Sipping Through San Diego

Welcome to one of the most iconic bars in the city! Aero Club is an aviation-themed dive bar, started by a female pilot named Mariam Profit in 1947. It has a rich history and a unique vibe that can't be found anywhere else. The bar's decor is full of vintage aviation memorabilia and eclectic style with propellers, string lights, and Japanese lanterns. The atmosphere is lively and inviting, with a friendly and laid-back crowd that's always up for a good time. The bar boasts one of the biggest whiskey selections in the city, with over 1000 different whiskies to choose from. Whether you're a whiskey aficionado or just getting started, the knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect pour. In addition to whiskey, the bar also offers a small selection of craft beers and cocktails. The entertainment options at this bar are endless. From the arcade games to the pool tables, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, the popcorn machine is a nice touch, providing a salty snack to munch on while you sip your drink and play. One of the unique features of this bar is the Space Kat Barbeque food truck that's parked out in the outside patio area. The food truck is only open Thursdays - Sundays after 4 pm. The food truck is a great option for those who want a bite to eat without leaving the bar's lively atmosphere. While the cocktails here are only average, they're still worth trying if you're in the mood for something mixed. The focus here is definitely on the whiskey selection and the overall experience, rather than complex cocktails. Overall, if you're looking for a one-of-a-kind dive bar experience, this is the spot for you. With its aviation-themed decor, huge whiskey selection, arcade games, pool tables, and food truck, there's always something new and exciting to discover. So come on in, pull up a stool, and raise a glass to the history and character of this San Diego gem. Locals Tip: They have Whiskey Wednesday specials that range from $5 for single pours to $8 for doubles. They also have a Happy Hour from 2 pm - 7 pm daily featuring $5 beers, wells, bottled beer, and wine. They are also dog friendly!

I'll be upfront and honest when I say this is my favorite bar because it's where I learned how to drink whiskey. Bar Three Piece is the back bar of Seven Grand in North Park, San Diego. If you're a whiskey enthusiast or just even just a beginner, then you have to check out this bar. The focus of this room is on whiskey and whiskey alone, and the bartenders show a lot of "spirit" in their enthusiasm for learning alongside you. One of the highlights of this bar is the whiskey tastings that are hosted twice a week. The tastings are a fantastic opportunity to sample different types of whiskey, learn about the history and production process, and meet other whiskey lovers. The tastings are led by the brand reps, owners of distilleries, and the Lead Spirits Guide Marty. The bartenders at this establishment are friendly and approachable, and they take great pride in their work. They are more than happy to make recommendations based on your taste preferences and offer their expertise to help you find your perfect pour. Despite their knowledge and expertise, they aren't pretentious and don't make you feel intimidated, which makes for a relaxed and enjoyable drinking experience. The interior of this whiskey bar is cozy and inviting, with dim lighting and comfortable seating. The decor is classic and timeless, with wood paneling, deer heads, and candles on the tables. The bar is well-stocked with a variety of whiskeys from all over the world, including rare and hard-to-find bottles. This is the one bar I continually and always recommend for people coming into town or looking for education. I cannot speak highly enough about this bar! Locals Tip: The temperature of the room can swing wildly from pleasant to arctic frozen tundra. Bring a jacket if you're prone to getting cold like me! If you're hungry at the end of the night then swing by Urbn for some amazing pizza or Lucha Libre Taco Shop for the best late-night Mexican food of your life. They're both only a couple blocks away and are affordable late-night options

Drawing its inspiration from Tokyo's celebrated listening bars, Convoy Music Bar stands as a breathtaking venue offering a superior musical experience to its patrons. A part of the renowned Shōwa Hospitality Group, this bar is firmly dedicated to providing a transcendent auditory experience through its custom-built sound system, shipped directly from Japan, and an exquisite selection of vinyl records. The ambiance is an unforgettable blend of elegance and comfort. Guests can sink into cozy seating, surrounded by impressive decor, all while the meticulous sounds from the Japanese audio equipment envelope the room. While the venue impresses with its ambiance and high-quality sound, its cocktail program does not quite reach the same heights. Despite a tempting focus on Japanese whiskey and a seemingly refined cocktail list, the offerings, while not poor, fail to create a lasting impression. An exploration through 2-3 cocktails presents an experience of underwhelming balance and flavors, despite promising descriptions. However, the sophistication of the environment combined with the soothing music experience turns this venue into a worthy spot for an enjoyable night out with friends or a romantic date. Music enthusiasts longing for an unparalleled auditory journey or anyone looking for a stylish, tranquil night will find the Convoy Music Bar a visit worthwhile, as long as the cocktails are not their primary focus. You should expect to pay between $16-18 for cocktails, a slightly higher price point that aligns with the upscale environment. It's important to note that the entrance to the bar is tucked away in an alley, with the door midway down on the left leading to the hostess. The bar strictly enforces several rules, including no videography, smoking or vaping, and a cocktail attire dress code. On busy nights, your stay may be limited to 90 minutes, but usually, the bar has a 2-hour time limit. Also, for groups of 6 or more, bookings should be made directly via email at hello@convoymusicbar.com. Despite the focus on rules, it's these small details that contribute to maintaining the unique atmosphere of the Convoy Music Bar.

The False Idol, tucked away in San Diego's vibrant Little Italy, has swiftly become one of the city's must-visit cocktail destinations. Access to this hidden speakeasy is uniquely part of the experience. Concealed within Craft & Commerce, a trendy restaurant and bar, the entrance to False Idol can be found behind a door camouflaged as a walk-in cooler. The unexpected transition from the urban chic of Craft & Commerce to the tropical oasis of False Idol is nothing short of magical. For reservations, your best bet is to book through their website or call ahead, as the place can get pretty busy. Reservations are particularly recommended for weekend visits. The cocktails at False Idol are a masterclass in Tiki tradition with a twist. Signature drinks such as the Alkala the Fierce, a potent mix of overproof and aged rums, lime, and spices, or the Fassionola Gold, with bourbon, lemon, and passion fruit, tend to be fan favorites. Cocktails generally fall within the $12-$18 price range. Beyond the delectable drinks, the unique ambiance sets False Idol apart. The bar is adorned with vibrant, Polynesian-inspired décor and a waterfall cascading over a flaming volcano is a truly mesmerizing sight. Don't forget to look up - the ceiling is decorated with hundreds of vintage mugs from famous Tiki bars.

Located in the bustling neighborhood of Kearny Mesa in San Diego, Forbidden Cove is a secret oasis, a hidden gem amidst the urban sprawl. You can enter the bar by walking into Kilowatt Brewing and asking to go to the Forbidden Cove. This speakeasy offers a unique and intimate tiki bar drinking experience. It's only open on weekends so getting a reservation is a must. You can still get in without one, but space at the bar is limited. In order to get access to the speakeasy, the bartender inside Kilowatt Brewing will give you a little totem which will act as a key that you use in an area with fake beer barrels. They have all the standard tiki fairs like the Daiquiri, Mai Tai, Zombie, Painkiller, Jungle Bird, and Missionary's Downfall, The price range for such cocktails usually falls between $15 to $18. They do have some small bites but I'd recommend eating at the brewery first and then going inside.