10 Incredible Speakeasies in San Diego, CA
Speakeasies are always an excellent idea. Enjoy over-the-top cocktails similar to what you would have found during the Prohibition era. Many have secret entrances or passcodes to be admitted. Throughout San Diego, CA, you’ll find quite a few of these sprinkled around the city. We’re here to show you some of the very fun speakeasies you can explore when in San Diego.
Noble Experiment
777 G St, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 888-4713
The Noble Experiment is a speakeasy housed inside a restaurant known as Neighborhood. We don’t want to spoil the fun, but there’s actually another speakeasy hiding inside this one. The dim lighting, the vintage glassware, and the fun music tell you you’re in a memorable place. All the little details here down to how the menus look is what makes this place so fun. The “suggestions” on the menu provide you with ways to order, but the full bar also allows you to order some of your favorite drinks, too.
Room 56
831 Sixth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
(951) 397-0407
Room 56 is located deep inside the Moxy of the Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego. You’ll find that there’s an intimate setting and some of the best craft cocktails around. Making a reservation for a cocktail table is a necessity if you want to experience this speakeasy. The good news is that they are open until 2 AM Wednesday through Sunday, so you’re likely to get a reservation if you plan accordingly. Cocktails and coffees fill the menu, and if you can’t decide, you can always give the power to the bartenders with “dealer’s choice.”
Prohibition Lounge
548 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 501-1919
Prohibition Lounge is one of the more traditional speakeasies in San Diego. You’ll follow stairs that take you to the basement. There, you’ll be greeted with a red-hued space with friendly staff, seasonally inspired cocktails, and a 1930s vibe. Live music is featured throughout the week. The cocktails are all named after famous quotes from movies. A great one to try is the “I do not believe in fairies!” drink featuring mezcal with a hint of watermelon, lime, and tajin.
Realm of the 52 Remedies
4805 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(619) 780-6675
Every speakeasy has a theme and Realm of the 52 Remedies is that of Chinese medicine. The hip lighting, the cool seating, and the unusual décor all add to the experience. Complicated cocktails are made to order, and all have a flavor profile so you know what to expect. You’ll also find that there are a few food items available from the kitchen to round out your visit here. Knowing that it’s inside of Common Theory is only half the battle. Plan on making a reservation, too.
Oculto 477
2414 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110
(619) 255-2090
Oculto 477 offers a slightly spooky experience considering that it’s next to (and possibly on) a graveyard. You’ll find that it is located inside Tahona Bar, and the staff will show you where you need to go. Prior to entering, you’re given a card with the rules for the night, which include adhering to a two-drink minimum, practicing patience for the time it takes to create a drink, and the requirement to enter. Hint: Polish up on the seven deadly sins. Every drink that you order has a bit of a show, whether it’s smoke, fire, or something else.
Raised by Wolves
4301 La Jolla Village Dr #2030, San Diego, CA 92122
(619) 629-0243
Raised by Wolves is a fun concept because it’s not even your average speakeasy. At first glance, you’ll miss the entrance because it looks like a liquor store. If you have reservations, which are highly recommended, you’ll be invited to take a seat. We don’t want to give away the whole surprise, but sitting down is what will get you the rest of the way into the speakeasy. Once in, there’s a palpable Gatsby vibe. Wine, beer, cocktails, and even zero proof cocktails fill the menu. Choose a drink or let the bartender choose one for you.
Young Blood
777 G St, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 446-0002
Young Blood is all about the mystery and intrigue, so you won’t find much about it online. Instead, make your reservation so that you’re able to get in. Upon arriving, it will look like a traditional bar. Keep going until you find double doors that are labeled “Young Blood.” That’s when you’ll enter an orange-lit speakeasy that offers cocktail flights and more. Everything is served in vintage glassware. And if you get hungry, know that the speakeasy is hiding inside of Neighborhood, which offers a full kitchen of menu items to explore.
Forbidden Cove
7576 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 715-3998
Forbidden Cove is a bit more island-y than your average speakeasy. Drinks are almost always going to have a paper umbrella in them, and some may even be served inside a coconut. Colorful lights hang above you and pictures of far-away islands line the walls. Beyond tiki-inspired craft cocktails, you’ll find craft beers that are brewed onsite. Be sure to make a reservation to guarantee a table here as they only keep a few tables free for walk-ins.
False Idol
675 W Beech St, San Diego, CA 92101
You’ll miss out on False Idol every time if you don’t know that it’s hiding inside Craft & Commerce. It’s located right behind the hostess stand, and you’ll be escorted into the speakeasy. The interior combines the very best of speakeasies and tiki bars. Strong cocktails such as Navy Grog and Zombie appear throughout the menu. And if you visit during the holidays, you’ll find a large selection of holiday cocktails along with keepsake holiday glassware.
Seven Grand San Diego
3054 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104
(619) 269-8820
Although not technically a speakeasy, Seven Grand offers all of the same vibes. You can walk in without any kind of password and have a seat at the wood bar or at any of the many tables. The softly lit interior is swanky and mysterious. The menu is heavy on the whiskey and bourbon, so you will find that ordering a Whiskey Sour or Mint Julep is quite easy. A happy hour takes place every day, and the cocktails on that menu can change regularly.
For more recommendations on where to eat and drink in the city, check out our San Diego city page!
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