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    Tortuga

    3.8 (12 reviews)
    Closed 12:00 pm - 6:00 PM

    Tortuga Photos

    TORTUGA ATMOSPHERE

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    Coconut shrimp
    Samuel C.

    Island vibes in downtown San Diego? Yep, turns out paradise comes with hotel key card access. We wandered down from the Omni pool expecting, I don't know, maybe a soggy nacho plate. Instead--BAM--coconut shrimp so good they should come with a warning label. Dip them in the sweet chili sauce and suddenly you're contemplating permanent residency. The wings? Equally dangerous. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The decor and view scream "vacation,"[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] while the staff is so friendly and attentive you start wondering if they're secretly auditioning for "Best Human Alive." Honestly, I was waiting for something to complain about--lukewarm fries, slow service, maybe an umbrella that wouldn't open--but nope. Nada. Zero. Basically, if you're in San Diego and don't stop here, you clearly hate yourself.

    Melissa L.

    The Tortuga bar is located on the sixth floor (partial rooftop) of the Omni Hotel. In order to drink here you'd have to be a guest as it requires a room key to get up the elevators to the six floor or you would just have to know someone who is staying here to let you up. So that is a nice perk if you are staying at this hotel as you essentially get your own private rooftop bar and pool area. Tortuga was truly awesome. Our first day I'd give it a 5/5 and the second day it was more a 3.75/5 but that was more because service was hurting the second day. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Overall though the bar area and rooftop pool area is stunning. Very posh and well done. Plenty of lounges and bed style chairs with cushions. No plastic pool chairs here. The bar and pool area was decorated and constructed very well.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]There was plenty of seating and some nicer cabana style suites you could rent but there were covered comfortable nice fire pits and cushioned benches and lounges throughout that if you sat near the bar you still got a relaxing and lovely spot to sip a cocktail or to order some bites.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] They also have a formal bar if you want to sit at the bar top. Service just depended. Our first day we had a gentlemen who was super on it. Approached us right away, drinks came fast, and he continued to be attentive. The second day we had a less attentive Queen. She was very nice but when drinks were empty she never came back to suggest a second and when we asked for our checks she took so long that I had to go back up to her when I caught her at a register to get the printout. While I could dock a star I feel like everyone was nice and that our first day the service was so exceptional that I'll give them a pass for the second day not being as consistent. Cocktails here were so good! And even the mocktails were legit. My first day I got the lychee blossom cocktail which was actually one of my favorite cocktails the whole trip. It was like a better version of a pina colada but with more lychee flavor. Omg so heavenly. My the second day I was hung over and opted for a mocktail lol. I got the raspberry limeade and oh gosh was that good. Pretty presentation and good flavor. Tortuga bar delivered and was the perfect cherry on top to our stay at this Omni hotel. In a way I'm glad it's not open to the public because it was intimate and private but I also really want to come back to this pool bar so that incentives me to stay at this hotel again, good work!

    Inside seating
    Annie D.

    Had a staycation at the Omni at the Ballpark. Hung out at the pool and ordered food and drinks from Tortuga the pool bar. Danielle our bartender was great! Drinks were all delicious with my favorite being the creamsicle (tasted just like one). For food, the pupu platter was delicious and great to share between 4 people. The wings had a delicious sesame sauce. For lunch I ordered the smash burger no cheese and it came with 2 hearty patties. Would have ordered French fries. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Overall we had a great experience and really enjoyed the Tiki vibes.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]

    Business logo on a hallway sign
    Emmett T.

    Tortuga is the rebranded pool deck and bar at the Omni San Diego Hotel in the Gaslamp Quarter. Previously, there was no name to this area on the sixth floor, but now a turtle mascot leads the way. One sign said Tortuga was open from 12 to 7 pm daily while the website mentioned a 6:00 pm closing time. Guests of the property could scan their room card to unlock the doors. If you were a visitor, then you had to knock on the window to catch the attention of a bartender who could use a fob to remotely unlock the entryway. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The view faced south overlooking part of the San Diego Bay.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]The bar and lounge area were under cover while the pool and chairs on the deck were exposed to the sun.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] It looked like a comfy spot to unwind after an event like a Padres baseball game next door at Petco Park. The food menu had four pages with the categories of Starters and Salads, Handhelds, Bowls & Tacos, and Desserts. I chose one of the two available mocktails for a drink. The frozen slush machine was not working so the bartender crafted a Pina Colada out of coconut cream, pineapple juice, and lime juice. For food, I picked a Crab Cake Burger which was a lump crab patty dressed with lemon caper aioli, arugula, and marinated tomatoes on a poppy seed bun. Chips or seasonal fruit came with the order so I opted for the latter. The price was actually one dollar less than the bacon cheeseburger which was not a bad deal for a crab cake patty. The aioli's tartness and arugula's spiciness helped cut through the crabby flavor. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Between the setting and the food choices, I was more impressed with Tortuga than the ground level bar/restaurant at this hotel.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]

    Tortuga poolside bar

    [[HIGHLIGHT]]Really fun poolside bar; great atmosphere and friendly staff.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I had the poke nachos and they were delicious.

