Walk in boom! Service. Not the "we'll get to you eventually" kind. I'm talking attentive, friendly, actually-happy-you're-there energy. The kind where you don't have to do that awkward half-hand raise like you're trying to answer a question in class. Now let's talk drinks... specifically the gin and tonics. I don't know what kind of wizardry is happening behind that bar, but these were hands down the best I've ever had. Crisp, balanced, refreshing--like if a spa day and a cocktail had a baby. Had a few (for research purposes, obviously), and every single one hit. Brunch? Oh, they didn't come to play. The lemon poppy seed pancakes... I'm still thinking about them. Actually, I might never stop thinking about them. Fluffy, citrusy, just the right amount of sweet these pancakes didn't just raise the bar, they are the bar now. Then the breakfast sandwich... listen. This thing had range. Savory, a little sweet, perfectly balanced like it went to culinary therapy. Every bite made me pause and reconsider my life choices up until that moment. Why don't I eat here every weekend? Overall, Counterpoint is that rare spot that nails everything easy parking, killer service, insane food, and drinks that make you question every other gin and tonic you've ever had. 10/10. No notes. Just bring me back... and maybe order two pancake plates. Trust me. read more

Counterpoint - Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

Stop in here with a friend before heading to downtown and was able to find an empty seat upstairs. I immediately loved the ambience and atmosphere of this place. It felt very homey and warm. The menu had a bunch of good looking items, but we went with the brussels sprouts to start and then my friend had a cheeseburger and I got the chicken sandwich. The Brussels sprouts were flavorful, but overall very saucy. I did miss the element of crunch to a roasted brussels sprout and at times it felt like it was just drowning in sauce. When the waiter brought us our entrées, he asked if we ordered a burger and sandwich to which we said yes, however when I took a bite of mine, I realized it was the salmon sandwich, not the fried chicken. We flagged the waiter down, and it turns out it was meant for the table next to us. He made a comment about why we would say that was our food and lie, and it felt rude because we responded to his question that I did fact order a sandwich not realizing he handed me salmon. I ended up enjoying my fried chicken sandwhich, but the highlight was definitely the fries which I would come back for. read more

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If you know, you know. Our favorite haunt for comfort food in SD. Good vibes, good food, great people. Mandatory: pour one for Dave. #LLTB read more

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I love counterpoint. It's a great little local bar in golden hill. It's small enough to have that dive feel, but the food is upscale and they have great weekday specials. Service is fun and light. read more

I've been here numerous throughout the years and today was kind of disappointed because I ordered a medium steak and a piece of my steak was raw and because the fries were too salty. They changed the menu yesterday so if you go just know it might be different.The service is always great though and the ambiance is okay because sometimes the music is too loud and when you are in a date it might make it a little weird especially if it's your first with them, totally not talking with experience. Anyways I'm going to keep going but I just hope they see this review so that they can try to do a little bit better. If you pay 30 bucks for a steak and fries you expect to enjoy it, not be thrown off, cause it prob was better to go to Alberto's and spend half of the money and enjoy your dinner. read more

Counterpoint - Steak - Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

Great food and fun atmosphere :-) Service staff is friendly and efficient. A little neighborhood gem. read more

Counterpoint in Golden Hill has a warm and soulful vibe that feels inviting due to the openness of the restaurant and friendly staff. Highly recommend the cheese curds as an appetizer. They are golden, crispy outside, and oozy gooey inside. The Brined Chicken & Waffle Benedict has a delicious highly brined juicy chicken, smoky/sweet bourbon waffles. It is topped with smooth, spicy hollandaise, drizzled with honey, and every bite is rich, savory, and a little sweet, topped by two poached eggs. The home fries are golden crispy and seasoned perfectly. Overall it is a comforting and satisfying dish. The Carnitas Pork Hash is served on cast iron plate with flavorful carnitas piled on top of home fries, bell peppers and caramelized onions. The two eggs, cooked any way you like, bring a richness and creaminess to the dish. Hearty and bold, it's a flavorful option when you're after something filling and delicious. I highly recommend this meal if you are sure what to order on their brunch menu. read more

