Sycamore Den

we stumbled upon this gem while visiting San Diego and staying nearby — and what a find! The moment we heard Blink-182 playing as we approached, we took it as a sign we had to check it out, and it did not disappoint. The vibe was laid-back yet full of energy, with a great mix of music, ambiance, and personality that immediately drew us in. I ordered the Pisco Sour craft cocktail, and it was absolutely top-notch — perfectly balanced and so refreshing. Cody, our bartender, made the experience even better. He was friendly, attentive, and clearly knows his way around a cocktail shaker. Being within walking distance of our Airbnb was a bonus, but this place is worth going out of your way for. It’s officially on our list of must-visit spots whenever we’re in San Diego!

Turning into one of my favorite spots for an after work drink. Cocktails always executed perfectly, bartenders always friendly (shoutout to Jasmine, Shayne & Eileen), and free popcorn to munch on. They also have a great happy hour!

Love the vibe, it's cozy and retro with well priced drinks and a good happy hour. They sometimes have live music on the weekends (website says every Thursday but we were there on a Saturday night and they had a band playing.) The patio out back is great too!

A cozy cabin with a delightful patio and signature drinks that tie it all together! Despite the rush and limited staffing, drinks still came out quickly and to the highest quality.

we stumbled upon this gem while visiting San Diego and staying nearby — and what a find! The moment we heard Blink-182 playing as we approached, we took it as a sign we had to check it out, and it did not disappoint. The vibe was laid-back yet full of energy, with a great mix of music, ambiance, and personality that immediately drew us in.

One of the few bars in SD with consistent, amazing service. Everyone is so friendly and attentive, very refreshing. Great atmosphere and drinks as well :)

Sycamore Den is a cozy gem! Creative cocktails, tasty bites, attentive service and live music. Great spot to chill

Stopped by Sycamore Den for a quick drink, and I have to say, it didn’t disappoint. The vibe was laid-back with great music, and the place had just the right energy—not too loud, not too quiet. I started with a Whiskey Sour, which was perfect, and followed it up with a Wolf Ticket—smooth, easy to drink, and made just right. The bartender was on it, making sure my glass didn’t stay empty for long. It’s little touches like that that make a place stand out. If you’re looking for a spot with solid drinks and a chill atmosphere, Sycamore Den is worth a visit!

Honestly have always loved coming to Sycamore Den since I first discovered it a couple years ago. It's a cozy bar in Normal Heights that's perfect for a casual night out with friends. The bartenders here are always so friendly and quick with cranking out drinks to keep the lines moving. It can often get somewhat busy here whenever there's an event, but there's usually plenty of couches and tables to sit at. The crowd here is always so friendly and lively, one of those spots where you can see the community is thriving. Personally love getting the espresso martini here. It's nothing super fancy, but it's perfect for when you're in need of a quick one - nice balance between sweet and strong. I've yet to visit during happy hour, but 50% off during happy hour seems like it'd be such a great deal for these espresso martinis, so I'll have to check it out when I can.

A super fun & cozy bar in normal heights! I love the 70's inspired interior design and it's a very welcoming place upon arrival. The two cocktails we had were part of their spring specials menu and both were 10/10 amazing! I got the passion fruit fizz & a spicy marg. Bartender was lovely & charismatic despite being busy and I had a great time here overall! Would love to come back on a weekend night to experience the "throwback nights" they have playing only music that we know and love!

Lively spot in the heart of Kensington. I love the loungy atmosphere and very pleased that the bar is never extremely packed so you can actually hear what your friends have to say. Aeroclub Whiskey Sour is the best drink on the menu.

