Bar Three Piece

Cocktail bar · San Diego

Bar Three Piece

Cocktail bar · San Diego

1

3054 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104

Photos

Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by Bar Three Piece / Instagram
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null
Bar Three Piece by null

Highlights

Vast whiskey selection & expert staff in a masculine lodge setting  

Featured in Eater
Placeholder

3054 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104 Get directions

barthreepiece.com

$$ · Menu

Information

Static Map

3054 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104 Get directions

+1 619 269 8820
barthreepiece.com

$$ · Menu

Features

restroom
alcohol
cocktails

Last updated

Aug 24, 2025

Powered By

You might also like

Terms of Use • Privacy Policy • Cookie Policy
 © 2025 Postcard Technologies, Inc.
@eater

17 Speakeasies to Check Out in San Diego

"This bar hiding within Seven Grand houses almost 300 bottles of whiskey in a space that features hardwood floors, oil lanterns, booths, and a private patio where cigars imported from Nicaragua can be paired with a glass of whiskey and enjoyed outside. Make sure to check out the bar’s Instagram page for weekly offers and specials on whiskey tastings and flights." - Candice Woo, Roxana Becerril

https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/best-speakeasy-cocktail-secret-bar-san-diego
View Postcard for Bar Three Piece

Ted Mader

Google
The worst part about this place for me is not having the chances to come here enough. Incredible selection of whiskeys. Try a flight of different Four Roses Barrel Strength recipes. Cocktail game is very strong, too. And, Marty is the absolute best.

Marissa Feliciano

Google
Best whiskey bar in town! Not pretentious at all, just people who love whiskey and love sharing the experience with others. Marty, John, and Amy are expert curators of whiskey, you are in good hands with them!

Gary McIntire

Google
Excellent whiskey selection and much more low key than the bar up front. Only for whiskey lovers though, that's all you'll find on the menu back here. Keep an eye out for tasting events that are held here. They're a great way to get some whiskey education from experts in the industry while enjoying their wares. They also have bottle lockers if you're real fancy!

Walter Macalma

Google
In the name of the Father, the Son and these Holy Spirits. This cathedral of Whiskey worship takes these golden grains of sunshine and places them squarely on a private alter behind what most would consider already one of San Diego’s premier whiskey bars. I’d like to start by praising the staff for their attention, knowledge and passion for whiskey. They are amazing bartenders in their own right, but behind that secret and locked door things are a lot more free flowing. They know you are back there for whiskey, not cocktails, not the usual unloading many do on bartenders about their day. They are glad to teach you, but to me I think you have to really want to know, not just to ask for entertainments sake. The décor is much more relaxed, much more open (those darn pool tables and lack of seating sort of handicap Seven Grand) and it’s actually a bit more lit. Animal heads, tall booths, water carafe’s and it’s own private smoking area are all perks. Sadly no private restrooms, gotta head back to 7G for that. With their own selection of private single barrels chosen directly from some distilleries you get a look into nuances otherwise left to the blenders. Most everything back here is 6 years or older. Since this s a whiskey place it’s not overly heavy on scotch’s(cheers to scotch old enough to order a scotch and to those that got that HIMYM reference) or bourbons or Japanese, they play to all types. They’ve got stuff you simply can’t buy privately and that term private stock is literal here. I’ve had in depth discussions about how Jefferson’s Presidential Select 17 or 18 year imo crushes PvW 20 year or how spectacular 2014 Birthday Bourbon was. I love coming here for their Whiskey Society events because what better way to learn or discuss, taste than in the perfect environment for it. I’ve seen it packed, but usually they’ll really limit things to not hinder experiences. On non society nights you’ll be treated to a steamed towel and doorman, server, and live music from time to time. Some nights even have multiple events, but it’s always recommended to come here early for the better seating. They do not limit how long you stay here so that means there can be a wait on busy nights. If whiskey is your thing then a wait is not that big a deal, but if you want drinks that require a 4 bottle grab. then this isn’t for you. They’d be happy to make it in the front, but the experience is curated here with only 4 or so cocktails available. It’s a great place to have a quiet evening with your lady or just to come and not talk to anyone, just enjoy your drink. I jokingly like to tell people because my name sounds old, white and my last name sounds Scottish that the reason I’m so brown is all the whiskey I drink. Funny side note is their Whiskey society used to be annual and when I was working in Orange county I would actually visit their LA location more than this one. To whiskey older than me and women half my age +7, or do I have that backwards. It works out for me either way.

