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Alchemy Choose Thy Poison

4.7 (174 reviews)
Closed • 11:00 am - 2:00 pm, 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM

By appointment only

Updated 1 month ago

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ALCHEMY CHOOSE THY POISON ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Casual
Intimate
Dogs allowed
Outdoor seating

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Smoked Tuna Empanadas. IG @mel_foodie_ventures
Melanie P.

Saw this place through IG and had it saved to take the girls out for dinner. This place is tucked away in a patio space next to an Airbnb and a nearby apartment complex. It was small and intimate with interesting art throughout. I love the open, airy but private vibe of this place. Recommend making reservations since this is a small place but you may score some seats if you come early enough. We came during happy hour which was half off the entire happy hour menu! They didn't skimp on the food and cocktail selections which happens a lot at other establishments. What I ordered - Baja Caesar - Instead of romaine, this came with spring greens. It still worked, the dressing was lightly coated and it was a refreshing start to my meal. Bloodstone with gin - A pretty drink that was delicious to drink! Ceviche Negro - Love the freshness of the seafood and the squid ink sauce! One of my favorite dishes. Smoked Tuna Empanadas - I had to order another one! It was that good! Never had smoked tuna in empanada form and this was absolutely fantastic! The delicate crisp of the empanada paired with the smoky flavor of the tuna is another dish that you must put in your rotation! Oxtail Tetalas - The meat was tender and masa was perfectly crisp! Zarandeado - This one was a little too salty for me, which was a sentiment also shared with those in my group. Braseado - This also was super tender! Loved the mole, which was smooth and flavorful. Dessert - Rose Tarts - A pretty handheld dessert that was tart with raspberry flavoring. This was sweet but not overly sweet. I'm not a fan of fondant frosting, so it wasn't my fave. Tres Leches Cake - This dessert is the one to order. Perfectly moist and soft, this is the perfect ending to the night. Loved the experience, we got a random cat that decided to visit us while we dined :). There were quite a few flies around, so this took away some of the ambiance. I would definitely return for their elixir hour!

Menu
Jeff B.

Incredible flavors, masterful drinks and the service is a cut above. I can't wait to come back, and you shouldn't wait to go. This is a hidden gem

Willis N.

Best elevated Mexican food I ever had. The restaurant was situated in a very strange setup lol it was quite literally a hole in the way alleyway seating embedded in a living complex. That in mind, every single dish shook what I knew about Mexican cuisine. Every bite, a bold tangy and bright fiesta to the senses. They sure do love their mole here. Their drinks were great too. I don't typically order spicy alcohol but our server was very enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and polite about his recommendations so I couldn't refuse. When even the servers care about what youre eating/drinking you know its gon be fire

B&B Building
Jeng L.

While searching for an up-and-coming Mexican restaurant for a family trip to San Diego, I discovered Alchemy and was immediately drawn to photos of its photogenic dishes. Alchemy is a hole-in-the-wall spot with big ambitions, working to transform both the neighborhood and expectations of Mexican cuisine. The restaurant is set up in the courtyard of a small B&B. Aside from the kitchen and restroom, all seating is outdoors, with about half a dozen heaters keeping guests warm. I suppose San Diego seldom rain except this December. While waiting for food, you'll notice interesting art installations (particularly snakes) and white sage, burned wood scattered throughout the space adding to the experience. The flavors absolutely live up to the hype. Eddie--the owner, chef, waiter, bartender, and janitor all in one--was constantly moving and humbly delivered the best meal we had in San Diego. My two favorite dishes were the snapper ceviche and the huarache. The ceviche, completely coated in black ink, was extraordinary. Its depth of flavor came from a thoughtful mix of cucumber, mango, onion, cilantro, avocado, chiltepin, and charred pineapple ash. The huarache featured generous portions of braised beef, paired with beans, pickled tomatillo, and other fresh elements that brought balance and brightness to the dish. The food at Alchemy isn't typical Mexican fare, it is designed to feel like something you'd find in the chef's hometown of Mexico City. I highly recommend visiting Alchemy if you're looking for a memorable and exploratory dining experience while in San Diego.

michelle n.

Came for the name, stayed for the vibes. Alchemy Thy Poison is tucked near Chicano Park and feels like a hidden atrium inside a small apartment complex. Intimate, artsy, and low-lit--very moody in a good way. Food and drinks were delicious, though a bit on the pricier side. Perfect for a date night, catching up with a friend, or a small group where you actually want to hear each other talk. Only real con: parking is tight and limited. You'll likely need to park in the surrounding neighborhood, so give yourself extra time. Worth it--but plan ahead.

Desert
Salman S.