I don't want to give four stars because I don't want more people coming here because I hate when it's busy but this is one of my all time favorite bars. The atmosphere is exactly what I want. Not quite a dive but has those dive feels. I used to live in the area and this was my favorite spot to come in the late afternoon when it's empty and just hang out. The drinks are pretty solid and the staff have always been really happy and great to interact with. Only complaint is the layout is not fantastic when it gets full and busy but they can't really do much about that so I won't knock them for it. The one thing I am desperate for is pre pandemic for a small moment they had a green drink on the menu (the description was literally "tastes like green") and it's one of the best cocktails I've ever had. I'd give at least one of my toes to taste it again and WISH I had some record of what it was made with. In the years since their speciality/rotating menu isn't quite as good but it's still fun and solid. For their quirky and unique cocktails this is one of the better places in San Diego. They're not weak, they're not overly sweet, and they taste great. (Hate it when spots try for a unique menu and there's just too many ingredients that don't seem to seamlessly blend).

All in all, great experience! Staff was really nice, space was extremely cozy. Such a great vibe inside and out with a lot of seating and fun event nights like trivia and bingo. Heat lamps outside which is always a nice touch in the winter. I was lucky enough to pop in during the holidays and it was truly SO festive. If you see this before it's gone, it's worth stopping by to enjoy! I had a few of the signature cocktails but, the one noteworthy drink was the Autumn Blazed- truly to die for. You know that first sip of a perfectly crafted drink? One so good, you order the next one before you finish your first? This was exactly that. Every sip was truly perfection. Ironically one of the bartenders, Cody, came up with the drink. He deserves a medal lol. Fun Note: even if you don't need to go, be sure to stop by the restrooms to enjoy some eclectic bar art.

It's full of middle aged college students and young professionals. It looks decidedly retro and on Fridays & Saturdays it sounds like someone with impeccable taste in every music genre is turning up the joint. If you can get over the fact that it smells like popcorn everywhere, it's a fun place when you can find a comfortable seat. My friend and I sat in a long booth near a bunch of guys that all looked like Ron Weasley and they were very intent at playing their game of tossing something at the wall. There were a few moments where we were caught in a zip line as they swung their string at every angle. Somehow it all added to the experience. Other mentions: - mocktails - light bites - canned cocktails (Topo Chico, White Claw, etc) - live DJ on Fridays and Saturdays

It isn't that Sycamore Den isn't great - it is - but it's only 5-stars when you don't have to argue over a reasonable misunderstanding that somehow took on a life of its own. But we'll get there. I stopped by, not to long ago, to see what, according to friends who have long since dispersed, that I was there and, they assured me, it was time well-spent. I vaguely remember a couple of oddly dressed young people who, in 50s Bee-Bop fashion, couldn't explain why they were dressed that way (not that I'm arrogant enough to think they owed me an explanation). But it was, as some like to say, what it was. I remember it being nicely packed for 7PM-ish plus. There was a food station on the patio, which left only the eastern side available where a couple, smoking, leaned into each other, laughing at who-knows-what. Inside, most of the tables were spoken for and the bar was buzzing with low high-grade energy. Not having a stool to sit on, I plunked myself down in what I jokingly referred to as 'the children's table,' a dry patch of the bar where either small people or latecomers like me sat. Danielle was the bartender serving me as she was A-M-A-Z-I-N-G. She was, as I came to learn, not only very charismatic, but an astute manager of people and time. (It was something i would see again with Jade at The Hills pub in La Mesa as you'll soon find.) I ordered the $12 'Wolf Ticket' and, after, a draft beer called 'Polite' from The Societe. They were both outstanding but for different reasons. With the way Danielle made Wolf Ticket, the whiskey was nicely balanced with a degree of smoky sweetness that made it hard to preserve. The beer was deliciously IPA-y and worth every penny. The other bartender I made time to know was John. John is absolutely everything you want in a local tender; he's informal, relaxed, personable, and he knows his beer. He's everyone's friend and the reason people keep coming back to bars. But it's also a theme I'm beginning to discover with the owners of SD, THP (in La Mesa), Aero Club, and a few other I will almost certainly visit. What cost them a star was the way they handled my dispute. Or AITA? When I order the cocktail, Danielle asked for a card they could charge as I, or anyone else, could wrack up as the night as the drinks wore on. But I checked my bank balance after ordering the beer and saw a $20 dollar charge. It didn't occur to me at the time that this was probably a pre-charge to make sure the card was legit. But because it said $12 for 'Wolf Ticket' on the menu, I don't think it was unreasonable of me to assume the draft beer was $8 dollars. But when I got back from the bathroom to ask for the check - seeing they were in the thick of things - I through six clams down on the counter and headed out. The next morning the charges from my bank showed another $8.45. Long story short, I didn't factor in tax and they added 20% percent of the bill as the tip. In other words, the charming guy at 'the children's table' was no longer, but in his place there was a $1 dollar bill and a $5 dollar bill but, hey, it could have been anyone's tip, so let's give our bartenders some more money on my behalf. Which I would have gladly given anyway! Anyone, I spoke to a cog in the ether and they returned the tip they added to the check (which, did I bitterly mention, was about a buck-and-a-quarter less than what I left?). Anyway, theatrics aside, go! It's fun. It's your crowd. Support local business. But tell that guy in the ether to find his passion...he's a real business killer.

