Morrissey blaring from the speakers Attack on Titan playing on the TV And a burlesque show made for a great night. The crowd here is super chill. Order a Verdita Veritas and a dad beer. read more

Whiskey Tasting...say what? Sycamore Den, you have opened my eyes to the coolness of whiskey. 'Tis a harsh beverage. True. However, there is so much more than Jack! This spot has a nice vibe. The bartenders and staff are cool. and they have rifles decorating the walls! Thank you for putting on the DIRT Whiskey Tasting event. Dickey and Bulleit are awesome. There is also quite a bit to learn about whiskey...the mash, the barrel, charring etc. The Wolf Ticket was a pretty nice cocktail too! Try Sycamore Den! You'll like it. read more

Sycamore Den - Whiskey Tasting today - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

I went back here again and noticed different liquors (not the high quality variety). Apparently new management so changes were mad. The place is classy but the people working their didn't fit that image. Low quality drinks. read more

Always the best. The staff is friendly to new guests, even on busy nights. The music is great, atmosphere great, prices great. And one time someone offered me an oreo when I was drunk and it saved my life I take all my friends from out of town. Great spot to hit in Normal Heights read more

My gf, April, and i are locals and stopped by on a whim for a last min stop for my bday weekend. Omar and the ladies there threw up some sparklers and a Happy Birthday after i got back from the bathroom. I was NOT expecting that.. but damn that really made my night. There really isn't much to it but that the whole crew and staff gave great service and it made this evening extra special. Just want you guys and gals to know that that little extra umph that you guys put forth was amazing. Always love Sycamore Den :) read more

love it here. perfect place to frequent with friends when ur not feeling a club vibe or just want something more chill and intimate. such a cutesy spot read more

I'm going to go ahead and update this review to a 4 star. I've been back several times over the past months, and most of its issues have worked themselves out. I haven't been talked down to or ignored by a snobby bartender recently (and I say this hesitantly, hoping that won't change on my next visit - or that 4th star comes right back off LOL), and the herd of yuppy-DB-hipsters chasing the newest fad has thinned out, leaving a much friendlier, down to earth and more fun group of patrons. The craft cocktails are still AMAZING. I love them all. Even the ones with gin in them (they've finally gained my trust enough to order the cocktails with the liquors i normally wouldn't touch). The prices on the other drinks are now printed on the menu... I like this. I checked these out and they seem much more reasonable than my previous impressions. I'm not sure if they actually lowered the prices, or if it's just the fact that they're displayed and you can avoid accidentally ordering the $8 beers on the menu (all beers are not priced equally!). The decor is still stunning and gorgeous. The neighborhood is still the most awesome one in existence. And we've now discovered the magic that is $6 craft cocktail specials on Sunday afternoon (not sure when else they may or may not have these). The only thing keeping that 5th star slot empty is that my confidence in the service is still a little shaky. The last few good experiences haven't yet completely drowned out my first few experiences of being treated like a street urchin despite ordering the top dollar cocktails and tipping well. Still no idea why I was treated that way. Maybe the bartender recognized me as a former Lou's regular? Maybe? Maybe I just need to not go in when certain divas are behind the bar. read more

First time visiting this bar and it might be new favorite. I can't tell if the drinks or the service was better but I know but we're great. I found my new favorite drink, The Last Mezcal, and my new favorite bartender, Jen! If you haven't come here before do, treat yourself and check it out! read more

Sycamore Den - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

Low key best bar in San Diego, great atmosphere, great vibe and Charlie makes the best old fashion this side of the Mississippi! read more

Sycamore Den - Old fashion - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

Great cocktails. Great vibes. They have an awesome Ukrainian bartending duo(gulia and beaver woody) that we love. Pinball skeeball and a zoltar machine inside? Let's gooooo. Also Marco, a drummer that books the shows there is super cool. Love this place. read more

