San Diego's Best Irish Pub [Updated 2025]

Having spent countless nights hopping from one pub to another, I've had my fair share of craic and pints. Now, with 13 irish pubs under my belt, I can confidently say that I have uncovered San Diego's hidden gems.

From the lively atmosphere to the authentic grub and of course, the perfectly poured Guinness, these establishments have stolen a piece of my heart. So if you're feeling lucky and in the mood for some Irish charm, join me on this lighthearted journey as we explore the best irish pub in San Diego.

The Field Irish Pub

Highlights
Comforting atmosphere
Amazing lamb shepherd's pie
Great fish and chips
Excellent pints of Guinness

Walking into The Field Irish Pub, I was immediately struck by the comforting atmosphere. From the warm lighting to the traditional decor, it felt like stepping into a cozy pub in Dublin itself. The staff greeted me with a friendly smile and wasted no time in taking my order.

Now, let's talk about the food. I ordered their famous lamb shepherd's pie - and let me tell you, it was truly amazing. Each bite was a symphony of flavors - tender lamb, hearty vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes that melted in my mouth. It was a dish fit for royalty.

But that's not all! The fish and chips at The Field were also exceptional. The crispy batter encased flaky white fish that practically melted on my tongue. And the accompanying chips were golden perfection - crunchy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

Of course, what is an Irish pub without a perfect pint of Guinness? At The Field Irish Pub, they certainly know how to pour it right. Each pint was poured with care, resulting in a rich, velvety texture that made every sip pure bliss.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best Irish pub experience in San Diego, look no further than The Field Irish Pub. With its comforting atmosphere, amazing lamb shepherd's pie, great fish and chips, and excellent pints of Guinness, this place truly captures the essence of Ireland. Sláinte!

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Long Story Irish Pub

Highlights
Great food and drinks
Laidback atmosphere
Excellent service
Corned beef egg rolls
Fish and chips

From the moment I stepped foot into Long Story Irish Pub, I knew I was in for a treat. The laidback atmosphere instantly made me feel like I was whisked away to the Emerald Isle itself. The friendly staff greeted me with warm smiles and a genuine eagerness to make my visit memorable.

Let's talk about the food! Oh boy, where do I even begin? Long Story Irish Pub truly understands the art of culinary perfection. Their corned beef egg rolls are a delightful twist on traditional Irish fare. Each bite is an explosion of flavors that will leave you wanting more. And let's not forget about their fish and chips – crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, it's a seafood lover's dream come true.

Of course, no trip to an Irish pub would be complete without sampling their libations. Long Story Irish Pub delivers in this department as well. From perfectly poured pints of Guinness to expertly crafted cocktails, their drink menu caters to every discerning palate.

But what truly sets Long Story Irish Pub apart is their exceptional service. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure that each guest feels welcomed and taken care of. Whether you're a regular or a first-time visitor, they treat everyone like family.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an authentic Irish pub experience in San Diego, look no further than Long Story Irish Pub. With its great food and drinks, laidback atmosphere, and excellent service, it undoubtedly deserves recognition as one of the best irish pubs in San Diego. Sláinte!

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The Pub

Highlights
Happy Hour specials
Friendly staff
Welcoming atmosphere
Great food and drinks
Awesome local community

Walking into The Pub, I was immediately greeted by a warm and welcoming atmosphere that made me feel right at home. The cozy interior with its rustic décor and traditional Irish music playing in the background transported me straight to the Emerald Isle.

The staff at The Pub were not only friendly but also incredibly knowledgeable about their wide selection of drinks. They were happy to recommend the perfect pint of Guinness or suggest one of their creative cocktails from the impressive bar menu.

Speaking of the menu, The Pub certainly didn't disappoint when it came to food. From classic Irish dishes like shepherd's pie and fish and chips to mouthwatering burgers and savory appetizers, there was something for everyone. Each dish was expertly prepared using fresh ingredients, leaving my taste buds dancing with delight.

