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    The World Famous IBar

    4.5 (32 reviews)
    InexpensiveBars
    Closed 3:00 pm - 9:00 PM

    The World Famous IBar Photos

    THE WORLD FAMOUS IBAR ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Good for groups
    Outdoor seating

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    watercolor I painted from my visit here long ago with the American Society of Aviation Artists.  copyright, all rights reserved
    Merana N.

    We were here years ago for an American Society of Aviation Artists event. The Navy hosted us, and invited us to visit the I Bar. I painted this watercolor from a photo I took at the event with the kind permission of the gentlemen in the picture. The wonderful display of memorabilia is enough to keep anyone fascinated for hours.

    I think these were called kegs, there were 4. They had cheese and sour cream in them.
    Andrea M.

    Decent bar food. The prices are great but the servers are really fun. I really enjoyed the bloody mary.

    The bar rules.
    Roy I.

    The Top Gun bar. I'm not even a drinker but I enjoyed visiting her with my niece and sister. The atmosphere is great. I got a Pepsi and popcorn and obeyed the rules. Great bar!

    Pilot's mugs overhead and bar behind.
    Holly S.

    Yep, it is the official pilot bar as described on North Island Naval Installation, Coronado. You will need a military ID to access it but guests are permitted and tolerated / ignored by the groups of multiple pilots themselves talking stink and welcomed warmly by staff, families, other patrons. Small bar, with popcorn machine and covered area out back for seating with small, walking paths, fountain and games (corn hole, etc). Families out on patio running around with little ones and on special occasions (such as Cinco de Mayo for us) offer food out back. Street parking around block building. Only 6 spots in front around circle.

    Inside the bar
    Tyson C.

    You need special permission to get on base, but once you do this bar is fun and the staff is super friendly and helpful. The bar is small and tall people may hit their heads on the mugs hanging from from the ceiling. No food is available, but they do have a popcorn machine with a bunch of different seasoning toppings. Their is a few rules at the bar, but I will not tell you and you should know them before you enter the bar. Staff is super sweet and genuine. The public are welcomed, but have not always been. It is a treat to be inside and enjoy a cold frosty beer. A great piece of history in San Diego.

    Great service, drinks and next level ambiance! It's on a Naval base, so you either have to know a stud (studette) or be one to get on base; I know one! Hats off to our military!

    Lots of history in this place and friendly staff. Bartender gave us an overview of the place. Just make sure you know and observe the rules of the bar. They are posted.

    Main entrance
    Lawrence C.

    This is the real deal! This is where the top guns would come if they were based here. There is an incredible amount of history here. I'm sorry I didn't take any photos of the interior.....you'll just have to check it out yourself. Pitchers of beer are $13, and glasses of wine are $6.50. Hot freshly popped popcorn is free and overflowing. Service by the bar is efficient, friendly, and with a smile. Originally (we're talking 1950's), the I-Bar was reserved for senior officers. By the mid 1960's, it had become a general pilots' hang-out. The model aircraft, hanging from the ceiling, are now limited to U.S. Navy, Marine, and Coast Guard types, and they could be experimental, developmental, under evaluation, or otherwise. NASNI Instruction 1710.13 of 29 July 1994 designated the "I-Bar" a "Commissioned Officers' Mess", insuring its availability for the enjoyment by future generations of Naval Aviators.

    World famous I bar

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    4 months ago

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    4 years ago

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    1 year ago

    Great bartenders, great atmosphere. It was good to be back around the Navy. I highly recommend this bar if you can get on base.

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    3 years ago

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    2 years ago

    If you can get on base to this gem, it's a good place to hang out for an aviation atmosphere

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    2 years ago

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    10 years ago

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    2 years ago

    If you want the authentic naval environment and drink with the pilots, this is the place.

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    2 years ago

    Fun place to visit or sure! Bartender and locals were very welcoming! Definitely worth trying!

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    7 years ago

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    3 years ago

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    3 years ago

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    4 years ago

    Was TDY and stayed at the BOQ North Island. The I bar was a quick walk from my room; spent many a night there!

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    8 years ago

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    Ask the Community - The World Famous IBar

    Can civilians go to this bar?

    Sort of. You need to be with someone who can get on base.

