When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego with a group of friends or family, consider
Forbidden Cove
Why Forbidden Cove is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Forbidden Cove is a captivating tiki speakeasy bar located in the Convoy district of San Diego, hidden within Kilowatt Brewing. This secretive bar is accessed through a cleverly concealed rum barrel door, adding an air of mystery and excitement to your visit. The atmosphere is immersive, featuring blacklight-lit decor with Polynesian-inspired tiki decorations, erupting volcano sounds, and tiki drums setting the perfect mood for a memorable night out. The bar offers a small, cozy space ideal for intimate gatherings and date nights. Forbidden Cove excels in serving tiki classics with a twist, including their renowned Painkiller and Missionary’s Downfall cocktails, alongside Hawaiian-inspired dishes such as Kahlua pork tacos, ahi tuna poke bowls, and cucumber salad, all sharing the menu with their parent Kilowatt Brewing. Guests can enjoy a vibrant tropical ambiance filled with neon and blacklight accents that complement their craft beer focus, featuring small-batch beers brewed on site. Reservations are recommended due to the venue’s limited size and popularity, with 90-minute seating slots available, although some walk-in spots are also kept for guests. Overall, Forbidden Cove is an excellent destination for those seeking a unique, fun, and flavorful tiki bar experience in San Diego with a blend of exotic drinks, tasty food, and an immersive tropical atmosphere.
Here's what people think of Forbidden Cove
As of recent, Forbidden Cove holds a 4.1-star rating based on 104 reviews.
User reviews generally portray Forbidden Cove as a fun and atmospheric tiki bar that offers high marks for its ambience, drink quality, and unique concept. Positive reviews commonly praise the inventive cocktails, especially the tiki classics like the Painkiller, and appreciate the Hawaiian-inspired food menu that complements the drinks well. Many visitors highlight the cozy and creative setting featuring Polynesian decor, blacklight effects, and the secret speakeasy entrance as enhancing the overall experience. Service is frequently rated positively for being friendly and attentive. However, some negative feedback centers on the venue’s value proposition, with a few reviewers feeling the prices are on the higher side for the portion size or overall experience, resulting in mixed opinions about value. Additionally, some mention the limited seating space and strict reservation policies as potential drawbacks, occasionally leading to wait times or lost spots when arriving late. Despite these minor criticisms, the consensus remains that Forbidden Cove is a worthwhile and adventurous stop for tiki lovers and those looking for an offbeat San Diego nightlife experience. The blend of excellent cocktails, thematic ambiance, and quality food make it a notable spot, recommended primarily for small groups, couples, and enthusiasts of tiki culture seeking an unforgettable night out.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Charlie Ruiz
Vibe was awesome. Definitely more of a local scene. Hostess was great. We only came by for drinks but had a great time regardless. Front end (Kilowatt Brewery) also had great vibes. Would come back again! (Also, glad to find another speakeasy that isn't owned by Consortium Holdings.
Christian Mendoza
Disappointing Service Went here expecting a decent “speakeasy” experience, but the service was terrible. The staff lacked patience when taking orders and seemed irritated whenever we asked for anything. When we requested more drinks, we were repeatedly overlooked and told they’d return, only to be ignored for over ten minutes. On top of that, my friend asked for a drink that they clearly had the ingredients for, yet they flat-out refused to make it with no explanation. The worst part? My wife gave up cheese for Lent due to her religious beliefs, and when we asked for the teriyaki chicken without cheese, they acted like it was an impossible request. After some resistance, they finally agreed but then made a rude remark about her belief by bringing out the dish while sarcastically stating it had “extra cheese” just to tease us. Completely unprofessional and disrespectful. Unacceptable service—definitely wouldn’t recommend. Let me know if you want any final adjustments!
Christopher Gorrie
My friend and I came to Forbidden Cove for the first time tonight. We had an awesome experience! We thoroughly enjoyed the company of the bartender and Kilowatt’s owner, who were both down-to-earth and having a good time. The cocktails were really good. We tried a few different offerings, plus some off-menu drinks that were fantastic. Everything seemed well-prepared and mixed, and the taste was balanced and delicious. The bar itself is purposefully kitschy, not something ostentatious like you might find at a Consortium Holdings bar. It’s spacious, well-curated (in a fun and friendly kind of way), and has a homey feel that doesn’t exude any pretension whatsoever. This is a real-deal, down-to-earth tiki bar that brought back memories of ex-pat bars in Vietnam and southern Thailand. Kilowatt’s owner was exceptionally friendly and welcoming, offering my friend and I some sips of limited rums he had. They were some of the best rums I’ve ever tasted. He also gave us a rundown of the contexts surrounding the rums which was very cool, to say the least. I highly recommend trying this place out. I’d even go so far as to say that it’s more fun than some of the more well-known Kearny Mesa speakeasies like 52 Remedies and Convoy Music Bar. While those places are great and excel at what they do in their niche, they’re not nearly as down-to-earth, welcoming, and spacious as Forbidden Cove.