One thing that truly stood out about The Pub was its commitment to fostering a sense of community. Whether you're a regular or a first-time visitor, you'll be greeted with open arms by both staff and patrons alike. This creates an inviting and inclusive environment where you can strike up conversations with interesting locals or simply enjoy your time in good company.

And let's not forget about Happy Hour! The Pub offers fantastic specials on both drinks and appetizers during this time, making it the perfect place to unwind after a long day or catch up with friends.

In conclusion, if you're searching for an authentic Irish pub experience in San Diego, look no further than The Pub. With its friendly staff, welcoming atmosphere, delicious food and drink options, and strong sense of community, it truly deserves its spot as one of the best Irish pubs in town. Sláinte!

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Patricks Gaslamp Pub

Highlights
Clean and well kept
Friendly staff
Plenty of screens for the game
Excellent Irish pub
Live band with amazing jazz

Walking into Patricks Gaslamp Pub, I was immediately struck by how clean and well kept the place was. It had that authentic Irish pub feel, with dark wood accents and cozy nooks for intimate conversations. The staff greeted me with warm smiles and made me feel right at home.

As a sports enthusiast, I was thrilled to see plenty of screens scattered throughout the pub. Whether you're a fan of soccer, rugby, or American football, rest assured that you won't miss a single play here. It's like having your own personal sports haven.

Now let's talk about the most important aspect: the drinks! Patricks Gaslamp Pub truly excels in providing an excellent selection of Irish beverages. From smooth Guinness to crisp Smithwick's, they have it all. And if you're feeling adventurous, try their whiskey flights for a journey through the flavors of Ireland.

But wait! There's more to Patricks Gaslamp Pub than just great drinks. They also feature live music on select nights. When I visited, there was a jazz band playing and they were absolutely amazing. The combination of live music and a pint of Guinness created an atmosphere that was both lively and relaxing.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an excellent Irish pub experience in San Diego, look no further than Patricks Gaslamp Pub. Not only is it clean and well kept with friendly staff, but it also offers plenty of screens for game day excitement and live entertainment that will keep you tapping your feet all night long. Slainte!

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Rosie O'Grady's

Highlights
Local bar vibes
Great service
Great drinks, great prices
Amazing food
Clean and friendly staff

Let me start by saying that Rosie O'Grady's is the epitome of local bar vibes. As soon as I stepped inside, I was greeted by the warm and inviting atmosphere that you expect from an Irish pub. The walls were adorned with charming memorabilia and the traditional music playing in the background added to the overall ambiance.

Now, let's talk about the service. The staff at Rosie O'Grady's are clearly experts in their craft. Not only were they knowledgeable about their extensive drink menu, but they also provided prompt and friendly service throughout my visit. It was refreshing to see a team that truly cared about their patrons' experience.

Speaking of drinks, let me just say that Rosie O'Grady's does not disappoint. From their perfectly poured pints of Guinness to their impressive selection of whiskey, there is no shortage of libations to choose from. And the best part? The prices won't break your pot of gold!

Now onto the food. Oh boy, where do I even begin? The menu at Rosie O'Grady's offers a scrumptious array of traditional Irish fare with a modern twist. From hearty shepherd's pie to mouthwatering fish and chips, every bite was a delightful explosion of flavors.

Lastly, I must mention how clean and friendly the staff were throughout my entire visit. It's clear that Rosie O'Grady's takes pride in providing a comfortable and welcoming environment for its patrons.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an authentic Irish pub experience in San Diego, look no further than Rosie O'Grady's. With its local bar vibes, great service, amazing drinks at great prices, and delectable food options, this place is definitely a pot o' gold worth seeking out!

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Princess Pub

Highlights
Great food
Cold beer
Friendly staff
Fun atmosphere

From the moment I stepped into Princess Pub, I knew I was in for a treat. The warm and inviting atmosphere made me feel like I was stepping into a quaint Irish village. The staff greeted me with a cheery smile and were more than happy to guide me through their extensive menu.

