Swan Bar

We stumbled into this gem and were greeted like regulars—which is always a good sign. The decor? Think funky meets fabulous. We cozied up at the bar and weren’t disappointed.Yes, the happy hour martinis are premade—gasp!—but even my husband, who treats martini-making like a sacred ritual, gave it a solid thumbs up. I went for a hand crafted mezcal cocktail, asked for “not too sweet,” and the bartender understood the assignment. Great drinks, cool crowd. Definitely worth a stop if you like your cocktails well made and your bars with velvet paintings on the wall. If you desire an outdoor patio experience. They have that too.

I’ve heard about happy hour here so i was excited to try it out. I arrived around 4:30pm and it was quite crowded. I ordered an espresso martini (in a beer glass). I was told that they ran out of martini glasses. Later on, I also ordered an Appletini and a mojito. They were all average but strong. I was a bit disappointed that these drinks were pre-mixed and served from the dispensers though. The price was good so I guess it’s worth the visit.

Rude and pretentious staff. Do not go if you are looking to have a good time or if you are in a good mood. Male bartender working the night of 9/30/25 refused my group service and kicked us out because my friend gave him a thumbs up. Not sure what his problem was but he doesn’t really seem suited for hospitality work

Ordered the Yellowstone Burger, which has bacon and onion rings on top. Hands down, it was fantastic. I tell all my friends about it. Also, shout out to the waiter who gave us free fries after the table next to us forgot they ordered them and left (you pay at the bar so… yay!)

A solid 4.5 score. Drinks were tasty, strong, and full of flavor. The people were great, energetic, full of life, and noise levels were great. The atmosphere was fluid, cool, and outgoing. The decor is fantastic, great, soothing colors , colors popped out. The patio area is large and inviting, and the main room was quaint and warm. Great place for a date night 🌙 for drinks and chit-chat. Next door is a great Chinese food place, great decor also! Parking is difficult but available.

** update HH drinks are now $7 Definitely check out their HH! $5 draught cocktails daily 4-5pm. I recommend an Espresso martini or the Fast and Dirty (dirty martini). The cheeseburgers and onion rings are also excellent.

Dan was a great bartender , espresso martini was excellent and the dim atmosphere helped me not feel any shame for drinking anything other than dark liquor . 10/10 will come back again.

This place is epic! Super rad interior vibes, incredibly friendly staff, and great food & drinks. Happy hour is from 4-5 with $5 beers. I came around 7 and had the Juarez Weekend cocktail and a single cheeseburger. The cocktail was smooth and the bartender was very knowledgeable and efficient. The burger was really really good and almost reminded me of the burger at Hinano in Venice but better! The sauce was mental. Definitely coming back often. Thanks!

Great neighborhood dive with nice moody atmosphere. I went here specifically for their Kaiju Night collab popup with Bar Kamon and those drinks were really good. Something I will mention since it wasn't apparent to me is Swan Bar does serve burgers and basic appetizers if you want something to eat while drinking.

I visited Swan Bar during the holiday season and had a fantastic time! The special holiday decor and cozy vibes created the perfect festive atmosphere. I enjoyed their creative seasonal drinks while relaxing on the lovely outdoor patio. Ordering at the bar was easy, and the food was delicious--everything I tried hit the spot. The staff were friendly and added to the welcoming experience. If you're looking for a laid-back spot with great eats and drinks to celebrate or hang out, Swan Bar is a must-visit!

So we were looking to celebrate in a festive environment and after a bit of searching we found this spot. The place was packed, but they pulled of the Christmas Charm. We were able to get some drinks and perch ourselves at the end of the bar. We also ordered some food which came up pretty quickly. The burgers and fries were amazing and really hit the spot. The fries were crisp and the burger was flavorful and juicy. I'm not the biggest fan of Christmas themed drinks, but they were pretty good.

We came here to try their holiday-themed cocktails and they did not disappoint! The place was very festively decorated. Right from the outside, you're greeted with blow-up Christmas decorations on the roof and inside the whole ceiling is covered with glittery gifts and lights. I love it! Unfortunately they had issues in the kitchen that night and had to close the kitchen early so we couldn't try any food. But looking at the regular drinks and the great service we got that night, we'll be back for more for sure.

Imagine a dive bar feeling, but the bar felt nicer and clean. That's Swan Bar. Drinks there are always great and they have good burgers. Food menu is mainly the burger, fries, and nachos. It's a great place to go after dinner or just meeting friends for drinks. Went during their Christmas pop up and loved the decor. Their gingerbread old fashioned is one of my favorite holiday drinks.

