My first visit and I was impressed with the ambience. It's a restaurant inside a liquor store. The bar and the tables are surrounded by all the bottles on the wall. There are many TVs all around. Padres game was on so it was pretty crowded. We ordered drinks and two appetizers. Chicharrones were great. It's deep fried chicken with skin on. The skin was crunchy, not hard like some of the ones I've tried. The flavor was good and extra tasty with Buffalo ranch. We also had buffalo cauliflower bites. I'm not a fan. The breading tasted like cheese or something similar. The portion was decent for both. I saw other tables had chicken wings, sandwiches, etc. The portion all looked big. The price is reasonable. Overall, it's a good place for food and drinks and watch some games. There's plenty of parking. read more

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Simply delish. We used to KnB a many years ago... where have we been!? This is one of those night... everything was firing on all cylinders. Our tequila expert, Bruce was very efficient and so nice. He helped us with our order. fair warning... don't get the elote, because if you do, it's game over! Our main was the mustard greens and the salmon special. The salmon was prepared perfectly and delicate, the salad super flavorful. Where can you go for dinner have a bottle of wine and keep the bill near $100. I've added it to the circle of trust and will be back next week. read more

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Skip brunch. We love this spot but it's painfully obvious why it's dead at brunch. Simple 2 egg breakfasts (3), all eggs ordered over medium and all were vastly different. Benedict - hard boiled eggs on top of slightly warmed soggy English muffins and a dribble of coagulated hollandaise. Potatoes tasted like old oil. The Cali burger- we kept joking that we were waiting for them to bring the other half. Maybe it was an off day- either way, we won't be back. Too pricy to be this disappointing. Service was great. We'll try again for HH only. read more

I often find myself looking for places in or near La Mesa to enjoy a good happy hour with friends and colleagues. I came across KNB on Yelp when trying to find something I hadn't been to yet. KNB Bistro is in a small strip mall next the Windmill Farms market in San Carlos, just off College Avenue. Unknown to me until my arrival, KNB stands for Keg N Bottle, for the bottle shop attached to the bistro. I met up with a friend on a Monday evening right after work. I had noted a happy hour menu online. When I arrived, I checked in at the front and chose an outdoor table. I will say that it was pleasant with the heating, and despite being in a strip mall with a parking lot in front of us, it was actually a nice place to hang out. We spoke to our server about the happy hour menu. Actually the red white wines that were on special by the glass were wines that I enjoy. However, as they were offering a "no corkage special", we decided to walk through the bottle shop and choose a bottle to share. The bottle shop was really impressive and can easily rival some of the large chain liquor stores in the area. After a long time walking around, we chose a lovely Italian Red Blend. However, had they not had the "no corkage special", we would not have had that experience, as I simply would never pay an extra $10 for the bottle. For food, we shared the mushroom flatbread. I chose the happy hour cauliflower bites and my friend chose the happy hour Brussels sprouts. The flatbread was delicious, but I think it could have used more mushrooms. I enjoyed the flavor of the cauliflower bites, but I wished that they had been less battered. I really would give 3.5 stars as the food was good, but not great. However, I chose four stars as I enjoyed my overall experience and would definitely go back. It is a decent happy hour and I believe that it is really a good deal. There were a couple of salads on the menu that sounded really good and I would like to try one of those next time. read more

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Wow absolutely amazing I ordered the French Dip for $17 and it was beyond perfect. The bread is soft but still has a crunch to it from the grill. The beef is plenty and the cheese is a perfect blend it's very filling. The Au Jus is a great flavor and built in the plate. The tater tots are a perfect crisp and comes with ketchup and ranch. I'm just super impressed with this place wasn't expecting it. The only reason I came in was to support and get a Happy Dad but they only sell it by the 12 pack. Brandon was my server and was the most attentive service and great lunch. I live close by so I'll be back with my wife to support more this is a very great hidden gem. Must try great vibe and just all around good food and super clean! read more

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We came on a trivia night. Service wasn't the best. They were nice but after seeing our beers sit behind the bar forever we went and got them ourselves. There were 5 of us. We ordered the burger, the short rib, street tacos, and lamb chops. My tacos were ok. There were many chewy pieces that I couldn't eat. Food was good but not out of this world. Dessert came with the wrong ice cream. The walls of liquor was a cool decoration. Easy to park. read more

