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    Side Bar

    4.4 (209 reviews)
    Closed Closed
    Updated 2 weeks ago

    Side Bar Photos

    Recommended Reviews - Side Bar

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    Elisa N.

    SIDE BAR @ DOWNTOWN SAN DIEGO Parking is available on the street, but I would highly recommend taking an Uber instead. The downtown area is extremely difficult for parking, and it's definitely not free. Most spots will charge you, or you'll end up parking in an Ace lot. Shoutout to the amazing DJ, JORDEE! My friends and I came here last night on a Thursday and arrived around 9 PM because our friend was DJing at that time. It was honestly so nice walking in early, there was barely anyone there yet, so we got to explore the place and really take in the vibe. I loved how the front felt like a chill bar while the back had more of a club atmosphere. We ended up getting bottle service and went with tequila. Their menu is insane, in a good way. It's all on an iPad that lights up every time you open it, which was super cool. Overall, we had a great experience. The staff was really friendly and the bottle service was solid. It is definitely on the pricier side since it's downtown, but I'd still recommend stopping by if you're in the area and want to have some fun.

    Naked Truth
    Emily M.

    Came in with my husband right when they opened and sat at the bar. Bartender was friendly, welcoming and had good energy. We walked by last night and it was full/line waiting to come in. If we weren't heading back home, we'd come back when the party started. Also, try the "Naked Truth". It's delicious!

    Marcie L.

    This place is awesome and one of my go-to spots downtown. It's always crowded, which says a lot. There's a front area with the main bar and tables where you can hang out, then a back area with a DJ and tables you can reserve for the night. The music is always great. Shoutout to Jason behind the bar. He's consistently friendly and makes the night even better. Honestly, the whole staff does a great job. If you're going with a group, I'd recommend getting a table since it can get really busy. On weekends they have a cover, and it's cash only. There's an ATM inside. Also, pay attention to the dress code. No baseball hats, and they do enforce it. Overall, it's a solid spot for a night out.

    Jean-Luc L.

    #LittleNightmares event was amazing and incredibly immersive! The bar was completely transformed!

    Inside
    Franny Z.

    Ree is phenomenal. He had so much patience with me as I allowed my big group of girls to vote on which bar/club to go to. He talked prices and bottles with me and just never gave up in a good way. Wasn't pushy. Just complete patience and positivity. I loved his energy "through" text. Our bottle server girl was Zaya I believe, and small world, we worked in the same club family in Sacramento. The 15 girls and I loved our experience here. It was the highlight of my weekend for night events. Thank you so much Side Bar. I hope to return in the future if you will have us again

    Marjon F.

    I had a ladies night with 8 of my girlfriends in gaslamp this past Friday and we were making our way to sidebar. One of the promoters, Dave, offer us a bottle of champagne upon arrival and sat us at a really nice cozy set of couches. He was very nice and friendly and definitely enhanced our experience. We were there fairly early, around 9p so before the major crowds and I really loved the vibe. It has an elegant and chic layout and decor with dim lighting. The music was fun but low tone enough where you could actually have conversations with your friends. A great spot for post dinner drinks or for a first stop in bar/club hopping.

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    1 year ago

    Zander gave excellent customer service and helped make my birthday a great night! Ricki at the front was very polite!

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    7 years ago

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    2 years ago

    This establishment was awesome and staff was amazing. Had a lot of fun with my friends. I recommend this place to everyone.

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    2 years ago

    Great vibes at Sidebar always! Great and friendly staff, Mike is always taking care of us. A must-visit spot in downtown San Diego!

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    4 years ago

    Fun bar! Lots of tables available, but not the most spacious place. But the time I went, I saw Neyo so that was super cool! Had a fun time!

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    Page 2 of 6

    Ask the Community - Side Bar

    Is this place 18+?

    No means no

    How much is the entry fee?

    Hi Viviana, Our cover charge starts at $10 per person and goes up throughout the night.

    How do I reserve a table? I've sent two emails, tried calling 3 different numbers and also dm'ed via ig.

    If you have an Instagram account. Follow and message @Megansidebar. She's the best! I often go to Sidebar, and she always helps me.

    Do you have to set up a reservation? Thanks 😊

    No you do not.

    Is there ladys there for I can go over is it packed?

    Odd question. You may want to improve your conversation strategies. This is a mixed nightclub ethnicity, gender, age, and other demographics.

    What kind of music is played?

    Hip Hop there may be R&B infusion between D.J. transitions

    How long does it take them to get back with you about bottle service?