Sycamore Den - Bar sign - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

Forest vibes, arcades, skee ball, and fortune teller machines. Also nightly activities like trivia. Very chill music being played in the background, and drinks are euphoric-- hand crafted with perfection. One of the best things to do here is grab a drink and chill by their big ass fire place. You will feel warm and cozy like you are chillin in a log cabin. Definitely coming back to this spot in the future, totally worth checking out if want to try something different. Very hip young crowd of guests as well. read more

See all

This is one of the funnest places in normal heights, first time in a min and it's still the best!!! Pull up!!!! KP took care of me and my girl!!! Beyond service to be expected! A++++++ read more

Sycamore Den - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

First time at Sycamore Den, Jen and her staff are amazing. Been in SD for 5 years and the best service and absolutely the best old fashion in SD. Show up and enjoy, you won't be disappointed! read more

I've been coming here for awhile and used to think it was middle-of-the-pack as far as bars on Adams go. It always had a cool vibe but I felt sometimes the cocktails and service was lacking. That all changed yesterday! I stopped in on Tuesday night to an incredibly warm reception from the super kind bartender (Jen I think was her name?). While the bar was somewhat busy she made sure to get me situated right away. She made many custom cocktails for me (I'm pretty picky) and all of them were 10 out of 10. I was so blown away, I had to write a review to let more people know they should stop by. If you're looking for the best combination of atmosphere + cocktails + service, look no further because this is the spot! read more

Anthony with the beanie was the absolute man. He is cookin, we never had an empty water glass, and he was so friendly.

Great space , nice vibe, friendly staff. The amazing guest bartender Stephen Kurpinsky is truly amazing! I would not be surprised that in a decade people will start to tell the story how the 'kurpinsky-Long Island Ice Tea' was invented on a Monday night Christmas party event. New respect for the art of making cocktail. read more

Fun lil spot. Obviously pretty crowded on a Saturday night and indoor seating was limited. They had more options outside, with picnic tables. It was a pretty chill environment, with games if you want to add that. read more

I went to Sycamore Den with friends for the first time last night... Well, this morning. The customer service was great and the drinks were good as well. Although the bar was big, the atmosphere was warm and inviting, with sectioned seating and of course, seating at the bar. The Security guard greeted us and asked for I.d. There was no cover charge, which was a plus. The bartenders were friendly, attentive and greeted/ served us very quickly upon arrival. They also worked together- if one took the order, the other would jump in and help make drinks, which was nice to see. My boyfriend and I ordered the "Crime of Passion", which had Passionfruit in it. The drink had the perfect level of sweetnees and the right amount of alcohol. I'll definitely be returning! read more

Sycamore Den - Get the "Crime of Passion" - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

Sycamore Den-the most slept on bar on Adam's Avenue hands down. This place is sick. I went there with old pals last night, we had such a fun time chatting on the low couches and playing pinball and the hook and ring game. Their game section is small though, not a Coin-Op type place or anything. This place is definitely a bit classier than that. Would be an awesome place for a date. I had a cocktail called Kiwi and Clover, it was light and floral and delicious. Also, the bouncer/barback Mike was super hospitable, he pretty much made our night. read more

Sycamore Den - Kiwi and Clover: Hibiscus infused gin, dry vermouth, kiwi, clove, lime - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