I've drive past this place forever: I finally went in. FUNNN!!!! First off the place was decorated immaculately for Christmas. I don't know if I've ever been to such a festive bar and I truly smiled upon walking in. Apparently the virus is famous for its drinks on tap, so I had to of course, have the espresso martini which was surprisingly delicious for being a premixed beverage! For a snack, I had the dirty pimento cheese fries in general. These were also delicious though the fries were a little crispy for my personal taste. The whole time I was there, I couldn't stop texting my husband and saying how we had to come back! Next time I wanna try their burgers and some more of those delicious sounding cocktails on tap! Sidenote, they really should sell gift cards because I want to give this place to my friends to enjoy !!

This review is from December 2024. The bar is decorated head to toe in Christmas decorations, and because of that on a Friday night it was so packed so be weary when you go. Luckily we went when it wasn't too long of a wait to get inside, however when we left there was a line out the door. The drinks were delicious and festive. It was super crowded when we went so we pretty much drank our drinks and left. Cool experience though! Would try to go during the week instead

Cool vibe and they definitely go all out for Christmas! They had festive cocktails and food if you're hungry. There was loud music playing and it was packed for the holidays.

Cool and moody atmosphere inside, I love it! Drinks were super good, I got the Cisco kid and it was delicious. Also tried an espresso martini and it is one of the best I've had! Wasn't packed when I went on a Wednesday night, but I can imagine it being busy on the weekend- especially because of their amazing happy hour deal I'll be back to this bar!

Came here for the holiday pop up and it was really fun! The drinks were alright, but the holiday rum I ordered was great. Overall I enjoyed the vibe and would like to go back when it's not Christmas!

WHAT AN AMAZING HOUR. Hands down the best happy hour I have ever been to. My favorite drinks were the appletini and the gold rush. Best to get here early because they run out of the drinks pretty quick and you can only order one per person at a time! All of the seating was first come, first serve. There was some indoor seating with dim lighting and there was seating on their covered patio. My only grip was that the music was too loud, so it was hard to catch up with my friends. But it's also only an hour long so we can always drink then go somewhere else to catch up! I will definitely be frequenting their happy hour. The staff were very friendly and professionally. As for parking, it is street parking so plan ahead and get there early. Also I didn't get to try their food but it look and smelled so good!

Swan Bar is everything I want out of a neighborhood bar. Chill yet lively, busy but overly crowded where it becomes uncomfortable, cool but not a "scene". And they have the BEST happy hour in the area... $5 happy hour draft cocktails EVERY SINGLE DAY. These cocktails are better tasting than many of the drinks I've had prepared at cocktail bars, including some pretty pricey ones in the area. The Irish Gold Rush is my go to, but the Black Manhattan is perfect for when I want something boozier. The margarita and mojito are also excellent on warmer days. The bartenders are really friendly and provide great service. Swan Bar's layout is great, with a cozy indoor space to hang out along with a large, semi-outdoor space in the back. The outdoor area has heat lamps and a nice fireplace -- extra nice on a chilly SD evening. Somehow we always end up here while on a walk so I have yet to try their food or stray from the draft cocktails, but their cocktail menu looks interesting and is well priced. I'm also happy to see they offer a vegan burger and presumably a few vegan sides (fries, onion rings, etc.). Looking forward to spending a bit more time here soon and working my way through their cocktail menu.

This is the place to grab a good happy hour drink before dinner! Love the vibe/ambience of the patio space as it's enclosed but you still feel like your sitting on a patio. They even have a small fireplace that is very cozy. We came here on a Friday right as they opened at 4pm to take advantage of the happy hour and it seems like since they blew up on social media it's very busy! There were people waiting online to get in right at 4pm as the happy hour only goes from 4-5! The happy hour is draft cocktails and so there's about 6 different cocktails to choose from but so worth it for $5! The espresso martini isn't anything out of this world but definitely a solid choice. Food wise we only got chili cheese fries which were a large portion for 2 people but I know that they also have smash burgers. Overall great place for a cheap cocktail during happy hour and great patio set up.

Love going here for Happy Hour! $7 Espresso Martinis and a variety of others on the cocktail menu. Monday-Friday 4pm-5pm.

Lovelt ambiance with Christmas decor and we both got nonalcoholic drinks to spruce us up for the night. The mixed drinks were a fiery pick me up and it is a comfy place to relax at.