Sycamore Den is a gem of a bar with an inviting atmosphere and top-notch libations. The drinks are expertly crafted, offering a delightful blend of flavors that cater to all palates. The seating arrangements are cozy and comfortable, making it the perfect spot to unwind with friends or enjoy a quiet evening alone. Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur or simply looking for a great place to relax, Sycamore Den exceeds expectations with its stellar drinks and inviting ambiance.

I've been to this bar a couple of times now that I live near it, and I have to tell you the bartenders are great, very attentive and nice... we have not had the food here but it is visually appealing and a good vibe.. my favorite thing they have is an espresso martini. They also have like monthly cocktails that they make and they make good whiskey drinks..

Fun place to hang out! I didn't eat any food but just had drinks and listened to the live band. I like the 70s vibe and the people were friendly.

This used to be one of the best cocktail bars in San Diego, one of my favs for years. I just went this past Friday and may not go back again. I'm assuming it's the newish owners, but this went from a sexy, cozy, cocktail lounge with great music, vibe, and AMAZING brass fireplace to what now feels like a pre-game to PB or downtown night club. The music was so loud we had to scream at each other. The music no longer matches the aesthetics of the bar (it was more appropriate for getting blasted before hitting up Rich's). They got rid of the cozy booth and seating towards the back and put in those crappy stumps, cheap night clubs do when they are towards the end of their business life. I dont know what the new owners are doing - if you wanted a college bar/crappy night club, then why didnt you just buy one of those? Why did you buy one of the best cocktail bars in San Diego and not maintain it. PLEASE BRING BACK THE OLD SYCAMORE - IT WAS AMAZING. This place sucks now and it breaks my heart.

love it here. perfect place to frequent with friends when ur not feeling a club vibe or just want something more chill and intimate. such a cutesy spot

Sycamore Den is a nice walk down Adams Ave from my house and I'm so happy it is! Went through some renovations and menu changes, so if you're looking for the skee ball, it's no longer there. However, what you do get is a great vibe, occasional trivia and live music nights and awesome service even when this intimate space becomes very busy at times. KP is the sweetest, makes fantastic drinks, and has even taken special consideration for certain drink requests off of the menu. All of her drinks are top notch and the night is always great when she's working! Also...free popcorn. Can't beat it.

Cute! Easy going, great happy hour spot. Eager to come again, right next to other fun spots so easy to plan our night out here!

I went to Sycamore Den for drinks with a date and really liked the vibe here. The inside space is smaller and intimate but it wasn't jam packed. They also have a big back outdoor area. We picked this spot because the Yelp looked like they have ski-ball but they no longer have it here. We were there on a Friday night and there was a dj playing good throwback early 2000s jams so that was a fun vibe with a couple groups dancing. Good cocktails too!

