Best of 13 gastropubs in East Village
Gastropubs in East Village are a foodie's paradise, offering a unique blend of upscale dining and casual pub atmosphere. These hotspots serve delectable dishes that are a step above typical bar fare, using locally sourced ingredients to create innovative and flavorful menus. With a vast selection of craft beers, fine wines, and signature cocktails, gastropubs in East Village provide a well-rounded dining experience for all tastes and preferences.
- 1. Neighborhood
- 2. Knotty Barrel in East Village
- 3. Social Tap San Diego
- 4. Bootlegger
- 5. Bottle Rocket Bar and Grill
- 6. Stout Public House
- 7. Noble Experiment
- 8. Water Grill San Diego
- 9. Tajima Ramen East Village
- 10. The Mission/ East Village
- 11. Broken Yolk Cafe in East Village
- 12. Tivoli Bar and Grill
- 13. MAKE pizza+salad
1. Neighborhood
Spacious patio with views of the city

The atmosphere at the establishment was enjoyable, making it a great spot for a date night. The service was quick and efficient, even on a busy night. Our drinks were a bit too sweet for our preference, but we were confident that the staff would adjust the sugar level if we requested it. The bar had a social atmosphere, with a good amount of standing room, suggesting that it could be a good place to meet new people.
The drinks at the establishment were highly praised, but the loud music made it difficult to hear the staff and communicate with each other. During our visit, I asked for a specific drink and received a mojito-like drink instead, which, while tasty, was not particularly memorable. However, my second drink was excellent, with a unique combination of flavors that I appreciated. Despite the noise level, the establishment proved to be an enjoyable experience overall.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
- Affordable Nightlife
2. Knotty Barrel in East Village
Extensive local craft beer selection

The food at this establishment is delicious and receives high praise from guests. Popular menu items include chicken pot pie, various burgers, and traditional bar food. My group of four thoroughly enjoyed our meals, which consisted of wings, a sausage platter, steak sandwiches, and fish & chips.
In addition to the great food, the atmosphere is excellent, providing a welcoming and enjoyable dining experience. The service is also commendable, with staff providing attentive and friendly service to guests. To complement the meal, a selection of seriously good cocktails and beers are available to order.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
4. Bootlegger
Prohibition-era themed bar with handcrafted cocktails and a hidden entrance

This location is an excellent addition to the East Village. Upon arrival, the staff was quick to open the doors and welcome patrons. The establishment's appearance is attractive, and the food is delicious. Specifically, the burger and fries were highly praised for their quality. The service was top-notch, with Whitney being mentioned as an excellent waitress. Interestingly, a familiar face from another favorite restaurant was spotted, adding to the overall positive experience.
The atmosphere of this place is described as chill, comfortable, and positive, leaving guests pleased and satisfied. Some even go as far as to call it perfect or great. With such an inviting and relaxed ambiance, this new establishment is quickly becoming a popular spot in the East Village.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
5. Bottle Rocket Bar and Grill
Spacious patio, pool tables, and sports on numerous TVs.

Bottle Rocket Bar and Grill is a welcoming neighborhood spot located at 805 16th St, San Diego, CA 92101, USA. It is known for its energetic and lively atmosphere, making it a popular destination for sports enthusiasts and food lovers. The bar offers a wide selection of beers, cocktails, and bar food, including classic American fare such as delicious wings, burgers, and fries. While some reviews suggest that the wings may be slightly overcooked, the food is generally well-received.
The service at Bottle Rocket Bar and Grill is exceptional, with friendly and attentive bartenders who go above and beyond to ensure a great experience. The atmosphere is engaging and vibrant, with plenty of TVs to catch all the action and trivia nights that are popular among locals and visitors. Overall, Bottle Rocket Bar and Grill is the perfect spot for those looking to enjoy drinks and a casual dining experience with excellent service.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
6. Stout Public House
Warm atmosphere, extensive beer selection, and Irish-themed dishes

The Irish Pub is a casual and unassuming public house offering a variety of beers and a cider on tap. They also provide simple and high-quality food options. The chicken pot pie, chicken tenders, and sweet potato fries are specifically recommended from their menu.
The food served at the Irish Pub includes standard Irish and English menu items, such as Shepherd's Pie, fish and chips, corned beef and cabbage, and Guinness stew. The ingredients used in their dishes are always fresh, and the portions are satisfactory. The pub is known for its uncomplicated and typical Irish/English cuisine.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
7. Noble Experiment
Hidden behind a secret door in a gourmet hot dog shop

Visit this hidden lounge, accessible only through The Neighborhood, for a unique cocktail experience. With a capacity of just 35, it offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for quiet conversations without the need for raised voices. The bartenders are skilled at crafting personalized drinks based on customer preferences.
The cocktails have received mixed reviews, with some customers praising the unique and delicious flavors, while others were taken aback by the unexpected taste of absinthe in their drinks. Despite this, the lounge remains a popular destination for those seeking a new and exciting cocktail experience. If you're a fan of cocktails and enjoy trying new concoctions, this lounge is definitely worth checking out.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
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8. Water Grill San Diego
Exceptional fresh fish selection, expert preparation