    Never more than a day especially by email. Sometimes they respond within a couple of hours.

    What time do they start charging a cover on Saturday?

    Great question. What I do know is if you're a good looking lady, nada. But you can't have no stank attitude.

    Is there a cover charge Saturday nights?

    Yes cover ranges in price.

    Do you have to reserve to have seat on the lounge couches or first come first serve?

    On lounge from 6-10pm is open seating, then you have to reserve after that.

    Is this 18+?

    It's 21+

    Does this bar have a cover charge?

    Yes cover ranges

    View All 19 Questions

    Review Highlights - Side Bar

    Zander & Drew recognized that our group was looking for a place to host our event and they made it happen!

    Mentioned in 11 reviews

    Read more highlights

    False Idol - Rum Old Fashioned

    False Idol

    4.4(1.4k reviews)
    0.8 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.

    Photos
    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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    Rum barrel

    Starlite - Starlite Burger

    Starlite

    4.1(2.7k reviews)
    1.9 miMiddletown, Mission Hills
    $$$

    Starlite delivers that quintessential sleek, mid-century modern lounge atmosphere right along India…read moreStreet. The iconic geometric wood ceiling, dramatic chandelier, and moody lighting make the space feel effortlessly cool. The craft cocktail program is legendary, and the elevated gastropub menu is just as impressive, the grilled octopus was tender with a wonderful smoky char, the Jidori chicken was remarkably juicy with perfectly crispy skin, and the sea bass was delicate and flaky. Taking off one star because street parking along India Street can require quite a bit of circling during peak evening hours, and the dining room gets rather loud and dim once the crowd settles in. Still, an absolute San Diego staple and a top choice for a stylish date night, late-night craft drinks, or dinner with friends.

    I had a reservation for Thursday and it was packed but took less than 5 minutes to get seated. They…read moredo check your ID at the entrance it's 21+ only. Parking is a nightmare good luck finding parking within a mile of the restaurant. Pros: atmosphere, drinks, service Cons: food wasn't great for the price, restaurant was small and crowded, no parking Service: All of our servers were friendly and very accommodating. Gave us some knowledge on the menu and recommended cocktails based on our preference. I had spilled my drink and they were quick to make me another one. Food: I had intended to get the prime ribeye cap steak but they ran out for the night around 8pm. I shared the steak sampler which came with four different cuts of steak and 4 sauces. I ordered medium and it was cooked medium/medium rare which was fine with me, it also had a good sear, almost burnt though. Out of the four steaks, we only liked two based off flavor and tenderness. The other two were more tough and gamey. None of the sauces really stood out but the bordelaise and horseradish were good. For our sides we got fries, roasted broccoli, and the grilled wedge salad. Fries were average. The roasted broccoli had really good flavor, I expected the broccoli to be al dente but it was cooked to mush and drenched in sauce. The grilled wedge salad was decent, there was a slightly bitter taste to it. I know it says grilled wedge but the experience of biting into the salad and it being both hot and cold was not pleasant. Cocktails: I tried the Honey Ryder and New Wave. These were recommended as the more fruity/sweet cocktails. You can definitely taste the alcohol but it's only 2oz so it's not too strong. Ambience: 10/10 I got seated downstairs by the bar. Only thing about downstairs is that it's too dark to take photos unless you use flash. Overall, I agree with the other reviews saying to go just for drinks and appetizers. I would go again just to sit upstairs and get drinks and take pictures. We left unsatisfied and ended up getting in-n-out after.

    Photos
    Starlite - Bar area after entering

    Bar area after entering

    Starlite - Pistachio ice cream sandwich

    Pistachio ice cream sandwich

    Starlite - Cocktails are fun!

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    Cocktails are fun!

    Noble Experiment - Spiced banana flip! Delicious!

    Noble Experiment

    4.5(1.9k reviews)
    0.1 miEast Village
    $$

    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

    Photos
    Noble Experiment - Strawberry cucumber Gin cocktail

    Strawberry cucumber Gin cocktail

    Noble Experiment - Ceiling and chandelier

    Ceiling and chandelier

    Noble Experiment - Skull wall

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    Skull wall

    Mothership - Amazing decor

    Mothership

    4.3(986 reviews)
    2.1 miSouth Park, Golden Hill, North Park
    $$

    This was such a cool bar with very nice staff…read more It's easy to find, street parking was a nonissue, and they have a huge selection of cocktails with a decent selection of mocktails as well. I love their menu design. It gives a lot of attention to each drink with a clear description breakdown along with the level of alcohol meter. A lot of the drinks are STRONG and their presentations are magnificent.

