Best Pregame Spots in San Diego
Pregaming is an essential part of the pre-bar or pre-club ritual. It gets everyone excited and ready to go. Yet, while you might have a favorite pregame spot in your home city, it’s difficult to find that on a quick trip. If you’re visiting San Diego, be sure to check out these bars when you’re in the mood. Here are the best pregame spots in San Diego!
Live Wire Bar
Address: 2103 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92104-1101
Live Wire is a dive bar to the extreme, but if that’s your vibe then this is your pregame spot. The bar opens at 5 PM on weekdays and 1 PM on weekends and doesn’t close until 2 AM (although we don’t recommend starting your pregame then). You’ll find drinks at a great value, a jukebox so you’re basically on AUX the entire time you’re there, and booths so your group can still feel intimate.
The Bar at Moniker General
Address: 2860 Sims Rd, San Diego, CA 92106
If you’re more of a cocktail and wine crew, this is the perfect starter spot for you. Most describe it as a hip bar in the heart of Liberty Station. The cocktails are complicated, but the staff will walk you through any interesting flavor combinations you’re unsure about. There’s plenty of spots to sit and converse. The environment is awesome, and the service is all smiles.
Hamilton’s Tavern
Address: 1521 30th St, San Diego, CA 92102
Beer drinkers this is for you! Hamilton’s Tavern also has dive bar vibes but with awesome music and food as well. It’s located in the South Park neighborhood which is becoming more and more hipster. Down a couple of glasses with your buddies while playing pool and shuffleboard. If you really wanted to, you could even bring your dog to the pregame. Don’t miss this spot to start off your night—but beware you might never leave!
Border X Brewing
Address: 2181 Logan Ave, San Diego, CA 92113
Looking for community, culture, and Mexican craft beer for your pregame? This is the spot for you. Border X Brewing is much lower key for a pregame. This is recommended for those who are looking to grab a bite to eat and start their pregame early. Once you’re done eating some delicious tacos, you can take your pregame out back to their beer garden. They have games like corn hole and Jenga, and those can turn into drinking games pretty quickly. Get ready to love everything about this place.
False Idol
Address: 675 W Beech St., San Diego, CA 92101
You are at the beach after all! A tiki bar like False Idol is always a good idea. The drinks are sure to put you in the mood for a pregame. The atmosphere is magical, and it gets crowded fast. If you’re looking to get in for a pregame, don’t forget to make reservations in advance. This will help you get in and out without a problem. This bar is certainly popular because Fridays and Saturdays are packed without standing room!