BEST BARS IN LITTLE ITALY
An honest local's guide to where to drink in Little Italy — written by the people who actually drink there.
Little Italy went from a working tuna-fishing neighborhood to one of San Diego's densest food-and-drink corridors. The good news: there are still real bars in here, not just restaurants with a bar shoved against the wall. Below are six spots worth going to, what each is best for, and the honest version of what you're walking into.
WATERFRONT BAR & GRILL
Little Italy's anchor. Opened the year Prohibition ended and hasn't stopped pouring since. Real bar, full kitchen, breakfast at 8am, last call at 2am. No reservations, no dress code, no $22 cocktails — just a stool, a draft, and 91 years of regulars. The smash burger and tater tots have their own following.
BORN & RAISED
Consortium Holdings' love letter to mid-century steakhouses. Pricey, dressy, and worth it once. The rooftop bar is one of the best cocktail rooms in the neighborhood.
UNDERBELLY
Ramen and one of the best craft beer lists in Little Italy. Industrial space, fast service, late kitchen.
IRONSIDE FISH & OYSTER
The piranha-skull wall is the photo. The dozen oysters and the dirty martini are the reason. The bar seats are first-come first-served and worth the wait.
KETTNER EXCHANGE
Across the street from the Waterfront. Multi-level, big patio, deep cocktail and wine list. Late-night happy hour runs after 10pm.
PRINCESS PUB & GRILLE
The neighborhood's British pub. Real cask ales, full English breakfast on weekends, and the place to watch Premier League matches in Little Italy.
COME SEE FOR YOURSELF
Waterfront Bar & Grill · 2044 Kettner Blvd, Little Italy · Open daily 8am–2am. Walk in.