    Says closed for renovations until summer 2019, anyone know when this summer? Planning a trip the end of June and hoping it will be reopened by then.

    It's open now

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    Review Highlights - The World Famous IBar

    . There are model aircraft hanging from the low ceiling that you cannot touch

    Mentioned in 3 reviews

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    False Idol

    False Idol

    4.4
    (1.4k reviews)
    2.5 mi
    $$

    My brother found this place several years ago on his visits to SD. It's now become a regular spot…read morewhenever we are in town. Most recently we were there for an event and as always, they were nothing short of exceptional! The drinks are always fantastic but what really elevates this place is the staff. They always have the best attitude, they are so accommodating, and you can tell they want you to enjoy your experience in every way. During our most recent visit, Lamar really went above and beyond to ensure our group was able to all be together for an event. I'm so very grateful for his assistance and wanted to say thank you again for everything! This place is an absolute must each time we visit, and I would highly recommend adding it to your list to try!

    This place is hidden inside Craft & Commerce which is a quirky little bar itself. There was a wait…read morefor entry this past Sunday after 9pm. Staff was also not very attentive to guests' needs, rather just going through the motions. For instance, they noted "standing room only" and that they would eventually seat our party of two. They walked us to an exact spot on the floor to stand and view the menu in the dark (we used our phone flashlights, but it wasn't easy while carrying our belongings too), and they instructed us not to order at the bar in this colorful but dimly lit tiki lounge. We essentially ordered from staff who took our order in the middle of the floor, then we had to hold our drinks, some that came with additional shot glasses, in full hands, as we were never seated. We did find a barrel to set our drinks on later, but their process and expectations for guests was just really weird and impractical. The theme and decor of the setting was lovely, with moments of a lightning and thunder effect that made the experience more immersive. But we were not impressed by the sticky menus and sticky floor, nor the lack of service and minimal help from staff while there. We made the most of our time at False Idol regardless of their shortcomings. The bombay sling and enigma de muerte were pretty decent in quality and flavor, so it's safe to say the drinks aren't the problem here. And though we probably won't return, it was cool for a one-time experience.

    Photos
    Tiki themed decor
    Tiki themed decor
    Rum barrel
    Rum barrel
    Back bar rum selection

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    Back bar rum selection
    Mothership

    Mothership

    4.3
    (964 reviews)
    4.7 mi
    $$

    If you're looking for a fun evening with great drinks and food, you should come here. It's in South…read morePark and we easily found street parking. Definitely make a reservation. They also have some seats at the bar. This restaurant has gone all in on the space theme, from the hostess greeting to the decor in the restaurant and restroom, and even the menu and tables. Such a fun vibe! This place is known for their cocktails. I forget what we ordered because they all have funny names, but both my friend and I really enjoyed our choices. The food was great too. We ordered the tofu. I think it had a light tempura fry, yummy sauce, and very large portion. The bread is roti with an eggplant and tomato dip. Very good, but not enough dip. I'd still order it again. Probably the only negative was that I felt a bit rushed to leave. We were enjoying our conversation, entrees, and drinks and got checked on quite frequently. Eventually the waiter said, no rush but here's the check. Kind of ruined the vibe. We decided to pass on dessert here and walk to an ice cream shop in the same neighborhood.

    Well if you want to not feel like you are in San Diego...and you love Star Wars this is your spot…read more You know the rules...one quick review, that's all: Food/Drinks: Never ate any food but drinks...creative, crazy and delicious Ambiance: this is why you come. Step through a non-de script door and you are in outer space. Go to the bathroom, real Star Wars empire vibes Service: attentive and good

    Photos
    Mindkiller
    Mindkiller
    The bar area
    The bar area
    Vegan (?) soft serve

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    Vegan (?) soft serve
    Noble Experiment

    Noble Experiment

    4.5
    (1.9k reviews)
    2.7 mi
    $$

    I'm not an often a cocktail drinker. So when the bartender asked what I'm looking for I was ill…read moreprepared. From his view, it probably sounded like "I'm Ron Burgundy?" (It definitely did). His questions guided my indecision towards a Berkshire Old Fashioned that was fantastic despite my fumbling to get there. With the warm up round over and the old fashioned loosening up my creativity, round two was set to be a knockout. I love coffee (specifically strong espresso drinks), so I asked for a strong, coffee infused, punchy cocktail, but with a different base of alcohol from the old fashioned. What came out was the best cocktail I will probably ever have in my life. The bourbon cocktail with coffee liqueur (and a number of other garnishes I will never remember) hit the bullseye. Flavorful, strong, bold, delicious all at the same time. Unfortunately (?), this was a noble experiment so I'll forever be chasing the white whale of what this drink was. But that's the allure.