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Love this place, the staff are amazing. Food and drinks have always been on point. I asked for a spicy marg and it was good but not a spicy as I wanted, but Katie asked me if it was spicy enough and she added more thai bitters to make sure it was and it was perfect. Very attentive. Please do not pass this place up. This is coming from someone who manages bars and restaurants. read more

One of my favorite breakfast spots in San Diego. I was introduced to Counterpoint a little over a year ago and have been here 10+ times since. A staple for a Saturday brunch with my partner or friends! Tonight we came for dinner and was also (surprised but not) with how good dinner was! It was a Monday night so we ordered a BBQ Smash Burger (a special that came w/ fries), Ahi Tuna Tacos, and the Shrimp Scampi all to share. They graciously split the burger and shrimp scampi into 2 servings, which was such a bonus and not asked for at all. All the staff does a little bit of everything and is lighthearted and funny. The owner, Cam, takes pride in his restaurant as well as his staff and quality of food and it SHOWS. Will forever be a regular here. 10/10. read more

Counterpoint - Bloody Mary + Irish Coffees - Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

We were kinda driving around aimlessly and found our way in the neighborhood! I totally forgot that they reopened...even more forgetful of my last visit back in June! Friendly service and our corner table was available. They have changed the menu a little, but it's good not too much. We shared the kale salad and it was great that they split it for us! I got the shrimp scampi on angel hair, and it was sooooooo good! Some places don't give you enough shrimp but they were plentiful! S.D. ordered the birria tacos, which were new. He thought they were really good! I tried the broth and it was delicious! I was also glad they still had the Malbec from France. I noticed that they refinished the outside tables. I didn't go in and take a look at the new construction, but I'm sure it looks great! Three different workers took care of us, with Caleb stalling for time because there was a big family order at the same time. Which was the only issue because this family was loud and obnoxious, and complained about Luigi's up the street. It's over and done, let it go! LOL! Definitely looking forward to coming back! Cako Approves! read more

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counterpoint is such a hidden gem! I live in the area and had been wanting to check it out forever. Went on a Saturday during brunch time and it was super chill, got sat right away. The chilaquiles were good! Also feel like they were served different compared to other spots but I enjoyed them. The service was great, our server was friendly and knowledgeable! Can't wait to come back and try different items on the menu. read more

Counterpoint - Chilaquiles - Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

Great bar with good food and drinks! The bartenders and servers are cool and nice to talk to. Prices are good, lots of options from Russian river brewery if you like Pliny. The drinks are great here as well, got the Brooklyn music cocktail. The pizza flatbread is a good choice to share! read more

Counterpoint - Pizza flatbread - Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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Really good food and service will definitely be back, bartenders were really attentive and handled everywith care. The upstairs is a good place if you want a quiet setting read more

Counterpoint - Shrimp scampi - Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

First time here and I was after the coveted Pliny the Younger beer. Showed up early because with anything limited it's bound to sell out quickly. Guessing everyone had the same idea too as it was packed, outside, inside and the loft area. Our party waited around a while tables or bar seating to free up. During that time the bartenders asked us if we wanted a pint, which was very accommodating of them. Loads of Russian River beers on tap, as well as others, to choose from. Fortunately a booth opened up as more of our party strolled in. Decided on a burger with fries just to keep me fed during this beer session, standard bar fare that didn't disappoint. When it was time for the release the team handled it exceptionally well, pouring everyone waiting in line (that proceeded out the door) a glass, ensuring all the patrons had a chance to try it. Ordered 4 more rounds of Pliny (1/2 pints only) among the party of 5. It was worth the wait and provided good times. Shoutout to everyone at Counterpoint, this was one of the smoothest releases I've been too! read more

My wife and I absolutely loved this place. Stumbles in late night and we're kindly greeted by the friendly staff.food and drinks were amazing and affordable. Loveeeed the read more

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This is the type of restaurant and bar everyone wants in their neighborhood but also kind of wants to keep a secret. It's warm and small enough for date night also a great spot to meet friends at a bar without having to eat bar food. The staff is like a family and they treat their guests like good friends, and it's not owned by one of the generic restaurant groups which is rad. Everything on the menu is insanely good and cooked from scratch. They make my favorite burger in all of San Diego and their fries are also #1 in my book (think a less salty and crispier version of McDonald's). If I'm feeling healthy the Kale and Farro salad luckily haunts my dreams, as do the Brussels sprouts (fried veggie is healthy). I don't think a thing on the menu is over $20 which is pretty cool this day and age for quality $#it. Trust me, or don't and keep the seats open for the rest of us! read more

