Welcome to Waterfront Bar & Grill
San Diego's Oldest Tavern
Come visit us in Little Italy, the historic neighborhood in San Diego, and we'll make sure you have a great time.
The Waterfront opened in 1933, the year prohibition was repealed, and we've been having fun ever since. It's always been a place where everyone is welcome — opening at a time when the tuna industry was booming, serving fishermen and other hardworking folks some much-needed relaxation.
Things have changed so much since then, but not much has changed here. Soon The Waterfront will be open for 100 years, with so many amazing memories created in this tiny tavern.
Great food. Many drinks. True friends.
"Chill vibes, great playlist, open seating, open till 2am AND Guinness Draft?!? Def coming back for late-night shenanigans."
"A hidden gem. Food is great. Feels like a 5-star dive bar. Logan is great!"
"Very fun San Diego dive bar. Great prices on food and drinks. Had to try the tater tots — BEST ever!"
"Super cool place! Atmosphere was a total vibe! All the bartenders were so friendly. Loved Kat!"
EVERYTHING WATERFRONT
Menu, brunch, happy hour, sports, the patio, our history, parking, and the Q&A — all in one place.
- MenuBurgers, sliders, tots and the rest of the kitchen.
- BrunchWeekend brunch, Mexican plates, and morning drinks.
- Happy HourDaily deals on food and drinks.
- HappeningsWhat's on this week at the Waterfront.
- Waterfront HistorySan Diego's oldest tavern, opened the year prohibition ended.
- San Diego Guides & StoriesLong-form on Waterfront, Little Italy, and San Diego's oldest tavern.
- Waterfront FAQGuest questions and quick answers about the bar.
- Visit & ParkingAddress, hours, parking, and directions to Little Italy.
- Dog-Friendly PatioBring your dog — the patio is theirs too.
- Sports ViewingEvery screen, every game, every season.
- ContactPrivate events, buyouts, and general questions.
FREQUENTLY ASKED
- Is Waterfront Bar & Grill really San Diego's oldest bar?
- Yes. Waterfront Bar & Grill has been continuously open on the corner of Kettner Boulevard and Grape Street in Little Italy since 1933 — the year Prohibition ended — making it San Diego's oldest tavern. The full story is on our history page.
- Where is Waterfront Bar & Grill located in San Diego?
- We're at 2044 Kettner Blvd in Little Italy, San Diego — walking distance from Waterfront Park, the Cruise Terminal, and the Embarcadero, and about 1.8 miles from the airport. Hours, parking and directions are on the visit page.
- What are Waterfront Bar & Grill's hours?
- Open every day, 8am to 2am. Full kitchen the whole time — breakfast at 8am, late-night food until last call.
- Is Waterfront a good Little Italy sports bar?
- Yes — every Padres game, NFL Sunday Ticket, college football, and the 2026 FIFA World Cup play on our screens. See the sports page for what's on this week.
- Can I bring my dog to Waterfront Bar & Grill?
- Yes — dogs are welcome on the patio every day, water bowls at the door. Details on the dog-friendly page.
- Does Waterfront serve brunch and breakfast?
- Yes — breakfast at 8am every day, with a weekend Mexican brunch on Saturday and Sunday. Full menu on the brunch page.
GIVE THE GIFT OF GOOD TIMES
Whether it's a special occasion or a spontaneous gesture, a Waterfront gift card is always a hit. Use for drinks, food, or merchandise.
BUY A GIFT CARD NOW