“My favorite happy hour is at Half Door Brewing Co. I love their signature beer, #Buzzwords. It goes well with the $5 fried goat cheese. Sitting on the second floor patio, getting the last bit of sun and looking over Petco Park is my favorite time.” —Ayaka Ito, co-owner and sake master at BeShock Ramen & Sake Bar
“Cutwater Spirits in Miramar. They have an amazing bar program led by Christian Siglin. Great cocktails and friendly staff.” —Juan Sanchez, bar manager at Trust and Hundred Proof
“The Balboa in Bankers Hill is amazing. $4 for one of the best burgers in town!” —Cory Alberto, chef de bar at The Grant Grill
“I’m always hanging around Cantina Mayahuel for all-day happy hour on Mondays. $5 margaritas and street tacos? Yes, please!” —Frank McGrath, general manager of Polite Provisions
“I have to shout out to The Lion’s Share and their daily 4–6 p.m. happy hour, with the discounted signature cocktails and amazing apps. My go-to is their rabbit sausage, with house mustard and pickled veggies, and the No Esposa tequila drink made with habanero shrub. Perfect hours, incredible quality, and the friendliest staff!” —Priscilla Ramirez, bartender at Cucina Urbana
“La Puerta is the place Monday night. Their happy hour lasts all night and I can enjoy appetizers for half off. Even their cocktails are half off, and I’m a sucker for their Whole Lotta Love: smooth tequila with hand-pressed lime and agave. Delicious and consistent every time.” —Lauren Goebel, bartender at Barleymash and Bang Bang
Where San Diego Bartenders Do Happy Hour
Illustration by Ashleigh Corrin
