I want to start by saying that Paul's is our go-to weekend bar. We genuinely love this place. The staff overall is amazing, and the security team is consistently professional, attentive, and truly helpful. Because of how much we enjoy this establishment, I don't take writing this lightly. Unfortunately, I've had multiple negative interactions with one bartender, Tracy, and today's incident reached a point where I feel it needs to be addressed. 12-13-25 @ 1:15 am, there was a medical emergency at the bar. Security asked if anyone was CPR certified, and I raised my hand because I am. While security was guiding me through the crowd toward the individual on the floor, I was pushed forward and accidentally bumped into Tracy behind the bar. I immediately said, "I'm so sorry -- I'm being pushed through to help. I'm really sorry." Tracy began yelling and cursing at me, including calling me a "bitch." Given the chaos of the situation, it's possible she thought I said something else or assumed the contact was intentional, but regardless, I walked away without engaging and continued with security to assist the individual who needed medical help. Once another CPR-certified person took over and I was no longer needed, I had to pass back through the same area. At that point, I calmly told her that I understood the situation was stressful, but that being cursed at while I was being physically pushed during a medical emergency was not okay. Mind you I had also cursed lightly so I'm no saint. I was still apologizing and trying to de-escalate, as the situation was already uncomfortable. She then continued to yell at me, referenced other emergencies she had dealt with, and ultimately told me to "get the fuck out of my bar," despite the fact that I had been responding to a request from security to help someone in medical distress. What's most concerning to me is that her behavior created a hostile and unsafe environment during an active medical emergency. It made it difficult--if not impossible--for me to assist someone who genuinely needed help and for which I was qualified to provide care. I truly hope the individual who experienced the medical emergency is okay. At the end of the day, this isn't about being upset over a rude interaction--it's about the fact that a staff member's conduct interfered with emergency response and treated a patron who was trying to help like they were disposable. It's incredibly disappointing to have such consistently negative experiences with one individual at an establishment we otherwise love and support. Everyone else but Tracy is amazing and I hope everyone gets to experience that read more

Awesome dive bar with a great vibe and nice people inside. Ice cold beers and plenty of flatscreens to watch the game and in our case the Olympics. Great staff as well providing excellent customer service. read more

Hey I have been here before, my best friend and her husband took me here and some friends I had just met for my last Birthday that just passed. I had a blast here last time too. Our bartender Thomas he is the nicest and remembered me from last time. I got 2 lemon drop shots here they were tasty and just enough for me. Our friends got this funny seltzer drink called Happy Dad lol I thought it was funny but I tried a sip and it was really good. They have pool tables and a back area for smoking. I really like this place, and love how nice everyone is that works here. Met a new friend tonight too she was really sweet, love meeting friends everywhere. I had so much fun tonight, definitely want to come back again. Thank you for amazing service and awesome vibes!! Have a really beautiful day :) Be kind to everyone you meet - Aloha read more

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This is definitely a small-ish / slightly cramped bar with a somewhat older crowd. My friends and I wanted to find a spot to play some pool on a Friday night. When we came in, the bar was pretty full and so were the pool tables. We ended up wanting to grab some Mexican candy shots from the bar which took a minute because there were only two bartenders and a lot of people trying to get drinks. Shoutout to the fantastic bartenders though! The Mexican candy shots were delicious! We ended up leaving after being there for about 30 minutes due to the spacing and overall vibe. read more

Tracie was amazing, and the atmosphere was phenomenal. Such a great experience from start to finish--I'd definitely come back again!

Where do I even start with this gem hidden in the center of Orange County? This place is a staple in the iconic orange circle dating back to I don't-even-know-when. The day I turned 21 I came to this bar with my friends. Before that, I was envious of my friends that could gain access! EVERYBODY that works here is unbelievably kind, the drinks are amazing, the ambiance is AWESOME and they even have popcorn that's mega-tasty. I brought my girlfriends (emphasis on the "s" in girlfriends, since I've been coming here for decades) to this establishment, and they have always felt safe to the utmost degree. As of right now, I am absolutely in LOVE with Tracie, Eleni, Taylor, Dave, Pete and especially COUNTRY! Country is the freaking man! Ive never met such a nice person. I love PAUL'S COCKTAILS!!!!! read more

Came down here for a drink on a Friday but after a long week was craving a good drink at a local bar. A friend invited me down here and it's the epitome of a locals bar in old town orange! Loved the vibe overall! I met the bartender Pete who was very chill and quickly gave me a tiny pitcher of beer. Started shooting the shit with some other locals and had some great laughs! As the bar started filling up (remember this is a Friday night) Pete was heading out and in came Tracy. This is where I became the most most impressed as in a packed bar in old town orange Tracy came in and HANDLED this spot basically all by herself (with some help from security) until another bartender eventually showed. She's a fucking powerhouse and I give her the utmost respect! read more

Bring back the POPCORN!!! The service is pretty good but it was better when they offered popcorn to the patrons.