The drinks, service and conversation were an 11/10. Couldn't recommend this spot more. Shout out to the staff and owner. Can't wait to go back. read more

Ambiance: The place is very spacious and beautiful. Its reminds me of a beach house with there also being an upstairs for more busier hours. Theres a lot of room and theres even tables outsides for people to sit at! Theres even a bar for customers there as well! Food: French Bacon w/ Bacon [4/5] [$17] The french toast was delicious! I didn't know jelly would've been slathered on it though the menu didn't say that and it looks slightly sloppy to be honest but the taste was definitely there! Service: The service was fast and efficient, the workers are very kind and welcoming as well. This is a neat little gem in Golden hill, the food and service is wonderful and I'd highly suggest coming here for some delicious french toast or drinks! I'd love to come back next time I visit California! read more

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Okay, here's the thing. I took a bite of my ahi tuna steak sandwich, and it was good! Nice tuna, good aioli and crunchy slaw. But... I then took a bite of my girlfriend's Chicken and Cheese Tortellini and it was soooo much better. Another friend ordered the Cheesesteak sandwich and it was much better than my order. So, overall, I know the food here is great but I ordered the wrong thing unfortunately. I would definitely come back. read more

Counterpoint - Blackened ahi sandwich - Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

Awww man!!! What happened to you? Granted, it had been a good solid year since I have been here, but what happened?? Arrived last night at 5:30. Server arrived promptly, but placed the dirtiest menus on my table! I feel like he noticed it and immediately covered it. Not took it away to get me a clean one...nope hid it under the others. While the other menus have also seen better days! Where is your pride? Based on this I wanted to leave, but was waiting on a friend. Tried to contact him. Needed WiFi password (which I have previously received). Was told they don't have WiFi as it interferes with cable. Ummmmm.....what??!! This Place is walking distance for me. My neighbor bar/restaurant to go to. Thinking I've stayed away for this past year for good reason. Most likely not returning either. read more

Counterpoint - Menus - Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

This place is honestly a hidden gem! My friends and I have been looking for a good low key brunch spot that's not too busy. This place is amazing, from the service to the drinks to the food - all 3 met our expectations. My favorite drinks was their blood Mary and their house made dirty martini and my friends fav was the Killshot. The chicken and waffles Benedict was delish as well as the breakfast burrito and the carnitas hash. 10/10 recommend this place! read more

My first time ordering food here was hands down 10/10. I had only ever had the time to stop by for a quick beer but now I can't imagine not ordering the food. The chorizo flatbread was stellar with a great homemade crust! Also the Brussels with the homemade kimchi sauce was so creative and delicious. read more

Counterpoint - Brussels sprouts with kimchi sauce - Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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Yes the food was good and the drinks were great. That said last night we (group of friends and myself) had the purest form of hospitality. When great hospitality presents itself you feel valued and cared for. It shows itself when someone looks at you and asks "how do I make their moment better". We had the great pleasure of getting to connect with the owner and one of his fine team members and it was a wonderful evening. If you are looking for a local spot that is owned by a local who is wanting to pour into their community then Counterpoint is a great choice. It was one of the highlights of our evening and we will be coming back for sure. Thank you Cam and Adele for helping make memories. Cheers! read more

My favorite spot in Golden Hill. amazing staff, ambiance, great food (cheese curds) and the drinks are yummy also.

Ambiance was great! Parking on the street was easy enough, and staff was friendly. Cheeseburger was so oily and didnt have fresh veggies on it. There was no lettuce no tomato, it was gross tbh. My hamburger bun was coated in oil. The cheese curds were bomb! I'd come check this place out again because maybe the other food is better read more

I went to Counterpoint today and this place is truly something special. The food was incredible, but what really made the experience unforgettable was the staff. Cam, the owner, is amazing. He tells the best stories and has a way of making you feel completely at home. This was my second time coming with my best friend and the ever changing menu never disappoints. You can tell he puts real care into the experience and makes every guest feel seen. Adele, our server, was so warm and welcoming. She was friendly, attentive, and you can genuinely feel how much she cares about her work. The manager, whose name I sadly forgot, was fantastic as well. Counterpoint is a solid ten out of ten with absolutely no notes. If you want great food, great energy, and a team that makes you feel like family, this is the spot. read more

