Right now, there’s something essential about the enduring appeal of a great bar restaurant. While the search for that perfect neighborhood haunt might feel like chasing ghosts, familiar and reliable is exactly what we crave from our local spots. Whether you’re seeking craft cocktails with character or just want to settle into a booth with a burger and a beer, start with these 10 Escondido establishments.
Goli
$$ | (858) 367-8020 | WEBSITE
Escondido’s Goli is hosting a new event with a free tequila tasting, a lively spot that’s serving parmesan wings, Goli pizza, and delicious potato wedges, plus an extensive martini menu and more from this popular bar restaurant. You can try their well-prepared dishes, plus things like live music and football viewing in their spacious courtyard for birthdays or celebrations every day through the season.
Amalfi Cucina Italiana – San Marcos
$$ | (760) 653-3230 | WEBSITE
Amalfi Cucina Italiana’s vibrant dining room in San Marcos is as lively as ever. It’s just not eggplant parmigiana and primavera pizza that’s the draw right now. Instead, it’s a water-view patio where you can enjoy Italian specialties, like meatball appetizers, rapini sides, and perfectly executed dishes. Grab a seat at their outdoor tables for a more relaxed setting, and then order that eggplant parmigiana with attentive service from their friendly staff.
The Stand – American Classics Redefined
$ | (619) 430-4782 | WEBSITE
You could grab a quick bite anywhere, or settle for a basic burger joint, but if you really want a lesson in American comfort food done right, look at The Stand. Since opening, this spot has been serving up classics with a modern twist, making them taste about as satisfying as homemade, and offering options like the build-your-own burger with turkey patty and sweet potato fries, and dishes like the Chimichurri Steak Salad with generous portions.
The atmosphere buzzes with a lively, family-friendly energy, though it can get a bit loud—perfect for a casual meal. With its spacious seating and modern vibe, it’s a great place for juicy burgers, tasty salads, and friendly, fast service that keeps you coming back.
SETS Kitchen & Bar
$$ | (442) 515-3327 | WEBSITE
SETS Kitchen & Bar always seems to be somewhere you want to be. Usually, that means enjoying a relaxed meal with friends on their lovely patio or gathering for drinks at the full bar. And currently, it means experiencing their open-ceiling concept that creates a pleasant ambiance, making it ideal for comfortable conversations.
Daily from morning until evening, they’re serving fresh and delicious offerings, highlighting the burgers, chicken parm, and the famous doughnuts for dessert at indoor and outdoor tables beginning at breakfast.
Shanes Pizza and Pints
$ | (760) 798-0522 | WEBSITE
Whether it’s thanks to the Surfer Dude pizza, or the local brews on tap, the fact is few places in Escondido let you know what a neighborhood spot should be (the most welcoming kind) quite like Shane’s. After grabbing a seat at the cozy wooden table, and scanning the menu of substantial pies, order the fan favorite and a pint from the friendly staff. The generous portions and good balance of toppings make it a worthwhile visit, even if the prices run a bit higher than other spots.
Just be sure to check your credit card statement for the tip.
Scotland Yard – The Pub
$ | (760) 941-2072 | WEBSITE
When you think of an ideal spot before a concert, Escondido might not be the first place that comes to mind. And while you still won’t find a full restaurant menu, Scotland Yard is doing their part by supplying regular cocktails that are better than expensive fancy ones. Sit at one of their comfortable indoor tables any day, or bring your own food from nearby to enjoy with the great music and vibes.
The Pony Room
$$ | (858) 759-6246 | WEBSITE
The Pony Room is also serving Classic Eggs Benedict with Lobster and “lamb popsicles” (tender, herb-crusted, with a red wine reduction) in Escondido at the secluded resort restaurant. The Bellini and shared pear salads with lavender dressing are delightful, and the waiters are very conscious of dietary restrictions. The ambiance is breathtaking, with many praising the exceptional staff, including Alicia and Theresa, who make the experience even better.
Customers have enjoyed a variety of dishes such as Hamachi Crudo, fried chicken, fish tacos, roasted cauliflower, and swordfish bites. The large portions are very shareable, and the wine selection offers good value. Waitstaff like Stewart are noted for their exceptional service, contributing to a highly recommended overall experience. While the restaurant’s outdoor areas are beautiful, some guests felt the corner table in the patio was a bit claustrophobic, and prefer to sit inside next time.
The setting is warm and cozy, with a relaxed, Mediterranean resort vibe that makes it perfect for lunch, dinner, or brunch. The patio is shaded and lovely for dining, and the staff, including helpful waiters like Guyardo and Harvey, are attentive and friendly. The restaurant is also dog and kid friendly, welcoming everyone. Customers have enjoyed light, crunchy churros for dessert.
Overall, The Pony Room remains a wonderful place to visit, with a friendly atmosphere and a variety of excellent food options that guests eagerly look forward to returning to with friends.
Booze Brothers Brewing Co.
$ | (760) 295-0217 | WEBSITE
People have their weekend traditions. The one they look forward to all week, where they can unwind with friends and family after a long stretch of work. Whatever your tradition is, there’s a good chance it fits at Booze Brothers Brewing Co., a lively spot with games and entertainment in Escondido. They host events for all ages, including live music performances that can get quite loud, so plan accordingly.
You’ll have to pay for craft beers like thirst-quenching lagers and very good IPAs, but the fun atmosphere and games are part of the experience. The Smash burger is a popular choice, with some declaring it the best they’ve ever had, and the wings are nice and crunchy and juicy. The space is super chill and welcoming, perfect for families or multi-family get-togethers, with room for kids to run around safely inside and outside.
Highly recommended for new and repeat clients looking for a relaxed, entertaining outing.
Shores Bar + Kitchen
$$ | (760) 744-8782 | WEBSITE
This season, the team at Shores Bar + Kitchen is serving up comfort classics in Escondido, a dog-friendly spot with a relaxed vibe. Along with Cajun dry rub wings and fish and chips, you’ll also find dishes like the Cardiff Crack sandwich paired with hot fries, and the Tri Tip Benedict that’s popular on Sundays. The Cobb salad with Cardiff Crack and the grilled turkey sandwich have also earned praise, while specialty drinks like Polly’s Paloma add a refreshing touch to the experience.
Cocina del Rancho
$$ | (858) 771-1800 | WEBSITE
2.38% – it’s about the fraction of time you can get Cocina del Rancho’s surf and turf enchiladas before they run out on a busy Saturday night, and it’s the slim window when the noise level drops below a festive roar. From 6-10pm most evenings, they fill their clean, pleasant dining room with families and friends, serving generous portions of authentic Mexican dishes like carne asada plates and homemade tortillas.
The attentive servers deliver excellent service amid the lively atmosphere, though some customers note the occasional miss, like rubbery lobster in the tacos. Still, many consider it a spectacular spot for delicious, authentic food at reasonable prices, with drinks like the Generación margarita enhancing the experience. Despite drawbacks like no separate checks for large groups, the home cooking and value keep it a fun dinner destination.
