Saloon

Best Bar in Laguna Beach. Friendly Bartenders, frequented by Locals. Great bar for travelers and first time Visitors to Laguna. Drop in for a signature drink , a Pīnō- or a Popo. Bartenders are long-time Locals who can usually answer all of your questions about our town. Step in for a lively conversation and some good cheer.

I know my group (4 people) isn’t the only one to experience poor service at The Saloon. The doorman was weird and couldn’t check our IDs like a normal person. He approached my group like we had fake IDs and was offended when we didn’t laugh at his jokes. The 2 female bartenders were unwelcoming. They acted like they were too busy to serve us (there were only 5 other customers in there and they already had their drinks). We asked bartender #1 for a round of a specialty shot and listed the ingredients (only 3) and she was annoyed that we asked her to do her job. After taking our shot we waited for 5 minutes while bartender #1 was vaping and scrolling on her phone. We then asked for another specialty shot (only 2 ingredients) and bartender #2 said they can’t make them even though I pointed to the ingredients on the shelf. Both bartenders gave me a nasty look and stared at me. They didn’t suggest any other alternatives until I asked them what they suggested we should drink instead. The tension in the bar was nothing I’ve experienced before. Not sure why they still have their jobs.

I am a local who has lived in Laguna for over 25 years. I know and love Saloon but was there for hubby’s birthday on 10/5/24 and had a horrible experience. Tried to order drinks but the two female bartenders that night were absolutely rude and didn’t want to serve us drinks for some reason. They saw that I wanted to place an order several times but they would pretend they didn’t see me and would turn away. We always start at the Saloon before going to other venues but this is the first time to have horrible, rude service!! What kind of establishment would hire rude staff? Come on Saloon, be better, do better and train your staff to be friendly to your customers especially paying locals who live here and come to have a good time! We are the reason why you exist!

Friendly staff at a cozy little quirky bar. Try the Po-po shot and Pine-O cocktail. Unfortunately the toilet was out of order the night we were there so that makes it difficult to stay longer at a bar. Would definitely go back next time I'm in town.

Convivial. Great conversation! Stand up bar. Amazing bar tenders Mike, Katy, Bobby, Kirsten, Anthony. Signature PoPo and pineapple cocktails. Friday night happy hour I have enjoyed for more than 39 years

Came into this place with my service animal. Was immediately asked to leave because of the animal. The bartender tried to tell me that he was allowed to ask for service animal paper which is very incorrect. You’re only allowed to asked what service is the animal providing me and you are not required to have the animal officially certified either as long as the animal serves a purpose. Horribly rude and extremely stupid. Would never go here again

The venue is consistently over capacity, resulting in a crowded and uncomfortable environment where patrons were shoulder to shoulder. As a result of the overcrowding, I accidentally spilled my shot and politely requested a replacement. However, the female bartender, who I had heard negative experiences about before, responded with a dismissive remark, saying "why is that my problem". Pathetic...

Best knowledgeable bar tender ever.

The Saloon in Laguna Beach has a signature popo shot, with a recipe that's been kept secret for over 50 years. The shot comes mixed with hot coffee and is great to warmup with on a cool night strolling PCH. The venue is bustling with people, lots of locals gather here on weekend nights, and it is a little tight getting around the venue. This Saloon is quite small, a mirror against the back wall adds an appearance of additional space. It's a great spot to stop in and visit, but it is a bit cramped if you are bringing a larger party.

I went here a few weeks ago n didn't know what to expect. It's a little hole in the wall with a good vibe n comfortable atmosphere. The service was excellent n the establishment clean n inviting. Check it out if you're in Laguna Beach...

If you'd like an overpriced drink by all means, they charged me $32 for two espresso martinis that they didn't make.. they chilled a premade bottle of store bought espresso martini mix. I asked for a real one and both ladies behind the bar were complete mean girls, not kind at all.

This was the next stop on our bucket list of gems to visit and one of our favorite places to visit. My friend and I started off with two mules and sat down at a booth. Both drinks costs us $13 together which was a pleasant surprise. One of the local Saloon goers told us this is where all the locals drink for cheap. After our first drinks our friend met up with us and we all ordered another round. This time I got their house pineapple vodka which was amazing! My friend got another mule, and my other friend got himself an old fashion. It was a lot of fun and we'll definitely be coming back!