We decided to try this place after having seen a hilarious improv show in Old Town. It was close enough to our place that we didn't need to drive. We saw a ton of people use Uber or Lyft, as there were cars that stopped directly in front of Sycamore Den to load or unload party people. And that leads me to mention earlier than usual from my other reviews that parking here is not very easy. Our friends who drove us thankfully found excellent parking by the liquor store that contains Alaskan Seafood Connection. Otherwise, we would have been circling around the area. The place: It's pretty cool. It's not super huge if you don't go down into the lowered seating area. It can get crowded around the bar area, but not unless you beat the crowd and snag some seats. One thing I will say about the bartenders is that they work their asses off, and that's something nobody can deny. And when there's a mad rush of customers, I can't really blame them for not giving adequate attention to everybody. It simply happens to be this way. Because of this, I would recommend either paying for your drinks with cash or simply not leaving your tab open. I made the mistake of leaving my tab open, and I was often overlooked likely due to getting less noticed by other patrons ordering drinks, and it seemed to take so much longer than it should. I was patient, and it eventually got taken care of, but just like a war, I really had no idea when the wait would be over. Maybe I'll make a sign for them next time. Like the ones they have at sporting events, except mine would just simply say, "I need to close out, please", or it would picture of me visibly drunk and handing money to the intended bartender. As for the drinks themselves, I like them. I had the Bulleit 10-year neat, and that was nice. I didn't get any cocktails, so I can't speak on them. FYI: - They have a popcorn machine towards the back of the bar. If you want to refill your bowl with popcorn, you have their unspoken permission to go behind the bar to grab more. Yes, I realize I'm giving this place 3 stars despite all the good things I say about this place. However, once I have the drill down, I can finally return to have a better experience. You better believe I'll give this place another chance. read more

Solid cocktails for reasonable prices? I'm a fan. When $14-15 drinks are becoming the norm, it's refreshing to find a place that still makes high quality drinks without completely breaking the bank. I was very impressed with the range of libations on their menu and thought a majority of them sounded good enough to consider trying. Ended up going with the Femme Sauvage ($12). Tequila was not overpowering, & and I loved the hint of green chartreuse. The description on their menu is pretty accurate - "Tastes of the color green, bright, spiced and spicy." The Ticket ($10) is their signature and another really great option. Crime of Passion ($11) if you're feeling like something fruity. read more

Sycamore Den - Ticket, Crime of Passion, Femme Sauvage - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

We stopped by the Sycamore Den after strolling around the Adams Street Fair in Normal Heights. It was pretty packed that night but we were still able to grab two seats by the bar. We ordered the Baewatch and Treasure Beach. The bartenders are super friendly and this is definitely a good place if you're looking for a craft cocktail. The line for the restrooms can get pretty long as it's single occupation only. read more

Sycamore Den - Great place for drinks. Treasure Beach on the left and Baewatch on the right - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

how dare you new owners get rid of the fireplace and piano and Halloween decorations!!!! How could youuu I'm so so disappointed the vibes are just off now (still my favorite bar which is why you even get 3 stars) how could you! read more

Solid local bar on Adams Ave. Unpretentious rustic decor with down to earth bartenders. Thank you for hosting Takobar for Taco Mania. Amazing pairing! Note: trivia night on Tuesday. read more

Came here the other day for a couple of drinks before dinner. The bartenders were really quick When it came to getting your drinks. All the cocktails were really good and very different from other cocktail bars. I love that they give you popcorn while you're hanging out. It's actually pretty good popcorn too. They also have Pinball machines in the back and skee ball. I love that there's a lot of room for people to hang out and sit. I hate when bars are really crowded and You're bumping into people left and right. Overall really good service, really good drinks And a really cool environment. read more

See all

Great drinks - friendly staff, and free delicious Tajin popcorn were brought to us. Not sure what more to Say than the fact that we will be regulars from Now on. read more

Hmmm...where should I begin?? I love this place!!! chill, and fun dive bar that you stay the longest at when you're bar hopping with the friends! I've been here on a weekday but on a Saturday this is the place! Skee Ball, pinball, this ring on a string- then TRY to get it on the hook challenge-plus great company and a few Dranks make this a great hang out place' You even can even get a your fortune here too' like in the movie BIG-lol!! random decor- kinda 70's feel but not- I dunno but homey feeling too. No offense to Yelp but they have this cool neon sign-LOL!! It's where the communal sinks are & the " whichever gender bathrooms" on the stacked cut wood wall which is freakin' awesome AF! You'll see it when nature calls once the Beer, wine, or cocktail or two kicks in. Haha. Theres a drop down cozy space with a wrap around vinyl wall couch facing a modern fireplace that accommodated us our party of 12. So sorta spacious if you're not seated at the bar. Plus there was still room for more couples or people that just wanted to be romancing each other or just chill with their wines being mesmerized by the fires glow! Great vibe! Highly recommend! read more