Service was amazing and love their selection of tequilas and cocktails. For us the cocktails did come out a tad sweet. We ordered the Crispy shrimp, very tasty with just the right breading and the fried cheese. The cheese flavor was good but too much breading. And the sauce had no flavor. read more

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Super cute and great food. Lovely furniture and outdoor patio is very comfortable. My friend had the fried chicken and waffles and she loved it read more

I've lived in golden hills mg entire life always passed by this location, finally gave it a try. GLAD I DID. servers were so sweet and welcoming, once I mentioned it was my first time here they gave their fav menu item recommendations. We had the shishito with crispy shrimp, man that is a good appetizer, something to share. Loved how the every bite of the shrimp hd a nice crunch to it. Must try. I was in between the birria tacos or the pasta but I went with the pasta! Chipotle chicken penne pasta, it includes mushrooms but I'm not a fan and they were able to make it without them and I am glad they did, pasta was well cooked. The chicken was nice and tender, bell peppers and tomato were a great add on, lots of flavor. Did have a spicy kick to it and I loved it. 10/10 Decor was nice, huge indoor I was surprised how big it actually was. Have an upstairs area too but it was closed? Parking is tight, kid friendly. A good drink selection. I'm definitely coming back. read more

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Great food, amazing drinks, best people. But, it's really the scented candle in the bathroom that keeps me coming back. Can someone please help me with identifying the type of candle in there? Thanks in advance. read more

The atmosphere is great and the food and service were excellent. My husband and I enjoyed everything about this place.

Hmm Wow another night of excitement ...sat down and genghis khan bartender looked straight ar me, asked "DO YOU KNOW WHAT GOD LOOKS LIKE?" Before I could answer he say "BECAUSE HE IS RIHHT IN FRONT OF YOU"... deviant energy oozing sex the kind of guy you want to be for a day !! Made memorable experience gotta come back , wow couldn't get enough of that guy lol !!! Thank god wife wasn't with me! read more

If I could give the service of this place a negative 100 I would. Absolutely horrendous service from Matt with the Mohawk. Insulted my husband for not getting an alcoholic beverage and then called him a Trump lover because we wanted to leave. Too many disrespectful comments made by Matt to even list. Food may be good but the pretentious and condescending attitude of this server is uncalled for and grounds for being fired. Patrons should not be treated with such disrespect. What a patron chooses to drink or not drink should never be questioned. Least of all not from someone who clearly had the widest pupils on the planet. Will certainly never dine at this establishment again. read more

I've been here multiple times now. Each time I've arrived the food has been great. The servers have been great and atmosphere. You can't beat one of my favorite places to check out. Most recently I had a cheeseburger which was delicious. Their fries are so so good super thin and super tasty. read more

It's just a great spot to get a great cocktail or craft beer and some food. It's not fancy, but it has a hip environment and a decent outdoor space, too. The staff has always been very good over the years. It is very dog friendly, which we always appreciated. The menu is not big, but there are always some great choices available. The brunch is especially good. read more

Some of the best martini results I've had in awhile- keep doing them just like that and I will keep coming back! I came by with a group tonight and we all had favorable impressions by end of our time there. read more

This is the place. The staff care, the place is warm, they make damn good drinks and food. Will always be, one of the best for me.

Our favorite neighborhood spot! Good food, great drinks and better people. We love their weekly specials!

Adele was amazing! Such great service. Can not recommend this place enough :) highly recommend the caesar salad and the cheese curds!

A collection of food and drinks we've had recently. I've reviewed counterpoint before and have been frequenting this spot for at least 6 years now and what I love about it is it's been a constant - the food is consistently delicious, the drinks are unique and well made, the staff are amazing and make you feel like family, and the vibes are always perfect. Think elevated chill. It's never rowdy, but it's always a fun time with great conversation. And the owner Cam is such a down to earth and genuine human. Plus, it's super dog friendly! It's our favorite local spot for sure read more

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