Books & Records
Restaurant · San Diego
2202 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Highlights
Globally inspired American cuisine, craft cocktails, live music
Globally inspired American cuisine, craft cocktails, live music
"At Books and Records, the library of beverages extends well beyond booze. This airy San Diego space — marked by tall exposed wood trestles and curved teal booths — serves up standout mocktails alongside the real deal. The restaurant is dog-friendly for those who can’t leave their pup behind; live music sets the vibe on Friday and Saturday nights. Sip on a Smoke on the Horizon (smoked vanilla, oat milk, cinnamon, walnut bitters) or keep it crisp with a Lemongrass Soda (lemongrass syrup, lime, sparkling water). And for a little something extra? Try the I Got Ube — a dreamy mix of ube-mint syrup, lemon juice, and bubbles." - Kelly Bone
"Bankers Hill bar Books & Records is celebrating New Year’s Eve with a Studio 54-themed dinner featuring dishes inspired by the 1970s. The four-course menu is priced at $75, with the optional Disco Sips pairing for $50. After dinner, the venue will host the Mirror Ball Drop Party for $45.25, including a DJ disco dance party with passed hors d’oeuvres and a complimentary midnight toast. Disco chic or 1970s cocktail attire is highly encouraged." - Helen I. Hwang
"Books & Records breathes new life into a hallowed restaurant space in Bankers Hill where live music, including jazz, soul, and R&B, is offered several nights a week. Operated by the owners of Hillcrest’s popular Common Stock, the comfortable space serves a dinner menu from chef Ryan Stickel (Ironside, Mister A’s) highlighted by scallop and shrimp aguachile with tomatillo nước chấm and a shareable platter of Coca-Cola-braised duck carnitas paired with shiso pancakes, salsa macha, and salsa verde.." - Candice Woo
"Slide into one of the cozy green-leather booths at Book & Records, a chic bar and eatery in Bankers Hill that has lovely art deco-style woodwork, brass accents, and warm, flattering lighting. The cocktail menu is a fun read, paying homage to bands and libations with clever names and delightful descriptions. Each one sounds better than the last, but you can’t go wrong with Brass Monkey, made of Monkey Shoulder Scotch, banana liqueur, Nonino, and black walnut bitters." - Mary Beth Abate
"Celebrate at the Gatsby Gala with a live band and a three-course menu ($75) along with an optional Speakeasy Sips pairing for $50. The Midnight Mingle add-on experience for $35 includes a DJ dance party. 1920s cocktail attire is recommended." - Helen I. Hwang
