16 Best Speakeasies in San Diego, California
Speakeasies are bars with hidden entrances that harken back to Prohibition times when alcohol had to be secretly consumed– and they’re making a huge comeback! I always think speakeasies offer that double dose of intrigue. There’s the thrill of the hunt—finding the hidden entrance makes you feel like you’re part of a secret club.
Then there’s the Prohibition-era vibe—dim lighting, vintage cocktails, and a feeling like you’re getting away with something naughty. Even though speakeasies aren’t as hidden (or illegal!) as they used to be, they’re still worth a visit. Bartenders today craft incredible cocktails with top-shelf liquor and house-made syrups, a far cry from the bathtub gin of the 1920s!
The speakeasy scene in my hometown of San Diego, California, is bustling with various tucked-away bars perfect for a romantic date, girl’s night out, or to chat with the locals.
Room 56
831 Sixth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
www.viiiv.co
Forget back alleys; Room 56 hides behind a bookcase in the Moxy Hotel’s lobby library. You’ll need to make reservations on their cryptic website to gain access to this secret bar. With dim lights, plush seating, and just 24 guests at a time, it will surely make you feel like a spy in a sophisticated setting. Sip on classic cocktails like the spicy Common Bawd or the refreshing Martha Mary Mercy sour, and enjoy a selection of delicious snacks.
Raised by Wolves
4301 La Jolla Village Dr #2030, San Diego, CA 92122
raisedxwolves.com
Elegance meets mystery at Raised by Wolves, a top-20 North American speakeasy in Westfield UTC. Hidden behind a fireplace seating area, the door rotates 360 degrees to reveal a gorgeously adorned circular bar reminiscent of a scene from a 1920s mystery novel.
With cocktails ranging from $13 to $700, including a historic Old Fitzgerald bourbon, every drink is an adventure! Whether you crave refreshing, decadent, spirit-forward, or non-alcoholic options, Raised by Wolves has something unique for you.
Young Blood
777 G St, San Diego, CA 92101
www.youngbloodsucks.com
At Young Blood, you push open a disguised refrigerator door, taking you into a luxurious room with velvet seats and a sparkling chandelier that makes you feel like you’re at a fancy Gatsby party. But here’s the coolest part–no menu!
Bartenders craft three unique cocktails based on your tastes, all covered by your $65 ticket, along with bubbly and a 1.5-hour experience.
Part-Time Lover
3829 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104
parttimeloverhifi.com
On the outside, this bar looks just like a vintage record shop, but open the doors, and you’re transported to a lush, swanky bar, transporting you to the golden age of music. You can enjoy high-quality vinyl on a killer sound system in a space inspired by a blend of American Prairie School and Japanese kissaten cafes.
They even have a curated selection of vinyl in the small shop in the back that you can browse while you unwind with a carefully crafted drink. Part-Time Lover’s cocktails, especially the Japanese Highballs, are meant to be refreshing and more affordable than other high-priced bars.
Oculto 477
2414 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110
oculto477.com
Oculto 477 isn’t afraid to mix things up! It’s located next to a historic cemetery in old town and named after the number of souls resting nearby. Head to Tahona, a mezcal-focused restaurant, and ask to be taken to the back, where you’ll find a mock-confessionary. Whisper your “sins” (like craving a killer cocktail) to gain access! They serve Prohibition-era classics with a modern twist and are known for showy presentations like flaming and bubbling drinks. Don’t worry if you don’t drink—killer mocktails are also on the menu!
Noble Experiment
777 G St, San Diego, CA 92101
nobleexperimentsd.com
Noble Experiment takes you back to the 1920s with a gothic twist. And finding this place is part of the fun! It is located within a Neighborhood restaurant (the garlic fries are a must-try). After dinner, head towards the restroom, and you’ll notice what appears to be a stack of kegs. Give the right-hand side a gentle push, and you’ve discovered the hidden entrance to the Noble Experiment. The cocktails are exceptional—each drink is crafted with precision, offering a perfect balance of flavors that will impress even the most discerning palate.
The Grass Skirt
910 Grand Ave, San Diego, CA 92109
thegrassskirt.com
Looking for an unforgettable night out in San Diego? Sneak inside Good Time Poké, head to the freezer, and slide through the secret door to enter a world of flaming torches and tiki vibes at The Grass Skirt. Sip on tropical drinks served in fun containers, from fruity concoctions to fiery volcano bowls that trigger mini thunderstorms, complete with flickering lights. Don’t forget to indulge in delicious Hawaiian-inspired bites!