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    False Idol

    False Idol

    4.4
    (1.4k reviews)
    1.1 mi
    $$

    I love it here; this is one of my go to spots to bring people when they are in town for…read morework/visiting etc. Be warned, you can have a very long wait here if you just pop in, especially on a Friday or Saturday evening. Make a reservation if you know this is your destination. They have some spot on Tiki decor and the staff here is really friendly, happy to share their favorite drinks, or make suggestions based on your likes. If fruity drinks are not your jam... what are you doing in a Tiki Bar!! No really, they have great options for on the rocks or straight as well as ordering your favorite cocktail or beer. They have a ton of options, all sorts of alcohol bases depending on what your vice is, they also have non-alcoholic drinks for those so inclined. Hard to pass on a Mai Tai or a Zombie to start your evening off. lately I have been enjoying the Eastern Sour which is their take on a whiskey sour. It's always fun when someone orders a bowl and the room shakes and the lights flash with thunder and lightning adding a bit of excitement for first timers. Just to recap: Don't get mad if you have to wait and did not make a reservation. While they have lots of options, most drinks and all specialties are Tiki Drinks. Tiki drinks can be strong, mind yourself. If a place like this is not your vibe, that is fine, head back into Craft & Commerce, make room for others who are waiting to get in, just have fun!

    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!

    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
    (975 reviews)
    2.3 mi
    $$

    Ambiance: 5/5 Service: 4/5…read moreFood: 4/5 Drinks: 5/5 Price: 4/5 Parking: 4/5 Came by on a Monday late afternoon with a reservation. It was my third overall visit but my first time bringing my kids (12, 5). We all love it and are big Mothership fans! I highly recommend for all ages, though come early with a reservation if you're bringing minors.

    The single worst experience I've ever had going out…read more If you're friends with the servers, bartenders, or hosts, you'll probably have a great time. If you're not a regular, be careful, because apparently all it takes is one drunk friend of the staff making up a story to get you kicked out. While visiting San Diego with friends, we came here after hearing so many great things. There was a short wait, which was fine. The four of us were seated at a small standing table, also fine. Behind us were two guys drinking at the standing bar. One of them bumped into my friend and then stroked her arm while apologizing. She was visibly uncomfortable, so I told her to switch places with me. The guy immediately said, "We're gay, so you don't have to worry," then turned to his friend and said, "Now he looks so stupid and embarrassing." I told him, "I don't think it's embarrassing to make sure your friends are comfortable," then turned back around. I didn't argue with him, insult him, or continue the conversation. I thought that was the end of it. A few minutes later, the manager came over and told us we had made comments that made other patrons uncomfortable and asked us to leave. We had already paid for our drinks and were still waiting for them. My friend followed the manager to ask what was going on, and I joined shortly after. The person complaining was, of course, the same guy who had bumped into her. He was clearly drunk and started rambling about how we had made homophobic comments toward him and his friend. This was especially ridiculous considering the friend I switched places with was there with her girlfriend. We calmly explained exactly what happened. The manager did not care. There was no real attempt to hear our side, ask questions, or figure out what actually happened. The decision had clearly already been made. While we were speaking to the manager, the guy who complained was cheerfully talking with one of the bartenders, receiving a to-go meal, and greeting them cheek to cheek. He very obviously appeared to know the staff. So that seems to be how things work here: a drunk regular or friend of the staff can make up whatever story he wants, and management will throw out an entire group of paying customers without even pretending to investigate. They refunded the drinks, which was the bare minimum. The ambience was nice, but that means absolutely nothing when the staff handles customers this poorly. Awful management, blatant favoritism, and easily the worst service I have ever experienced. I would never come back, and I would strongly warn anyone who isn't already friends with the staff to stay away.

    Photos
    Mindkiller
    Mindkiller
    Away Mission
    Away Mission
    The bar area

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    The bar area
    Noble Experiment

    Noble Experiment

    4.5
    (1.9k reviews)
    0.4 mi
    $$

    My husband and I recently spent some days in San Diego. He found this speak easy and we decided we…read moreneeded to try it out. This was definitely the highlight of our trip. From the spooky, dark, skulls old school ambiance and decor, to the experience of not ordering from a menu, everything about it made it feel unique and curated making it feel like a true individualized experience. As mentioned, there are no menus. We sat at the bar, the bartender makes casual conversation with you regarding the types of drinks you enjoy. He curated something for both my husband and I based on what we shared we enjoyed. The drinks were delicious. The entry was very cool! It felt as if you were entering a hidden spot - which you do. When you enter the restaurant, you let the hostess know you're there for the Noble Experience. She let us know to head to the wall with the kegs (which is actually a door). You enter and there's a small waiting area where you're greeted by another hostess. This place is a 20/10. We can't wait to return on our next visit to SD.