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Glad you're reading this to avoid a fish that stinks from its head. Slow service, takes FOREVER to get food, and then it's small portions. No wonder--with a callous staff. (Other than that...!) Managers don't get ruder than Sebastian. We wondered why he was so defensive about not "dotting their I's and crossing T's to fix their Guest WiFi"...then later actually yelled at us for expecting them to be Starbucks. Bizarre defensiveness, lack of hospitality, and frustration at their own incompetence (which translates into a SLOW kitchen and lack of food quality--the chewy, inedible meat noted on other reviews). You have choices! read more

This spot is a true neighborhood gem! The food is amazing, the service is top notch, and the manager really stands out for delivering such exceptional hospitality. Totally agree with Alex B. he's IS super hot... just like the plates coming out of the kitchen read more

Loved the fish tacos!! The atmosphere is really fun, where else can you sit down have a great meal and then look through a great selection of wine and bourbon and take a bottle home. The bartender was nice enough to let me try a couple of their barrel picks before I bought one!! KegNBottle is a San Diego institution but this is by far their best location. read more

only the lawd knows why .. i had no business here or being in this area lolz. but rosie my dear is so sweet and made my first time like i've been there a million times before xoxo. read more

KNB Bistro - THE ENTRANCE. - American Near Me - San Diego, California

This place is phenomenal. The food and service is amazing and as someone who comes here often, it is consistently perfect. Jay and Rob are bartenders there who I have had the best conversations with. A place with people like that and food and drinks just as good keeps me coming back time after time. read more

Great spot tucked away in a mini mall, but don't let that keep you away! Burrata salad and mushroom flat breads were highlights. Very attentive staff, very patient with our big group. Would definitely return for a lowkey but delicious spot with great drinks read more

They have excellent options for lunch specials. My fav is Tuesday - the fish tacos. Food, service, and ambiance are outstanding!

This place never disappoints! Stopped in with a few friends for happy hour, our waiter could not have been more attentive and friendly. Enjoyed some delicious appetizers and took advantage of the no corkage Thursdays and had some great NZ Sauvignon Blanc. It's nice to have this gem in the neighborhood. read more

Hadn't gone here for a while until recently. They used to be known for their beers, but the list is no longer special and half the taps are out of service. We ordered 5 food items, and the best part of the food was the ketchup that came with the fries. The service was on par with the other items mentioned above. The store itself is a liquor store with a huge bottle selection, which is awesome. I would never come back here for food. Almost any place would have better tasting food. I would have drinks here again if someone invited me, but I would probably never return by choice. I wish I had better things to say. Maybe make the menu smaller and better. read more

Located in a little strip mall, this place is the local place to be whether it's a family affair, boys/girls night out or a date spot. You will notice it by the cute bistro lights and laughter pouring out of the place. You can watch sports while you eat, congregate at the bar, or enjoy your meal talking to your group. The mussels were surprisingly really good. I almost wanted to drink the sauce it was so flavorful. The fried cauliflower was super crispy and good. The hubby tried the NY Steak Sandy with sweet potato fries. read more

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Great happy hour. Staff is always super friendly. Great spot to shop also! Occasionally the happy hour beer special seems to be off or flat which is likely why it's on special. Happy hour food on the other hand is very good. Elote bites are as hot as the surface of the sun when they come out so give them a second but they are so damn good! read more

Food was excellent and the drinks were strong. My husband had the carnitas tacos (4) and the salsa was flavorful and not too spicy. My daughter had the fish tacos. They were two big fried pieces of fish topped with a cabbage slaw. The corn tortilla was crispy. Something between a soft taco and a tostada. Green salsa on the side instead of a sauce. I had the Philly cheesesteak that came with fries. The cheese was a sauce and very tasty. The toasted bread and roast beef were of good quality. It came with fries. Portions were good. Service was good. Of course we were the only one here on a Thursday afternoon (before happy hour). I had the Aviation Nation (tequila and berry drink). My daughter had the piñarita and my husband had a Stone Pilsner. Coming back for the fish tacos again and again and again. read more

KNB Bistro - American Near Me - San Diego, California

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This place is fire! Food is great but honestly the whiskey selection is second to none! The manager is super hot too so that helps!