Pros still remain the same. Came on a Saturday night, and the vibe was just right. Bartenders were great (both ladies) and the crowd was diverse. A long ways from what I experienced previously. Music was crackin'. Pool tables full. Definitely some regulars were playing and they were pretty welcoming. My friend suggested I leave by 10pm. I left at 9:00. read more

This place was so hot inside, had to go ditch my jacket. Had a bouncer at the door. Didn't do much. Place would go from can move packed to empty. It's a dicey bar. Best thing about this place, parking right behind the location. Good head start spot to grab a cheep beer, get the evening going. Or maybe even a way to close out the night. Had a food truck outside after hours. read more

I be honest, I dont really put reviews... I just feel so disrespected about what happened that I felt they should know how I feel. I was taken out by a friend for my birthday. I am truly going through alot so I did not want to go out. But I figured I needed a drink and out of all places we wanted to go to Paul's. We took an Uber from fullerton to that bar. We went in, I needed to pee really bad so I was walking straight to restroom. Bar tender screamed at me in front of everybody, asking for ID. I said "I have it i just gota pee real fast and be right back". She got on a power trip and asked me for it now! At this point I figured im not staying... i just have so much going on I dont deserve to be treated that way. No one else got asked for one, my friend literally sat down there and wasn't ask for one. I dont look that young either. So, I showed it to her. She kicks me out, and i said I wasn't trying to stay. I just wanted to show her that I am wayyy above 21, but that i dont deserve to be treated this way on my birthday. And I left. Tbh, super rude youngster bar tender. I never had an issue before this... I feel like it is important to remember that you never know what people are going through. And that they shouldn't be treated inhumane.. is fuckt up.. read more

Taylor is great! Lovely customer service, atmosphere is very relaxed. Definitely will be back!

I visited this place a long time ago, and it was nice back then. The place didn't change so much, but the service was terrible. The waitress with the red hair had a rude attitude giving us service, we tried to be nice with her asking beers and asking her for napkins was a trigger for her, we been there for like 3 hours but the last round she served with attitude and the napkins issue, really making faces and rolling eyes, no way acceptable. We as clients deserve better. read more

Opens at 6 am Lots of beer in tap Wide variety of bottled Truly new flavors ! $5.50 each ! I cant find these anywhere where I live in ELA ! Outside patio w/ covered roof Super dive bar , no food , but free fresh popcorn ! Super nice bartender ! Can't wait to return :) read more

Paul's Cocktails - New flavors - Dive Bars Near Me - Orange, California

Bad service Kick customers out early even though we have a billiards game going and beer in hand Not coming back read more

Friendly staff, decent pours, pool tables and great music. Paul's is almost always open, and the bartenders are awesome. Go see Meredith! read more

Rylie is my favorite bouncer ever !!! Definitely will be here every weekend. The vibes are great.

This place is horrible. Went to meet a friend tonight for drinks he was running late so I sat down and ordered a drink , probably the worst Ol'Fashion I've ever had. But non the less I paid and sipped it waiting. About 15 min pass and I walk outside to call him and see him getting pushed up on by security accusing him of being intoxicated, and my friend was upset, saying that he only had one beer and a shot at another bar and they were not letting them in and then I heard the security guard. Say it's because "you're drunk and you're gay you're too gay" !!! Wtf? Did I just really hear? ! I'm floored how dare he EVER say something like that! Wtf is wrong with this place? How is this even possible in 2024 ? I'm sick from the homophobic pos that is employed by Paul's . Wow nothing more to say . read more

The employees and guests have been nice every time I've been here. The drinks are GOOD and reasonably priced, and the popcorn is great. The only problem I've had here is when a group of four laughing, happy girls were sneakily touching my girlfriend's butt as we sat at the bar. She didn't tell me until afterwards. read more

Pretty cool bar. The staff and the owner of this bar are really nice too. Had a fun night out with friends.