    This was such a cool spot. I found it near where I was staying inside a restaurant called the…read moreneighborhood. The host said it was an hour wait, but sat us after 10 minutes. Wish she gave a more accurate time line, but the drinks were good. I was surprised there was no menu to order from, but it's nice they make a unique drink for each person and one of the girls in the party asked for a mocktail and it was nice they could accommodate it. Someone else in our party asked for a jack and Coke which is one of my favorite drinks, and the bartenders take on it was soooo good. I asked for a piña colada which was pretty perfect. I loved the gothic spooky vibe as well. I would definitely go back.

    Photos
    Strawberry cucumber Gin cocktail
    Strawberry cucumber Gin cocktail
    Bartenders creations.
    Bartenders creations.
    Skull wall

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    Skull wall
    Convoy Music Bar

    Convoy Music Bar

    4.5
    (425 reviews)
    9.3 mi
    $$

    I've been coming to Music Bar since they first opened, and somehow never got around to writing a…read morereview. This one is long overdue--not that they need my review, because by now everyone already knows how amazing this place is. What keeps me coming back is the combination of great music, an energetic vibe, outstanding service, and some of the most creative cocktails you'll find anywhere. Tonight was girls' night out, so we decided to order the prettier, and sweeter cocktails. But don't let the sweet flavors fool you--they are definitely generous with the alcohol. These drinks may taste dangerously easy to sip, but they pack a punch! I don't even remember the names of the cocktails we ordered, but honestly, that doesn't matter because the menu changes so often. And that's one of the things I love most about Music Bar. Every visit brings something new, fresh, and exciting to try. Both of my drinks were absolutely delicious, with the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. I honestly don't know how the bartenders come up with these combinations, but kudos to the team for constantly pushing their creativity while still making every cocktail incredibly well balanced. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular, Music Bar never disappoints. I'll definitely keep coming back to see what new creations they come up with next. Cheers to one of my favorite cocktail spots in San Diego!

    Convoy Music Bar was my first HiFi experience and it did not disappoint! CMB is an intimate…read morelistening bar situated in an alleyway with a dark and moody ambiance. Speakers and vinyls line the walls. Vibes are more elevated here than at your usual bar. I ordered the Nickel Fortune, which came out with a fun tarot card. It was a savory drink with a nice lingering of sesame oil after each sip. Seating is pretty limited inside, so reservations are recommended. CMB's website states that "cocktail attire is celebrated."

    Photos
    Corner table view:  large JBL speakers with Macintosh amps
    Corner table view: large JBL speakers with Macintosh amps
    Interior
    Interior
    Interior

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    Interior
    Prohibition

    Prohibition

    4.0
    (1k reviews)
    2.6 mi
    $$

    As I approached the old law office, we found a line wrapped outside ensuring ID was confirmed prior…read moreto entry. Our group was surprised as is was 2115, it's been open for about an hour and a half and packed. As you enter this old law office down a staircase one would find the "speakeasy statutes/rules" to maintain the 1920s atmosphere-- we loved the setting, the people, the drinks, and of course the live music!! One would not be disappointed. The cocktail menu was on an old record, which I thought it was so clever. Back to the rules, seems pretty easy! They mention to keep an open mind with the drinks as they do not carry vodkas, redbull, Budweiser or bulls**t. Mentioned a dresscode, more so be classic and states be respectful and don't be a di*k. I couldn't agree more with the rules. I don't think there is good at this establishment, as our group just came from dinner I wasn't looking for food. Just spirits, live music and a good time. Highly recommend if you are looking for live music and uniquely crafted cocktails.