See all

I live in Normal Heights and this bar is one of my favorites in San Diego. The bartenders are amazing. Charlie creates amazing drinks. His espresso or cold brew martinis are amazing and should be put on the menu! read more

What a place. Awesome vibe, cool decor...best part is thee most personable and talented bartender behind the bar! KP! Omggg is this girl amazing at what she does. For a girl who slings drinks literally ALL OVER, she always maintains a smile and delightful conversation. Highly recommend coming in on a night she's behind the bar. A++ read more

Sycamore Den - KP!!! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

This place is fun! I have met up friends here a couple of times now and this place is HOT! Not like the temperature hot, but like happening fun kind of hot. They check ID's at the front door and make a fast drink. There is a good amount of seating and this place has its own kind of style and vibe. I really loved the hilarious 80's movies they were playing on the 2 tv's. They have authentic drinks or you can have your regular favorites. There are plenty of beer options and the bartenders were a pleasure to work with. The 2 restrooms were clean and I really appreciate that! Parking on this Friday night was no problem either. Great place to meet up with 1 friend or a group. read more

The king and Jon were amazing! They provided great service, and a fun atmosphere! Highly recommend!

yup...this spot is cool... cool vibe (feels 70's to me) dim lighting but not too dim...i could see my friends great drink menu and bartender even gave off menu suggestions (sweet!) prices were reasonable.. drinks were great TV were rockin some old skool movies (heck yeah). can you open up closer to my house ..please? i want this to be my neighborhood bar read more

I've been coming here since 2015 and this is still the best bar in Normal Heights. If you want a cocktail, this is what's up. Great people, great drinks, great popcorn. Shout out to my boys Mark and Matt behind the bar. They may be new but they make the hood a better place. Cheers. read more

Authentically authentic. In a stolen trope kinda way. It feels like the a dream of what a 70's Southern Bar might be if dreamed up by an early 21st Century Hipster. Guns and Banjos and Fiddles. Muted 70's browns, wood, chicken wire. Crafty crafted cocktails, because craft is crafty. Limited but well honed beer selection. Trivia Tuesdays are simply the best. read more

I've been tracking the progress of Sycamore Den since word got out in the neighborhood that Lou decided to sell her eponymous establishment. Compared to other certain other taverns that have recently opened, they've gone about their opening the way people who open anything on Adams should. They went out of their way to respect the heritage of the locale, welcomed the neighborhood, introduced themselves properly to their neighbors, and most importantly, they didn't expect to be the premier spot on block. They came in with a game plan to provide something the neighborhood didn't have - a proper craft cocktail spot - and they stuck to it. So you can imagine the how I felt when the doors finally opened. I can't remember the last time a spot met all of the anticipated hype, but Sycamore Den exceeded any expectations I ever had. Walking in, I couldn't believe that the interior used to be Lou Jones. Rustic, inviting, and not overbearing in the least. And wood. Everywhere. I mean, it smells like a straight up Home Depot in certain areas, and that is not a bad thing. The bar is stocked with a damned decent variety of libations, mixers and bitters. The selection of cocktails has something for everyone, but I'm not going to lie - I'll probably stick to the Shipwrecked, Monk Improved and Dovetail Julep as go-tos. Super stoked that Sycamore Den is finally open, and I'm looking forward to making wood, fiddles, banjos, guns and booze a part of my regular routine. I'm sure that within a few weeks, my review is going to be bumped up to a full on 5-star. read more

Sycamore Den - Welcome home. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