So easy to walk by this place and not see it! Nice locals spot with a lot of semi outdoor seating. I didn't realize some of the cocktails are on tap so I found it odd they are the same price as a hand mixed cocktail (unless it's happy hour - which is a really good deal) I found the bartenders nice enough and they were focused on getting the drinks out asap. They did seem a bit short on menus but overall worth a visit!

How do I love thee? Let me count the ways. The best in the neighborhood, no question. They have an amazing HH 4-5pm Tues-sat. Try their fast and dirty or the espresso martini. Their burgers are also delicious. #1!!

I really love this little corner of the world, so any time one of my friends wants to meet up after work I usually try to meet up somewhere in the vicinity of this intersection. It was kind of by happenstance that we discovered the bar but really a matter of time. My favorite time to come in is right when it opens get a seat at the bar or really close by because the bartenders are really funny. Grab a martini or an espresso martini. If you're feeling crazy everything here is delicious I normally don't even like most burgers - but these burgers are fire, the french fries I think really set it off, so if you're not a burger person definitely get a fry. I feel like the ambience is always like a really cool local chill vibe. I'm not pretentious, but still like a level of upscale cause you have a really nice space that you're enjoying.

Burger had good flavors and came with a bunch of pickles on the side. However, the bottom of the bun was a bit soggy while eating and the burger structure wasn't good. Fries were extra crispy and a large portion. Definitely be back for the fries and a drink.

Super cute place in North Park :) So glad my friend picked this place for us to try- Came here right at 4pm, didn't know this place offered such an amazing happy hour; only between 4pm-5pm though but you cannot beat the $5 drink deal they got. Service was ok that's why I took a star off. One of the bartenders were beyond rude. She didn't like how people lined up; how else would the customers have known unless there was a sign indicating or somebody informing them how they should've lined up... We sat in the back porch, super spacious, bright and cute. We got nachos too and it was more than generous amount of toppings on it. Would love to try their different drinks next time :)

Perfect spot to meet a date! It was on the quieter side which made it easy to talk, and the outside (which is kind of indoor/outdoor combo vibes) with the fireplace was so cozy and warm. The bartenders were super friendly and entertained my annoying/very specific questions. Margarita on tap was delicious but shockingly strong -- be careful! Would definitely go back, especially on a weeknight when it wasn't too crowded.

Bold claim incoming but this is my favorite bar in north park. The happy hour is mind boggling but the hand mixed cocktails are where it's really at here. All of the bartenders here are fantastic at what they do and also super friendly and welcoming. The menu is varied and there's something for everyone and if not, just get an on-tap espresso martini and kick it. The covered patio area is awesome especially at night with the fireplace on. You must eat here. Gluten free buns and incredible juicy burgers and crispy fries w bomb dipping sauces. About once a month I get an insatiable hankering for a burger and end up here.

They have an amazing happy hour special every day from 4-5 with several $5 drinks to choose from. It was pretty busy on a Saturday night but we were able to get a table. We did notice that a lot of people left around 6 after finishing their happy hour drinks. I liked the atmosphere with the low lighting and they have an outdoor area as well.

I love it at swan bar. Their drinks are really good. Good service too. Outdoor or indoor seating. What's very neat about swan bar is that they have happy hour for one hour. Cocktails for 5 dollars. Get there quick and line up quick because it will get crowded. I really enjoy the espresso martinis here. The environment here is welcoming and mellow.

Happy Hour: $5 drinks from 4 to 5 pm. Do I have your attention? Yeah, the happy hour cocktails are on tap, but they are potent and palatable. The Black Manhattan may be my favorite. I wish that they had a vegan version of the Espresso Martini. Swan Bar has a cool vibe about it that is hip, but welcoming. Can't tell you anything about the food, but I definitely appreciate that they have an Impossible Burger on the menu. Thanks, Swan Bar! Are they ever going to get the distillery operational? Stay tuned!

Came here two times now and both times did not disappoint. I have been here for happy hour and love the $5 martini options here from 4-5 mon -Sat. This time are kind I ordered a smash burger and it was delicious. Love the side pickles and pepper on the side. Parking could be a little challenging but there is a paid parking lot close by. Also the neighborhood has some street parking. I found that coming during the week like a Wednesday is better than Friday or Saturday. It's a little bit more busy and you may have to wait in line Ambiance is very nice and intimate inside the bar and they have an outdoor patio that's a bit better for a bigger group. The espresso martini is probably my favorite. The apple martini comes in second.

Best chill bar in the Normal Heights area. Great happy hour. Bartenders are very good. Really decked out for the holidays right now.

