Food & Drink

Sipping on Sanity: 14 Must-Try Bloody Marys in San Diego

San Diego has a lot to offer when it comes to nightlife. From rooftop bars to craft breweries, there's something for everyone.

But for those who like to start their day with a little hair of the dog, there's nothing quite like a well-made bloody mary.

A good bloody mary is a work of art. It's not just about the vodka and tomato juice – it's about the perfect mix of spices, the right amount of heat, and the perfect garnishes.

And in San Diego, you'll find some of the best bloody marys in the country.

Whether you're looking for a classic recipe or something a little more adventurous, San Diego has you covered.

From beachfront bars to trendy brunch spots, you'll find a bloody mary that suits your taste. So sit back, relax, and let's take a tour of the best places for a bloody mary in San Diego.

1. Great Maple – Hillcrest

Great Maple - Hillcrest
1451 Washington St, San Diego, CA 92103 (Google Maps)

Great Maple – Hillcrest is a contemporary restaurant that serves elevated comfort food with seasonal ingredients.

They have a reputation for their delicious bloody marys, which are perfectly balanced and spicy.

The staff is friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere is quaint and friendly.

Even though it can be pricey, it is definitely worth splurging on for a memorable brunch experience. Reservations are recommended to avoid a long wait.

2. Queenstown Public House

Queenstown Public House
1557 Columbia St, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

Queenstown Public House is a whimsical New Zealand-themed pub that serves up a mean bloody mary.

The drink is perfectly balanced with just the right amount of spice and garnished with a slice of crispy bacon.

The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with unique decor and friendly service. While the food is also delicious, the real star of the show is the bloody mary.

It's definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for a great brunch spot with a unique twist.

3. Shakespeare Pub

Shakespeare Pub
3701 India St, San Diego, CA 92103 (Google Maps)

Shakespeare Pub is a lively British-style pub that serves delicious and unique bloody marys.

The pub offers an extensive alcohol selection, including drinks you may have never tried before. The service is attentive and friendly, making for an enjoyable experience.

While the food may not be exceptional, the bloody marys make up for it. The atmosphere is authentic and reminiscent of a traditional British pub.

If you're looking for a great place to enjoy a tasty and unique bloody mary, Shakespeare Pub is the place to go.

4. insideOUT

Insideout
1642 University Ave #100, San Diego, CA 92103 (Google Maps)

Looking for a great place to have a delicious bloody mary in a lively atmosphere with amazing food and drinks in a unique setting with an indoor-outdoor vibe, then insideOUT is the place to be.

This modern bar and restaurant offers California and Mediterranean-inspired dishes and drinks in a lively space with a pool.

Their drinks are strong and tasteful, and their food is amazing with generous portion sizes.

The ambience is great and interesting, and the wait staff is friendly and courteous. So, if you're in the mood for a great bloody mary, insideOUT is a must-visit destination.

5. Trust

Trust
3752 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92103 (Google Maps)

Trust is a great place to enjoy a bloody mary. While the drink may not be spicy, it is still flavorful and enjoyable.

The restaurant has a nice patio and attentive service.

The food is well thought out and made with fresh, quality ingredients.

Trust is a must-visit for those looking for a unique New American dining experience.

6. Waterfront Bar & Grill

Waterfront Bar & Grill
2044 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

Looking for a great place to enjoy a Bloody Mary in a laid-back atmosphere with friendly staff and great food options to match your drink of choice, then Waterfront Bar & Grill is the place to be.

With a solid happy hour and lots of seating options, this well-established fixture is a must-visit.

The bartenders are amazing, and the drinks are reasonably priced and made quickly. Don't forget to ask for the morning shots!

7. Working Class

Working Class
4095 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104 (Google Maps)

Looking for a spot to grab a delicious Bloody Mary in a casual environment with great service and food options too, Working Class is worth checking out.

With a good selection of craft beers and a menu filled with delicious bites, this place is perfect for winding down after a long day.

The atmosphere is chill and the staff is attentive, making it a pleasant experience.

