Speakeasies emerged from the prohibition era when the sale of alcohol was banned in the United States. Bars would be hidden in coves and crannies, with secret entrances and passwords required for entry. This secrecy added to their allure, creating a sense of thrill for those brave enough to seek them out.
Today, speakeasies are a symbol of rebellion and mischief. They add a twist to the contemporary cocktail culture for those looking for an adventurous night out. San Diego hides many such establishments, hard to spot and easy to miss.
Come close and listen well as we reveal some of the most eclectic and creative speakeasies for the perfect escapade with your friends. We can only go over them once, so don’t miss out!
What Are the Different Types of Speakeasy Bars in San Diego?
San Diego’s speakeasy scene provides a varied experience with a range of themes and experiences. From a soothing apothecary-inspired space to Gatsby’s luxurious parties, themes build on a narrative that transports patrons into an entirely different world. Other themes encompass a galactic experience, tropical tikki aesthetics, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
You’ll find speakeasy bars tucked away in nooks, inside shops, and in other bars. Certain bars follow a strictly formal dress code and have specific rules to be followed. It is recommended to visit the speakeasy website for information before planning your visit.
Whether you’re in the mood for a fun, casual drink or a more indulgent upscale experience, San Diego’s range of speakeasy offerings promises something for everyone.
The Best Speakeasy in San Diego: Our Top 5 Picks
Since we can’t hold on to secrets too well, here is our roundup of the top speakeasies in San Diego.
1. Captain’s Quarters
Image sourced from: https://captainsquarterssd.com/.
- Hours: Tuesday – Wednesday and Sunday: 5:00 pm - 12:00 am; Thurs – Sat
- 5:00 pm - 2:00 am
- Website: https://captainsquarterssd.com/
- Phone Number: (858) 412-5237
- Reservations Policy: Reservations Recommended
- Address: 910 Grand Ave, San Diego, CA 92109
- Open in Google Maps
Located only a few blocks away from the beach, this speakeasy bar is inspired by actual Captain’s Quarters from 17th-century sails.
The entrance takes you into a nautical-themed room, dimly lit by a false ceiling overhead and porthole-shaped windows. The ambiance is moody and dramatic, taking patrons on a journey through the dark Pacific seas. Watch out for tentacled sea monsters creeping along the walls.
The bar curates an inventive offering of drinks suitable for diverse palates, tied together by a nautical theme. The Captain’s Call section includes bright, bold cocktail options such as Island Bird alongside smoky concoctions such as La Vela. Other drink options are wine, beer, and spirit-free refreshments.
The galley serves an upscale twist on comfort food, a fusion of American, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean cuisine. Offerings include halloumi fries, za’atar chicken nuggets, and fried pickles. The dishes incorporate fresh herbs and spices such as harissa, mint, and za’atar, giving the menu a fresh, aromatic quality.
The Captain’s Quarters recommends that you book before arrival. Call their number or use their website portal to reserve seats. It is worth noting that the speakeasy observes Happy Hours between 6 and 6 PM on Tuesdays to Sundays. Visit during this time for 50 percent off on the drinks menu.
2. The Space Pad
- Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Sunday: 5 PM – 11 PM; Thursday, Friday, Saturday: 5 PM – 12 AM
- Website: https://thespacepad.com/
- Phone Number: (760) 688-6078
- Reservations Policy: Call for Reservations
- Address: 406 Mission Ave, Oceanside, CA 92054
- Open in Google Maps
For an experience that is truly otherworldly, The Space Pad is your place to go. Nestled in a 500-square-foot space that was once a comic book store, The Space Pad has a quirky, futuristic vibe. The area accommodates about 24 guests, so it is recommended to call for reservations.
In case you didn’t know, The Space Pad was set up by an alien species known as Rillisporians They made contact with planet Earth in the 1940’s and enjoyed the architecture so much, that they set up a bar to commemorate their trip.
You’ll find The Space Bar behind Kilowatt Brewing's existing tasting room on Mission Avenue in downtown Oceanside. As you enter through a secret passageway, you will be taken to the top of the tower in a “space elevator.”
As the elevator door opens, patrons will find themselves transported to the alien planet Rillispore. The walls are adorned with Rillisporian lifeforms and features from the planet. The aesthetics combine the 1940’s Atomic-era styles and techy space-age elements.
Food and drinks are served through a special cable car rocket delivery system which is embedded in the ceiling. The menu is out of this world, with neon drinks that look like lava lamps to cocktails that bubble in the vessel.