Classy decor with a casual ambiance, it's the best of both worlds. Add $5 cocktails to the mix, and could you really ask for more? They offer a daily happy hour from 4-5 pm when you can order from a range of classics, including a dirty gin martini, margarita, mojito, and more; really something for everyone. I *believe* these are on tap (I think that's what the menu said) so they're able to quickly reach the masses. I had the dirty martini complete with a blue cheese-stuffed olive and the espresso martini. Knowing these beverages are typically twice if not three to four times the prices at other places, I was more than satisfied. (I have several thoughts about the cost of cocktails these days, but that's a tale for another time.) And the secret is out on it on the $5 deal, because there was a line of people ready to go right when they opened at 4 pm. They have other specialty cocktails and some food items, but really, happy hour is where it's at. And with quick, friendly service ready to greet you, I consider it a neighborhood gem. Plus, the "early bird special" gives you a chance to find parking in a notoriously tough area to find it.

What's not to love about this place? Wonderful ambience. Friendly engaging staff. Incredible happy hour drinks. Delicious food. We had a great time. Hanging out with friends, enjoying drinks and a few snacks. Can't wait to get back. Definitely have the espresso martini.

Best bar in Normal Heights! The drinks are great, our favorites are the Negroni, margarita, and of course the Espresso Martini. And you can't beat the $5 cocktails during happy hour. Bar has quickly become our go to hangout. We love Pete, Shane, and the rest of the crew! I have heard really good things about their burgers, but have yet to try them. They do have food available for purchase.

Neighborhood AND craft cocktail bar feel, a rare combination. Feels friendly but with care in what they serve. I had "ryders on the storm" a rye based cocktail that was reminiscent of a slightly salty Manhattan. Delicious! Friendly staff.

The burger! This place has a time gone by vibe. We sat in the bar and the leather seating is very comfy. The drinks pictures are exactly as described. We tried the Spaghetti Western Cocktail which is in between an ol fashion and Manhattan. Just a hint of sweetness. The burger and in sticking to the old school vibe we tried the pimento. cooked perfectly. And house-cut fries ( omg ) Make sure to sit in the bar area and let the music take you away. And if you're lucky your server/bartender will be "Yo Addrianne"

Went for Friday happy hour (4-5pm $5 select drinks), and as expected it was quite busy. The bouncer and host were cheery and made great first impressions. The bartenders were doing a great job taking orders and getting drinks out quickly, but maybe too quickly? My espresso martini tasted good but it felt rushed and a bit sloppy - it got sloshed so the glass was sticky from the drink spilling down it - and from looking around that was commonplace. It got rather full & loud fast, so if you come with a group have someone grab a table if you see one. Good enough martini to go back? Yes, especially for the price.

A cute, more intimate style bar! I came during the xmas season after Polite Provisions and I enjoyed my experience here a lot more. Not bashing the business whatsoever but I was surprised that it was a lot less busy here despite still having nice decorations up. While the drinks may have been a little less festive, I thought the taste of the drinks was more well-crafted. I got a Drugstore Cowboy and was pleasantly surprised. The barista recommended it to me after I told her I love espresso martinis but don't like overly sweet drinks. She told me I could try the drink and switch it if I didn't like it which speaks volumes to the service of this place. The drink itself was slightly citrusy with a hint of coffee flavor which was an unexpectedly good pairing. The strength of the alcohol was also balanced. Will definitely be coming back here for the other drinks and apps!

Best happy hour deal in San Diego! 5$ cocktails and they are actually made very well! Super chill ambiance. The team is super friendly. Love coming here for happy hour on Fridays with friends

Super cool spot for food and/or drinks. Didn't get any food ourselves but the fries and onion rings we saw looked and smelled amazing. My espresso martini was on point and my husband's Cafe Barracuda drink was really unique and interesting. It supposedly had mezcal in it, but didn't taste like mezcal at all. Cool and classy vibes here with nice staff. No complaints and would definitely come back!

Great place for drinks and food, without the pesky line. Service is simple, with mostly self service. Ambience is loud but pretty cool. Burger is delicious. I would come back here again. Go to this place instead of the place next door with a long line.

Such a cute place!! Cool and laid back vibe and great prices for drinks. They have a happy hour Tuesday-Saturday from 4-5 where the drinks are $5!! I didn't come for happy hour but I'll definitely be back. The bartender let us know Friday-Saturday HH is pretty crazy and there's an insane line down the street, but he said weekdays are chill. I had an espresso martini and it was delicious. The staff were also very nice and service was fast! Definitely one of my new favorite spots!

