When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego with a group of friends or family, consider
Princess Pub & Grille
Why Princess Pub & Grille is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Princess Pub & Grille, located in the vibrant Little Italy neighborhood of San Diego, is a beloved British pub established in 1984 that offers an authentic European pub experience ideal for meeting up with friends. The pub serves traditional British and European meals, including renowned dishes like fish and chips and a classic Sunday roast beef or lamb dinner complete with all the traditional fixings. Its extensive menu pairs perfectly with San Diego's largest selection of European ales and spirits, as well as local craft beers. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, featuring a full bar, outdoor seating, and multiple big-screen TVs with surround sound, making it an excellent venue for watching sports such as the Champions League, Premier League, Rugby World Cup, and NFL games. Additionally, Princess Pub & Grille hosts happy hours on weekdays and weekends offering discounted drinks, half-price appetizers, and signature cocktails, encouraging a lively yet relaxed social setting. The presence of dart boards and live entertainment further enriches the experience, making it a versatile spot to enjoy from lunch to late night, as the pub remains open until 1:00 AM on many nights. Friendly and attentive staff add to the welcoming vibe, reinforcing Princess Pub & Grille as a top choice for locals and visitors wanting to socialize in a classic British pub ambiance.
Here's what people think of Princess Pub & Grille
As of recent, Princess Pub & Grille holds a 4.1-star rating based on 1256 reviews.
Reviews from patrons consistently highlight Princess Pub & Grille’s authentic British pub atmosphere and excellent food and drink selection, earning it an overall positive reputation reflected in its 4.1-star rating from over 1,200 reviews. Many guests praise the quality and flavor of the traditional British dishes such as the fish and chips and Sunday roast. The pub’s extensive beer and spirits list is also frequently lauded, alongside the attentive and friendly service offered by standout staff members like bartenders Gar and Katie, who are often personally commended for enhancing the social experience. The lively environment, live entertainment, and ample screens for sports viewing contribute to repeated mentions of the pub as a great place to meet friends and enjoy classic pub culture in San Diego. However, some reviews note an "average experience" or issues such as limited seating during peak times, and a few express disappointment with wait times or the quality of some menu items on certain occasions. Despite occasional critiques, the majority of feedback is positive, emphasizing the value for money, the authentic vibe, and the enjoyable happy hour specials. Overall, the reviews affirm Princess Pub & Grille as a popular and reliable venue in Little Italy that continues to attract patrons looking for a true British pub experience with quality food, drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Lorrin Sevilla
Stopped by little Italy for a day trip in San Diego during lunchtime. We had a quick stop and break to eat, but we ended up spending three hours here. Drinks were really good and aren’t expensive. Pickled eggs were delicious. We also enjoyed potato wedges, and nachos. Beautiful spot to watch the sunset and hear the people play live music!
Revanth S
Great atmosphere and good food! Padres games are hype in here and you will see a lot of cheers and chants!
Erin Harris
Went for lunch here with a large group. Asked for separate bills- that's a No. Had a gift card, value was taken off the entire bill, then we had to spilt everything by hand. Mandated 35% gratuity for our group of 9. Food was ok, beer was expensive for draught. They were able to seat us together (sometimes an issue). Atmosphere was sort of fun- a little dark inside to really appreciate the decor.
Alan Martin
I’m from Britain and this was wonderful after being away for so long. Fullers ESB and Old Speckled Hen on tap. Two of my favourite beers. Steak and ale pie one day and a lamb Sunday roast the next. I cook a better Yorkshire pudding but the roast potatoes were very good. Beer was superb. Food was perfect. Sat outside. Service was attentive. Strongly recommend.
Jessica Schmidt
I don't know what happened to this place. We came a couple years ago and everything was wonderful, but this last visit was terrible. It seems like the servers are disgruntled or something because besides the first drink, I was essentially completely ignored. Wanted to order food, too, but no one ever came to take my order. They weren't even that busy. Mightily disappointed... I ended up taking my business elsewhere. Weird experience! The same thing happened to my friends the night before, too.
How to reach Princess Pub & Grille
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Why Princess Pub & Grille may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Princess Pub & Grille with your friends? When planning a gathering that balances great food, a lively atmosphere, and friendly service, Princess Pub & Grille in San Diego's Little Italy emerges as an exceptional choice. This British-style pub, with a solid rating of 4.1 from over 1,200 reviews, has earned a reputation for creating a warm, welcoming environment that both casual enthusiasts and devoted pub-goers enjoy. Whether your friends crave traditional British fare, refreshing pints of Guinness, or a spot to watch live sports together on multiple TVs, this pub delivers that and more. Its location in the vibrant Little Italy neighborhood adds an extra layer of convenience and charm. The mix of indoor and outdoor seating means your group can pick the setting that best suits your vibe, from cozy chats inside to enjoying balmy San Diego evenings outside. Even amid a crowded weekend, the pub buzzes with energy, making it a perfect social hub. So, for gathering moments filled with laughter, good food, and drinks, Princess Pub & Grille provides the ideal balance of authenticity and spirited fun.