We did a yelp search for something completely different than KNB Bistro, we were looking for pasta, but this popped up in the search result and nearby so we decided to try it out for the first time. KNB is located in the same shopping center as Windmill Farms. They do not serve pasta here. KNB is a bottle shop and restaurant. It can throw you off a bit when arriving and seeing that it looks more like a bottle shop upon entering. We walked up to the right side area where there were tables. Got greeted and sat outside the patio area. Service was tentative, there were 2 tvs outside for your sports viewing pleasure. They have extra seating next to the enclosed patio seating. We end up ordering Fried Chicken Sandwich, flatbread, and kid's quesadilla. I would skip the quesadilla next time. The Fried Chicken Sandwich was good. I would get that again. That was the surprising dish. If in the area I would say this place is good to check out for food. This place is awesome for alcohol. The selection is amazing. I was able to find a tequila here that we tried at the Sprit Festival one year. Their beer selection is also good too. I believe you can buy a bottle of wine and drink it there. But there might be a corkage fee which is funny since it's their bottle. I'm curious to check out their other food next time, or come here to watch a game. read more

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Great spot! The staff is super friendly, the beer and cocktail selection is amazing, and the food has been delicious every time I've visited. I'll definitely be back! read more

Had lunch and drinks here with my family and everything was fantastic. The service was great and the manager Sebastian even helped me pick out a great bottle of whiskey as a present for my Dad. Overall, amazing experience. Highly recommend! read more

It's so refreshing getting a plate that has big portions of food and amazing service ! read more

KNB Bistro - Wow , huge portions here & great customer service !!! Definitely will be returning - American Near Me - San Diego, California

Holy YES! What a beautiful treasure this is. Manfriend and I came here right when the hunger struck and I am blown away by the quality and execution of our main dishes. Compliments to the chef(s) in the mouth watering Braised Short Rib and Pork Belly. I literally closed my eyes with delight when taking my first bite. And duuuuuddeee!!!! The mash potatoes?! (My mouth is watering as I even think of what I experienced!) We were delighted with the options of beer and I was happy they provided a cider as well. Wow! read more

Our favorite little local spot to grab a drink and some elote bites! The staff is the best part!

I've been here twice in the last week and enjoyed sitting at the bar watching the bartender make drinks. Janne prounounced Yah nay is the newest bartender and actually pretty good with the bottles. Provided good service both times! Food was great too! read more

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Super dope place .. we really had fun for trivia night .. food was solid and service was good

Beyond the well-stocked shelves of various alcohols lies quality drinks, food and deals. Upon entering through the left door, go past the displays through a small opening. Feel free to seat yourself but it's best to wave someone down so they know that you're there. While menus in the past have been inconsistent, the only correct one is on their website now. They offer an extensive alcohol selection along with above average food and seasonal dishes. Happy hour is Monday through Friday 3-6PM. =GET= *Pretzel Twists *Lamb Lollipops: came with bright melon salad. Lamb wasn't gamey but it was a bit overcooked the first time. *Short Rib Sandwich *KnB Burger: could choose between fries and tater tots. Solid, juicy burger and the side portions are generous. *BBQ Chicken Flatbread *Del Cerro Flatbread: a milder alternative to the BBQ chicken. Get the one above for a classic taste but get the Del Cerro if you enjoy varied vegetables and tender beef. *Moscow Mule: favorite option and is usually on the happy hour selection. *Mezcal Mule *Hurricane Howler *Hawaiian Ahi Poke Stack: replaced by the poke bowl but the stack was by far the freshest and tastiest option. Chips were light and crispy, and went well with the vibrant mango mix. Hopefully they bring it back! =PASS= *Charcuterie & Cheese Board: cheese heavy. Had very little variety with meat and fruit counterparts so the price point was too steep. Expected more than a glop of marmalade, few dates and a couple of slices of prosciutto. *Philly Sandwich: very dry and the cheese was strangely applied to only half of the sandwich *Italian Beef Sando: on the drier side. *Chicken Wings: disappointing buffalo sauce and wings were cold *Fish n Chips: portion was generous but the fish didn't taste fresh and the batter was too thick *Mimosa: very flat and warm Service is a hit or miss. Some days, the servers are quick and attentive but others, you have to wave them down after being ignored for half an hour. Food timing varies and despite being the only table, could wait 20 minutes for appetizers. For food quality, certain items have been consistently good such as the burgers, appetizers, and drinks. Other options however, are a gamble. Still KnB delivers food and drinks that outshines other bars. Just the questionable service and timing deters me from giving them 5 stars. read more

