Toast to 'Drinksgiving' with Family and Friends at These Local Spots
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| 6th & G - Sugar Rain (courtesy photo) |
Step into a kaleidoscope of color and flavor at Hasta Mañana Cantina, the Gaslamp hotspot where every night feels like a fiesta. With a motto of Tacos, Tequila, and Unforgettable Moments, this vibrant cantina is a tequila lover’s dream. From crisp blancos to smooth añejos, their extensive list of premium tequilas, mezcals, and handcrafted margaritas never disappoints. Go all in with the Último Cadillac Margarita, made with Patrón Reposado, Citronage, Grand Marnier Centennial, and lime agave, the ultimate upgrade for your Drinksgiving toast.
If your version of Drinksgiving involves ocean breezes and laid-back beach vibes, head to The Duck Dive in Pacific Beach. Known for its surf-inspired ambiance and creative cocktails, this local favorite blends coastal charm with off-the-beach flavor. Sip the Medicinal Purposes Only, made with Glenlivet 12, ginger, honey, and fresh lemon, the perfect “remedy” before the big feast. Or opt for a sharable punchbowl, like the Drunken Clam, comprised of Rumhaven Caribbean Rum, Horchata, pineapple cordial, Cocolopez, fresh mint, and Cocoberry Red Bull.
Escape to the tropics without leaving Mission Beach at Miss B’s Coconut Club, where Caribbean spirit meets tiki-style fun. With a lush, open-air patio and colorful cocktails, Miss B’s is the perfect spot to channel island energy. Order the Havana Good Time, a bold blend of absolut elyx, Pamplemousse, house grapefruit, cucumber cordial, and guava mint kombucha— your passport to paradise.
Getting together for brunch on the unofficial holiday? Head to East Village’s 6th & G, where cocktails include the Cotton Candy Sugar Rain (gin, elderflower, hibiscus, strawberry, lemon juice, and raspberry tea (served with a cotton candy cloud), along with the Light Bulb (rum, cucumber, lime juice, hibiscus, pineapple juice, and tajin (served with a jicama spear).
For those who prefer a little retro swagger with their cocktails, The Smoking Gun in downtown San Diego is your go-to. Think vintage arcade games, Southern comfort food, and innovative libations. The Smoked Diablo, made with mezcal, black currant liqueur, house ginger syrup, ginger beer, and lime, brings a smoky-sweet kick that keeps the party going all night.
Beer lovers can’t miss Karl Strauss Brewing Company, a San Diego institution and true pioneer in Southern California’s craft beer scene. Cozy up with its seasonal Peanut Butter Cup Porter, a rich and velvety brew that blends peanut butter, dark chocolate, and roasted coffee — the perfect pint for sweater weather.
If your Thanksgiving pregame needs an ocean view, make your way to Sandbar Sports Bar & Grill, in Mission Beach. With a lively atmosphere and a long list of tequilas and cocktails, this is where locals gather to unwind before the holiday rush. Try their warming Red Sangria, made with Spanish wine and natural citrus fruit flavors - sweet, tangy, and made for sipping by the shore.
Louisiana Purchase brings the excitement and charm of New Orleans to the North Park neighborhood, offering seasonal cocktails that will help rekindle the memories of you and your friends from years past. Try the G-Thang with guava-infused mezcal, lime, guava cordial, and soda. The Hurricane Pop is another standout with house rum blend, house fassionola, almond orgeat, fresh citrus, and burlesque bitters – and it’s served with Pop Rocks.
Downtown’s vibrant and energetic barleymash brings people together over bold flavors, strong drinks, and nonstop energy. Known for its beer-and-bourbon-inspired menu and lively atmosphere, this spot is made for Drinksgiving celebrations. Order the Ron Burgundy, mixed with barleymash’s Private Barrel Kentucky Spirit bourbon, sugar, Angostura bitters, and orange bitters, a bold sip that sets the tone for the holiday ahead.
So this Drinksgiving, forget the early bedtime and embrace the pre-holiday buzz. From coastal cocktails to barrel-aged brews, the city’s best bars are keeping spirits high and glasses full, the perfect warm-up before the turkey takes center stage.
