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Best Restaurants for Handcrafted Cocktails in University Heights

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9 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Lala restaurant
1. Lala
4.7
Exceptional(155)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 24 times today
From the Owners of Barbusa .we bring you "Lala" a captivating blend of modern and classic Italian cuisine, paired with handcrafted cocktails in a cozy, sexy-chic ambiance. Our menu showcases timeless Italian flavors with a contemporary twist, from traditional Stuffed Shells to inventive loaded potato gnocchi. The intimate atmosphere, with dimmed lights and plush furnishings, sets the stage for romantic dinners or vibrant gatherings.Our bar is a haven of mixology artistry, featuring classic Negronis and signature creations like the "Lala Martini." Sustainability is a core value—we source responsibly and implement eco-friendly practices in both the kitchen and the bar. "Lala" isn't just a restaurant; it's a community that appreciates culinary excellence, inviting you to savor the extraordinary in every bite, sip, and moment. Join us for a celebration of Italian cuisine, crafted with contemporary flair, and served in an ambiance that exudes romance.
A photo of Cellar Hand restaurant
2. Cellar Hand
4.6
Exceptional(125)
Price: Expensive
• Farm-to-table • Hillcrest
Booked 16 times today
Nestled in the heart of Hillcrest, San Diego, Cellar Hand embodies a commitment to sustainability, craftsmanship, and community. Through a farm-to-table approach, our menu showcases hyper-local seasonal fare. Our extensive wine list highlights the diverse terroir of California, serving as an extension of founder’s Pali Wine Co. Santa Barbara County winery. By fostering deep connections with local artisans, farmers, fishers, and stewards, Cellar Hand strives to be a destination where guests can savor the essence of California’s bounty in every bite and sip.Enjoy our exposed kitchen, an indoor-outdoor bar, outdoor fire pits, and artwork by Nick Perr. Opened Wednesday - Sunday with daily happy hour specials and Sunday brunch!
A photo of True Food Kitchen - San Diego FV restaurant
3. True Food Kitchen - San Diego FV
4.5
Awesome(1950)
Price: Moderate
• American • Mission Valley
Booked 37 times today
True Food Kitchen is a chef-driven restaurant and scratch bar that was founded by Dr. Andrew Weil, the pioneer of integrative medicine, to provide food that tastes great and is good for you. At our table, delicious dining and conscious nutrition go hand in hand, without sacrificing flavor, creativity or indulgence. Our expertly trained chefs craft flavor-forward dishes, handcrafted cocktails and freshly pressed refreshers so you can enjoy epic food experiences that aren’t just good for you, but good to you. Join us in san Diego for lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch. Located at San Diego's Fashion Valley, a Simon Mall. Entrance from Friars Road at Avenida De Las Tiendas, use surface lot near Bloomingdale's. New flavors, new combinations, new obsessions. Come see us for something completely new and delicious.
A photo of Charade restaurant
4. Charade
4.7
Exceptional(12)
Price: Moderate
• Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service • Banker's Hill
Booked 13 times today
Charade: A Speakeasy Experience Like No OtherStep into a world of hidden delights at Charade, a speakeasy nestled in the heart of Bankers Hill San Diego inside The Balboa Bar and Grill. This intimate venue embodies artistic passion and community spirit, offering a unique blend of handcrafted cocktails, vibrant performances, and an atmosphere that transports you to other eras and different dimensions.
A photo of Greystone Prime Steakhouse & Seafood restaurant
5. Greystone Prime Steakhouse & Seafood
4.0
Excellent(2332)
Price: Expensive
• Steak • Downtown
Booked 14 times today
For over 2 decades, Greystone Steakhouse has set the standard for fine dining in San Diego. Located in the Gaslamp Quarter, Greystone delivers an unparalleled culinary experience that combines exceptional cuisine, an award-winning wine list. Recognized as one of the Best Restaurants in San Diego, Greystone is the perfect destination for steak, seafood, pasta, wine, and whiskey lovers alike.Best Steakhouse in San Diego and California by SD Entertainer and Best Things CaliforniaBest Fine Dining Award in the Gaslamp QuarterBest Wine List by Wine SpectatorThese prestigious awards affirm Greystone’s commitment to excellence, cementing its position as the premier dining destination in San Diego.Our menu showcases premium USDA Prime steaks, fresh seafood, and exclusive Wagyu beef sourced from the Miyazaki Prefecture in Japan. A Wine Lover’s ParadiseGreystone’s award-winning wine list is another cornerstone of its appeal. Curated with care, the selection features over 3,000 bottles
A photo of La Puerta Mission Hills restaurant
6. La Puerta Mission Hills
4.5
Awesome(10)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Banker's Hill
Booked 19 times today
La Puerta Mission Hills is the second addition to the La Puerta family. We offer the same menu as our sister restaurant in the Gaslamp which has celebrated 13 years of operation. We are dedicated to bringing a unique dining experience to the Mission Hills neighborhood which features delicious Mexican food, an extensive agave selection, handcrafted cocktails and margaritas made with fresh squeezed juice. We invite you to join us and experience our hospitality in what we hope will be your go to Cantina for years to come.
A photo of Forbidden Cove restaurant
7. Forbidden Cove
4.5
Awesome(69)
Price: Moderate
• Speakeasy • Kearny Mesa
Booked 4 times today