Came here with a bunch of coworkers, its pretty chill spot, especially if you don't like fighting with crowds like other spots in the area. There seemed to be some craft cocktails on the menu. I tried the Wolf Ticket, whisky, peach, lemon,simple syrup, bitters, and lemon zest. It pretty tasty but really tiny and a bit pricy at $9 but i guess with craft cocktails thats the going rate. I also tried a coconut porter, which was really smooth, the coconut was really subtle, like almost couldn't taste it subtle but it was there, i think it did add that smooth coconut water texture to it though. I really liked the Modern Times, Fortunate Islands (beer), it was a very unique beer. a wheat beer brewed in an IPA style. It was strange that i like wheat beers but don't like the hoppy IPA's and my friend who likes IPA's doesn't like wheat beers, but somehow we both liked this beer. Somehow it had the floral notes of the hops, but not the bitterness and the smooth malty feel of a wheat. Yeah! Chalk another one up for San Diego breweries! Service was friendly and attentive, the decor is kind log cabinish, but a relaxed and chill atmosphere. Their signature craft cocktails are $9 but during happy hour M-Th, 5- 7 and Fri - Sun, 4-7, they are $6. read more

I've lived in the area for quite some time, this place is one of my favorite spots after a long day at work. I usually would stop by late night til they're about to close. Friendly and attentive bartenders that they actually remember you and what you're drinking. No need to flag them down to get their attentions. They give you a little bowl of popcorn when you sit at the bar which is nice. Cool spot to hangout with friends. Good selection of craft beer, great and strong cocktail drinks. Definitely recommend this spot. read more

LOVE THIS SPOT! This review is long overdue. First of all the décor in this place rocks! Brings back some serious fun memories as a kid. From the beveled glass surrounding the front door to the wallpaper in the bathroom. They really went over the top to bring you back to the 70's. I love the music and find myself singing along every time I am there. Staff is great, super friendly and serious about cocktails. The Hardly Wallbanger, Punch bowl, Wolf ticket and Swiss Bank are delicious. They are also awesome at making whatever your heart desires. I asked for a "beer cocktail" and whatever he made was pretty awesome!! They give free popcorn, which is my favorite so ask for a bowl! I also recently noticed they are offering small bites so I can't wait to try the cheese and meat boards. Best thing about this bar: They don't over charge for drinks!! See you soon Sycamore! read more

Don't waste your time and money here. Honestly the worst service ever ....they checked the ID and the person isn't even a real security cause he couldn't tell the difference between a fake ID and a real ID, like this is a joke. My husband has been a security and checks ID's for 10 years and he knows what his doing he even checked the alleged "fake ID" it wasn't fake, we all had real ID I am 29 years of age and everyone else that was with me. Then getting to the bar first off the bar the bartender(female) had a rude vibe, as if her night was ruined, if your going to run a bar/business you need to please the people and bring business not make them want to leave. Overall my husband and I along with my older brother and his gf ended up just leaving and going to old sod! Much better vibe than this bar. read more

I've been coming here since they've opened and don't know why it's taken me so long to write this review. If you're in the search for a crafted cocktail bar (mostly whiskey based) in the area at some damn reasonable prices, this is your place. It's a fairly chill spot throughout the week though they do have trivia and bingo night, which can get super loud if you're looking for a chill spot to chat up with your friends. Other than that, you can usually score a seat at the bar or one of their tables. They've got a number of sought after whiskeys, ranging from bourbons to Japanese. If you're looking for a great whiskey cocktail, the Wolf Ticket never disappoints! Want something a bit more "tropical tasting" and strong? Go for their "Don't Eat Yellow Snow Popsicles" (something like that if I can recall, though the name might be completely wrong). It comes in this tiki mug and yes, they do hold onto your ID in case you try to walk out with it. They have the same exact menu as Burnside in terms of food. Chicken wings are just $0.50 each during Wing Wednesdays. Their tater tots and Cubano sammie is damn good too. The menu has completely changed recently though. Oh yeah, free popcorn! Load up on some fiber and salt them up while you drink away. read more

See all