Stopped by Alchemy based on the glowing review one of my foodie friends gave it. We ordered the "Ritual of the Tides," a 4-course dining experience. The cost was $65 per guest, which I thought was very reasonable for the quality and amount of food provided. Diners select one option from each of the first three courses. I -- Awakening Crema Poblana Baja Cesar II -- The Waters Empanadas de Atún Ceviche Crudo III -- The Fire Huarache Tetela Zarandeado Braseado IV -- Sweet Transmutation Chef's Dessert We chose the crema poblano for the soup and the Caesar salad. The soup was delicious with a good charred smoky poblano taste. The Caesar salad was also fresh and flavorful. For the second course we chose the crudo and ceviche, both were outstanding with the crudo taking the win. The ceviche I felt needed a bit more sourness to it. Final course was zarandeado and braseado. Both were cooked to perfection with the beef just breaking apart with a slight pull from a fork. The desert was a tart that we shared that was a lovely ending to the meal. Overall quite the experience. The restaurant is small with maybe six tables or so but has a nice modern feel to it. Will be coming back.

Crema Poblana
Roland R.

Came here on a Saturday night. When you first arrive it's tucked away in a neighborhood in barrio Logan, easy to miss. Service was very prompt and attentive, never had an empty glass of water to give an idea. Food was outstanding! We ordered the tasting menu which was a 4 course meal and we were full but didn't feel like we over ate. The restaurant itself was different, but definitely liked the vibe.

Grecia I.

Imagine an intimate, laid-back, trendy restaurant... with hotel rooms basically making eye contact with your table. You could literally eat, book, and be in bed in 30 seconds lol. Such a unique experience. Food: hands down stand out flavors, presentation, portions, taste *chefs kiss* we tried so many amazing dishes. My top 3 recs: 1)Ceviche Negro: Snapper, cucumber, mango, salsa Ouroboros (squid ink, tamari, charred pineapple ash), avocado, chiltepin, morita oil 2) Braseado: Slow-braised beef over a silky butternut squash puree, with charred brussel sprouts and a rich mole negro salsa. A deep, soulful composition of earth. fire, and time. 3) Dessert: Pistacho crusted ricotta cake berries fresas con crema with added blackberries Drinks: we tried the seasonal menu but they cocktails were so fresh and delicious. Service: Our server was awesome, knowledgeable, attentive, and fun! The menu varies but trust the chef and team know exactly what they're doing. I'm still full but also dreaming of the next visit! Ha Enjoy :)

OXTAIL TETELAS - the oxtail just melted in your mouth and the sauce, I just wanted to drink it - 15/10!
Jillian C.

Alchemy, Choose Thy Poison is a truly memorable dining experience that brings bold, authentic Mexico City flavors meets speakeasy vibes. From the walk to the restaurant to the absolutely melt in your mouth OXTAIL TETELAS to the specialty seasonal cocktails, everything hits the spot TIMES A MILLION. This restaurant feels like you've been transported straight to Mexico City right here in San Diego. This charming, intimate spot in Logan Heights is truly a hidden gem - one that we secretly want to keep to ourselves - but we can't be that selfish not to share Alchemy with our fellow foodies. Every bite and sip completely blew our taste buds to new levels. Chef/Owner Eddy gave us an experience we will truly never forget - tell him I told you to stop by! We ordered: Bonesmoke Dark Aether Elixir of Life CREMA DE POBLANO - Roasted corn and poblano soup served with a freshly made bread made of sourdough and blue corn masa - 10/10 OXTAIL TETELAS - the oxtail just melted in your mouth and the sauce, I just wanted to drink it - 15/10! HUARACHE DE RES - this is a fancy take on a Mexican flatbread - 9/10 ALBÓNDI-SMASH BURGER - What Chef Eddy craves for the late night munchies 10/10 Tres Leches Cake Follow @allthingsfoodinsandiego for more must try San Diego restaurants, date night ideas, food experiences, kid friendly spots, with a sprinkling of home-cooking!

Linz N.

Came for the first time tonight and was very impressed!! The space is tucked in the courtyard of a small condo type building resulting in an intimate experience with all the flavor and service and none of the pretense of some other places in town! First off, the El Duende cocktail was probably the best cocktail I've ever had (I subbed Mezcal for Tequila). So good I ordered in again for my 2nd drink! We had the Smoked Yellowtail empanadas, Ceviche Negro, and the Braseado and I'd order all of them again. The menu changes frequently and based on Alex's excitement for explaining the food and flavors to us i can tell the staff take pride in the recipes and preparation. Portions were larger than expected so 3 plates filled 2 of us up but I will be back to try the rest.

Zarandeado vegan  Adobo-marinated hibiscus with blistered sweet peppers, charred cherry tomatoes, crispy potato, and wilted chard.
L S.

From May 2025: Delicious vegan food prepared in surprisingly creative ways. Seating was in a mall courtyard packed with personality, people, plants, ar,and the satisfaction of drinking delicious wine while eating a well prepared meal.

Brandon M.

Went for Valentine's Day. Very small venue, so you'll need a reservation. Btw, the location is outside seating only. Very cold! Even with the outdoor heaters. They only had 1 server for all of their tables... Don't go hungry, as the portion sizes are small and the food takes a very long time (noticed that for other tables/guests too). Food was bomb . Could be 5 stars, but the long wait times and chasing down to server for updates on food, and only 1 server on one of the busiest dinner nights wasn't a good experience. Experience enhances food when done well, which was missed here. Also, when I made my reservation, they didn't tell me it would be a prefixed menu, which was also disappointing.

