Forbidden Cove Claim this business

MICHAEL MORGANon Google

5 months ago

I’m a big fan of speakeasies. I enjoy a nice cocktail in a low-key location that is not overly packed. As soon as I showed up at Forbidden Cove, I knew it was my vibe. It’s a little difficult to find, but nothing I wouldn’t expect from a speakeasy. The staff is extremely friendly. The drink menu is robust. If you don’t see a drink you like on the menu, they can customize orders based on your interest. Personally, I tried the Jardin Rojo and the Mardi’s Hot Honey. I recommend the Jardin Rojo. The music and ambiance were fantastic. They played songs from the last 10-20 years but put a twist on them as if they were made during the Prohibition Era, which fits perfectly with the bar theme and vibe. I haven’t seen too many speakeasies with a tiki theme but I liked the setup of this spot. I did not get a chance to try the food as I ate dinner before arriving. But the menu looked good and the food delivered to people around me looked delicious. I would absolutely return to try other drinks and to taste their food.

Amy Davison Google

3 months ago

Such potential! But it's a plague on the service industry these days to under staff. The poor bartender was running drinks to tables and the waitress had every table in the place! They both did an excellent job, considering. You check in with the bartender in Kilowatt, so we had a drink there after to tip him. He said they do tip out a bit, but making a busy bartender check people in and explain how to get in? Lame. The drinks were yummy, I really liked the Navy Grog. But our Kalua Pork Nachos came out cold. Overall it was a really meh experience, especially with the plethora of super cool speakeasys in SD. Though the entrance is cool, you're better off heading down the road to Realm of the 52 Remedies instead. We did have a good time chatting with people in Killowatt and drinking good beer.

Bo Ledesmaon Google

3 months ago

Very small but overall fun little hideaway. Drinks are good but the bartender offered anything custom. Also he offered to just give him a flavor profile and he would come up with something for you. Food was great and we had a great time. The menu advertised a 90 minute experience but it didn't feel they were strick on that. We had a reservation not sure if it's required but definitely recommend.

Mark Deemingon Google

5 months ago

We had the most incredible night at Forbidden Cove! From the moment we used the tiki idol to unlock the hidden door, we knew we were in for something special. The atmosphere is absolutely immersive — the tropical decor, the lighting, the SHAG artwork on the tables — it all transports you to another world. The real highlight though was Nate behind the bar. This guy is an absolute legend. His cocktail knowledge is next level, his recommendations were spot on every time, and he genuinely made the whole experience feel personal and fun. He clearly loves what he does, and it shows in every drink he crafts. If you get a chance to sit at the bar and chat with him, do it — you won't regret it. The cocktails themselves were phenomenal — creative, beautifully presented, and perfectly balanced. This isn't your average bar experience, it's a proper tropical escape right in the heart of San Diego. We'll absolutely be back. If you haven't been yet, make a reservation and ask for Nate. Five stars, no question.

Anna Chenon Google

3 months ago

Such a wonderful lil place! The custom cocktail I got was absolutely delicious!! I ordered it 3 times! Put your trust into them PLZ. The spam nachos were also such a good complement to the drinks and the vibes.