Great Place, but the Vibe Has Changed Oh my God, I used to love this place, and honestly, I still feel a connection to it, but it's definitely changed over the years. When I first came here, the vibe was different, and it had this underground Santa Ana subculture that I really enjoyed. The bar, which was run by Vanessa, felt like a underground haven--slightly rundown with the shoddiest restrooms, but it had that authentic, gritty charm. The pool tables were usually in decent shape, and the bar always had cool, unique brews, including microbrews. The place felt cozy despite being so small, and when it got packed, you were basically sardined into the whole space. They had an adjacent outdoor section that was rarely utilized, but you could tell it had potential. I've lived here for a long time, and I've always appreciated the diversity in Santa Ana. But this bar used to be about that punkish unique underground micro brew vibe culture(my opinion)--it was never overly focused on any one particular ethnicity. It felt like the space catered to a mix of people, but recently, I've noticed it's shifted. The atmosphere has leaned more toward a hyper-Mexican, Banda-style vibe. Now, don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining about that, but it's definitely a change. In talking to locals, there's been a sense that just because you're from a certain country doesn't mean you want everything around you to be about that. As a Hispanic American, I get that--we don't always want the place we hang out to feel like it's only representing our cultural background. I'm not sure when this shift happened, but it's possible the pandemic played a role in it. Before that, the bar had more of a microbrew, underground beer culture, and now it feels like it's become part of the Santa Ana "Banda" norm. Whether it was the owner's vision or just the pressures of what sells, it's hard to say. But the place has definitely moved away from the punkish / alternative Santa Ana night scene and embraced something new. Now, if you're into Banda music, tacos, and a lot of Mexican-American influence, you'll love it. Again, no hate on that--just pointing out that it's not the underground, microbrew culture that originally drew people in. It's now a whole different vibe. read more

I don't normally like the OC businesses so much, but I LOVE this place! It's very down to earth, they have the most amazing beer selection, and terrific prices. It's packed and happening, super fun. I'll be back. read more

One of Orange County's best five bars. This spot is my friends favorite spot. I've been coming here over the years and I'm glad it's still here. Great selection of beer and staff are friendly and helpful. Clean interior and decent restrooms. Unique counter bar seating available. It's a small spot but worth a visit. Free parking is hard to get but there is a structure parking available nearby read more

While in downtown thought we would stop by for lunch. The pictures are a little deceptive. The place was dark and smelled of smoke of pot. Didn't see any food available. I'm sure it's a good place to hang out and drink but not really a good example of the city to friends from out of town. read more

Been going here for years and will continue to go, if not to catch the latest UFC fights or simply just grabbing a brew after work. Mission Bar is the place to be. read more

Mission Bar - Embolden, Lite House Blonde Ale - Pool Halls Near Me - Santa Ana, California

Went a week ago and this place was great! The service was awesome and the food and drinks were great as well! Not too expensive and the outdoor seats are a nice breeze of fresh air! Would definitely visit again! read more

Another great experience here. It is deceptive as the place may look a little "rough" but if you are a dive bar aficionado, you will love this place. The bathrooms could use a little refreshing, but hey, it works! Had Joe again as the bartender, just as wonderful as before. A huge amount of knowledge in all of the products. His mantra is "Even though this is a bar, I want you to feel like I am entertaining you in my home." It's kind of odd when you see somebody here drinking a regular, off the shelf, lower end beer. You want to say to them with all of this very unique and cool variety of offerings, why are you drinking that? But people know what they like, and it is their own choice. I tried 3 things I had never had before on Joes recommendation, 2 were great, one was OK. But he took my feedback to be able to suggest what else I might like. Great place. Opens at 4pm. Well worth a try. read more

Mission Bar - Looking at the bar from the end closest to the front door. - Pool Halls Near Me - Santa Ana, California

I hate to post bad reviews because I understand how hard it is for businesses to keep these reviews 5 stars, but when things need to be fixed, things need to be fixed. I have gone to mission bar a few times and I had an okay time. Thats why I came back! Today New Year's Eve, I decided to go and have a few beers. I took a seat and the bartender (Latina with black pants) ignored me clearly. Literally, a couple and a dude sit next to me after waiting to even get asked for my drink selection and they were served before me and again got ignored. 10 min of waiting had been enough for me and walked out read more

This is my favorite beer bar in Orange County! The team is personable and friendly. The craft beer selection is amazing, and they always have Pliny the Elder on tap! Julian is super welcoming and is a perfect bartender for any situation or occasion. Definitely worth visiting and grabbing a beer. read more

