Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    The Gutter

    3.6 (66 reviews)
    Closed 5:00 pm - 2:00 am (Next day)

    The Gutter Photos

    THE GUTTER ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - The Gutter

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Mocktail Mule
    Jeremiah H.

    The bar tender made the best mocktail mules I've ever had. It wasn't too sweet, which as an Asian person is the best reward for a drink. Also my friend and I don't really drink a lot of alcohol so having an alternative that wasn't just juice was amazing. The ambiance was candle light gothic game room. 10/10 would go again

    The bar
    Leticia C.

    We visited The Gutter on a Wednesday afternoon about 30 minutes after they opened. There were guests playing pool and a bowling game getting started. They also have basketball and ski ball. I ordered from their happy hour menu which is designed like a bowling ball, so cute. Super cheap prices! Their regular menu had nice choices as well. The highest priced cocktail was $17 and it included a test tube of champagne. It was very tasty. Sweet and refreshing. The 4 star is because it was sooooo cold. I had to move over a few seats to avoid the blasting a/c. We sat at the bar and the bartenders were all very nice.

    Shay M.

    I thought we were bowling, but just ended up with a gutterball of a time. Came out with some friends to celebrate a MOMENTOUS occasion. I'm talking a huge accomplishment. My friend had reserved both lanes for us to enjoy some bowling and drinks to commemorate the occasion. Unfortunately, both bowling lanes were absolutely buggin' out and really made for a disappointing bowling experience. While we still know how to have a good time, one of the lanes couldn't even put all of the pins up. It was so bad, it was worse than all of the podunk bowling alleys I've ever been to, and I've been to some podunk bowling alleys. At one point, the lane tried like 20 times to setup the pins and they just kept falling. I kid you not. When the lane would set the pins up, it would often miss 1-3 pins, thereby giving you a couple points every frame. WTH? Even when I brought it to the attention of the associate, they were like 'Yeah, there's really nothing we can do. We'll have to have someone fix it tomorrow ". Say whaaaaaat? Both lanes had numerous issues, and forget the "reset" because that was useless. Yeah, it was a crappy bowling experience to say the least. But how about the bar you ask? Well that also was kinda bunko. The drinks were delicious, which I greatly appreciated, but ducking and dodging pool cues for 15+ minutes while we waited for our drinks was not the bizness. I really just think there's a little bit too much stuff under one roof. Nobody wants an accidental pool cue in there rear. Ya know. I'd like to come back another time, because I do think this spot has potential. Thanks to the bartenders for making some delicious and pretty cocktails.

    Gamini G.

    My friends and I love going to this bar every time we visit Lafayette hotel! It was holiday time and Lafayette was well decorated and we couldn't wait to check out both the bars. First off, finding parking is usually hard. I recommend finding a spot further away and walking or taking a super short uber. As soon as we entered the bar, we were blown away by the crowd. It was crazy. Long lines at the bar. After waiting for 30ish minutes, we finally got our drink. We were a big group and we all got different drinks from the menu because they all looked exciting. And I must say, all the drinks were spectacular. The presentation could have been improved but flavor wise, they were perfect and had the right amount of alcohol in them. We were able to grab a spot to play foos table and had a great time. They also have other games like bowling, basketball etc and all of them looked super fun. However, there was a long line for everything unfortunately! Given that it was Christmas season, there was Santa and we had a great time taking pictures with Santa! All in all, we had a lovely time. The only drawback were the long lines. But overall, Lafayette is a special spot!

    Two bowling lanes.
    Morgan H.

    The Gutter is a unique bar inside the Lafayette Hotel. It's pretty large, with 2 bars, 2 pool tables, shuffleboard, arcade games and two lanes for bowling. As most people have mentioned, it does get packed. And it takes quite a while to get a drink. We planned ahead and booked a lane for bowling on Open Table. For $50 you get the lane and shoe rental for up to 6 people for one hour. You can also put your name down on a waiting list at the bar if you're not able to get a reservation. It's pricey but you're paying for the vibe that's unlike a traditional bowling alley. I'm not from SD, so personally I find The Gutter a cool place to come spend a few hours because it's not like anywhere else in the area. The cocktails are tasty, they have a good beer selection including NA beers and my recent favorite Donna's Pickle Beer, and the atmosphere is vibrant. There's plenty to do other than sit around and drink but it's also a solid spot if you want to do just that.

    Cocktails
    Eva B.

    I always have a fun time here!! Some games tend to be broken from time to time but otherwise, this spot is always super entertaining. The decor is gorgeous and there's lots of seating and room. Tends to get busy on weekends and chiller on weeknights. I love the pool table and skeeball

    Chai Noir
    Raine S.

    We had so much fun! It's an old school alley, so not ideal for professional practice, but it's great for some intimate rounds with delicious drinks! I had the chai noir and I definitely would go back for more!

    Nilanj D.

    I'd give The Gutter 5 stars for ambience, decor, and fun factor. We love that there's a vintage wood paneled bowling alley, a shuffleboard table, and plenty of other games to keep you active. Atmosphere is definitely fun. And it's appreciated that tons of water pitchers are available for designated drivers. But it's next to impossible to get served a drink here, as in the parent Lafayette Hotel. I was one of the first in the door and to the bar when Gutter opened at 5pm, and bartenders ignored me for 20 minutes. Would come here to play games, but I'd rather drink elsewhere.