    I am writing this review to bring a serious safety and security issue to management's attention. On…read moreMay 18th. around 10pm, I was at this establishment and was unfortunately dealing with a male date who became erratic, weird, and made me feel unsafe. Multiple bystanders witnessed his behavior but failed to intervene, assuming it was just "relationship drama" After the man finally left, the venue's security completely misread the situation. Instead of checking on my well-being or ensuring the aggressor had left the premises, security targeted and chased me as if I were the problem. It is incredibly disappointing and dangerous for a business's security team to lack the basic situational awareness and training required to identify the actual victim in a situation. I felt entirely unprotected by the staff here. I hope management takes this as a serious sign that their security team needs immediate retraining on bystander intervention and de-escalation, rather than harassing women who are already in vulnerable situations.

    Photos
    Prohibition
    El Fruterio featuring Azunia GBOD single barrel reposado tequila
    El Fruterio featuring Azunia GBOD single barrel reposado tequila
    Live Jazz/Blues/Roaring 20's kinda vibe! My kind of bar/lounge! (5/5)

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    Live Jazz/Blues/Roaring 20's kinda vibe! My kind of bar/lounge! (5/5)
    Polite Provisions

    Polite Provisions

    4.3
    (2k reviews)
    6.2 mi
    $$

    Always a 5 Star experience when gathering for drinks here…read more Over the years, the names have changed for the provider of Polite Provision's delicious orderable food to go along with their polite provisions. Items such as scrupulously prepared meatballs, fried polenta, spaghetti with mushroom sauce, etc., from the prior next-door, connected purveyor "Soda and Swine"...but those days are done ...I digress. And where is Soda and Swine's Yelp page? I know I did a review, but now the page appears gone completely in search? Nah, it's just hidden, presumably to accommodate Fortunate Sons, which opened about a year ago after re-construction of both establishments. I'm too lazy to see if still owned by Consortium Group. I did search my reviews and found my updated Soda & Swine review dated 8 & 10 years ago. O_o !! Now, food is still served, however, there's a new name in town called "Fortunate Son" (next door, connected). Food served is now Asian-inspired. The North Park area is a great neighborhood with many different types of food close by. While you're there, don't forget to stop by "An's Dry Cleaners", where the most inventive gelato's, ice creams and sorbets come from.

    You can order from the bar or your table. Lots of different seating options indoors and outdoors…read more Very extensive drink menu almost too many options. The drinks we ordered were good and service didn't take too long. Right next to Fortunate Son so you can order food from them and enjoy in their bar.

    Photos
    Want. Make. Disco.
    Want. Make. Disco.
    Real oil lamps!
    Real oil lamps!
    Art deco

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    Art deco
    Kiku Room

    Kiku Room

    3.6
    (39 reviews)
    3.0 mi

    One of the coolest new spots in San Diego in my opinion. This is the original location of the…read moreCasbah, it then languished for years as the Kava Lounge, a strange spot for wooks, and finally it became Kiku Room. Kiku Room has a chic minimalist interior, with polish concrete, metal, and glass as the primary backdrop. The DJ booth is large and separates the front sitting area from a lounge in the back that is draped in deep red lighting. The bartenders are cool and welcoming, the DJs who come through are usually really good, and the lounge is quite comfortable as well. Pretty good price on drinks overall, too. You can get a glass of draft Asahi here for $7, for instance, which is pretty good for a place that's in this DTSD-adjacent area.

    The music is their main focus -- and you can feel that the second you walk in. It's not random…read moreSpotify vibes. Yes the space is small but that helps make it feel more intimate. The cocktails are just as dialed. Balanced, clean, strong (in a good way), and not trying too hard. They have some great NA options as well. The NA Asahi beer is amazing. You can tell there's real intention behind the bar, which makes the whole experience feel cohesive. Yes, there's usually a line -- but that's what happens when something is this good. I've heard they're working on expanding, which would be amazing because the space deserves to hold more people without losing that energy. Five stars. For the music. For the drinks. For the vibe. I'll happily wait in line for this one.

    Photos
    Pay to get in bar.
    Pay to get in bar.
    Entrance to the back room
    Entrance to the back room
    Kiku Room

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    The World Famous IBar - bars - Updated August 2026

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