Plus, the prices are fair and the outdoor seating is a huge plus. Don't miss out on this neighborhood gem!

8. barleymash

Barleymash
600 Fifth Ave #6916, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

Looking for a great place for a bloody mary in San Diego that also has fantastic food and a fun atmosphere to match it all up with, then look no further than barleymash.

With a large selection of drinks and food, there is something for everyone.

The Milk Was A Bad Choice is a favorite among patrons, and the large portions of food are sure to fill you up.

The outdoor dining area is a plus, and the service is always top-notch. Barleymash is a great spot for a night out with friends or a date.

9. Wonderland Ocean Pub

Wonderland Ocean Pub
5083 Santa Monica Ave Suite 2B, San Diego, CA 92107 (Google Maps)

If you're looking for a place to enjoy a delicious Bloody Mary with a stunning ocean view, Wonderland Ocean Pub is the perfect spot.

With a lively atmosphere and a great selection of craft beer, this bar and grill offers a full menu of delicious bites, including seafood, burgers, and tacos. While service can sometimes be lacking, the food and drinks are always on point.

Plus, the bar's windows are open, allowing for a refreshing sea breeze while you sip on your cocktail. Don't forget to stick around for the sunset toast, where the staff hands out shots to celebrate the end of the day.

All in all, Wonderland Ocean Pub is a must-try spot for a fun night out with friends or a relaxing afternoon by the ocean.

10. NOLA on 5th

Nola On 5Th
3683 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103 (Google Maps)

NOLA on 5th is a lively sports bar and American restaurant that serves up some of the best Bloody Marys in town. The bartenders are friendly and know how to mix a great drink.

The menu has a nice variety of food options to choose from, including Cajun-inspired dishes like gumbo and jambalaya.

The atmosphere is fun and casual, making it a great spot to catch a game or hang out with friends.

If you're looking for a great Bloody Mary and some tasty food, NOLA on 5th is definitely worth checking out.

11. Pacific Beach Alehouse

Pacific Beach Alehouse
721 Grand Ave, San Diego, CA 92109 (Google Maps)

Looking for a place to grab a bloody mary with a view of the ocean in a laid-back atmosphere with friendly service and great food options to choose from?

Pacific Beach Alehouse has you covered.

With a 2-story beachfront pub, this spot offers a variety of house-brewed beers and pub grub that will satisfy your cravings.

While the bloody mary wasn't the highlight of the visit, the fresh beer choices and food, including the famous pretzel, make this spot worth checking out.

The rooftop bar overlooking the ocean is a cool spot to relax and unwind. Don't forget to try the pickles!

12. Ketch Grill & Taps

Ketch Grill & Taps
1360 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

Ketch Grill & Taps is a bayside tavern that offers amazing views and a perfect atmosphere for a bloody mary.

The staff is friendly and skilled at crafting cocktails. The menu offers a great selection of food and drinks, including gluten-free options.

Happy hour is an added bonus, with $2 off drinks and appetizers. The outdoor terrace is glass-enclosed, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a drink while taking in the beautiful sunset over the bay.

Ketch Grill & Taps is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for a great place to enjoy a bloody mary.

13. Bar One

Bar One
1532 India St, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

Bar One is a trendy sports bar that offers more than just typical pub grub. Their Bloody Mary is a must-try, with a unique and delicious flavor that sets it apart from others.

The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring a great experience for every customer.

The outdoor seating is perfect for people watching, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming.

Whether you're looking for a quick drink or a bite to eat, Bar One is definitely worth checking out.

14. Salt & Whiskey

Salt & Whiskey
311 Island Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

Salt & Whiskey is the perfect place for a delicious and inventive bloody mary. This bar offers a great selection of whiskey and other rare spirits.

The ambiance is elegant and sophisticated, with leather booths and a cozy fireplace.

The service is excellent, and the staff is knowledgeable about the drinks they serve. The menu is small but everything they offer is delicious.

If you are looking for a place to enjoy a unique and flavorful bloody mary, Salt & Whiskey is definitely worth a visit.