Great atmosphere. KP is an awesome bartender with a great attitude. Drinks were perfectly made, bar was a lot of fun.

Upon entering, they check IDs and greeted with a friendly face, which was a plus. They have gender neutral bathrooms that were clean which I appreciated very much! I came in on a Saturday night with a group of 10+ people for a goodbye celebration and stayed until closing. We took over the den area which was a perfect spot for our large group. There were surrounding seating areas with booths, chairs, and they had high chairs available at the bar. What caught our attention was the early 2000s music they were playing + a variety of current Latin, hip hop, R&B songs! There was lots of fun dancing going on while we were there - perfect for someone who loves to sing their heart out while dancing on a dance floor that isn't so crowded. Their bartenders were all so friendly and I got my drinks right away. Their margarita is delicious and we even got tequila shots for everyone filled to the rim. I love that they had a popcorn machine - our group couldn't hold ourselves back from getting refill after refill. I wonder how this place is during the day. I may have to bring a friend or two and catch up on drinks and check out their game area I didn't get to check out while I was there.

A few weeks ago I wrote and immediately deleted a nasty review of this place when Waterfront Group took over. In light of this painful transition, I had abstained from entering the premise for the past couple of months. Last night I ambled in on my way home from work and encountered KP - she was delightful and interactive - actively engaging with guests and harassing (in a friendly way) anyone who crossed the threshold. I had some severe reservations about the turnover in this space - but they have since been put to bed. KP and Damien and Reggie and Charlie surely have a handle on adapting to the pulse in our neighborhood - and I trust them to adapt and engage and properly entertain the guests and regulars who continue to make sycamore den the best bar in San Diego.

Craft drinks and craft drinks in cans. Draft beer and in cans. Vending machines with all of that, too! Free popcorn. Indoor, outdoor and patio seating. Snazzy interior. Iron Maiden pinball machine, skeeball, fortune teller machine by bathroom, deep basement seating, live music most nights and eclectic tunes lighten up the experience. Surrounding street parking. No food, but pretty good spiced FREE popcorn.

Friends and I came here during an Adams Ave festival. The bartenders were really kind even with the heat and masses of people. They recommended both drinks pictured and they were amazing !

What a cool place! I'm not sure what I was expecting when visiting Sycamore Den but it was a pleasant surprise. Kind of hard to pinpoint the vibe of this place but I really dug the modern vintage decor and set up they had throughout. It's a pretty big space and has a nice outdoor seating areas as well in the back. Their cocktails are great! I believe they change their cocktail specials seasonally but on this visit, I got "The Ticket" which is a bourbon cocktail with peach liquor. It was just what I needed after the week I was having. There is a bar in the back patio which many people didn't realize so as a result, the front bar was packed with people waiting to order. I will definitely come back

Anyone know where the former bartenders went? I miss the awesome craft cocktails. The new management is nice, but they just don't have the same menu.

After dinner in the area, we stopped by Sycamore Den for a nightcap. This dimly lit bar has a rustic feel along with a long bar and some comfortable sofa seating in the back. After looking over their impressive cocktail list, I went to the bar to order. They have quite a few creative cocktails which is always a plus in my book. If you're looking for a casual spot, give them a try.

Anthony with the beanie was the absolute man. He is cookin, we never had an empty water glass, and he was so friendly.

I was accidentally charged for one of my friends drinks when she had previously paid cash and I kindly let the bartender Elden V know that I only needed to be reimbursed for the one drink on the tab he had just rang in for cash. He was rude and made a huge deal about refunding one whisky sour. He shook the receipt in front of my face and told me to be more prepared next time. This was my first drink of the night and I was sober. There was no reason for him to be so rude over something that is simple to solve.

Danielle and Aileen deserve a raise. They deal with so much and so many misogynistic guys that they definitely deserve a raise! Please give them a raise or else

3.5. The water here was adequate. The best part is that there is a water station where you can help yourself; you don't need to wait to request water from the bartender, and you can refill it yourself. The water itself was decent. It could have been colder. The water cups were small.

