South Beach Bar & Grille sits at the ocean end of Newport Avenue, the palm-lined main-drag in Ocean Beach. The restaurant over-looking the OB Pier that stretches a half-mile out over the Pacific Ocean has been a part of this classic California beach town since 1992. This lively eatery, known for having the best tacos in San Diego – thanks to their world-famous Mahi fish tacos – epitomizes the Ocean Beach vibe. You’ll enjoy their extensive menu featuring fresh seafood, the soothing sounds of rhythmic waves, and the oranges and purples of a stunning San Diego sunset. For an authentic beach town dining experience, South Beach Bar & Grille is a must-do, where it’s all about surf, sand, snap-backs, flip-flops, delicious drinks, and tasty tacos.
South Beach Grille Ambiance
This split level restaurant offers a wide variety of seating areas; both the upstairs and downstairs have bars with bar seating. The first floor has an expansive dining room with several two and four-top tables. On the second floor the bar takes up the majority of the space, but there are a few high top tables on either side. They also added outdoor balcony seating that offers great views of the Ocean Beach Pier and the Pacific, perfect for watching the surfers, or ending the day taking in the beautiful sunset.
This beach-side restaurant has the rustic feel of a fisherman’s wharf with chestnut wood tables and chairs, chocolate leather-topped bar stools, deep green carpets, dim lighting, and large windows. A blend of beach life and San Diego sports related décor add character to the walls, complementing the picturesque views. No fewer than ten televisions showcase the home teams year-round. This is a friendly neighborhood spot where everyone is treated like family and the good times roll.
South Beach Grille Food
It should come as no surprise that the menu at South Beach Bar & Grille is seafood heavy; when it comes to beach dining, it’s to be expected. However, they also offer quite a few options that are equally tantalizing from appetizers to main courses for the carnivores and vegetarians in the crowd. Start your meal off with a half-pound order of peel and eat shrimp or fried baby octopus. Vegetarians will love the fried zucchini and mushrooms, and classic carne asada fries will be a hit among meat-lovers. If you’re with a group, mix it up and get a little of everything; nothing disappoints.
When it comes to the main dish you’ll find that tacos are the fan favorite here. They are, hands down, some of the best in the city, with Mahi by far being the most popular. Choose your entrée grilled or fried, with choices like Wahoo, Albacore, shark, lobster, calamari, veggie, chicken, and carne asada. Their secret white sauce is the bang behind their tacos, and the reason they’re hard to beat.
The close proximity to the Mexican border has definitely influenced the city’s cuisine, but when you’re ready to change it up South Beach has you covered with delicious burgers, salads, and specialty plates such as fish and chips, oysters and steamers, and of course pub favorites. Kobe beef sliders, coconut shrimp, bacon-wrapped swordfish medallions, and seared ahi tuna are just few of the pub grub options to make your taste buds sing.
The two extensive bars at South Beach Bar & Grille have 22 tequilas, over 40 beers, and an array of signature cocktails, ensuring each meal can be perfectly paired with a tasty drink.
South Beach Grille Details
South Beach Bar & Grille does not take reservations; it’s a first come, first served type of establishment. This laid-back place didn’t even take credit cards until recently, so don’t expect things like Wi-Fi, delivery, or catering from them, because, well, they don’t do it. They are open for lunch and dinner every day of the week, and do offer take-out. They do not have a parking lot, but are right next to a small free lot, and there’s lots of street parking.
South Beach Bar & Grille is ADA accessible for their ground floor main dining room. Bike parking is available in front of the restaurant. There is a children’s menu, and the restaurant is family-friendly, especially during the day. They can accommodate large groups, and they offer a Happy Hour specials every night of the week.
South Beach Grille Neighborhood
Ocean Beach is classic hippie beach culture; locals are laid-back, artisanal, and fight to keep their neighborhood franchise free. The beach itself is divided in two with Ocean Beach and the pier on one end, and Dog Beach on the other end by the jetty. The entire beach is for swimming and surfing, but dogs are only allowed on Dog Beach. Newport Avenue is the main street in Ocean Beach and features an eclectic mix of independent and boutique shops. The Farmer’s Market is a big deal on Wednesdays with crafts, flowers, food, and live music.
Newport Avenue is also home to a majority of the night-life and restaurants in the neighborhood. Gallagher’s Irish Pub and Sunshine Company Saloon are the most popular bars for a night out on the town. Leisurely strolls on the beach, shopping, eating and drinking, and relaxing are what it’s all about in Ocean Beach.