The Absolute Best Bars in El Cajon [Updated 2024]

Being a bar hopper myself, I decided to hit up seven of the top bars in El Cajon and give you my honest opinion. From cozy lounges to lively sports bars, I've got you covered.

So, grab a cold one and let's dive into the best bars El Cajon has to offer!

Kelly's Pub, El Cajon

As I stepped foot into Kelly's Pub, I was immediately impressed by the cozy and inviting atmosphere. The decor was rustic yet modern, with an impressive selection of drinks on offer. The bartenders were knowledgeable and friendly, always willing to recommend a new beer or cocktail for me to try. The food menu was also impressive, offering a variety of delicious pub fare options. Overall, Kelly's Pub is definitely worth a visit if you're looking for a top-notch bar experience in El Cajon.

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Downtown Cafe

The atmosphere at Downtown Cafe is quite inviting with its laid-back vibe and friendly staff. I was impressed by the extensive selection of drinks, including a variety of craft beers and cocktails. The food menu is also noteworthy, offering a range of delicious bites that perfectly complement the drinks. One thing that really stood out to me was the unique decor, which added a touch of sophistication to the overall ambiance. Overall, I would highly recommend checking out Downtown Cafe if you're looking for a great spot to relax and unwind after a long day - it's definitely worth a visit!

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Press Box Sports Lounge

From the moment I walked in, I was impressed with the sleek and modern decor. The friendly staff greeted me with a smile and quickly helped me find a seat. The menu had a great selection of craft beers and delicious cocktails, but what really stood out to me was their impressive list of whiskeys.

As for food, the loaded fries were a hit! They were topped with melted cheese, bacon bits, and green onions- YUM! However, some of their other menu items were hit or miss.

Overall, Press Box Sports Lounge is perfect for those who want to watch sports while enjoying a drink or two. It's not the most upscale place in town, but it's definitely worth checking out if you're in the area.

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Full Circle Saloon

Walking in, I was immediately struck by the lively atmosphere and friendly staff. The decor is a mix of rustic and modern, creating a unique vibe that's both cozy and cool.

The drinks menu is extensive, with a range of craft beers and creative cocktails to choose from. I opted for the house special margarita, which was perfectly balanced between tangy and sweet.

As for the food, their menu features an array of classic bar bites as well as some more unusual options like fried pickles and buffalo cauliflower. I went with the tried-and-true cheeseburger which was cooked to perfection, juicy and flavorful.

Overall, Full Circle Saloon is definitely worth checking out if you're looking for a fun night out with friends or a casual date spot. Just make sure to bring your appetite!

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Hooleys Public House

Walking in, I was greeted by a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff. The menu offered a variety of craft beers and cocktails, but what really caught my attention were the scrumptious appetizers like the Irish nachos and fried pickles.

The main course did not disappoint either, with options ranging from classic pub fare to more creative dishes like the bangers and mash. And let's not forget about their desserts- the bread pudding was out of this world!

Overall, Hooleys Public House is a great spot to hang out with friends or catch a game on one of their many TVs. Just be sure to bring your appetite because you won't want to miss out on any of their delicious offerings!

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Buckboard's BBQ & Brew

The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, with the smell of smoked meat filling the air. The menu was impressive, with a variety of BBQ dishes that would make any meat lover's mouth water. I ordered their famous brisket and it did not disappoint! The meat was succulent and cooked to perfection.

Their selection of craft beers was also impressive, with different flavors and styles to choose from. It's no wonder why Buckboard's BBQ & Brew is a popular spot for locals to hang out after work or on weekends.

Overall, my experience at Buckboard's BBQ & Brew was a delightful one, and I highly recommend this spot to anyone looking for good food, beer, and a fun time.

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California Fish Grill

First of all, let me tell you that the ambiance is truly amazing. The place was bustling with seafood lovers, and I couldn't wait to try their famous fish tacos. After ordering, I sat at a cozy table and waited eagerly for my food to arrive. When it did, I was pleasantly surprised by the generous portions and the mouth-watering aroma.

The fish was so fresh that it felt like it had just been caught from the ocean. It was cooked to perfection, and every bite made me feel like I was on cloud nine. The seasoning was spot on, neither too salty nor too bland.

Overall, California Fish Grill is an excellent choice for anyone who loves seafood. If you're looking for a place to satisfy your cravings for some deliciously fresh seafood, then look no further!

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