thunder, fire, and chanting that makes the experience feel alive and immersive. If you're looking for more than just drinks and want something unforgettable, False Idol delivers on every level. read more

Paige H.

Elite 18

290

196

8 years ago

False Idol touts itself as a speakeasy style place, but it's not hidden and not hard to get into. You'll still be surrounded by 20-somethings taking selfies. I read that you'd need to enter through a cooler door, but really it's open with a hostess in front, so, do with that what you will. That was somewhat disappointing. Aside from that, the vibe is fun since they really committed to the theme. You'll see skulls, flames, Polynesian decor and an IG worthy ceiling (the gorgeous colorful orbs!) Service is friendly and they really know the drinks well (when asking about sweet vs tart, etc). It was a good time and i'm glad we came, but I can't say i'm blown away by the whole thing. If you haven't been to Hale Pale in Portland, your tiki bar standards might not be as stupidly/needlessly high as mine. Either way, it's nice to have a little tiki bar in SD. :) read more

Rajjin N.