Angela Galitski
Cool little tiki bar that has a speak easy feel.... You literally use a totem to enter a secret entrance. Food is acceptable, drinks are great and NOT watered down like you usually get. Atmosphere is really cool. Be sure to make a reservation to get best seating-I was able to get a great table the night before. Great place to check out and get some drinks.... Location is just a bit unexpected but allows for ample parking. Added bonus was the SHAG artwork on the tables🥰
Leonardo Silva
Amazing food and drinks, but admin needs to stop cutting corners and hire more people. We reserved a seat at the bar and ended up eating at what can only be described as a TV rack. The place was empty, but they still didn’t let us move to a normal setting place. When you have ONE bartender/bar back/host in one place (the brewery) and ONE waitress/hostess/admin in the other bar, I’m pretty sure it’s time to hire more people.
How to reach Forbidden Cove
None
Website: None
Why Forbidden Cove may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Forbidden Cove with your friends? Forbidden Cove offers a unique escapade from the everyday, delivering an immersive tiki bar experience that is both fun and intimate, perfect for gathering with friends or family. Hidden behind a secret rum barrel door inside Kilowatt Brewing in San Diego's Kearny Mesa district, this speakeasy-style venue transports visitors into a Polynesian-inspired paradise. The ambiance is electrified with blacklight effects, erupting volcano sounds, tiki drums, and colorful island decor, fostering a vibe that's spirited and inviting. This blend of mystery, atmosphere, and tropical fantasy makes it a captivating place to reconnect and create lively memories with your group. The exclusivity of this hidden locale, combined with its warm and welcoming environment, encourages shared moments of discovery and fun that are hard to find elsewhere. With moderately high ratings from guests appreciating the overall atmosphere and service, Forbidden Cove stands out as not just a place to drink, but a destination where every meetup feels like a celebration of friendship and adventure.
What activities and experiences can groups enjoy at Forbidden Cove? Forbidden Cove’s primary allure lies in its expertly crafted Polynesian-inspired cocktails and a menu that pairs well with their drink offerings, such as Hawaiian-themed small bites like Kahlua pork tacos, ahi tuna poke bowls, sliders, and crisp cucumber salads. The menu captures the island theme, enhancing the immersive experience while catering to varied tastes within a group. Guests begin their experience by unlocking access through the signature wooden idol key and the hidden rum barrel door, which adds a playful and mysterious element to the meetup. Once inside, groups can lounge in cozy seating areas under vibrant blacklight and enjoy soundscapes that evoke tropical volcanoes and island drums. This sensory blend makes conversations more engaging and the ambiance unique for socializing. The venue also allows for both reservations, which guarantee a 90-minute session of dedicated space, and walk-in accommodations, offering flexibility for group meetups. Complementing the cove’s cocktail adventures, the adjacent Kilowatt Brewing features craft beers, hard seltzers, and adult slushies, appealing to guests who prefer variety. Overall, Forbidden Cove’s combination of exclusive entry, thematic decor, specialty drinks, and island-inspired fare creates multiple layers of enjoyment tailored to group dynamics.
Why is Forbidden Cove ideal for hosting group meetups? The intimate size of Forbidden Cove ensures that groups can gather in a cozy, somewhat private setting while absorbing the immersive island environment together. Unlike large, noisy bars, this speakeasy provides a contained space that lets groups engage in meaningful conversations without overwhelming distractions. The tiki-themed ambiance—with dynamic lighting and exotic decor—sets a festive vibe that naturally encourages laughter and friendly interaction. By requiring reservations for a 90-minute timeframe, the venue encourages a lively but focused social experience, ideal for celebrations or casual meetups. Furthermore, the surprise and novelty of entering through a hidden door heightens the sense of occasion, making outings to Forbidden Cove memorable. Accessibility is further enhanced by walk-in availability and the adjacent Kilowatt Brewing, where groups can start or end their evenings with a broader variety of drinks and bites, allowing for longer social gatherings beyond the speakeasy's setting. The staff is known for attentive service, enhancing the overall comfort and enjoyment of hosting a meetup here.