Stopped by while in line for Gelato Paradiso, the bartender (didn't catch his name) was very inviting and gave us his recommendation of the PoPo. Def will be returning with friends and family if you want a fun time at a bar.

I was out celebrating my friends engagement Saturday night. As I was trying to order drinks I see my friend outside arguing with the bouncer, Andy. I walk out there to find out what the issue is and learned that after checking my friends ID he snapped it in half as a way to test if the ID was real. He told us we could call the cops, leave or "meet him outside". As we offered to leave, but needing the ID back he told us that he was "tired of dealing with us shits" and was "mad because I have taken two IDs away this summer and is tired of it". Taking two IDs away in the entire summer period seems like a small number (especially for a happening spot like Laguna Beach). As we called and waited for the cops Andy proceeded to take photos of the ID on his personal phone. As I told him to stop because that contains personal and private information he proceeded to tell and get in my face that he "doesn't give a shit". When the cops arrived Andy only apologized that my friend now has to go to the DMV. The cop did nothing about the pictures taken or the fact that personal property had been damaged. If you want to deal with an overly aggressive bouncer and possibly have your ID broken when being carded, this is your spot.

I've been to the bar in the past and had a great time, but Andy (the bouncer) was an absolute nightmare. When I was asked for my ID I happily presented it. Andy broke my ID in half and proceeded to tell me my ID was not valid and refused to return it to me. I offered to leave the bar with my ID and he refused, only offering me to leave the bar without my ID, call the police, or to "meet him outside". When I did call the police, he was apologetic only so much as to apologize that I had to visit the DMV. The police were quick to handle the situation and get me back my already broken ID. Quick way to lose a local customer.

One of my favorite Bars in Orange County! If Anthony Bourdain was alive, he would have a pint here and the world famous PO PO Shot. Katie is my favorite bartender. She is always nice and without saying anything, she knows when you look at her that you need another drink. She has a good memory too. The second time I went she remembered what I drinked the first time. She even took a song suggestion and played it. Overall this bar is super cool because of the people that go to it and the friendly staff that makes you feel at home. I strongly recommend this place to anyone and it's a staple of Laguna Beach like Marine Room and the Dirty Bird.

Fun space for a quick cocktail. It's kinda legendary... a must stop Olof your in Laguna.

Bland drinks, crowded and nowhere to sit, bartenders more interested to talk to each other than promptly tend to patrons. The decor is beautiful and if not that crowded the ambiance would've been perfect.

Discriminated as soon as I walked in the door. Rude and ignorant staff. As soon as I got into the establishment I was asked to leave because of my service animal. The bartender tried to ask me for service papers (which is illegal). Staff or owners are only allowed to ask what service does the animal provide me and I'm not legally obliged to have the animal officially certified as long as he provides a service.

Interesting bar in a sea of restaurants on PCH. I would give it 3 1/2 stars if I could. I love that it is a true bar in an area where there are no others. I have generally enjoyed my time here but the place could use a facelift and some friendlier staff. The bar itself feels like it is need of a deep clean. From the upholstered bench seats to the bathroom to the stockroom that you can see from the bar when the door is open ... there are many areas that could be improved to freshen up the overall feel. I get that it's a "saloon" but it could be a cleaner, more comfortable saloon. The bartenders usually seem unhappy and aren't friendly unless you are a regular whom they recognize ... or the owners, who were there late one afternoon. I will say the patrons are very friendly and almost always strike up conversations with new people or groups at the bar. And I love the two little tables in the front windows. I really want to love this place and am super happy they are still here since they were closed for many months. But I find that I now go in with lower expectations than I first had years ago.

If you feel like being squished..then go. I really wanted to try this place but so many people in such a small place would've scared me even before covid..and I'm not even paranoid about it. Maybe I'll try some other time but my first time there didn't go well.

Best bar in Laguna Beach! The Saloon has small town + style. Loving chatting with Willie Ames and rocking out.

Great place for a cocktail or two. Wonderful patrons and nice bartenders. Perfect location in downtown Laguna Beach

Saloon is a Laguna staple - great service, great Popos, and a fun atmosphere. Highly recommend stopping by.