    The Mothership is a unique cocktail bar in San Diego with a spaceship theme. The front of the…read morebuilding is very unassuming, but once you enter, you are transported to a spaceship that has crashed on an alien planet. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made on OpenTable. The main bar area is just inside the entrance, and has a "inside the spaceship" vibe. The décor is great with bulkheads, overhead ducts and grates, geometric panels and lights, devices and cabling, etc. The back of the bar features a cool color changing and bubbling reactor. When I was booking our reservation, I was on the fence between booking the bar or dining room. While the bar area does look very cool, I'm happy I went with the dining room. The vibe in this area is you're half in the crashed spaceship, but also outside at nighttime on a tropical planet. The back wall has similar décor to the bar area, but there are rock cave walls, vegetation, and stars overhead. Shooting stars periodically shoot across the sky. There are subtle sound effects playing in the background that add to the environment. There is also some tiki influence with colorful tiki lights being replaced by illuminated aliens egg pods. There is also music playing in the background that they custom curated and is kind of a mix of sci-fi and tiki that totally goes with the environment. I started out with the Self-Destruct Sequence (black pot still Jamaican rum, spiced West Indies rum, aged Caribbean rum, grapefruit, lime, cinnamon, cardamom, Angostura bitters, absinthe, $17). This cocktail was excellent, and is probably one of my new favorites. It was perfectly balanced and complex. Every single flavor was there if you looked for it. She started out with the Away Mission (aged Caribbean rum, gold pot still Jamaican rum, crème de banana, kumquat, papaya, pineapple, lime, opal basil, mint, $16). This was another good balanced cocktail, but with a sweeter flavor profile. I was on the fence for my second drink, and ended up going with the Mindkiller (navy strength West Indies rum, white overproof Jamaican rum, Amaro Meletti, coconut cream, pineapple, tangerine, orange, lime, Tang cordial, $19). I asked our server before ordering it and she confirmed it was definitely a sweeter drink. After seeing this drink on many of the other tables, I had to try it. It is definitely sweet and boozy. The pineapple, coconut, and citrus definitely stand out and the Tang cordial on top kicks the orange into overdrive. I probably wouldn't order it again, but don't regret trying it. Plus, I got that cool swizzle stick to add to my collection. For her second, she had the Revival Mission mocktail (papaya, kumquat, mint, basil, pineapple, lime, soda, $13). We goofed and didn't realize this was the mocktail version of the Away Mission. It had a similar flavor profile but was sweeter. In hindsight, we should have paid closer attention and ordered one of the other mocktails. Be sure to check out the restrooms. They are lit with all red pattern on the walls with mirror on the ceiling, and a mission control type sound track playing in the background. The hallway by the bathrooms is also fully themed, with décor and bulkhead doors. We were initially greeted and served by Anthony, and another server who's name I didn't catch took over for him halfway through. Service was very friendly, and helpful as we asked several questions about the menu. All of our drinks came out in a timely manner, and we were not rushed to leave. We managed to catch the little show that occurs when certain drinks are ordered. The lights dim, special alarm sounds play, and smoke comes out of the spaceships overhead ducts. In addition to picking up some cool swizzle sticks, I also bought their purple cosmic skull mug and a pair of cocktail glasses as souvenirs from our visit. We will definitely return the next time we are down in San Diego.

    Photos
    Mothership - Deceiving Exterior

    Deceiving Exterior

    Mothership - Mindkiller

    Mindkiller

    Mothership - Away Mission

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    Away Mission

    Bar Kamon - Hokkaido White Lover

    Bar Kamon

    4.6(284 reviews)
    0.4 miEast Village
    $$
    Family-owned & operated
    Women-owned & operated

    Such a fun speakeasy and the perfect way to end our date night!…read more Bar Kamon is hidden inside Asa Bakery in East Village. The space is inspired by 1920s Taisho-era Japan, so the whole concept carries into the decor, Japanese ingredients and cocktails. Their menu gets pretty creative with Japanese whisky, shochu, sake, highballs, clarified cocktails and small bites. After bakery hours, finding the entrance wasn't difficult. Just enter through Asa Bakery and you'll see where to go. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends. We were able to grab one the night before for a Friday without any trouble. We had already eaten dinner, so we came for drinks with a small appetizer to share. We ordered the Karaage, Tokyo Banana and Yame Matcha. Service was incredible throughout the night. It took a little bit to get seated since nobody was standing at the host area when we walked in. Someone eventually spotted us through the curtain then quickly came over to help. From there, everyone was attentive. The Karaage came out first. I wish the outside was just a little crispier, but it was still really good. The slaw was actually my favorite part because the acidity paired perfectly with fried chicken, especially while sipping on cocktails. The Yame Matcha was so decadent. It had this beautiful matcha cloud on top with a deeper roasted flavor underneath, almost smokey, that lingered after each sip. Definitely not your typical sweet matcha cocktail. The Tokyo Banana was my favorite. The presentation alone was gorgeous. You get that banana flavor right away, but it still tastes like a proper cocktail rather than a banana dessert. It was definitely strong, so this was one I slowly sipped throughout the night. The hojicha mixed with the banana worked SO well.