Local Bar. They have beer on tap here unlike the bar next door. But it's $10.25 for half a pitcher ... which is yikes steeep The feel is divey, local, but authentic. The door is hidden and literal hole in the wall. Dark af inside so give your eyes a moment to focus on the crowd of ppl at the bar staring at you.. lol awks We got a half pitcher of Goose IPA They serve fresh popcorn - but we weren't offered any. The space is really big and plenty of seating and room to stand. They have 3 full size pool tables and a stripped on display lol! Service was fast. And they have some cool decorations on the way.. but pretty overpriced considering the crowd read more

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The vibe is fun and a good mix of ages. Bartenders are cool, security was nice and drinks were good. No complaints.

Came here while bar hopping, and was waiting for seating for dinner (1 hour wait) we ordered drinks and got stuck playing that golf arcade game the whole time (it's addicting) lol. It was a Friday night, it was definitely busy, got serviced quickly though, and had a good time. read more

Paul's Cocktails - a close up of a bar - Dive Bars Near Me - Orange, California

I normally like this bar but I will never be back .. bartender Alisa I think is her name is super rude has a bad attitude .. her service is terrible .. she is nice to what she considers regulars it seems like but because I came during the day this time she doesn't know I frequent this place .. she was extremely rude and took super long to serve me .. only bartender I've had an issue with . read more

Another cool dive bar. Had a good time at Paul's, they've got a few pool tables, spots, cool people, and dog friendly, can't go wrong. The Circle at Orange is the perfect bar hopping, vintage shops & plenty bars to choose from. Good time! read more

Came in here during the street fair to get away from the crowds. It was a nice atmosphere and plenty of space inside and out to the patio. They had a great set up, fair prices and a nice crowd. Paul's Cocktails is a nice dive bar situated by the Orange Circle next to the District Lounge. If you need a place to meet up friends or just grab a drink you should come in! The bouncer is the best! read more

Paul's Cocktails - Dive Bars Near Me - Orange, California

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Sunday morning. See Meredith for her custom mixologist, spicy jalapeno Margarita. One of a kind, definitely cucumber twist, salted U. K, salted, you can't go wrong. To die for 5 stars all the way.Get a mother hot or see Meredith to see when she has her next custom batch ready to be made read more

Jen makes everything nice! Jen gets a 5 star all the way home and for that matter all the hot chicks at the bar (bartenders) are super cool and adorable! 20 yrs ago I used to live just a few blocks away. That is how my journey began at Paul's. The crowd can vary especially in the patio during the summer(s). The music? Is all OVER THE MAP! A 1 (one) star to the smell inside the bar. idk you tell me what that smell is and you will figure it out. Can someone burn some sage please! A few months back my car was towed away by the wicked world famous mouse aka as mickey mouse. We dragged our sad bodies in and Jen again saved me with her famous bloody mary. The cocktail is a cross with a tapas. It is a big folkloric presentation with bacon, sausages with carrots Olive, to celery sticks. It really is a pretty folkloric buckeye presentation. However it is only served on Sunday morning for brunch and I think she wraps it up around noon. But do not hold me accountable for the timing. The Orange circle fair can be over rated so enter at your own risk. Do not get me wrong I have gone in and have met really cool smoking hot chicks. That were able to hold a good convo. I think they charge $10 to go in (enter) during the Orange circle fair. 6:00 am is recommended rather then 6:00 pm. Otherwise it can get extremely crowded. Bikers? of course! Just look at the parking lot. Then again I have seen all kinds of ages to all kinds of ppl coming together or not. Security? They are chill I find them to be nice but if you are doing something seriously dumb then you will escorted out. Otherwise I find them to pretty mellow. I think you get my point just drop in and check it out. Locals are friendly and receptive to visitors. Remember Chapman College is down the street so You will find good eye candy. (LOL) read more

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**Please read if you want a true and honest review of this "bar."** Took my daughter here for her 21st Birthday with some family (most of us are locals) Embarrassing to say, at this point unfortunately. This bar used to be our go-to joint, but I'm NEVER going back. Not only was the idiot working the door incredibly rude, he also insinuated that her ID was a fake. It took me talking to him for 20 mins for the guy to put two and two together. Didn't stop there. Why this place continues to hire insecure, rude and incompetent bartenders is beyond me. This is the 2nd time the one with obnoxious red hair/horrible attitude fucking ruined the experience for me there. STOP HIRING bartenders who keep business away!! Hope the owner makes some changes. This bar is TRASH. read more