Braseado
Sabrina N.

What a gem. Such a cute lil spot, tucked away in a courtyard, only a few tables. The food was delicious! The service was fantastic (Leo was our server) Cocktails were amazing as well. Perfect place for an unexpected date night.

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Thank you Rachel & see you soon

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17 days ago

Amazing food and service. Come for the happy hour, great prices for some of the best food in SD

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Alchemy Choose Thy Poison Reviews in Other Languages

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My brother-in-law and I were looking for places to drink....And we just wanted somewhere chill. We…read moreknew that any bar by tacos el gordo would be too wild for us, so we walked a couple blocks and approached Noble Experiment. I would say this was probably our highlight of our trip in San Diego. Garrick, the bartender there, was super accommodating. Not only was he and the other bartender were making damn good drinks, they would legit talk to you. The ambiance of the place is cool too. Felt like I was going inside some continental room like John Wick. Definitely my vibe and definitely coming back. But if you ever get Garrick as your bartender, you're in for a treat!

The Noble Experiment: 9/10…read more Aesthetic & Ambiance: 9.5 - This place gives "speakeasy haunted mansion" vibes. You walk into the barrels, down the mirrors, and into the skull room...IYKYK no less. The waits to get very deadly so make sure to put your name on the list early. Service: 9/10 The host was chill, and we had Quintin as our mixologist. There are no menus he told us, he just went off of our flavors, and palate, so I can't really speak for how to order the same drink. First drink: 9/10 (profile) Vodka bases with cucumber and strawberry. Second drink: 8.5/10 (profile) Smokey, deep old fashion. Overall a MUST-GO to if you're in the area stopping by!

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False Idol - Isn't it gorgeous?!

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My False Idol experience was memorable, albeit blurry toward the end! My boyfriend and I had been…read moreon a half-day tour beforehand, but I saw that False Idol was near our hotel and I insisted we stop in for a cocktail before calling it a night. I knew it was a speakeasy but he did not. I was trying to double-check on my phone that Craft & Commerce was the right restaurant its housed in (yes) when he tried to jet set off down the block "to keep looking" rather than listen to me. I yelled, "MOTHER!" by accident and then he did truly leave me hahaha. He resurfaced a few minutes later, and then we walked in. It was 5:15 at the time, so 15 minutes after opening. I had NO IDEA how popular this spot was, nor anything about its nation-wide reputation. I actually didn't know that until two days ago when a Yelp-friend at home here in Richmond, Virginia, exclaimed excitedly when I told her we stopped in. The host who greeted us was kind, informed us there had been a line to get in that day, but that they had one barrel left; we jumped on it of course. It was happy hour, so the first cocktail I ordered was dirt cheap at $9. It was the Imperial Hawaiian with gin, rum, lemon, pineapple, and orgeat. I really shouldn't have ordered a second drink after that one, but I did have the classic Saturn later on in the night and it was absurdly good! Definitely my favorite of the two. The moody tiki vibe was so cool and fun. They even had frogs you could play on the tables. We had some fun neighbors too, which livened up the experience even more. We had a great time and both walked out heavily buzzed. We were asleep by 8 that night, but it was worth it!

False idol is a tucked away Hawaiian themed speakeasy behind a restaurant. Reservations are…read morerequired so be mindful of that before going. Once inside seating is first come first served so the place is insanely crowded with people trying to get drinks. Service is a little confusing as the waiters will come up to you with a menu asking for your order instead of an order at the bar type of thing. Once we actually got a seat things were okay. The menu is mostly rum drinks since this is a rum bar however since I'm not the biggest fan I ordered the only thing with tequila on the menu. My drink was actually really good, it was refreshing, not too sweet or strong at all. I just wish there would be more variety.

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Books & Records - Table setting

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My wife and I took a day trip down to San Diego to celebrate our 4 year anniversary, and somehow we…read morestumbled onto one of the highlights of the whole trip. We had spent most of the day around Bankers Hill and decided to grab an early dinner at Books & Records. Getting reservations was easy, but from the moment we walked in, the ambiance alone already had us sold. The place was still pretty quiet when we arrived, and to our surprise it was happy hour, so naturally we ordered a bunch of items off the menu along with drinks. Everything was ridiculously good. Not one miss. What really stood out though was the attention to detail. The host brought us a complimentary glass of champagne after hearing we were celebrating our anniversary. Small gesture, big impact. Stuff like that matters. As the night went on, the restaurant filled up, live music started playing, and the whole atmosphere just came alive. Our waiter never rushed us once, which made the experience feel even more intentional and relaxed. We were able to actually enjoy the moment instead of feeling pushed through dinner service. Good food is one thing. Great hospitality is another. This place gave us both. Next time we're in San Diego, we're absolutely making it a point to come back. Lovely spot. Lovely experience.

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Charade - In house artist during the jazz performance

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4.5(78 reviews)
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First time here. Definitely out of our comfort zone but enjoyed the show. Cas, Mj and Josie were…read moreamazing host and had great hospitality. Come visit!!!!!

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Alchemy Choose Thy Poison - mexican - Updated May 2026

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