Speaking of the menu, the food at Princess Pub is nothing short of outstanding. Their traditional Irish dishes were cooked to perfection, leaving me craving for more. From the mouthwatering shepherd's pie to the crispy fish and chips, every bite was a delightful explosion of flavors.

Of course, what's an Irish pub without some cold beer? Princess Pub did not disappoint in that department either. They had an impressive selection of both local and international brews, ensuring there was something for every beer connoisseur's taste buds.

The staff at Princess Pub truly went above and beyond to make my visit memorable. Their friendly demeanor and attentive service added an extra layer of enjoyment to my evening. It felt like they were old friends rather than just servers.

The fun atmosphere at Princess Pub was infectious. Live music filled the air as patrons laughed and chatted over their pints. It was the kind of place where you could let loose and have a great time with friends or even make new ones.

In conclusion, Princess Pub exceeded all my expectations as one of the best Irish pubs in San Diego. With its great food, cold beer, friendly staff, and fun atmosphere, it is definitely a must-visit spot for any pub enthusiast or anyone looking for an enjoyable night out. Sláinte!

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McP's Irish Pub

Highlights
Outdoor seating
Good beer
Delicious food
Friendly staff
Military atmosphere

Let me start by saying that McP's Irish Pub truly captures the essence of a traditional Irish pub, but with a unique twist. As soon as I stepped inside, I was immediately greeted by the friendly staff who made me feel like part of their extended family.

The first thing that caught my eye was the outdoor seating area – a perfect spot to enjoy a pint of beer on a sunny San Diego day. Speaking of beer, McP's boasts an impressive selection that even the most discerning beer connoisseur would appreciate. From classic Irish stouts to local craft brews, they have it all.

Now let's talk about the food. Oh boy, did they deliver! The menu at McP's offers a delightful mix of traditional Irish dishes and American favorites with an Irish twist. I highly recommend trying their shepherd's pie or their corned beef and cabbage – both were absolutely mouthwatering.

What sets McP's apart from other pubs in San Diego is its military atmosphere. As a tribute to the nearby naval base, you'll find memorabilia adorning the walls and an overall sense of patriotism in the air. It creates a unique ambiance that you won't find anywhere else in town.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an authentic Irish pub experience with delicious food, friendly service, and a military touch, then look no further than McP's Irish Pub. Sláinte!

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Shakespeare Pub

Highlights
Unforgettable World Cup viewing experience
Delicious fish and chips
Traditional English breakfast
Attentive and friendly staff
Great combination of food, service, and sports

Walking into Shakespeare Pub is like stepping into a slice of British heaven in the heart of San Diego. This establishment truly embodies the spirit of an Irish pub, with its charming decor and lively atmosphere.

One of the first things that caught my eye was their unforgettable World Cup viewing experience. As a football enthusiast, I was thrilled to find a place that not only displayed the matches on large screens but also had an enthusiastic crowd cheering on their favorite teams. The pub was filled with passionate fans who created an electric atmosphere, making every game feel like a grand event.

Now let's talk about the food. Oh, the food! Their fish and chips were simply divine. The crispy golden batter encasing succulent flaky fish transported me straight to the bustling streets of London. It was clear that they had perfected this classic dish, as it exceeded all my expectations.

For those looking for a hearty breakfast, Shakespeare Pub offers a traditional English breakfast that would make even the Queen herself jealous. The combination of sausage, bacon, eggs, beans, tomatoes, mushrooms, and toast left me feeling satisfied and ready to take on the day.

The staff at Shakespeare Pub were attentive and friendly throughout my visit. They made sure every customer felt welcome and catered to their needs with genuine smiles on their faces.

In conclusion, Shakespeare Pub provides a great combination of mouthwatering food, top-notch service, and an unbeatable sports-watching experience. Whether you're looking for a taste of Britain or simply want to enjoy some quality time with friends while watching your favorite team play, this pub is definitely worth a visit.