Everytime I visit town, I always make sure to stop by the saloon! The popos shots are Lagunas best kept secret and you deffinately want to visit if you love that "small town dive bar" feel. The staff is always extremely nice and attentive even when the bar is packed! (which is almost every weekend). Shoutout to Katie, the bartender with the brown hair and tattoos for always making the best drinks and making sure everyone in our group is taken care of.

Love this bar! No bar stools standing room only gotta Love it! Anthony is great Good for drinks before dinner

This bar rocks great service and drinks are reasonable. E will definitely be back for dancing lessons

I've been trying to call their number but it's not working? Ive been calling for 4 days now ... Does anyone knows how to get in touch with them? thanks

The service was phenomenal and he knew what he was doing behind the bar. The drinks gave me life and the signature drink was 10/10. Come here for your drinks for a great price.

The Saloon is the heart of Laguna! Walking in you're greeted with speakeasy vibes without the inconvenience of walking through a barbershop or a pet store or needing a password. It's the perfect first stop for a night out or the best place to pop in and see some familiar faces. There's a few chairs if you want to cozy up, and enough room to stand and socialize. The popo shots are truly delicious, as are the other drinks! It's got a small town bar feel with big town bar flavor, the bartenders are great, and you're guaranteed to end up in a nice convo with someone new! 15/10!

Love the divy yet classic typical "saloon" vibe. Only a few tiny tables and chairs, otherwise standing room. Not a clue what beers they have or anything since no menus. The lady behind the bar was a little rude, but I did appreciate that she made sure people had masks on. I like the vibe but something about this place is rubbing me a little wrong - like if you're new or don't know the people working, you're not welcome. Also, if your card machine is broken, and you're doing cash only... make sure you tell patrons before they order!

My favorite bar in Laguna. Great atmosphere and good service and cocktails. Good place for before and after dinner or lunch given it's proximity to some really good restaurants.

Came here last Saturday to get a drink while waiting for my table at nicks.. loved the vibe, dim lighting, traditional/nostalgic looking old school saloon. They have all the classic drinks you've come to know and love. The bartenders were friendly and likeable. I got an old fashion my friend got their "pino" and we each got a their house coffee shot, it was amazing. We'll be back if not for the coffee shot definitely for the good vibes

I've lived in Laguna Beach since I was 13 years old. I've grown up hearing all the great things about the Saloon. I'm now 33 years old and can tell you that it has gone above and beyond in my expectations that I had growing up! The popo or however you spell it lol will always be my go to! But what's even better is the bartenders! On Friday nights you have Kirsten and she's awesome she always is smiling and always a gem to us! Keep up the good work saloon! Can't wait to see you again soon!

THE SALOON, Established in 1979, is nested in the Historic Landmark Peppertree Lane, which is located in the Heart of Downtown Laguna Beach, CA! You can't miss it off the PCH! It's an intimate, Cool Dark Bar with High ceilings & Brick Walls! Their Long Bar, is Standing Room only, in a small & narrow space! There are no Bar stools, just a Long Mahogany Bar Rail & 2 cute little window seats to watch people go by! You definitely feel a part of the Energetic Downtown Beach Activity! MUST Try their Signature Cocktail: the PINO, made with their house-made, Awesome Pineapple infused Vodka! This light cocktail is especially perfect on those warm Laguna nights. This Neighborhood Pub is a Popular meeting place for Locals & tourists, because it's right off Main Beach! And because it's a small space, it gets pretty crowded & lively in the evening! Gorgeous Erin behind the BAR will take good care of you!

Great place to stop in for a drink while waiting for your table at a near by restaurant! Bartenders are friendly, and I love the indoor atmosphere. Located off pch, it's a great spot to visit when bringing in people from out of town. The bar is standing room only (which makes it fun) and the walls are beautiful. Feels like a non-trendy bar which I love. Feels homey!

The rudest bartender I have ever experienced. Absolutely bitter and disrespectful. Clearly needs to find a different job

I was there with a couple friends we tried to order drinks the bartender was treating customers with attitude she sounded like she doesn't want to be there. Pretty bad customer service and gave me attitude for not receiving the tip she wanted and literally tried to snatch the drink away from me. The place is tiny, drinks are watered down and the service is definitely not what you expect at laguna beach. Don't waste your money go somewhere else.