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Go on a Thursday is y'all love wine! First time being here and it won't be the last time. We went on a Thursday around Happy Hour (4-6pm). Ordered practically all the food stuff. The server told us there is no corkage fee for wines that they had. They have sooooo many bottles! I loved every part of this place. The vibe is chill (we sat outside), people are nice and take a look at the pics of the selection of wines! They have spirits too but highly recommend the wine! Note: they don't have flights for wine anymore just the beer. Look at the food selection we got! I forgot to take a pic of the Hawaii poke stack. It was yummy too! Favorite? Cauliflower bites! read more

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Love this place! Wall to wall liquor, great tasting food and their service was fast and friendly. Ample parking since it's in a strip mall. This is always a plus so you're not spending time circling around looking for a parking spot. We ordered the fish and tots, burger and the elote bites. Fish was very light and batter was crunchy. The tots were fried perfectly, just the way I like it, just a bit well done! Can't comment on the burger since I didn't taste it. The elote bites were very good. Lots of corn with good flavor from the cheese and lime. read more

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Spent a beautiful afternoon on the dog-friendly patio at KnB. The service was fantastic. Shout out to Bruce for being knowledgeable about the food menu and the tequila selection. The brussel sprouts in particular were quite good and my partner enjoyed the Yogi sandwich and wings he ordered. The elote bites were good but left something to be desired. The tequila flights listed on the menu were not available but hopefully they will be when we visit next. read more

I love KnB. Living in Del Cerro for many years this is one of our favorite places to go to watch a game or grab some yummy food and/or drinks. However, in recent times the service we've received has been flat out disrespectful by one employee in particular. Almost every time we've come in, in the past few months, we have the same server, Bruce. Back in July I noticed his service and attitude was very unprofessional and disrespectful towards a group of 5 of us for my birthday but I thought he was just having a rough day as we all do. But then the next time I went the same disrespectful attitude and behavior occurred again. There is absolutely no welcomeness and visible signs of stress/overwhelmedness is shown. Sighing, rude tone, etc. Brushing it off again I didn't really know what to think. Coming in today was the last straw. I asked for water and received an eye roll?! This behavior and disrespect is beyond disgusting especially coming from such an amazing place like KnB. I've tried many times with this employee and do not think I can take the rudeness and behavior again. I am very disappointed in this and very concerned that this type of behavior is acceptable. read more

I just waited for 10 minutes for the bartender to ask me what I would like to drink. He helped others and ignored me so I walked out. Disappointing service. I live in the neighborhood and come here often so I don't know what happened tonight. read more

The good: The patio was nice and our server was very nice and attentive. The not-so-good: I do not believe they have a chef or any kind of lead cook. All of the food tasted like unseasoned grocery store food. Like I could've made it all at home (and I'm not a good cook). We ordered the monthly special sandwich, called the Yogi, because it came on olive bread. It did not come on olive bread. When we asked, they were like, yea that should be olive bread. It was not. It was pre-sliced grocery store round white bread. All of the sides tasted like they were dumbed out of grocery store bags: sweet potato fries, fries, tots, and salad. The balsamic vinaigrette was one of those gross bottled ones that's more like a slime consistency. How hard is it to take some balsamic vin and oil and make a dressing with some spices? All the food lacked any seasoning. Like I don't think they use salt in the kitchen. You need to hit fries/tots with a little bit of salt when you take them out of the fryer. Overall, the patio was nice and it wasn't crowded, but if they put the smallest amount of effort into their food, I'm sure they would be more crowded... read more