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Hooleys Public House

Highlights
Irish Vibe
Delicious Food
Affordable Champagne
Guinness Room
Great Atmosphere

From the moment I walked in, I was enveloped in a true Irish vibe. The decor featured cozy dark wood furnishings, traditional Irish memorabilia, and even a leprechaun statue (which I may or may not have tried to steal for good luck). The ambience was lively and welcoming, with patrons engaged in animated conversations over pints of their favorite brew.

Now let's get to the real reason we're here - the food. Hooleys did not disappoint in this department. The menu offered a variety of traditional Irish dishes as well as some modern twists. I decided to start my culinary adventure with their famous Shepherd's Pie. With each bite, I was transported to the rolling hills of Ireland, where sheep roam freely and potatoes reign supreme.

But what really caught my attention was their selection of champagne at affordable prices. Yes, you heard that right – an Irish pub serving up bubbly! It seemed like an odd pairing at first, but trust me when I say that sipping champagne while enjoying some hearty Irish fare is a match made in heaven.

One of the highlights of Hooleys was the dedicated Guinness Room. This sacred space housed an impressive collection of Guinness memorabilia and offered an extensive selection of this iconic Irish stout on tap. It was like stepping into a shrine for beer enthusiasts.

The overall atmosphere at Hooleys Public House was simply electric. Friendly staff members were buzzing around, ensuring everyone had a memorable experience. The lively chatter mingled with toe-tapping traditional Irish music created an ambiance that made it difficult to leave.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for San Diego's best Irish pub, look no further than Hooleys Public House. Its authentic ambiance, delectable food options, affordable champagne selections (yes, you read that correctly), dedicated Guinness Room, and vibrant atmosphere make it a top contender for the title. Sláinte!

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O'Brien's

Highlights
Extensive beer selection
Delicious food options
Cult-like following
Flavorful turkey sandwich
Perfectly cooked onion rings

Walking into O'Brien's, I was immediately struck by the extensive beer selection. It was like a beer lover's dream come true! From traditional Irish stouts to hoppy IPAs, they had it all. As I perused the menu, my taste buds were already salivating in anticipation.

The food options at O'Brien's were equally impressive. I couldn't resist trying their famous turkey sandwich, and boy was I glad I did! The tender slices of turkey were perfectly seasoned and paired wonderfully with the fresh lettuce and tangy cranberry sauce. It was a flavor explosion in every bite.

But it wasn't just the food and drinks that made O'Brien's stand out. This place has a cult-like following, and it's easy to see why. The friendly staff made me feel right at home, and the lively atmosphere added to the overall experience.

Oh, and let's not forget about those onion rings! Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside - they were nothing short of perfection. Just one bite had me hooked.

In conclusion, O'Brien's is a must-visit for any Irish pub enthusiast in San Diego. With its extensive beer selection, delicious food options, and cult-like following, it truly lives up to its reputation as one of the best Irish pubs in town. So grab your friends or go solo – either way, you're guaranteed a great time at O'Brien's.

Sláinte!

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McGregor's Grill

Highlights
Great food
Excellent service
Vibrant atmosphere
Fun activities (pool, bean bag toss)
Variety of events and live music

From the moment I stepped foot into McGregor's Grill, I knew I was in for a craic of a time. The vibrant atmosphere, infused with the warm and inviting Irish spirit, immediately transported me to the streets of Dublin. This place is not your average run-of-the-mill pub; it's an authentic slice of Ireland right here in San Diego.

Let's talk about the food. Oh boy, where do I begin? McGregor's Grill truly knows how to satisfy even the most discerning taste buds. From traditional Irish dishes like Shepherd's Pie and Fish and Chips to mouthwatering burgers and juicy steaks, their menu is a culinary delight. Each bite was like a dance of flavors on my palate - a true symphony of deliciousness.