Nice bar by Laguna beach. Good price during happy hour. Not too many beer selection but they ones they have in there were great! I had their special vodka that's infused with a bunch of pineapples. It's a little sweet and you think there's not much taste of alcohol to it, BUT be careful, it would catch up to ya.

Where else in Laguna can you just stand at a bar and order a whiskey or beer from an old, beat up bar counter, and not worry about the very prevalent pretension that pervades most corners and nooks in the area. The Saloon is tiny. It's relatively long, but very skinny, with standing at the bar the main option. The bartenders, equally rustic, pour with a welcome generosity, and friendly smiles. Stop in for a drink or two, but long lingering can become a cramped affair.

Amazing and awesome every time I go always looking forward towards the next night to pop on down to The Saloon... Michael and Cindy have done a marvelous job as always... George

This is a cute little bar in Laguna Beach. It's in between one of the many shops. Pretty small place with a limited of seating. The bartender was super nice and friendly. The drinks were pretty cheap for being a bar in Laguna. Must check this place out!

The Saloon is an unassuming little bar that has standing room only. There's a tiny table tucked away in a nook but that's it - no bar stools. I actually liked this because having to stand made it feel more casual and lively. The crowd was fun and the vibe was very easy-going - perfect for a beach town bar. Drinks were good, even though I got a maraschino cherry in my old fashioned...I can forgive them because it was still good nonetheless. We saw people get shots of some kind of dark liquor topped with coffee, and found out that this is the po po shot. I was a little hesitant but we decided to go for it. It tastes like sweet coffee and goes down like a charm; I can easily see how these shots can be dangerous ; ) I've also heard good things about their pineapple-infused vodka but didn't try it myself. If you're looking for a down-to-earth neighborhood bar with a fun atmosphere and solid drinks, The Saloon isn't a bad choice.

This is a real bar. standing only, cramped, it's loud, it's small, they have matchbooks on the bar But, this saloon stocks my JD Single Barrel. a lot of other alcohol is present in a wide variety of flavors. and the pineapple thing Drinks are served quickly and empty's are cleared constantly. this is our night cap spot when we are in Laguna Beach on business There are a cast of regulars too.

One of my favorite spots to go to after work. I work in town and once and awhile after my evening shift, I'll make a pit stop with some co-workers. Mikey is the man, and a great bartender. Chase is the bouncer, don't try to pull a fast one on him because he'll get cha ; ) Great stop to pre-game or for a night cap. This place has been here for years and aren't going anywhere! Must Have: - PoPo shot! - If you like whiskey, you must try the Manhattan Project, that's the actual name of the whiskey...I like mine neat, soooo smooth.

Odd narrow place that is pretty much standing room only. A fruit infused Vodka jug was on the wall (pineapple this time). TVs with sports and wall filled with memorabilia. I had a gellato from next door & had a couple of Stella's while enjoying my waffle cone. Real friendly folks, they seemed to know the bar tender and we clearly looked like tourists-- all sunburned and smiles. So they chatted us up and we even ate some pretzels that made us more thirsty...that's the point right? drink UP!

Definitely a cool bar to go to if you are waiting for a reservation at one of the neighboring restaurants in Laguna Beach. We must have gotten there right before peak time because we got our drinks as soon as we got to the bar top. I would definitely recommend trying their Vodka infused drinks. The one we tried was the Pineapple Vodka infused drink... I loved it because it was all natural and Vodka is low in calories and the pineapple gave it a natural sweetness to it. Definitely made the hour and a half wait go by quicker! Cheers!

Awful customer service. The bartender was extremely rude and i was ignored twice for about 20-30 minutes. Not coming back!

I really dug this charming little pub. Very small and quaint but the service is friendly, and they have good happy hour specials. Across the street from the beach and stays open late. Check it out if you are in the area! Cheers!

A hidden local gem. Stand up only (a couple of seats and tables by the windows). Great dive bar atmosphere, dive bar prices!! I highly recommend getting the mysterious, addicting, delicious liquor. Made in house.. Called the "popo". Definitely a must stop for a drink when you are here in Laguna Beach!