Dietrich Faust

Google
Used to be 5/5 but the hipster scene has decided to mingle with the whisky scene and I literally can't go to this place and have it not be stuffed to capacity with people. The live bands are also so excessively loud that it totally kills my good time. Used to be able to go to the back bar and enjoy my whisky peacefully to some relaxing jazz music. Now I have to go early evening on a monday/tuesday or just deal with a total fustercluck

Sophia

Google
Get the punch drink. Amazing!! Chill whisky bar at the back of Seven Grand. We loved it!

Sera Strang

Google
The bartender was amazing. He recommended great drinks to both my husband's and my taste that were great.

Michael Ballard

Google
If you're interested in whisky/whiskey, the array of choices is amazing and the staff are very knowledgeable.
google avatar

Roberto S.

Yelp
I had an absolutely phenomenal experience at Bar Three Piece last night. Amy is an extraordinary host and bartender and I can't thank her enough for making this a memorable experience. I emailed requesting a reservation for Friday night and despite arriving late, was seated at a table in the back corner of Bar Three Piece. While Bar Three Piece encompasses the entire back room/speakeasy portion of Seven Grand, reservations have access to an exclusive seating area for a nominal $25 fee. This was more than worth it, especially for a date night, as we were the only individuals in the entire reservation area for most of the evening. While groups of people continually tried to use the area despite the "reserved" signs, Amy ensured the exclusivity of the area was preserved by quickly and politely asking them to pay for a table or relocate. The whiskey selection is unmatched in San Diego. My date was a whiskey connoisseur who used to live in Kentucky and both of his favorite bourbons were available, including one from a relatively new/obscure label in KY, Castle and Key. I wanted to be sure to write a review to commend Amy on her service and to ensure other prospective patrons have an up-to-date accounting of the incredible experience that Bar Three Piece provides. I cannot wait to return!
google avatar

Dawn B.

Yelp
I've been to bar 3 piece so many times, this place is such a hidden gem! The presentations are always so fun to go to and they are always so well priced, the bartenders are so knowledgeable and very engaging! The bar is gorgeous! The wood on the walls is so pretty and it's got just enough light to see exactly what you are doing. Service is always wonderful.

Andrea-Gabrielle A.

Yelp
Drinks were delicious and reasonably priced (NYC standards) HOWEVER, in my 7 plus years of being a legal drinker in NYC, I have never had a bouncer/male staff member KNOCK on the women's bathroom door rushing ppl out with an attitude. Would NOT come back despite liking the bar staff and drinks.... Dub!
google avatar

Anna C.

Yelp
Scotch scotch scotch. And other whiskey too. Bar Three Piece is in the back room of Seven Grand. Though they occupy an adjoining space, they specifically reserve this back bar for whiskey neat, on the rock (no s), or in an old fashioned. If you want a gin mixed drink, kindly walk back to the front bar. But if you're into whiskey, this is your bar. And if you're into cigars with whiskey, they've got that too. Best part about this room that it's the venue for the Whiskey Society, where they frequently have knowledgeable and entertaining guest speakers lead through a tasting for $20+. How do you join this exclusive Whiskey Society? Sign up for their email list. Totally simple and non-intimidating, always a diverse group of whiskey freaks, events happen twice a week. See you there!
google avatar

Jess B.

