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Your Ultimate Night in Downtown San Diego

The definitive list of all the spots you should hit

Our ultimate night downtown will guide you from happy hour to dinner — and then whisk you off to a craft cocktail lounge, a rooftop bar and finally a pulsing nightclub to cap off the evening. And oh yes, and there's always time for a burrito after all the excitement!

 

a large steak on a plate with potatoes and broccoli as sides at Huntress

6:30 P.M.: Dinner at Huntress

Where: 376 Fifth Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101

You’ll need to fuel up for a night out on the town, so a steakhouse like Huntress can give you the endurance to make it through. Huntress is a chic, modern restaurant on the corner of Fifth Avenue and J Street downtown. They offer up inventive takes on steakhouse classics, including Bone Marrow Basted Oysters, Crab Spaghetti, Wagyu steaks and the famous Magic Mushroom dessert, which is served in a smoke-filled glass dome. A selection from Huntress’ extensive Japanese whisky collection rounds out the meal.

Other Options: Rustic Root, Zama

drinks being poured on the bar at prohibition

8 P.M.: Drinks at Prohibition

Where: 548 Fifth Ave., San Diego, CA 92101

Now that you have a full belly of food, it's time for the night to pick up speed. Finding a speakeasy for a good drink or cocktail is the thing to do downtown, San Diego at night. Head to Prohibition, a speakeasy inconspicuously hidden behind a door reading "Law Offices of Edward Joseph O'Hare, Esq." Inside, you'll go down the stairs to a darkly lit lounge that dishes amazing craft cocktails and an unbeatable, intimate vibe. Often, there will be a full band playing in the corner, giving you a perfect opportunity to loosen up those dance moves if you feel so obliged.

Other Options: Vin de Syrah, Noble Experiment, Youngblood

many people sitting on top of a roof top enjoying the night

9 P.M.: Rooftop Revelry at Techo Beso

Where: 743 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101

The rooftop bar experience is a must in downtown San Diego, so make your way to Techo Beso. Not only is the Tulum-inspired spot the perfect place for Instagram-worthy pics, their full drink menu boasting cocktails, beer, wines, mezcals, bourbons and more will prep you for the long night ahead. Music from live DJs permeates the space overlooking Fifth Ave., setting the tone for a perfect night downtown.

Other Options: The Nolen, ALTITUDE Sky Lounge

Ultimate Night Out

10 P.M.: Beats and Bites at Toro

Where: 672 Fifth Ave., San Diego, CA 92101

The lines for Toro in the Gaslamp Quarter regularly stretch around the block, so you know the vibes are immaculate and the energy is on point. Toro is a one-stop shop for reggaeton/EDM/Top 40 beats, upscale Mexican cantina-style food, unique cocktails and eye-catching lighting effects. The two-level venue regularly features guest sets from touring DJs, plus industry and event specials. Check out their Instagram page for deals on entry, drinks, bottle service and more.

Other Options: Sidebar, The Gaslamplighter

dance floor at nova

12 A.M.: DJs and Dancing at Nova

Where: 454 Sixth Ave., San Diego, CA 92101

Now on to the big show and more wild thing to do in downtown, San Diego at night. Downtown San Diego is home to some of the hottest clubs in the entire country, featuring big-name DJs, epic venues and killer atmospheres. Nova brings the Vegas nightclub experience to the West Coast, and brings in a killer roster of DJs to make the night unforgettable. Bottle service, a giant LED screen and lighting effects bring the party to the next level.

Other Option: Parq, Oxford Social Club

a close up of the pizza at Prince Street pizza

2 A.M.: Late Night Bites

Where: All around downtown

You did it! You've raged with the best of them on the ultimate night out in Downtown San Diego. You're sure to have worked your appetite back up with all that dancing, mingling and partying, and there might be a cocktail or two in your belly that needs to be soaked up. After a late night of Downtown San Diego nightlife or dancing, you'll surely want a midnight or 2am snack.

Many San Diegans choose one of countless burrito spots to find their post-club sustenance. If you do, order a California burrito (stuffed with carne asada and French fries). It's a San Diego staple. And if you’re craving a slice of pizza, famed Prince Street Pizza on Market Street is open until 3 a.m.

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