This place is seriously unique in that it's a tiny little bar with probably about 6 seats total but it's right on PCH in prime beach front territory and has the best ambience! It's minimal with dark woods and cool lighting. Zero frills but a rad, authentic watering hole where you can meet anyone from local beach bums to famous musicians. Last time I was there I saw Patrick Carney, drummer from the Black Keys. It's just that kind of place.....unique, simple and one of a kind!

Came here for a before dinner drink of some simple old fashions that was simply great. Old fashions I've had in the past tend to have a slight burning of the throat when you drink them, but the ones that was ordered by a friend was just perfect with a nice smooth refreshing edge to it that you can sip a couple and it doesn't make you pause to let your throat clear from the whiskey. Right next door to Nick's Laguna Beach, this place is pretty popular as it always full when I walk in. There is the bar front and center where patrons can walk right up and order drinks from, but also a few seating benches as well inside the Saloon. My favorite are two specific spots: 1) the small table seated right by the front window where there are only 2 chairs and a wonderful view of the passerbyers walking to and from wherever they need to go down PCH and 2) the bay window benches where it's perfect to just sit and chat with friends and also to watch foot traffic of people walking down PCH. Dimly lit but just the right amount of light to produce a nice intimate environment for guests to grab a quick drink and then head off to dinner, or for post dinner drinks as well!

The bartender was nice! She was very attentive. Absolutely love the atmosphere of this bar. Would recommend

You know I've tired. I get what it is, it's a minimalistic old style saloon. At night there aren't even seats at the bar, no big deal, I like the vibe. It's situated in a cool area, Great for a night cap and a place to drink while you wait for a table at the local restaurants. I live up the street and so I've walked into here a few times. The woman with the Irish accent (I think Irish) who bartends at times is a sweetheart but the past few times I've gone it's been a huskier bald man and because of his attitude and rude behavior I won't ever be back. I don't know who hired this buffoon but honestly he's a dick. My last encounter here went like this: My family decided to visit, they wanted to go to Nicks for food. The wait was an hour and so we decided to head next door for a drink. We walk in, the place is dead. Just a couple standing at the bar with the bartender and us. We aren't greeted, we aren't acknowledged. My parents take a seat at the table and I walk up to the bar. I stand there...and stand there and stand there while the bartender throws me an irritated look and then continues his conversation with the couple about his depression and how he has been on this medication and that medication. Still nothing so I finally and awkwardly say, "hey bud can I get a beer?" Man if looks could kill. I got a nice eye roll thrown in too. He came over, didn't say a word, and handed me my beer. I ordered another for my mom and an old fashioned for my dad. Didn't ask what kind of whiskey I wanted, just appeared pissed off that I was even in his bar giving him patronage. I pay and say thank you... not a word, he just walked back to the couple and started up his conversation again. If this was the first and only time, I could have gotten over it, this was the THIRD time I've experienced this rudeass and you know how the saying goes.. fool me once shame on you, fool me twice shame on me, but fool me three times etc etc. Not sure who the owner is, but this man is a problem. And if he's the owner, well sir perhaps owning a bar isn't the best job for you... especially with your depression issues. Either way it's not my problem because you lost a local customer. The cocktails he made were garbage anyways.

my cousin and i had 3 drinks each here and loved it!! had cool aesthetic. bartender was very attentive even when very busy.

Ask for the beautiful Irish bartender Ruth. She makes this place shine. Fun bar but she's the star!

If I lived in this hood i would be a regular. I came her for the 1st Thursday's art walk and after parking, walked past this cute little saloon, and new I had to come in for a drink. Their ambience reminds me of a friendly neighborhood bar. The bartender was so nice and friendly - she mentioned she makes about 80 pineapple vodkas a day! After seeing their beautiful display of pineapples sliced in a jar filled with vodka I knew this was the drink. Scarfed it down. Couldn't taste the alcohol. Dangerous!! Overall really great date spot or place to hang with friends.

Extremely rude service. Some girlfriends and I came in for a drink and the older white male turned down my California ID, saying it's fake and laughing in my face about it. I asked him to explain how it's fake. And he didn't give a clear answer but was very sure of it. It's one of the new CA IDs and they do look a little different but he continued to crack jokes at me with the other people at the bar. It is absolutely a real ID that I have never had problems with. Also I'm 27 so it was really uncalled for. My group of girlfriends and I will not be back.