Yelp
PB meets "craft cocktail lounge" in North Park. Honesty, felt like any bar in PB while the 21 year old next to me discovered what an 'old fashioned' is. Honestly, this is not the chill, speakeasy, bourbon sipping vibe it used to be. Any mixed drink establishment that serves cocktails ON DRAFT is a huge red flag. Basically, their drink menu is 3 different basic whisky options or cocktails on draft that are guaranteed to give you a hangover tomorrow. If you're looking for an over-packed, order-from-the-bar only lounge from a pretentious bartender who only knows how to mix sugar cubes with bitters for $20, then this is your jam!
google avatar

Saleen M.

Yelp
The back bar of Seven Grand. Just a tad more intimate than the main bar, but still pretty loud. Several seats & tables for you to lounge with good company while enjoying one of their many drinks. Must try their Old Fashion! Their drinks are pricey but strong, especially if you order it neat or on the rocks, you will get a nice buzz soon.
google avatar

Rob P.

Yelp
I probably wouldn't have been to Bar Three Piece as much if it wasn't for the fact that I can have a free drink daily from a super secret app I don't want to tell you about. :-p But I have been here a few times now, and I'm always impressed. Staff is super nice, selection is great, and when the door is closed, Bar Three Piece is a little more relaxed and exclusive than the front bar at Seven Grand. I do miss the days when I first started coming where people didn't really know this room existed. I could easily blow a whole paycheck here, and I don't even have a paycheck to blow. So many whiskeys to enjoy, and they tease you by putting a bunch of their bottles on the bar in front of you.
google avatar

Kim T.

Yelp
Whiskey lovers rejoice! I love the atmosphere of this hidden gem. It is located inside Seven Grand (by the bathrooms) and is a perfect semi-speakeasy retreat for whiskey lovers. The selection is the most extensive I've seen in San Diego and they even have a cocktail section for those of us who are just along for the ride. A must try in North Park!
google avatar

Sang P.

Yelp
Used to be somewhat a speakeasy. Now it's opened up and part of Seven grand. Good drinks. It has less variety than the main bar but still has an amazing selection..(if you really want the unique ones then stick to the main bar). ' It's less crowded than the main are and more intimate..at times. This one can also be very crowded so beware! Seven Grand is one of the few bars that do not charge cover..but the drinks are not cheap so most people come in (and do not really know much about Seven Grand), get one drink and leave. Bartenders are very knowledgeable about their craft. yummy.
google avatar

Racquel U.

Yelp
This place is absolute chill!!! Love the ambience, love the crowd, love the selection of spirits!! Its dark, with Old world and yet modern feel. It could be speakeasy but its the modern world so it's pretty loud. Their selection of spirits; whiskey, scotches and bourbons is amazing!! I highly suggest getting the flights so you can get your variety. This visit I wanted to travel to Japan and had the Akashi single malt Whiskey. Amaze balls!! Well for me it was. Service is great, friendly and quick. This is attached to its sister bar, seven grand. Which has more of a modern crowd. Love this side as its more of a mix age group. Love love.. would come back over again :)
google avatar

Coral M.

Yelp
Hidden whiskey bar very vintage look and awesome! Connected through the seven with a great variety of whiskey to choose from or just to lounge and enjoy the many different views on the shelf's.
google avatar

Charlie V.

Yelp
FIRST IMPRESSIONS What's this? Seven Grand hopped on the Speakeasy train? Neat! There's a switch to gain entry, but I'm not sure they were watching the light to let us in. The server came to the door and was surprised to see us there. THE SPIRITS The focus of this place is education. Ask the servers anything, but be forewarned that this is an EXCLUSIVELY whiskey bar with a four cocktail menu. The specialty is rare and uncommon whiskeys. Tonight I had a dram of Ballast Point's "Devil's Share Batch 001" bourbon. The nose carried a little surprise: citrusy aromas. The with vanilla and clean oak was expected, but the citrus was not. It almost smelled like clean citrus rind in my old fashioned recipe. Ever since I learned Ballast Point was distilling whiskeys, I wanted to try it. I found out they also distill a Single Malt which is more of an Irish/Scotch-style whisky. I'll save that for next time. THE MUSIC There was a live three piece (haha) jazz band playing. Good stuff to listen to, but as a swing dancer, it wasn't quite right. THE VERDICT This place is pretty neat. It's a little pricey given their whiskey list, but you get what you pay for: deliciously rare spirits with servers that can allay your fears about spending three figures on the perfect dram. Slàinte!!
google avatar

Ed M.