    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!!

    Photos
    Bar Kamon
    Bar Kamon - Hibiki old Fashioned

    Hibiki old Fashioned

    Bar Kamon - Daikon Kombu Martini

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    Daikon Kombu Martini

    Convoy Music Bar - Lychee Martini

    Convoy Music Bar

    4.5(429 reviews)
    7.8 miKearny Mesa
    $$

    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!

    We had RSVP Walk past the dumpster alley…read moreDo not knock they will see you on camera Dark moody vibes 4 stars cute little space Drinks delicious 4 stars Service 4 stars Not too ridiculously expensive either

    Photos
    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

    Polite Provisions - Uncle Jalapeño

    Polite Provisions

    4.3(2k reviews)
    3.9 miUniversity Heights, North Park
    $$

    Always a 5 Star experience when gathering for drinks here…read more Over the years, the names have changed for the provider of Polite Provision's delicious orderable food to go along with their polite provisions. Items such as scrupulously prepared meatballs, fried polenta, spaghetti with mushroom sauce, etc., from the prior next-door, connected purveyor "Soda and Swine"...but those days are done ...I digress. And where is Soda and Swine's Yelp page? I know I did a review, but now the page appears gone completely in search? Nah, it's just hidden, presumably to accommodate Fortunate Sons, which opened about a year ago after re-construction of both establishments. I'm too lazy to see if still owned by Consortium Group. I did search my reviews and found my updated Soda & Swine review dated 8 & 10 years ago. O_o !! Now, food is still served, however, there's a new name in town called "Fortunate Son" (next door, connected). Apparently, food now served is Asian-inspired. I've not visited recently to taste. The North Park area is a great neighborhood with many different types of food close by. While you're there, don't forget to stop by "An's Dry Cleaners", where the most inventive gelato's, ice creams and sorbets come from.

    You can order from the bar or your table. Lots of different seating options indoors and outdoors…read more Very extensive drink menu almost too many options. The drinks we ordered were good and service didn't take too long. Right next to Fortunate Son so you can order food from them and enjoy in their bar.

    Photos
    Polite Provisions - Want. Make. Disco.

    Want. Make. Disco.

    Polite Provisions - Real oil lamps!

    Real oil lamps!

    Polite Provisions - Art deco

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    Art deco

    Realm of the 52 Remedies - Clouds over Thailand

    Realm of the 52 Remedies

    4.4(894 reviews)
    8.1 miKearny Mesa
    $$

    i always love going to realm of 52 remedies for a casual hangout or special occasion. the service…read morehere is always outstanding and the interior perfectly matches the mood. i love that they put up studio ghibli movies here. the drinks are always very well balanced and i love picking any drinks from their menu! i recommend the kasato maru, it's a light but tasty drink that is not overly strong and it's my go to every time. you can get validated parking by scanning the QR code at the door of common theory as the plaza is paid parking now.

    The theming and concept here are genuinely unmatched. You enter through an apothecary style room…read moreand then trigger a hidden door by pressing your hand against a wall of ancient script. Once inside you're surrounded by lotus flower seating, silk draped booths, lanterns, a jade bar, and a sculptural mountain backdrop. As someone who appreciates a well executed concept, this place delivers on atmosphere. I also love that this is Chinese inspired. There really aren't many spots doing this and it makes the experience feel fresh and special. The drinks are where it gets more personal. The menu leans heavily herbal and that wasn't quite my style. I had the 13 Assassins and found the herbal notes too forward for my taste. I swapped with my friend for the Kasato Maru, a gin based drink, and that one was actually really good. Worth noting I'm not normally a gin drinker so that says something. If herbal forward cocktails are in your wheelhouse you'll probably love every drink on the menu. If not, the experience is still worth the reservation just for the space alone.

    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

    Side Bar - cocktailbars - Updated September 2026

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