    Sasha A.

    The bartender Hunter was so sweet and attentive! He recommended pretty good cocktails and was super enthusiastic. Thank u for making our birthday celebration nice

    Connor P.

    The only strikes here are on the ACTUAL bowling lanes in this bar! One of the coolest concepts with amazing drinks! Probably my favorite spot in North Park. It gets loud and fun later in the evening which awesome. Bartenders are so nice too! NOTE: they card religiously here (as they do at all Lafayette venues) so keep your license on you whenever you order

    Hallway

    Such a nice and chill experience to have a drink or two. I noticed as a younger person who usually goes to dive bars the vibes are off most of the time but here the vibes were chill everyone seemed like they were having a good time. No one was there being belligerent or starting any fights, which was nice. The bartenders had a good attitude and I was watching the bartender handle our drinks with precision and passion. Drinks had just the right amount of liquor they weren't super sweet it seems like the drinks are made with good quality ingredients.

    Michael B.

    I really dig the concept of this place. It's located within the hotel along with a few other bars and speakeasies. This one is separated by a mini courtyard from the others. This place however is always packed. I came a few times and each time on a Saturday night. It's bustling after 8pm until close. If you're lucky to grab a spot to sit. You should be okay. If you're lucky enough to get a pool table you'll be okay. If you wait out the long line for bowling, you're golden. The problem is, is that you might be waiting 1-2 hours. If this is your only stop of the night. It might be worth it. But if you're looking to just stop in and have an activity and drink, think again. Drinks are ~16 dollars per cocktail. Pretty tasty. I had the Midnight Mischief which was super smooth. Highly recommended. There's far more people than seating. And with the amount of people there, it's pretty noisy so you'll most likely be shouting over folxs. Haven't had any of their food. I like to categorize this as a perfect one drink spot to end the night.

    Bar
    Joe P.

    The Gutter is a play area at The Lafayette: It has a two lane bowling alley, billiards, arcade basketball, and free skeeball. It also has one of the seven bars on the property. At this point in the evening, I needed a break from hard alcohol, so I had a beer. The bar is very cool, as is the rest of the space. There were a lot of pretty people, and I felt myself instantly being upgraded from a 5 to a 7 - LOL. The bartenders are super nice and friendly. TG is a nice playground to visit while you are at TL.

    See all

    Photo of Philip Y.
    183
    51
    51

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 17
    Thanks 5
    Love this 19
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 4
    Love this 3
    Oh no 1

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 5
    Thanks 4
    Love this 3
    Oh no 4

    1 year ago

    Great service, hospitality and bartenders who really know what they're talking about. DEAN is a gem!

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Dean is the absolute worst bartender. (Blond hair) Extremely rude. Would not recommend this place. Horrible customer service.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 2

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    sooo fun!! drinks seem to take longer compared to other bars but this bar always has a great energy

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Bryce W.
    85
    218
    179

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Chris was so amazing, he recommend so many great drinks to me and my girlfriend. If you are ever at the gutter, request chris

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 9
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 4
    Photo of Shirley F.
    297
    448
    3533

    3 years ago

    Loved it! Drinks were great and the Atmosphere is perfect. Service was friendly and fantastic.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 2
    Photo of Prince G.
    225
    11
    0

    2 years ago

    If you want to wait 30 mins for a drink, great spot. Seriously it takes an entire basketball game half to get a drink here.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Ryan H.
    449
    28
    9

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Joy G.
    151
    39
    170

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Takes literally like 40 mins to get a drink. They need to hire more bartenders. Very annoying not going back

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Mark S.
    476
    16
    4

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 3
    Oh no 2

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 2 of 2

    Ask the Community - The Gutter

    21 and over?

    We are 21+ every Friday and Saturday after 9:00pm.

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

    Review Highlights - The Gutter

    Every part of the Lafayette Hotel is beyond impressive, but the gutter is next level.

    Mentioned in 7 reviews

    Read more highlights

    You might also consider

    Botanica Art & Cocktails

    Botanica Art & Cocktails

    4.4
    (319 reviews)
    0.9 mi
    $$

    I recently visited on a Sunday night with friends and really enjoyed our time there…read more The atmosphere was very relaxing, the drinks were unique, and the staff was excellent in helping us choose something we would enjoy. They also checked with several times to make sure we had everything we needed, which was great because we were so distracted talking lol so it helped us re-order drinks and appetizers. The spicy tuna crispy rice was soo good, it had a really unique flavor. My drink, the "heads will roll" was BOMB. While the pricing may be slightly higher than other venues, the service and experience were well worth it. Just a warning about a potential GPS issue...Both my Lyft driver and my friends' Uber driver dropped us off two blocks away, on a side street at the wrong location so be alert and don't get out early like we did! Overall, it was an somewhat upscale, unique, and chill experience, and I look forward to returning.