Good selection at the bar, the arcade is fun although a bit pricey for the games that are retro. read more

This is a good place to come and get an adult cocktail at and maybe shoot some pool. The place is an old Santa Ana cantina that's now a more modern bar, the service is good and friendly . read more

I have NO problem with supporting a local spot, but I will never return to this bar after the way I was treated by "security". I came in to have a good time, spend some money, and enjoy myself -- not to be disrespected or harassed. The security staff was completely out of line. Rude, unprofessional, and clearly on a power trip. Instead of ensuring a safe environment, they made it hostile. I've been to plenty of dive bars, but this was a new low. I was waiting in line to use the restroom and was told I had to leave! If you're thinking of coming here, just know: your money is welcome, but your dignity isn't. Management seriously needs to reevaluate who they're hiring at the door, because the current setup is a joke. Until they clean it up -- I'm warning others to stay away. read more

Cute dive bar. Good selection of beers. One pool table in the back for some billiards fun. Bar service was quick even on a busy night.

Chill atmosphere on a Friday afternoon. 40+ taps, however it seems like 1/4 of them are tapped out. Maybe I came on the wrong day, but several beers I requested were either tapped out or needed a keg change. Mostly local breweries on tap: Chapman, Stereo, Brewery X etc read more

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This place has cool beers, cool pool tables, and a cool manager. Cool bands come through to jam here all the time. The weather stays cool in this bar, and the vibe is a purely chill vibe for only the coolest fools and ladies, please. Oh what nights can be had at The Mission. The OC Hurricanes might be jamming their best, or a fatty taco vendor like Carnitas El Porky might be set up to slang spicy pork tacos or quesatacos for the night. Vanessa, the mgr., could be out checking on the venue, waving to some regulars, or making connections with local businesses. People could be dancing inside the bar all 'round the pool tables, or people could be dancing outdoors to the rare cumbias of Ritmo Santanero (a DJ group run by Rigo and Gary V.) The bar staff is professional, courteous, and friendly. They know how to mix, how to recommend, and how to pour. They manage the liquor service with tact; I always see many lightly buzzed, happy faces at the bar. A well run team. Credit to Vanessa and the bar staff. I have zero doubt as to why this place gets so much repeat business. 5 stars for a Mission accomplished. read more

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Small space with a lot of potential for sure but went on a sat night and the DJ seemed set on a certain music had plenty of girls willing to dance but the music just wasn't hitting and bro couldn't read the room and change it up. read more

I was out for some drinks with some friends and we started our Friday night here. The bar is tight with a dive bar feel and pool tables in the back. It was a bit cramped, so we decided to go to their outdoor area in the back. This was a fun spot to start off the night. There are lots of tables with a bartender and DJ too. There was also a taco stand right next to it if you're a bit hungry. We had some tequila shots ($10) and seltzers ($6-8 each). It was a great spot to start off the night. read more

I came here for an after work brewski. I was surprised to find out most bars in the area did not open until after 5 or 6 pm... I went on a Wednesday and at 4pm. I Walked inside and was greeted by a very nice bartender. He gave some suggestions and allowed us to taste several different beers before settling to our choice. It's a little gem small but I didn't mind, made it more intimate with fantastic variety of different beers. I'll definitely be coming back. read more

This is an awesome local craft bar. Even has a big sign with an arrow pointing to the front door that says BAR. The bartender was super friendly. I had an XLite, my bro had the amber and my girlfriend had the mango heff. Only $18 for three beers isn't bad! It has kind of a dive bar vibe which I love and I think I spied some pool tables in the back. Very narrow bar. No food just snacks. The bar was clean. I had a really great time there! read more

The bar tender was inattentive and rude. He seemed to purposely serve others before me for whatever reason.

This spot is good for the variety of ciders. The people/community make the ambience and the pool table is a nice touch. However, the customer service really needs improvement, the bartenders look super stressed and reflect low morale which affects service they provide to the customers that just want a drink vs. the people that are trouble and not cut off. This is definitely discouraging to continue w/ an open tab. Restroom needs more upkeep throughout the night. read more

The oldies are good here and the peanut butter milk stout nitro is a beer lovers dream. The flavors are there, the bartender was knowledgeable on nitro. He was the bill nye of beer. Pool table and mood lit bar. read more

Came with a friend who doesn't love beer. Bartender was so accommodating and kind without making her feel dumb. Great service and a very relaxed bar read more

Great spot , friendly service . Had a great time and definitely looking forward to coming back .