Yelp
It took me a good minute to realize this is still a part of Seven Grand. It's just the back part of the bar which is basically a lounge area to kick back and talk with your party. Dimly lit area but still enough light to see. Separate bar here for drinks. Its slightly less louder in here compared to the area outside where the main bar and music (live acts) is. I'd prefer to hang at Bar Theee Piece as it is less hectic.
google avatar

Krystle T.

Yelp
I had the absolute best time at Bar Three Piece. Stopped in after a recommendation from a friend who is big into the brewery/ bar scene in San Diego/Vista. This place is inside another lounge. A door leads into this dimly lit, well crafted "speak easy" if you will. I actually thought it was more like a private place but pretty much anyone can get in.There is a switch on the wall at the entry it says to speak into but I think anybody could just go in. My friend is an avid whiskey drinker. Being in the military, he has traveled so he has had the opportunity to try some of the best. So needless to say, I trust his opinion and he liked this place. We were seated behind the black curtain. Nice comfy booths, tables with decanter of water and glasses. Little lit gas lamps to read the menus. The decor in here is simple and tasteful, yet dark and sexy. Perfect ambience. Music is just right to be able to enjoy whomever's company. Deerheads are on the walls, dark curtains, extensive selection behind bar. Small enough to feel intimate but just enough to hold a good amount of people. Now..the service is here is something that you only wish you could receive at other establishments. We sat and Immediately, John...whom I shall refer to as "John da Bomb" warmly greeted us. He offered us nice hot towels for our hands. He gave us our menus and offered to explain the different types of whiskeys my date was inquiring about. My date unded up trying a 114 proof , $100 Michsters whiskey and I opted for one of their on draft cocktails. Their menu is SO extensive...Whiskeys & liquors for the ballers on a budget up to $400 and up. For connoisseurs, this is normal to spend. It is the appreciation of the actual liquor itself. The main focus here is the education on the drinks itself. John brough over the drinks and was very knowledgable and told us the history behind it. He remained highly attentive, had some brief but great conversation with us and had such a positive and infectious personality. He was SUCH a great server and you can tell how much he enjoys working there and his appreciation for the whiskey craft itself. Not to mention, a cutie pie .LoL We then proceeded to order 2 more drinks and I ordered a cigar. You cannot smoke inside but there is a tiny private patio where you can. All in all, the experience was superb. Some may say pricey, but in all realistic terms, you get what you pay for and I have to say every dime is worth it at this spot. Service proceeds everything else and that is what really made it. I think our $60 tip for an hour and just a few drinks was well deserved. The mix of people was diverse and laid back. It is a place to gather with some friends or have a nice romantic evening. The drinks were fabulous and I believe I have found a new spot to frequent when I visit from Los Angeles. To management=John needs a raise... Cheers!
google avatar

Walter M.