    Immediately fell in love with this quaint and chicly decorated speakeasy lounge. The staff was…read moreincredibly personable and helpful. The vibe was relaxed and unassuming. When I made the reservation, it was noted that there is a 1.5 hour limit on the table. Thankfully, Botanica isn't incredibly stringent about this rule as it gave us more time to eat, drink and be merry. My friend and I split the bill and I paid $87.49 with tip included. Here's what we had: Blistered shishito peppers - mild spice but flavorful New York strip yakitori - ordered two of these because they were that good! The steak was tender and the sauce rendered an umami flavor Botanika roll - tasted fine, but it ate one note. You can taste the citrusy parts but not much else. Mochi dessert - you can only get dessert if you order the pre fixe chef menu, but since our waitress didn't know this, she put the order in and gave it to us! We were incredibly grateful because it was the perfect end to a good meal For cocktails we ordered Spirited Away, Dragon of the West, Kyoko Sakura & Heads will Roll. All of the cocktails were beautifully presented and quite tasty.

    Photos
    Japanese Gin for the win!
    Japanese Gin for the win!
    Polenta and Wild Mushrooms
    Polenta and Wild Mushrooms
    The Dream

    See all

    The Dream
    Finca

    Finca

    4.1
    (168 reviews)
    0.9 mi

    I was in the mood for a new spot that had a casual, but unique vibe. My husband and I really enjoy…read morethe hunt, and I'm so glad I found Finca on Yelp! I made a reservation (just in case) because on a weekend you never know. Luckily, though, we arrived and there was plenty of available seating. My husband and I had our 10 and 5 year old with us and they easily accommodated us. It's a straightforward, but lovely menu that has a little bit for everyone. We enjoyed sharing a few plates and fresh oysters on the half shell. They do not have a kids menu, which was alright with us. Our daughter, who loves a good steak at 5 years old, enjoyed their pub steak and fries and shared a Mexican Coke with her brother. For my husband and I, we enjoyed sharing their beef tartare and to finish it off, a banana split. What we found so whimsical about Finca is their presentation. My husband and I really enjoyed exploring their menu and leaving room for a return visit soon. I couldn't recommend Finca more for anyone looking for a fun and casual dining experience with a lovely staff and unique take on traditional favorites.

    Had dinner celebrating my brother-in-law's retirement, and it was nothing short of magical. The…read morefood, the atmosphere, and the incredible staff made for a truly perfect evening. I think we ordered just about everything on the left side of the menu, but the standouts were the beef tartare, the lamb osso buco, and the hamachi. Honestly, there wasn't a single bad bite all night. The wine list is thoughtfully curated, with some unique Spanish selections that were a pleasant surprise. This may have just become my new regular haunt. It's a fantastic neighborhood gem that deserves a place on any foodie's must-visit list. Absolutely love this place!

    Photos
    The dining room
    The dining room
    Italian Dumplings
    Italian Dumplings
    Chicken and caviar

    See all

    Chicken and caviar
    Good News Bar

    Good News Bar

    4.8
    (63 reviews)
    0.6 mi
    $$

    I stumbled upon this place after having dinner nearby, and on this particular day was glad to find…read moreout it was a non-alcoholic bar. I happened to be training for the Rock n Roll San Diego Half Marathon taking place the following day and was allowing myself a couple months off from alcohol, so this was a great way to feel like I was enjoying an actual cocktail in a lounge setting. The bartenders were polite, and recommended a few different drinks, which I decided on a mojito-like drink. While I'm not sure I'd be in any hurry to return given the lack of alcoholic options, I'd recommend this spot to anyone looking to switch from a coffee date to enjoying some refreshing mocktails in an intimate, hip lounge setting.

    Good News Bar is a refreshing non-alcoholic bar concept serving incredible N/A cocktails, some with…read moreadded wellness benefits, think spirulina, CBD etc. The ambience gives vacation, relaxation, and communal vibes, all combining to create a real sense of ease while you sip an awesome drink and enjoy curated bites. As someone who doesn't drink alcohol, I found this bar unbelievably great, and not just because the whole menu is non-alcoholic, but because the drinks themselves are thoughtful and well executed. 5/5 stars for both taste and presentation. We tried a couple of drinks and both were exceptional. The flavors were multidimensional, with each element distinct and identifiable. The bold drinks were executed perfectly, smooth, and just an overall great experience. Honestly, we didn't want the experience to end. Inside, there's an area with board games you can grab and bring to your table for some social entertainment. There's also a retail section where you can buy non-alcoholic spirits, bitters, mixers, and more. It's a large space with a good mix of seating, booths, sofas, love seats, so it works well whether you're a small group or a larger party. One note: I didn't see dedicated parking during my visit. Street parking is available but can be tough during peak times, so if you want to skip the hassle, consider visiting during off-peak hours. If you're a fan of non-alcoholic drinks and great food, do yourself a favor and get to Good News Bar ASAP.

    Photos
    Cool main bar with the best BARTENDERS!
    Cool main bar with the best BARTENDERS!
    They have merch here. My friend loved it so much she bought a sweater.
    They have merch here. My friend loved it so much she bought a sweater.
    Bar area

    See all

    Bar area

    The Gutter - bowling - Updated July 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...