    This is an easy one and Consortium Holdings does it again...a MUST go. You know the rules...one…read moreshort review, let's go: Drinks: no menu. Love it. True bartender skills. Love it. Drinks. Love them! Whole crew did. Well done Ambiance: top tier. As with anything CH. so fun Service: amazing. Knowledgeable. Attentive. And so nice. Go go go to NE

    Photos
    Strawberry cucumber Gin cocktail
    Strawberry cucumber Gin cocktail
    Ceiling and chandelier
    Ceiling and chandelier
    Bartenders creations.

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    Bartenders creations.
    Convoy Music Bar

    Convoy Music Bar

    4.5
    (427 reviews)
    8.2 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)
    0.3 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 went to Prohibition when I was attending a conference at the Convention Center, so I think my…read moreexperience is a little different. A sponsor had rented out the whole place and all drinks were comped with food being passed around. We had cuban sandwiches and empanadas, which I think were all from the Havana restaurant upstairs. Food was great! Drinks were good, but the menu was so confusing to me. I didn't really like how they categorized them. Sometimes I feel like just being straightforward is better. Too cute with trying to do the prohibition/speakeasy menu. It did take a while to get drinks when it was packed. Understandable. But I had a few that were good, the boats and hoes, and keffir lime tequila drink were great. I would say that the bathroom had a bit of a stink to it...not sure what it was but smelled just like coming up from the pipes. May just be a basement issue. Overall, good experience. It didn't feel super special but just like any other speakeasy. I like False Idol better in terms of overall vibe.

    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)
    Starlite

    Starlite

    4.1
    (2.7k reviews)
    2.3 mi
    $$$

    I absolutely loved this place! Everything felt reasonably priced, especially compared to similar…read morespots in San Diego. My only complaint was that we didn't get to sit in the disco room--it looked so fun and was definitely one of the coolest parts of the restaurant. We skipped the cocktail menu and ordered pornstar martinis instead, and they were incredible. The passionfruit tasted fresh and natural, not overly sweet or artificial. For food, we shared the mozzarella sticks with caviar crème fraîche ($23), which came with a surprisingly generous portion of caviar. We also ordered the Caesar salad, which was a great size for sharing, and the Starlight Burger with a Wagyu patty and fries. Everything was delicious and exceeded our expectations. The service was just as impressive. Our server was attentive without being overbearing and checked in frequently to make sure we had everything we needed. Overall, every part of the experience was on point. Great food, great drinks, great service, and such a fun atmosphere. I'll definitely be back!

    Such a cute and aesthetic spot! I originally couldn't get a reservation, so I joined the waitlist…read moreand ended up getting notified last minute. Check-in was super quick and easy. I was a little disappointed that we ended up sitting at the bar area because I was really hoping our reservation would get us into the beautiful waterfall room. Other than that, the service was great and the food was SO good! Definitely worth checking out if you're looking for a cute dinner spot with a fun atmosphere.

    Photos
    Bar area after entering
    Bar area after entering
    Pistachio ice cream sandwich
    Pistachio ice cream sandwich
    Cocktails are fun!

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    Cocktails are fun!
    Polite Provisions

    Polite Provisions

    4.3
    (2k reviews)
    4.2 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). Apparently, food now served is Asian-inspired. I've not visited recently to taste. 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

    3.5
    (41 reviews)
    2.0 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.

    I've visited here a couple of times, and my experiences have been completely different depending on…read morewhen I went. The first time was fantastic. The atmosphere immediately reminded me of Berlin with its moody red room aesthetic and unique vibe. There's a DJ right when you walk in next to the bar, and as you make your way toward the back, you'll find additional seating. It's a fun, energetic space that's unlike many other spots in San Diego. However, my visit this past Friday was a completely different story. We had to wait outside for people to leave before we could get in, although thankfully that only took a few minutes. Once inside, it was packed shoulder to shoulder. There are only two bathroom stalls so it took about 20 minutes just to use the restroom. The biggest issue, though, was the temperature. It honestly felt like it was 100 degrees inside. It was unbearably hot, and after a while we had to leave because we were so uncomfortable. During a crowded San Diego summer night, having air conditioning or at least improved ventilation would make a huge difference. That said, I still recommend checking this place out. My advice is to visit on a weekday instead of a weekend, and avoid especially hot or overly crowded nights. When it's not packed, the atmosphere is unique, stylish, and definitely worth experiencing.

    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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    Tortuga - bars - Updated August 2026

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