Yelp
In the name of the Father, the Son and these Holy Spirits. This cathedral of Whiskey worship takes these golden grains of sunshine and places them squarely on a private alter behind what most would consider already one of San Diego's premier whiskey bars. I'd like to start by praising the staff for their attention, knowledge and passion for whiskey. They are amazing bartenders in their own right, but behind that secret and locked door things are a lot more free flowing. They know you are back there for whiskey, not cocktails, not the usual unloading many do on bartenders about their day. They are glad to teach you, but to me I think you have to really want to know, not just to ask for entertainments sake. The décor is much more relaxed, much more open (those darn pool tables and lack of seating sort of handicap Seven Grand) and it's actually a bit more lit. Animal heads, tall booths, water carafe's and it's own private smoking area are all perks. Sadly no private restrooms, gotta head back to 7G for that. With their own selection of private single barrels chosen directly from some distilleries you get a look into nuances otherwise left to the blenders. Most everything back here is 6 years or older. Since this s a whiskey place it's not overly heavy on scotch's(cheers to scotch old enough to order a scotch and to those that got that HIMYM reference) or bourbons or Japanese, they play to all types. They've got stuff you simply can't buy privately and that term private stock is literal here. I've had in depth discussions about how Jefferson's Presidential Select 17 or 18 year imo crushes PvW 20 year or how spectacular 2014 Birthday Bourbon was. I love coming here for their Whiskey Society events because what better way to learn or discuss, taste than in the perfect environment for it. I've seen it packed, but usually they'll really limit things to not hinder experiences. On non society nights you'll be treated to a steamed towel and doorman, server, and live music from time to time. Some nights even have multiple events, but it's always recommended to come here early for the better seating. They do not limit how long you stay here so that means there can be a wait on busy nights. If whiskey is your thing then a wait is not that big a deal, but if you want drinks that require a 4 bottle grab. then this isn't for you. They'd be happy to make it in the front, but the experience is curated here with only 4 or so cocktails available. It's a great place to have a quiet evening with your lady or just to come and not talk to anyone, just enjoy your drink. I jokingly like to tell people because my name sounds old, white and my last name sounds Scottish that the reason I'm so brown is all the whiskey I drink. Funny side note is their Whiskey society used to be annual and when I was working in Orange county I would actually visit their LA location more than this one. To whiskey older than me and women half my age +7, or do I have that backwards. It works out for me either way.
google avatar

Roland T.

Yelp
I really enjoy visiting this place. It's dark and they play the music too loud, but it's good music and that's one of the reasons I like about it. The bartenders are knowledgeable about the whiskeys they serve. They'll make suggestions if/when you're not sure what to have. Kinda glad I don't live in the neighborhood; I'd be there too often. LOL

FRANCIS A.

Yelp
We were here recently for drinks. Ordered a $16+ cocktail drink and bartender used a chipped/broken glass for it. He didn't check before using nor notice it while making the drink. My lip could definitely have been cut from this negligence. I informed the bartender about the broken glassware and he thanked me for the FYI ... How did he fix the situation? ... he grabbed a new glass and simply poured my $16+ drink over. What are the chances that the glass chipped while stirring and pieces fell into the drink...??? SMH I'm paying a good premium for my drink and just expect better service, where safety and customer service are priorities. Still gave 2 stars since I'm a whiskey lover and these guys are too
google avatar

Stephanie V.

Yelp
Three stars for Bar Three Piece. Locate inside Seven Grand, Bar Three Piece is a whiskey bar designed to help educate and serve those who appreciate whiskey. Perhaps if I was more into whiskey I would have given this place an extra star. We came by here on a Thursday night with a group of about 40. Don't worry, we weren't those people, we did let the bar know we were coming by in advance. However a group of about 20 showed up before us, so it took 25 minutes to get a drink. Although there were two bartenders, there wasn't any order and most people were served before I was. I wasn't even standing in an odd place. I was just patiently waiting. I wanted a whiskey sour. Bar Three Piece won't make it. They have a list of a few cocktails, but a whiskey sour isn't one of them. They will however make an old fashioned. The bartender asked me what whiskey I wanted. Being overwhelmed by the bottles of every type of whiskey you can imagine, I just let him choose. It was good, but ended up costing $15 before tip. Bar Three Piece uses those large rectangular ice cubes where you only need one in a drink. Great idea, but when the bartender grabbed the ice with his bare hands, I cringed. I'm not normally a germophobe, but it freaked me out. Bar Three Piece is better for small groups that want to try different whiskeys and are willing to pay for it. There is a piano where you can play some tunes and a couple of booths.
google avatar

Kimberly M.