The Space Pad
406 Mission Ave, Oceanside, CA 92054
thespacepad.com
Skip the brick wall passwords. At Kilowatt Oceanside, you’ll find a hidden passageway leading to a 1950s-style spaceport on another planet! This truly has that out-of-this-world theme; enjoy sipping cocktails on an alien planet decorated with glowing crystals, portholes to space, and a rocket delivery system for your food. The drink mastermind behind Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Bar now creates crazy concoctions here—color-changing cocktails, edible boozy boba balls, and drinks that look like lava lamps!
Captain’s Quarters
910 Grand Ave Ste 105-107, San Diego, CA 92109
captainsquarterssd.com
Captain’s Quarters is located on Grand Avenue in San Diego’s popular Pacific Beach neighborhood, disguised behind a facade that looks like an unassuming storefront. To get inside, you’ll need to look for the subtle signage and maybe even whisper a secret password (if you’re lucky). Inspired by 18th-century ship captains, the decor is meticulously crafted to transport you to another time and place. Try the Captain’s Grog, a concoction that makes you feel like you’re sailing the Caribbean. Or go for something adventurous like the Black Pearl, a dark and mysterious gin cocktail.
Bar Three Piece
3054 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104
www.barthreepiece.com
If you’re in North Park craving a truly unique whiskey experience, you’ll head to the popular Seven Grand Whiskey Bar. But there’s more than meets the eye here. Bar Three Piece, tucked away in the back of Seven Grand, is a haven for whiskey lovers. With over 250 bottles of whiskey, it boasts an impressive selection ranging from well-known favorites to rare finds.
Convoy Music Bar
4646 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
www.convoymusicbar.com
Want a password to a secret bar hidden in an alley? Shh, this ain’t your typical pub crawl! Sitting unassumingly behind a taco stand, you need to be in the know to find it. Look for the red “On Air” sign—that’s it. No sugary cocktails here; instead, they use fancy Japanese ingredients like matcha and Szechuan peppercorn. Would you say no to a smoky mezcal drink with hints of grilled pineapple or a fancy twist on a Negroni? I bet not.
Vin de Syrah
901 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
www.syrahwineparlor.com
Want to experience a secret bar straight out of Alice in Wonderland? Vin de Syrah blends old-world charm with contemporary style, featuring botanical chandeliers, 50-year-old wine vines, and plush sitting rooms. Once you spot the ivy-covered front door, you’ll know you’re in the right place. Inside, enjoy unique cocktails, carefully curated wines, and delicious bites in an exclusive setting with plush lounges and whimsical decor.
Realm of the 52 Remedies
4805 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
52remedies.com
Feeling a bit under the weather? Realm of the 52 Remedies might have the cure (or so they say)! Hidden inside Common Theory, this futuristic apothecary features gleaming white shelves stocked with exotic herbs and creative cocktails inspired by the Far East. Sip on a Pine Nut, Marmalade-infused Sotol and Abasolo Corn Whiskey, or Red Chili/Goji Berry Rums to forget your worries and enjoy the one-of-a-kind ambiance.
The Hive
1031 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037
beesidebalcony.com
The Hive speakeasy can be found inside Beeside Balcony in La Jolla, hidden behind a secret door just like in the prohibition days. Follow them on Instagram to unlock the password and enter a world of handcrafted cocktails that will take you back to Gatsby’s era. With live jazz performances and talented artists, The Hive sets the stage for a memorable evening of fun and flair!
False Idol
675 W Beech St, San Diego, CA 92101
falseidoltiki.com
This tiki treasure isn’t hiding in some dusty basement—it’s cleverly disguised behind the Craft & Commerce restaurant. With a reservation (you’ll need this!), talk to the host, and you’ll be whisked away to a world of flaming bowl drinks. The cocktail menu is a tropical vacation for your taste buds, featuring classics like Mai Tais and adventurous concoctions like the Ube Bae.
Prohibition Lounge
548 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
www.prohibitionsd.com
Feeling like the roaring 20s are roaring a little too quietly these days? Prohibition Lounge is here to whisk you to a bygone era of covert clubs, mixed drinks, and lively jazz music. Just watch for the inconspicuous door to Eddie O’Hare’s Law Office on 5th Avenue. It has a meticulously developed drink menu divided by liquor type, featuring specialty flavors and names.
Which Speakeasy on This List Do You Want to Visit?
Let us know in the comments!
Sources: San Diego Eater, Locale Magazine