Water Grill San Diego is a renowned gastropub located in the Gaslamp District, known for its exceptional seafood-focused dishes. The venue offers a diverse menu, with something to suit every palate, and the service is consistently excellent.
The gastropub boasts a lively atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for social gatherings or special occasions. The food is the star of the show, featuring only the freshest seafood and highest quality ingredients. Water Grill San Diego's commitment to excellence makes it a must-visit destination for seafood lovers.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- High-End
9. Tajima Ramen East Village
Delicious handmade noodles and rich broth

Tajima provides a wide selection of Japanese cuisine at affordable prices, catering to the varied tastes and preferences of its customers. Takoyaki, a popular Japanese street food, is included in their menu and was particularly enjoyable. The quality of this dish is notable and worth trying, making Tajima a recommended destination for those in the area.
The diversity of Tajima's offerings is sure to satisfy any party's cravings for Japanese cuisine. Takoyaki, a delicious and authentic Japanese street food, is one of their standout dishes. As a result, diners can expect to enjoy a variety of flavors and dishes at Tajima, ensuring a positive dining experience for all.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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10. The Mission/ East Village
Spacious interior with a lively bar and bougainvillea-covered patio

The food served at the establishment received mixed reviews from customers. Some were disappointed in their breakfast orders, such as scrambled eggs and pancakes, while others had a more positive experience with dishes like steak and eggs and sweet Hawaiian Portuguese Linguica. Unfortunately, the coffee served was described as burnt and bitter, which may have detracted from the overall meal experience.
In terms of service, the staff was generally considered prompt and friendly. However, there were some reviewers who felt that customer service needed improvement. It is unclear what specific issues they encountered, but it's possible that there were inconsistencies in service or other problems that affected their dining experience. Overall, while the service had its strengths, there is still room for improvement in certain areas.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
- Dinner
11. Broken Yolk Cafe in East Village
Local favorite, homemade recipes, extensive menu

The Broken Yolk Cafe, located in the historic Gaslamp Quarter of San Diego, is a must-visit for breakfast and brunch enthusiasts. This popular breakfast spot is known for its generous portions and diverse menu that features traditional breakfast items as well as unique dishes. On a recent visit, I was impressed with the variety of options available, ranging from classic breakfast fare to lunch and dinner items.
I ordered the chicken fajita omelette, which came with fresh salsa, sour cream, and flour tortillas. The dish was generously sized, and the combination of flavors was delicious. The chicken was tender and well-seasoned, and the salsa added a nice kick to the dish. The service was also excellent, with friendly and attentive staff who made sure that we had everything we needed throughout our meal. Overall, I would highly recommend the Broken Yolk Cafe for anyone looking for a satisfying breakfast or brunch in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Downtown Spots
12. Tivoli Bar and Grill
Friendly service, extensive drink menu

The oldest pub in the Gaslamp Quarter was our destination, and despite the influx of customers during a baseball game, we were promptly served. The bar staff was friendly and attentive, making our experience enjoyable. Although we only ordered beer, the pub offers a variety of bar fare for patrons.
As a standard bar, this location provides decent food and drinks, making it a good spot to hang out before a Padres game. The staff members were particularly friendly and created a welcoming atmosphere. The food looked appetizing, adding to the overall positive impression of the establishment. In summary, this pub is worth visiting for its friendly service and welcoming environment.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
- Dinner
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13. MAKE pizza+salad
Interactive salad bar with various options

MAKE pizza+salad is an establishment that offers a gastropub experience with its combination of delicious pizzas and a great selection of craft beers. This makes it an ideal spot for beer enthusiasts who enjoy trying out new and unique brews to complement their meal.
The craft beer options at MAKE pizza+salad are carefully curated to pair well with their pizzas, adding an extra layer of flavor to each bite. Whether you're a fan of hoppy IPAs, smooth stouts, or crisp lagers, MAKE pizza+salad has something for everyone. So if you're looking for a place to enjoy great food and drinks in a gastropub atmosphere, MAKE pizza+salad is definitely worth checking out.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
3. Social Tap San Diego
Spacious patio, daily specials, and game area
This establishment offers a sports bar experience with a twist, providing customers with an exceptional dining experience as they watch their favorite teams. The service here is mostly commendable, with staff being attentive, efficient, and courteous. However, there are a few customer complaints about inadequate service and lack of attention from servers.
At this elevated bar scene, diners can enjoy top-notch food and drinks while catching up on sports games. Though many patrons praise the service for its efficiency and attentiveness, some have criticized it for occasional lapses in attention from servers, diminishing the overall experience. Despite this, the establishment strives to provide a memorable experience for its guests.
TOPICS
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beer bars in East Village San Diego