Cute little spot. Free popcorn was a nice touch. Service was friendly and quick. A little loud and hard to hear if you're there for the live karaoke, but would definitely recommend going.

Such a great time was had here on a Saturday night. Place can get packed after 8p.m., but that is expected of a bar. I unfortunately do not remember our bartenders name, but he was so polite and helpful when we were talking about drinks. We tried so many things on the menu and everything he made was delicious. They do have popcorn, just have to ask for it. Ordering drinks can be a little challenging since you have to go to the bar, and if the bar is full you are ordering over people sitting there. They also have a nice outdoor seating area. Will be back soon for sure.

Always the best. The staff is friendly to new guests, even on busy nights. The music is great, atmosphere great, prices great. And one time someone offered me an oreo when I was drunk and it saved my life I take all my friends from out of town. Great spot to hit in Normal Heights

Stumbled on this location when looking for a solid cocktail on a random Sunday evening. Oh my!! The drinks!!! The vibe is interesting and not what you would expect, as it has more of a dive bar feel, but the drinks beat out polite provisions. I don't remember what it was caked but the smoky mezcal drink was DELICIOUS!

how dare you new owners get rid of the fireplace and piano and Halloween decorations!!!! How could youuu I'm so so disappointed the vibes are just off now (still my favorite bar which is why you even get 3 stars) how could you!

Charlie is the best! His creation the jungle boogie is one of the best drinks that ive ever had! 7 star bar! Ambiance, amazing.

My gf, April, and i are locals and stopped by on a whim for a last min stop for my bday weekend. Omar and the ladies there threw up some sparklers and a Happy Birthday after i got back from the bathroom. I was NOT expecting that.. but damn that really made my night. There really isn't much to it but that the whole crew and staff gave great service and it made this evening extra special. Just want you guys and gals to know that that little extra umph that you guys put forth was amazing. Always love Sycamore Den :)

Great location if you don't want to go Downtown. Parking sucks around the neighborhood. Nicely decorated spot. The inside looks so nice. Very romantic and great for date night. Staff is friendly and helpful. Drinks are very yummy. Live music on some nights. They also have a back patio with a beer vending machine. The popcorn is crazy good. It has salt, Tajin and a ton of butter! Amazing! Will be back.

I'd like to update my extremely old review! I really wasn't into much besides vodka cocktails at the time and Sycamore Den was not the place for that, haha. Well I returned last night and had a Wolf Ticket (bourbon, peach, lemon) and that was delicious. I also tried the Monk Improved (rye, chartreuse) which was pretty good as well. Thankfully I have expanded my cocktail taste over the years and can appreciate these cocktails. now! Trivia on Tuesday nights!

I needed to take the edge off after having a rough fight with another rat trying to steal my scraps. So I walked in the Sycamore Den to do so. I love dark dingy places like these - it reminds me of a nice dumpster or placenta. Now I say dark and dingy but this is also a really clean spot. We rats are actually really clean and will groom ourselves or each other for hours so this was a nice lil plus. The drinks were all great. I'm sure you can't go wrong here. Crime of Passion had that strong passionfruit flavor without it being stupid sweet and had a tartness to it. It came with a nice lil orange slice with tajin on it. Tainted Love is for the lover boi's - nicely balanced hibiscus feel with all the elements of sweet, tart, and citrusy. There's a piano, a fire pit, some games, a nice mulleted human making yummy ass drinks, Terminator 2 playing behind the bar, a machine fortune teller, and that beautiful stone dungeon wall. In the back, next to the bathrooms, there's a neon sign that says "Fuck Yelp" - and rightfully so. But I'm a rat that doesn't read english very well so here's my review.