Just moved down the street figured I would try this place out walked in wasn't greeted at all just stood there for a solid couple of minutes had to grab my own menu wait forever for a drink as bartenders finished their side conversations finally got my drink and watched them greet everyone else that walked in not a good 1st impression

Came in to grab some HH espresso martinis because they're always delicious!! Got a desert rose as well this time and it wasn't bad. Strong drinks for great prices and a friendly staff, you cant beat it!

Alma is awesome! She provided excellent customer service and was so helpful. I truly cannot commend her more, she made my first bar experience incredible.

Got a good drunk off their happy hour espresso martinis! Great deal and yummy for having it on tap. A bunch of us got burgers and shared a couple fries. Order at the bar. Chill ambiance. All the food was pretty good... not the best burger ever but enjoyed it. This was a while ago and have tried to go back, but it's always been a Sunday and they are closed all Sunday!

I love this place!!! They have the best happy hour-$5 on tap cocktails from 4-5, such a steal!!!! And they are strong too. They also have great food options to snack on. The bartenders are super friendly and attentive even when its busy. I recommend getting there a little before 4 if you want a seat at the bar, the line for drinks can get pretty long. Can't wait to go back!!

Cute bar off our beloved Adams Ave just a few doors from Polite Provision. My friend and I came on a Friday night. Truthfully, it was not our first pick (our first picks had long lines, lol). Still glad we came because, like mentioned, other nearby bars were slammed and we got in quick. We also landed two seats at the bar. SCORE! There is also a large sitting area, but it was packed, so we left after we couldn't find a free table. The bartender was fast and friendly as they whipped our drinks: I had the espresso martini. It was delicious - just the right balance of coffee and alcohol. Granted, I ***rarely*** drink, so who knows what the next person would say about this? It was alarmingly loud in there (I had to yell to my friend who sat next to me), but, then again, what bars aren't loud on a Friday night? I would most definitely return here :- ).

What a happy & welcoming little Dive Bar.... Went for HH & had to try the popular espresso martini's on draft with that delish amaretto cream topper... yum. Nice ratio of coffee and vodka & not too sweet. Hubs had the black Manhattan and it was solid. Oh & Couldn't leave without tasting a smash burger..... omg next time getting one with the garlic fries! Their regular menu looked so intriguing and next visit I will def try at least a couple creations. Great $5 HH cocktails, yes please ! And btw staff were awesome! What a great vibe

A great addition to the NP area! If polite provisions is too packed, Swan bar is your best bet if you're trying to sip on some well made cocktails. Hungry and want to get your grub on before you add some drank to your empty belly! Well, they cook up some mighty good burgers. We opted for their smash burger and man this place is giving The Friendly a run for their money. Ample seating both inside and out. Inside gets a bit loud so if you want to chat without having to scream snag a seat outside and sip away while you drool over the juicy burger you just finished!

Can get busy! If you're trying to go for happy hour, plan accordingly. There's plenty of seating that fits your vibe though. Outdoor covered patio, indoor small tables, and bar seating. If you want to hear the person you're with talk, I recommend sitting outside as it can get really loud indoors. 4-5 happy hour on draft cocktails. Their food is typical bar food with burgers, fries, nachos. What I love is the pricing. Everything is easy to read. $12 for house cocktails and draft cocktails. $12 boilermakers with good liquor options, not your well options. This makes splitting the bill easier if you need to. They also have natural wine & beer as well as non alcoholic cocktails. Service was great. Everyone is friendly. The wait at the bar for your drink can be a bit long. They seemed to be understaffed when I went. However, if they only can have two bartenders working each night and it's busy, plan on ordering two drinks at one time to save yourself from waiting in line again. Super cute atmosphere

Came here for their happy hour. Turns out if there's an event going on in the area, they won't do happy hour. Greedy greedy greedy. If you promote something, you should serve it. Service is good. The bartenders and hosts are super cool, super friendly and make the drinks quick and delicious. The ambiance is cool. Do not like that they're a greedy establishment. If you promote a happy hour, you should always serve your happy hour. One of the main reasons people come here. So sad. Call me cheap, I don't care. Just don't promote something if you aren't going to serve it.

Expresso Martini for $5 from 4-5PM on the weekdays. In this economy you're basically obligated to come by and knock back 3 of these since the price of a cocktail is basically $15 these days anyways. Don't let the price fool you, though it's own draft it holds its own against some of the best expresso martini's in town. As for the food, I had the bbq burger which was pretty decent. If you love fries, you certainly get your money's worth here as I have yet to ever finish the mountain of fries they send your way.