Yelp
I recently went on a Saturday North Park bar hop with a couple of friends and stumbled into Seven Grand. Lo and behold, the back space had a new thing going on. It used to be an added bar where there would be a live jazz band playing on stage, but now it's closed to a "let me bring you the whiskey of your choice to your table while you listen to the music" kind of bar. We were a party of 5 and had our names put on the list. About 5-10 minutes in, we were called right away! We got seated and served hot towels to clean our hands with then served with a full whiskey menu. I have never realized how there were so many different types of whiskey out there! The server helped us decide on what tasted best and what not. Some were cheap and some were truly expensive! You can buy a full bottle of your choice and they can keep it in a 'liquor cage' with your name on it to serve you for another time. It was super dark in there but it totally sets the mood like an old 1920's speakeasy. The service was good and the host/doorman was very courteous and he remembered my name on the way out. Not to mention, he had a British accent which made everything sound so regal. Hahaha. I'd say come and try this place out if you are willing to shell out $15-20 for a glass of whiskey and good jazz vibes.
google avatar

Nick R.

Yelp
Definitely an amazing whiskey bar, if that's your thing. They have everything from Rye, Bourbon, Scotch, to regular Tennessee/Kentucky whiskey. However, when I look for a speakeasy, I'm looking for something more than just one spirit. I would have to say though, dressy and attentive staff, and the smoothest scotch old fashioned I've ever had. (Glenlivit if you're wondering)
google avatar

Amy K.

Yelp
This is a hard place to find. It is actually a bar inside Seven Grand, and it does not open till after 8 pm. A smaller selection than others, but a more focused selection. Tends to be a little quieter than the main bar, especially after their live music starts. Definately worth a trip.
google avatar

Amira P.

Yelp
A bar within a bar - barception! We stumbled upon Bar Three Piece while at Seven Grand. If you are a whiskey fan and/or a speakeasy fan this is your place. Quiet 20's style haunt in North Park along the main strain. Whiskey cocktails on-tap were surprisingly good - I enjoyed a couple of Nor'easters, and would recommend them. Any whiskey your heart desires, they have. Pricey, but comparable to other speakeasy-type bars, so not surprising. We started out at the bar and got lucky to get a back booth after our first drink - prime spot! Would recommend this place for a date, or simply drinks with friends at a low-key, quiet, intimate spot.
google avatar

Big Jack J.

Yelp
i received an invitation to come to this bar for a bourbon tasting. i have been to these in the past in new york and LA, usually sponsored by a spirits company. but not this tasting. although there was NO MENTION of a cover charge on the invite, when we arrived they handed us some a drink and asked for $40 bucks.

Rebecca A.

Yelp
MARTYYY Marty Marty is the man to see if you want a delicious personalized handcrafted old fashioned. Great relaxed atmosphere with activities and a wide selection of whiskey. 10/10 would recommend.
google avatar

Crystal O.

Yelp
This place is whiskey heaven. The atmosphere is amazing, the selection is out of this world and the staff is the best anywhere. We celebrated our anniversary with a taste of Pappy 23, and the concierge waiter comped us a couple of drinks to go with it. They present the bottles with the glass of whatever fancy whiskey you desire. It's our new favorite spot for a romantic night out and a really great drink or three.

Patricia D.

Yelp
My absolute FAVORITE old fashioned in all of San Diego. It gets crowded but that's never been an issue for me. They also have great happy hour deals! Very happy that I live a block from this bar, it's my go-to!
google avatar

Tina O.

Yelp
This is a sexy place to grab a drink, especially if you like whiskey. If you don't like whiskey, go here anyway so you can learn a thing or two. I loved our bartender, the atmosphere, and the endless whiskey menu. My date and I had some Japanese whiskey for the first time, it was strong and delicious. Try to get there when there's live music.
google avatar

John R.

Yelp
Love this place! Bar Three Piece is a great place to learn about whiskey and hang out with friends!

Gerrick D.

Yelp
The keeps have more time for education & place is far more relaxed. This is certainly a better environment for whiskey education than up front. It is a higher end experience altogether. We were given steamed towels to refresh ourselves. They only have whiskey back here. Highly recommend giving it a try. We waited 15 minutes for a group of 6 on a busy Saturday night.

Alaine H.

Yelp
fun atmosphere, good music and great coctails