Best parts of Sycamore Den are the Cinnamon Girl (cocktail) and the housemade popcorn with tajin. The Cinnamon Girl is an unusual concoction of cognac, reposado tequila, ancho reyes and a bunch of other things. It sounds like an odd mix and it happens to be bright orange but holy crap, it is one of the best cocktails I have ever had. It is fantastically awesome. Drinking that sucker and then eating the popcorn while I chat with my girlfriends makes for a great evening. I can easily drink three. Hey, I actually did. The ambiance of the bar is an intimate family room from a house set in the 70s. Love the stone on the walls and the loungey vibes with the sucken area of couches near the fireplace. Taejon and Ashley are both great bartenders. They were warm, friendly and very welcoming to new patrons on a Friday afternoon. The cocktails they served my friend and I were delicious. The presentation of all cocktails is impressive. I hope my cocktail never leaves or I will be very sad.

This bar is dope! Just moved to the neighborhood and I'm so happy I stopped by on my way home from work. Omar helped me out and gave some great recommendations on drinks. Music was on point and popcorn was tasty. Definitely making this a regular spot. Cheers!

I have loved this place for a long time and would love to bump this up to five stars in the future, but tonight was my first time in since new management has taken over and this place seems to have taken a pretty steep dive. Most of the decor, staff and games are gone, it kinda has a stripped for parts feel. The drinks are WILDLY inconsistent between bartenders, I am fairly sure one of the new bartenders is learning on the job (forgot my drink several times before giving me the wrong drink, then told me to give him a break as he was making 8 drinks at the same time). Overall this feels like a college bar now, definitely not the sycamore den we knew and loved. Two stars because the staff was at least amicable.

The king and Jon were amazing! They provided great service, and a fun atmosphere! Highly recommend!

Looking to have an awesome night with friends in an atmosphere that's fun, entertaining and cozy? This is the place!!! With games like skeeball, pinball and a spectacular get the ring on a hook game, you and your friends will be laughing for hours. Drinks are always on point, the private seating in the back is a good get away and the area near the fireplaces gives a very private and intimate feel despite being in the middle of a bar. There's a water station to keep you going and the music will keep you smiling! It's a must!

Low key best bar in San Diego, great atmosphere, great vibe and Charlie makes the best old fashion this side of the Mississippi!

Eek. We moved to the hood last year. This place has taken a palpable nose dive in the past 2 weeks. It was perfectly grungy meets cocktail bar with a cozy den, skee ball, and good drinks. Since new ownership took over it feels kinda PB and drinks aren't nearly as good. Keep abnormal heights abnormal. No PB here pls.

Anybody with a 'F*%k Yelp' sign in the bar deserves 5 stars. Just had the best cocktail of my life there with Mezcal - a drink from the probation days with a secret sweetener. Amazing. The bartender was were a Bull Durham jersey, enough said. Free popcorn and an outdoor porch in the back with music. The sunken lounge is neat and they have skee ball and pinball machines. Amazing place to get a drink and laugh.

Came here for a work party - reserved the back patio & bar and it was a wonderful experience. We were able to order in pizzas and enjoy drinks out back. Loved their cocktail menu and appreciated being in an outdoor setting. It was comfortable with having a cover and heaters spread out along the patio. Bathrooms are themed which is always fun but overall it's a bar with okay cleanliness but good vibes depending on who you go with.

I went back here again and noticed different liquors (not the high quality variety). Apparently new management so changes were mad. The place is classy but the people working their didn't fit that image. Low quality drinks.

First time visiting this bar and it might be new favorite. I can't tell if the drinks or the service was better but I know but we're great. I found my new favorite drink, The Last Mezcal, and my new favorite bartender, Jen! If you haven't come here before do, treat yourself and check it out!

This is one of the funnest places in normal heights, first time in a min and it's still the best!!! Pull up!!!! KP took care of me and my girl!!! Beyond service to be expected! A++++++

First time at Sycamore Den, Jen and her staff are amazing. Been in SD for 5 years and the best service and absolutely the best old fashion in SD. Show up and enjoy, you won't be disappointed!