The food is great and the drinks hmmm The customer service is 7 out of 10 But still pretty ok read more

Food is great! Everything on the menu that I've tried is so yummy and they obviously have a huge selection of wines and spirits which is nice. The only downside is the female bartender. She is so awful and I've never had a good experience with her. I'm all for giving people second chances or giving the benefit of the doubt but every single time I've been in there and she is working, it's been very uncomfortable. She always seems bothered to do her job and takes forever to just acknowledge you at the bar. My dad won't even go here anymore because of her attitude. read more

Has there been a change in management? Chef? Something has changed and it's not the same place as before. Service has declined. ALOT. Chicarrones are still great. No complaints there. My husband ordered the poke. When it came out, the presentation was ugly. He still gave it a try and apparently something had turned. Either the tuna (yikes) or the salsa part. It's a waiting game at this point. He sent it back and let the bartender know it was off. Another bartender came by and brought a new one. Looked like it was just made. (Should have been this way from the get go.) We still got charged for it. I feel like it should have been comped. It's fish. (Again, hopefully my husband won't have issues.) Really disappointed in this visit. Most likely won't be back. Too bad. read more

FANTASTIC STAFF! Happy Hour Specials have pared back as have the hours of Happy Hour, but it's still the place on Wednesdays for $4-6 pints and great service. read more

We rarely visit the Del Cerro area so I was pleasantly surprised to stumble across the KNB Bistro. I was apprehensive because some recent reviews had been spotty, but my wife and I had a wonderful time and look forward to coming back soon! We arrived a little after six on a Friday, and while they were busy, we were seated immediately. The bartender served us at our table and was prompt and on top of it all evening. We felt like the inside ambience was really cool with all the bottles on the wall and the retail selections...including some very special bottles. You could spend $15 or $1500 on a bottle here--whatever you're looking for. The wine list was good and fairly priced. Many choices in both red and white. I ordered the wings appetizer and it was really good. For dinner, I had the lamb lollipops and my wife had a chicken Caesar. I was pretty impressed with the lamb; I've paid considerably more for similar meals around the city. My wife's salad was good. I really have to emphasize how friendly and on top of things the staff was. We had a good number of check-ins and never la led for anything. I don't remember anybody's name but they were all great. So I probably give the food four stars, but the service and the ambience made it a five star experience. We will certainly be back here any time we are in the area. read more

First off, I dig this place. I visit fairly often and almost always have a very positive experience. However, my most recent visit was horrible. Our server, who's waited on us pleasantly numerous times, was very impatient and flat-out rude. We'd never had any issues before when asking for splashes of beers at KNB. My wife and I each requested and received a splash, but neither was what we were looking for, so we asked for another one. The server came back a couple minutes later and said the bartender was "pissed at me for saying yes" to multiple splashes and did not bring us anything to try. We asked him some questions about a couple of the other beers, and he snaps back with this beauty of a comment: "Geez, it's not a major decision. It's just a beer you're ordering." This is an outright rude thing to say when I just want to make sure that I get something I'm gonna like for my $9 to $10 per full pour. My wife ordered a beer she was familiar with, while I went inside to ask the bartender for a splash since the server wasn't willing to help us. "How can I help you, SIR?" the server asked. "I'd like a splash." "What would you like, SIR?" "I'd like the Murky Machado." "Isn't that what your wife ordered?" "Yup." So he then pours the Murky, and says, "There's your beer. You can take a taste from THAT. Enjoy your beer." A few minutes later he comes by the table with 2 splashes that I didn't request. I thought maybe he knew he was being a jerk, so he brought these over. Then the jerk says, "Here you go. You have your free flight now." Wow. My wife and I left the place shaking our heads. And upset. Now, I'm a pretty generous tipper, usually between 20-25%. I've never felt compelled not to leave a tip, but this guy didn't deserve one. I feel bad for the other servers, but I blame their rude co-worker. We like the place a lot, but now we don't feel like going back after being treated like this. I'm sure we'll return after some time, but we hope we don't have to deal with that server ever again. read more