How does the menu and drink selection enhance the group experience at Forbidden Cove? The menu at Forbidden Cove specializes in island-inspired fare that complements the tropical cocktail lineup, making sharing food a natural part of social interaction for groups. With offerings like Kahlua pork tacos and ahi poke bowls, guests can enjoy authentic, flavorful bites that satisfy diverse palates, including options that appeal to lovers of seafood and traditional Hawaiian ingredients. This culinary theme reinforces the immersive island experience, tying together flavors with the décor and drinks. On the beverage front, Forbidden Cove shines with expertly crafted tiki cocktails such as the Painkiller and Missionary’s Downfall—classic drinks known for their balanced tropical flavors and eye-catching presentation. The cocktail menu is carefully curated to deliver an exotic taste journey, enhancing the sense of escape and adventure that defines the venue. For those preferring beer, Kilowatt Brewing’s onsite crafted beers and hard seltzers provide great alternatives, ensuring something for everyone. This combination of carefully matched food and drinks encourages sharing and tasting within groups, further enriching the social and sensory experience.
What makes the atmosphere at Forbidden Cove stand out from other bars? The atmosphere of Forbidden Cove is a crucial element that sets it apart, offering a blend of tiki bar charm, speakeasy exclusivity, and theatrical ambiance. The venue is dimly lit with blacklights, creating vivid glows on Polynesian-themed decorations, which makes the surroundings feel enchanted and adventurous. Unique features like an Infinity Mirror Bridge enhance the visual intrigue and provide photo-worthy moments that add to the fun of gathering. The sound environment includes intermittent volcano eruptions and rhythmic tiki drumbeats, which heighten the thematic immersion and make the space more than just a place to drink—it’s an experience that transports guests to a tropical island fantasy. This level of attention to sensory detail encourages groups to linger and soak in the mood, ideal for conversations, celebrations, and making new memories. Located discreetly behind Kilowatt Brewing, the exclusivity of stepping into a hidden room behind a barrel door adds a sense of discovery and camaraderie among friends.
How accessible is Forbidden Cove for meetup groups? Accessibility at Forbidden Cove is thoughtfully managed through a reservation system that books 90-minute sessions, ensuring that groups have dedicated space for their meetups without overcrowding. For those who prefer spontaneity or cannot secure a reservation, the bar also keeps space available for walk-ins on a first-come, first-served basis, which adds flexibility for different types of gatherings. The venue imposes a strict no-pets policy and requires guests to be 21 or older, setting clear expectations for a mature, focused social atmosphere. It operates primarily on Thursday evenings (5pm–11pm) and Fridays and Saturdays (5pm–midnight), targeting peak social hours when friends and families are likely to gather. The location inside Kilowatt Brewing allows groups to easily transition between the more lively brewery space and the intimate cove, accommodating varying group preferences as the night unfolds. The overall accessibility is balanced with its hidden nature, creating a special experience without sacrificing convenience.
What kind of group celebrations and occasions are best suited for Forbidden Cove? Forbidden Cove is ideal for a wide range of group occasions where a memorable, immersive environment enhances the gathering. It suits casual friend meetups looking for a unique night out, as well as more purposeful celebrations such as birthdays, anniversaries, or even small bachelor/bachelorette parties due to its intimate yet festive setting. The themed décor and crafted cocktails contribute to a sense of occasion worthy of marking special moments. Couples will find it romantic and fun for date nights joined by other couples or friends, while families of adult children celebrating milestones could also appreciate its sophisticated yet playful vibe. Corporate groups can use the cove for small networking events or after-work socializing, given its location in a business district. The space’s 90-minute reservation period helps keep events focused and energetic, ensuring guests remain engaged. Because it offers both a hidden retreat and an energetic backdrop, Forbidden Cove lends itself perfectly to occasions that benefit from a blend of exclusivity, fun, and social warmth.
In summary, Forbidden Cove provides a captivating setting for any group looking to combine great ambiance, unique activities, and excellent themed cocktails in one place. Its hidden speakeasy style and exotic theme transport guests away from the typical bar scene, making it a perfect destination for friends and family to rally around shared experiences. Whether for casual hangouts or celebratory occasions, the quality of atmosphere, service, and curated menus ensures a meetup at Forbidden Cove is anything but ordinary.