Amazing drinks and staff is so nice. Always a good time and good vibes. Great music as well, highly recommend.

As an LA Chicano, this is the bar to visit when in Orange County. Great music, great service, and the Bar Tender G, offering great service when ordering drinks. The music covered everything from pop, hip hop, flashbacks, rock en español, and old school rock. Great vibes and would highly recommend. read more

Loved this bar for years until one fateful Tuesday night. Went in for a late night drink when 30 minutes before close. My boyfriend alerted me to a cockroach crawling on my chest and shoulders. I got it off of me without making a scene. Bar staff told us to get out 10 minutes before close. I told them a roach was literally just crawling on me and I needed a moment. Bar staff said they would let the cops know we weren't being cooperative with their closing time. Positive for bar staff having firm boundaries or negative for running the risk of having roaches crawl on you is up to your discretion. read more

Emilia was such a great server! So smiley and helpful. Chips came out so fast. So awesome!!!!! :)))

I have enjoyed coming here over the years! They always have a great selection of beers. This time I was hooked on this Sour from Unsung Brewery called Hero Lore! It was so wonderful. They had a couple of really cool djs spinning to vinyl on a Tuesday evening. read more

Loved the vibes here found it after a day at Disneyland Looks like a locals spot which I loved They had two pool tables playing music had a movie playing on the tvs. They has a huge variety selection of beers which was my favorite part. Bartenders were quick and kind. Would definitely come back especially to watch the ufc fights read more

Came when it just opened Bar tender hasn't even showed up and didn't know when. Ended up getting help yet wasn't sure how to pay. Yet she was super nice either way. read more

Large beer selection! They have pool tables in the back for you to hang out. It's more like a sports bar, and the establishment itself is rather narrow. Felt a bit claustrophobic inside but nonetheless this place is a good time. read more

Nice service wonderful coffee bar inside as well. Tried the 2 Towns pineapple cider and it was refreshing. Huuuuge selection on tap and pool tables. Great spot! read more

We stumbled upon Mission Bar while waking to Mix Mix next door and it's now our favorite beer bar! They have so many delicious craft offerings at affordable prices. It's small inside but a great place to relax or watch a game. Good beer, good people, and relaxed atmosphere read more

Mission Bar - So many delicious options - Pool Halls Near Me - Santa Ana, California

This bar so nice and small. Very clean and well kept. Regardless the fact that it's new all glasses and bar top are clean and crisp. The bartender was super nice, Bobby is his name! Plus, there are two pool tables so you can play whenever you want. Three TVs so they play the games and good shows. I will most definitely come back and hangout. Great place to grab a beer after a long days of work. read more

Mission Bar - All the beer on tap - Pool Halls Near Me - Santa Ana, California

Popped in to this cute spot after my drag brunch at the Velvet Lounge. I loved this bar. I like the style on the inside with the twinkle lights, I love the high tables, I like how small it is, and I loved the selection of beers. It was early afternoon when I stopped by, maybe around 2ish, so there weren't many visitors, but those who were there were friendly, as well as the bartender. I don't find myself in the OC all too often, but I would love to come check it out again. read more

Mission Bar - Pool Halls Near Me - Santa Ana, California

Nicely priced craft beers, cool vibe, and a pool table to occupy yourself as well. Employees and owner are very nice read more

Tiny hole in the wall dive in DT Santa Ana. Great place stop in for a pint of a glass of wine. This is a beer and wine only establishment, do not bring your cocktail loving friends. The staf was friendly and helpful with their large craft beer selection. instead of spending time looking over the selections I just told them to bring me a pint of a IPA, sorry I have no idea what it was but, the bartender chose well and I was happy. Servcie was a little slow, but I think I was in a little more of a hurry then usual as I ordered a pint and when my friend arrived she only drinks cocktails so I felt I needed to rush. Cool place I plan on checking back in another day when I have more time and a beer drinking friend with me. read more

Terrible service. Sitting at the bar. No one has approached for 10 minutes. Bar tender approached everyone else.

This place is my favorite bar ever!! I don't know all the bartenders' names, but I know for sure the nicest one I've ever met is the guy with curly hair. I always have good experiences every single time I come here. Pros: dog friendly, wide selections of beers, great services, pool tables, snacks, decent prices, games (battleship, connect 4, etc.) Cos: the pool tables are too close to each other lol read more

Mission Bar - They let you bring your dog here! - Pool Halls Near Me - Santa Ana, California