Enter the Forbidden Cove by unlocking a hidden rum barrel door using your wooden idol key where an island Tiki inspired paradise serving handcrafted cocktails awaits you. Once inside, traverse the Infinity Mirror Bridge and be welcomed by the island's inhabitants to explore the mysteries, culinary pleasures and enchanted elixirs of the Forbidden Cove. Find this tropical escape by entering Kilowatt Brewing located in the Kearny Mesa and Convoy District neighborhoods and kindly asking for a Key to The Cove!Reservations offer a 90-minute experience.WALK-INS WELCOME - Reservations not available? We always set aside space to accommodate walk-ins, first come, first served. And before or after your experience at Forbidden Cove you're welcome to join us at Kilowatt Brewing for our award winning craft beers, hard seltzers, adult slushies, and a bite to eat!
A photo of Sea & Sky restaurant
8. Sea & Sky
4.4
Awesome(238)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • La Jolla
Booked 12 times today
Sea & Sky is known for its beautiful ocean views and delightful Californian cuisine. Their celebrated bar serves artful craft cocktails, as mentioned in their description. Reviews affirm the excellent cocktails, one stating 'The cocktails were excellent!'. Another reviewer mentions a 'cocktail' in their empanada cooking class. This indicates that Sea & Sky not only provides tasty food, but also crafts handcrafted cocktails.
A photo of True Food Kitchen - San Diego UTC restaurant
9. True Food Kitchen - San Diego UTC
4.5
Awesome(1084)
Price: Expensive
• American • La Jolla
Booked 24 times today
True Food Kitchen is a chef-driven restaurant and scratch bar that was founded by Dr. Andrew Weil, the pioneer of integrative medicine, to provide food that tastes great and is good for you. At our table, delicious dining and conscious nutrition go hand in hand, without sacrificing flavor, creativity or indulgence. Our expertly trained chefs craft flavor-forward dishes, handcrafted cocktails and freshly pressed refreshers so you can enjoy epic food experiences that aren’t just good for you, but good to you. Join us in San Diego for lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch. Located in San Diego at Westfield UTC center in The Pointe, next to Soul Cycle in the Nordstrom wing. Entrance closest to La Jolla Village Drive and Genesee Avenue. New flavors, new combinations, new obsessions. Come see us for something completely new and delicious.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • RandallVIP
    San Diego •49 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    This is a truly weird place and it is magnificent! Vaudeville-style entertainment, wall-to-wall and ceiling projections and a vibe that is nowhere else to be found. Service is sold. Drinks are about $15 each and it’s a blast.
    More info
    CharadePrice: Moderate• Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service• Banker's Hill
    •
    4.7
  • jillianVIP
    Greensboro / Winston Salem / Highpoint •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Absolutely amazing experience. Manager knows exactly how to run an amazing allergy friendly place. I was astonished at the quality of service and food. Will be a regular now!
    More info
    True Food Kitchen - San Diego FVPrice: Moderate• American• Mission Valley
    •
    4.5
  • Joe
    Detroit / Eastern Michigan •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Cellar Hand is wonderful date night spot. The food is amazing: locally sourced and prepared with skill. Bonus: if you’re a member of the Pali Wine Co club, then you can bring their bottles with you for no corkage fee.
    More info
    Cellar HandPrice: Expensive• Farm-to-table• Hillcrest
    •
    4.6
  • TrishaVIP
    New York City •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Loved it! Brought a group of customers semi last minute and they were super accommodating- the food was fantastic, and I will definitely be back!
    More info
    LalaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Little Italy
    •
    4.7
  • JohnVIP
    San Diego •115 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Feb 8, 2025
    This was our first visit and we had a great date night dinner. We started with some caviar which was nicely presented. After that we had a lobster pasta and a bone-in filet mignon. Everything was delicious. We enjoyed a nice bottle of wine with our meal. The service was beyond excellent and we were truly welcomed. We cannot wait to return. We highly recommend Greystone for pleasure or business meals, special occasion or just an ordinary night out.
    More info
    Greystone Prime Steakhouse & SeafoodPrice: Expensive• Steak• Downtown
    •
    4

Discover best handcrafted cocktails restaurants in University Heights

Discover the vibrant and sophisticated dining scene in University Heights, San Diego, where handcrafted cocktails elevate the culinary experience. This neighborhood is renowned for its eclectic eateries that specialize in innovative and meticulously crafted cocktails, perfect for connoisseurs seeking a unique blend of flavors. Each restaurant in this area offers a distinct ambiance, from cozy, intimate settings to lively, upbeat environments, ensuring an ideal backdrop for every dining occasion. The mixologists in University Heights pride themselves on their creative concoctions, using fresh, local ingredients to deliver top-notch beverages that delight and impress. Whether you're in the mood for a classic cocktail reimagined or something entirely novel, these establishments cater to all tastes with their extensive and diverse cocktail menus. The reviews consistently praise the quality and originality of the drinks, highlighting the skill and passion that go into every glass. Explore University Heights for a memorable night out where exceptional drinks and inviting atmospheres merge seamlessly.

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