What activities can you enjoy at Princess Pub & Grille? Beyond its acclaimed food and drink offerings, Princess Pub & Grille features a broad range of activities perfect for group meetups. One highlight is the multiple TVs throughout the venue broadcasting popular sporting events, creating a communal viewing experience especially attractive to sports fans in your circle. Whether your group wants to cheer on rugby, football, or other games, the pub atmosphere enhances the excitement and camaraderie. For those looking for some playful competition, dart games are a staple here, inviting friendly matches that can bring a group closer together. On select nights, the venue hosts DJs and live bands, adding a lively soundtrack to your evening and opportunities to dance or simply enjoy live entertainment. The pub also offers an extensive selection of craft beers and creative cocktails, featuring authentic Guinness pints for the purists and a full bar to satisfy all tastes. The combination of these activities makes the pub a versatile destination for casual hangouts, festive celebrations, or after-work wind-downs.
Why is Princess Pub & Grille perfect for a group meetup? The setting and service at Princess Pub & Grille are tailored to enhance group experiences. With spacious seating options, including an inviting outdoor area, groups can spread out comfortably without feeling cramped. The attentive staff are praised for their friendly and accommodating service, making sure large parties feel well-cared-for and that logistics like ordering and serving flow smoothly. This is complemented by the menu's range, from traditional British classics like fish and chips, steak and kidney pies, and Sunday roast, to popular American favorites like baby-back ribs and Pacific salmon, ensuring a wide variety of tastes are satisfied. Price points are moderate, which helps groups enjoy ample food and drinks without stretching budgets. The vibrant atmosphere is boosted by locals and visitors alike, creating a lively and inclusive scene where group members can feel part of something bigger. Lastly, being open until 1:00 AM allows for flexible meetups that can evolve naturally from brunch to late-night gatherings.
What kind of food and drink experience awaits your group? Princess Pub & Grille serves up an authentic British pub culinary experience with a San Diego twist, providing the perfect backdrop for any group dining occasion. Their menu is noted for authentic dishes such as the house specialty Princess Chicken Tortilla Soup and classic British staples including fish and chips and steak and kidney pie, as well as the crowd-pleasing Sunday roast dinner complete with Yorkshire pudding and mint sauce. For those who prefer lighter fare or American-style dishes, there are options like Cobb salad, chicken Caesar salad, and New York strip steak. This variety ensures every diner finds something they enjoy, encouraging conversation and shared plates among friends. Drinks are a highlight, with Guinness poured to perfection and a fully stocked bar offering cocktails, craft beers, and more. Happy hours feature good deals on appetizers, making pre-meal drinks and small bites an inviting way to start your gathering. Although some find the drink prices a bit steep, the quality and selection justify indulging in a round or two when hosting a group outing.
How does the ambiance contribute to the overall meetup experience? Princess Pub & Grille's atmosphere is a key factor in its appeal for groups. The pub exudes a genuine, welcoming British vibe with cozy wooden interiors, dart boards, and sports screens that create a lively yet comfortable setting. The mix of locals and tourists adds to the dynamic feel, making it a great cross-section of community and culture that guests can tap into. Outdoor seating is particularly popular during San Diego’s pleasant weather, providing a relaxed environment perfect for chatting under the open sky. Music from DJs on Fridays and live bands bi-monthly on Saturdays enhances the festive spirit, making it easy for groups to transition from casual hangouts to celebratory events. The casual dress code and kid-friendly environment also mean your meetup can include a range of guests without fuss. Although summer months can sometimes bring a bit of stuffiness inside, the overall vibe remains consistently upbeat and engaging, helping groups create memorable social experiences.
What about accessibility and convenience for groups? Located at 1665 India Street in the heart of Little Italy, Princess Pub & Grille is highly accessible for any group planning a meetup in downtown San Diego. The area is well-served by public transportation and offers multiple parking options nearby, making it easy for guests to arrive without hassle. The venue is wheelchair accessible, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity, so all friends and family members can participate comfortably. Reservations are suggested especially for larger parties, which helps ensure your group will have a designated space during busy times. Additionally, the pub offers takeout and pickup services for those who prefer to take the experience home or host a hybrid gathering. Being open from brunch through late night hours further provides flexibility in timing, whether your group wants an early meal, a midday break, or an after-hours hangout. This convenience factor makes Princess Pub & Grille a reliable choice for diverse group sizes and schedules.
How does Princess Pub & Grille stand out in San Diego’s dining scene? This iconic British pub has cemented its place as a local favorite by combining authenticity, variety, and a uniquely social atmosphere. Unlike many other restaurants in the area, it focuses on providing a true British pub experience with genuine dishes, traditional drinks, and familiar games like darts. This is especially appealing to expatriates, Anglophiles, and anyone curious to explore British culinary culture in a welcoming setting. While the food is described as average to good by some, the overall package encompassing food, drink, ambiance, and entertainment creates a compelling reason to choose this spot for group outings. Its recognition in top restaurant rankings and by traveler awards reflects its consistent quality and appeal. The blend of traditional and modern, plus strong community vibes and attentive staff, makes Princess Pub & Grille a standout option for anyone who wants their gathering to feel both authentic and special in San Diego.
In summary, Princess Pub & Grille offers a distinctive and well-rounded experience for groups looking to rally together in a lively yet comfortable setting. With traditional British fare, a wide beverage selection, engaging activities like dart games and sports viewing, and a friendly, accommodating staff, it covers all the bases for memorable meetups. Its location in Little Italy adds convenience and charm, while the warm ambiance and flexible hours provide the perfect platform to connect with friends or family. Whether for a casual brunch, a spirited game night, or a celebratory dinner, this pub promises a venue where group gatherings thrive.