Now, let me take a moment to applaud the excellent service at McGregor's Grill. The staff members were not only attentive but also knowledgeable about their offerings. They went above and beyond to ensure that my dining experience was nothing short of exceptional. It felt like they genuinely cared about making each customer feel special.

But wait, there's more! McGregor's Grill is not just about food and drinks; it offers a range of fun activities too. Whether you're up for a friendly game of pool or want to unleash your competitive side with some bean bag toss, this place has got you covered.

To add icing on the cake (or shamrock on the pint), McGregor's Grill hosts various events and features live music regularly. Trust me when I say that stepping into this pub is like entering a never-ending festival of entertainment.

In conclusion, if you're in search of the best Irish pub in San Diego, look no further than McGregor's Grill. With its great food, excellent service, vibrant atmosphere, fun activities, and variety of events and live music, this gem truly stands out from the rest. Sláinte!

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Stout Public House

Highlights
Wonderful food
Exceptional service
Enjoyable music
Great shows on TV
Friendly bartender

From the moment I stepped into Stout Public House, I knew I was in for a treat. The ambiance was warm and inviting, with a lively energy that filled the air. The wonderful food on offer immediately caught my attention, and I couldn't resist ordering their signature Shepherd's Pie. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint! Each bite was a heavenly combination of tender meat and creamy mashed potatoes that danced on my taste buds.

But it wasn't just the food that impressed me; the exceptional service made me feel like royalty. The staff were attentive, knowledgeable, and always had a smile on their faces. They went above and beyond to ensure that my dining experience was nothing short of perfection.

As I enjoyed my meal, I couldn't help but tap my foot to the enjoyable music playing in the background. The traditional Irish tunes added an authentic touch to the overall atmosphere of the pub.

Sports enthusiasts will be pleased to know that Stout Public House boasts multiple large screens where you can catch all your favorite games. Whether it's soccer, rugby, or even Gaelic football, they've got you covered! Watching sports here is an absolute joy.

And let's not forget about the friendly bartender, who expertly crafted some of the best Irish cocktails I've ever tasted. Their knowledge of Irish whiskey was impressive, and they were more than happy to recommend a drink based on my preferences.

In conclusion, Stout Public House has truly earned its place as one of San Diego's top irish pubs. With its wonderful food, exceptional service, enjoyable music, great shows on TV, and friendly bartender; it checks all the boxes for what makes an irish pub great. So grab your friends or make new ones at Stout Public House – you won't be disappointed!

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The Ould Sod

Highlights
Nice atmosphere
Spacious patio
Friendly bartender
Proper Guinness
Delicious black velvet

Walking into The Ould Sod, I immediately felt a warm and inviting atmosphere. The dim lighting and cozy wooden furnishings transported me straight to Ireland. It was like stepping into a leprechaun's den, but in the best possible way.

I made my way to the spacious patio, where the sunlight danced through the trees, creating an enchanting ambiance. The crisp air mingled with the sounds of laughter and clinking glasses, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a pint of Guinness or two.

Speaking of pints, I must commend the bartender for their friendly and attentive service. They treated every customer as if they were long-lost friends, always ready with a smile and a quick wit. It was refreshing to see someone so passionate about their craft.

And let's talk about that Guinness. As an avid connoisseur of this dark elixir, I can confidently say that The Ould Sod serves up a proper pint. The rich, creamy texture and velvety flavor were nothing short of perfection. It's no wonder why it's considered one of Ireland's greatest exports.

Now, let's move on to the black velvet cocktail – a delightful surprise. Made with Guinness and champagne, it created a unique blend that tantalized my taste buds in ways I never thought possible. It was like sipping on liquid gold while riding a unicorn through a field of four-leaf clovers.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an authentic Irish pub experience in San Diego, look no further than The Ould Sod. With its nice atmosphere, spacious patio, friendly bartender, proper Guinness, and delicious black velvet cocktail - this place is truly the pot o' gold at the end of your search for the best Irish pub in town!

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