3. Forbidden Cove
Image sourced from: https://forbiddencovesd.com.
- Hours: Wednesday, Thursday: 5 PM – 11 PM: Friday, Saturday: 5 PM – 12 AM
- Website: https://forbiddencovesd.com/
- Phone Number: (858) 715-3998
- Reservations Policy: Reservations Encouraged
- Address: 7576 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92111
- Open in Google Maps
Forbidden Cove (not so forbidden!) is located inside Kilowatt Brewery around the Kearny Mesa neighborhood. It offers an immersive tropical experience inspired by Tiki culture and its elements. The bar interior features Polynesian decor, with features such as mats, bamboo, and carvings.
The lighting consists of dim, colorful globe lights creating a fun, exotic vibe. A hall of mirrors installation offers a sense of excitement, reflecting the dancing lights to create an environment that feels psychedelic. This is where the forbidden element emerges from, perhaps.
As you settle deeper into the bar environment, you’ll realize that the decor is a mysterious twist on the fun and happy “Aloha” environment.
Forbidden Cove has a varied drinks menu that specializes in tiki-inspired cocktails and craft beer offerings. The speakeasy recommends getting the bartender's opinion for a drink that speaks to you. There is no food menu yet, so you’ll have to take your munching outside of Forbidden Cove.
The bar seats 35 people, making it preferable to book a reservation before arrival. Also note that the speakeasy recommends visiting with smaller groups to avoid seating troubles.
4. Realm of the 52 Remedies
Image sourced from: https://www.52remedies.com/.
- Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 5 PM – 12 AM; Friday, Saturday: 5 PM – 2 AM
- Website: https://www.52remedies.com/
- Phone Number: (619) 780-6675
- Reservations Policy: Reservations Encouraged
- Address: 4805 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
- Open in Google Maps
At Realm of the 52 Remedies, a fun night out looks like a healing experience, as ancient time-tested remedies meet modern indulgence. The speakeasy location is hidden inside The Common Theory Public House, a large brewpub. Interestingly, the entrance to the Realm of the 52 Remedies is conspicuous, hidden in plain sight. It is an invite to those who let their curiosity take the reins, beckoning them to give in to their eagerness.
This obvious entryway leads patrons into a brightly lit apothecary lined with vials of ancients that stir a herbal scent into the air. This is where the fun begins.
The apothecary leads to a path with a series of hidden surprises, which ends to reveal the “Realm,” a space inspired by the 1920s Far East aesthetic. The decor is lavish with a sense of modest grandiosity, something that only masters of Chinese and Korean design can replicate.
The cocktail menu comes with the tagline “for your ailments,” showcasing flavors such as ginger, lemon, mint, and green tea. Offerings also include more classic drink options such as wine, sake, mojito, and daiquiri. The food menu is labeled “Nourishments,” reflecting the healthful and hearty nature of the servings.
Be sure to make your reservation with the website before going to avoid lines.
5. Occulto477
- Hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 6:00 pm to 12:00 am
- Website: https://www.oculto477.com/
- Phone Number: (619) 255-2090
- Reservations Policy: Reservation-Only Experience
- Address: 2414 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110
- Open in Google Maps
Oculto477 is where deep occultic mysteries meet rich historical narratives. Tucked in the popular Tahona restaurant, and located right next to a cemetery wall, Oculto477 curates the true speakeasy experience.
If you dare to enter, you must prepare to confess one of the seven capital sins. After that, you will be greeted by a dim, cozy space lined with plush sofas.
The drinks menu curates a wide selection of mezcal sourced from Mexico. Cocktails include creative drinks such as Oculto Zombie and Garden of Death.
If you feel brave and bold, you can also request the Dealer’s Choice, which is a custom drink prepared by the bartender. To pair with the Mexican-inspired drinks, the food menu includes tacos and ceviches.
How to Find a New Speakeasy in San Diego?
The hushed nature of speakeasies can make it seem difficult to find any new ones. Additionally, new speakeasies rely on word of mouth for patronage.
San Diego curates a wide range of speakeasy experiences that can be difficult to keep track of and follow. However, you can ask active participants in the speakeasy scene to keep you updated or reach out to bars for any new speakeasy scoops.
You can also keep up with all the latest underground happenings in San Diego through our speakeasy guides at Speakeasy Co. We curate the most thrilling speakeasy experiences for you to explore.
Find the Best San Diego Speakeasy
While you may find it confusing to settle on a speakeasy that best resonates with you, it can help to visit the website and read through its rules and menu. It will help you get an idea of their environment, dress code, and atmosphere.
