Best Restaurants with Bar Seating in Downtown

Everything from food to service was outstanding. Tammy took such great care of us and made my partners birthday extra special. Highly recommend their dry aged steaks. So tender and flavorful and melts in your mouth. The cheesecake was a favorite as well.

I took a couple of 11 year olds in for happy hour to celebrate a birthday, and it was the perfect experience! The girls got some mocktails and had the burger and fries. The fries are as good as they get, and the dipping sauces were heavenly. I ordered fries for myself at happy hour and then at 5:00 when the full menu was available, I ordered a salad. The staff there was super friendly and very sweet to the girls. They brought out some beignets with a sparkler in them for the birthday girl as well. I mentioned in my online reservation where we would ideally like to sit, and they accommodated us exactly how I asked. I’m so glad we chose Wilma’s for the birthday dinner - I think it will be one the girls remember.

Amazing food - taste and presentation got our taste buds popping! Friendly and excellent service! Definitely recommend this place!

Smokin' J's BBQ is a gem unbeknownst to us. My wife and I were attending an event at the Balboa Theater and were looking to make a reservation close to the venue. Smokin' J's is literally across the street...it couldn't be more convenient. Everything was excellent, the service was outstanding, the food was delicious with very ample portions. Even though we live in Encinitas, we will go back downtown to dine at Smokin' J's again. To us, it was a hidden gem.

Me and a friend stopped in and sat at the bar. We were greeted right away. All the bartenders were knowledgeable and friendly. Food was amazing and didn’t take too long. Ambiance was perfect too, not too dark or bright. Shout out to Jad the supervisor for checking in on us and making sure our experience was a positive one. Will definitely be back!