When I first walked in, I was warmly greeted by Manny, the awesome security guard, and was ready to check this place out. Parking is free and easy to access right next to the bar. They have lots of places to sit down which I really appreciated after standing for so long at the other bar next door. Also, you can actually talk to your friends and hear them! The music isn't super loud which is nice. You can get a pitcher of beer for under $10! The vibe is popular and fun. Seems like everyone is having a good time. I would come back again for sure. read more

Love This place great customer service Thank you Tracy and Thomas Our drinks were fire and we got a pink Whitney shot on a hockey stick ON THE HOUSE ! ! read more

Paul's Cocktails - Dive Bars Near Me - Orange, California

Sat at the bar for 15 minutes place wasn't busy bartender never even acknowledged we were there. From the service factor I would say drinks aren't much better!!! Across her street is Finneys and Bosscat go there first!!! read more

High class establishment with great clientele..... it's a dive bar that has great service and fun bartenders! You come here for good times with good people. read more

Worst service and parking ever. Stay away from them if you're in Orange. Many more spots nearby

Exactly what you would expect out of a local bar. Drinks at a good price, nice atmosphere, and adequate space for the amount of people that attend a bar. Pool table and popcorn just in case you need extra entertainment. Plenty of TVs and wall art to look at in case you need something extra. Pete works hard to ensure everyone is tended to and is one of the most responsible bartenders I've ever met. I will be coming back and overall one of the best places to stop by if you're a local or just stopping by. read more

Very rascist bar and people. I paid for my music to be played but somehow none oh my music was allowed to play. People saying stuff and making ugly remarks. read more

Paul's Cocktails - People are racist. - Dive Bars Near Me - Orange, California

Use to love this place and frequent here until I met Alisa the bartender. I believe that's her name she had red hair. Very rude when I first came in and kept being rude the whole time she served me. I ordered 2 drinks from her and then I closed out with her as her shift was ending and even tipped her over 20% as I always do everywhere I go( I work in the industry ), and didn't even get a thank you she just snatched her tip money. It doesn't stop here , I tried to order a drink from the night time bartender and she had informed me the bartender Alisa said not to serve me anymore because I had too much already. I have never in my life had a bartender stop serving me after 2 drinks! The people that came in around the same time was me had ordered about 4 cocktails and even ordered shots and were not told anything about not being able to order drinks anymore. I immediately left after and asked for the bartenders name and owners names. Having a bartender like this is BAD for business . I won't ever come back and they lost a good loyal customer. Shame on you Alisa . Attention Mike and Michelle , TALK TO YOUR STAFF read more

Ambience is good. But the bartender ignored me and a friend twice after we had sat down trying to get his attention. He had taken 2 peoples orders behind us. It was a busy Saturday but I feel like he should've taken notice of the people sitting down at the bar more than the people walking up. My friend and I took off after 20 minutes waiting. read more

The tall bouncer with a moustache didn't accept my permanent residence card as a valid ID and didn't want to let me in

So I hadn't been to Paul's in years. Used to go all the time. Bartenders were always friendly and attentive. Nice and outgoing. Only reason I'm not giving it 1 star is the memories I had here. Whoever was working there last night was NOT those things. I walked in, sat down, having a conversation with a friend. Bartender, which was a lady, looked annoyed at something, unfriendly, had an attitude. Not sure why. The security guy looked like he just hated being there. No smile, no expression. I'm half way through my beer and I attempt a joke. Which was not received well at all, as she snapped back at me telling me not to go over the bar. I hope there are cameras. All I did was stand and adjust. Slightly moving forward to do so. NOT over the bar or even half way. As she snapped "don't go over the bar!" Putting me on the spot. Security didn't even see. He just sprang into action and repeated what she said. Now I'm ganged up on. I felt embarrassed. It was not an inappropriate joke. Or vulgar in anyway. Don't like my joke? That's ok. But to imply I'm doing something I'm not, because you are in a bad mood?! Her attitude was that she was better than us and she wanted us to know it. It was disappointing, disrespectful, rude, and overall shameful. Needless to say, I will not be returning to Paul's any longer. My friend paid, I politely said goodbye, have a good night and left. My suggestion would be to treat your guests better. Possibly not hire ppl with bad attitudes. read more