Welcome to Soda Bar
Soda Bar, located in San Diego, CA, is a dive bar and music venue known for its live music acts, casual atmosphere, and intimate setting. With a full bar, outdoor seating, pool table, and good vibes, it's a favorite spot for music lovers and bar-goers alike. Customers rave about the energetic and lively atmosphere, affordable drinks, and close proximity to the stage for an up-close concert experience. Whether you're into punk, hardcore, or indie music, Soda Bar offers a unique and memorable night out. So, grab a drink, enjoy the music, and soak in the punk rock house party charm at Soda Bar.
Soda Bar: Reviews & Ratings
I've been here numerous times over the years and it's probably one of my favorite places to see live music. They have had some pretty big name bands from the punk, hardcore and Oi! scenes play there. The staff has always been courteous and helpful. I don't drink so i can't comment on alcohol choices but they have a spot with cups and free water so that works for me. Out of all the "dive bars" that have live music the Soda Bar is one of the best.
I love venues like this. The punk rock kid still lives deep inside of my soul and that same spirit is baked into the walls of Soda Bar. Take a look at their calendar, find a restaurant nearby, and have a fun little night out with some good music and decently priced drinks. I've been here a handful times and for the kind of music I like, it always feels like the place can explode at any moment. The mic can get pulled from the stage, the singer of the band could get sweaty singing in the crowd, and the whole room has a certain type of energy and anticipation when the band you're waiting to see is about to come onto stage. You get it, I like a sweaty and rowdy room, and the Soda Bar gives me just that.
I was prescribed an antibiotic and I was basically given a death warning if I were to drink during the course of that treatment SO I can't say anything about the drinks at Soda Bar other than I wanted to rip my head off because I was on a weird trip on my own being the only sober solo female at the joint. Couldn't even properly mask my awkwardness. On that note, for being 100% sober, I dug my time there. As many have noted, the sound is a bit muffled but it adds to the charm of a dive right? Definite punk rock house party charm.
I really like how small this venue is! It allows you to get way close to the stage and really experience the show you're seeing! I've been here twice now and I always have a good time! It's a casual environment and it's fun to come and see smaller artists here! The cocktail menu is okay, I mostly stick to beer at venues like this, but they have some great options for beer! The sound can get pretty loud since it's a smaller space so I would recommend brining earplugs or they sell them at the bar for $1- it will really save your ears! Overall, I enjoy this venue a lot and would go back again and again for more shows
PRO: Super small and intimate. Great way to see a band up close and the interaction can be fantastic. Decent beer selection. Staff super nice n friendly. CON: Sound...Decent. The bar actually divides the audience, so it's really tough to get a proper mix -- there's no standing in the middle. Sound guy needed bring down the lead guitar about 15%... OVERALL: It's a small, bar with live music that allows you to see bands -- some clearly about to break -- in an intimate fun way that feels like a party.
I attended a concert here to see Ramona. I had always wanted to check this place out as a frequent concert goer but shows here are 21+. I honestly have nothing negative to say about the venue. It was a hot summer day and the inside was nice and surprisingly not too hot durring the concert. I didn't order any drinks so unlike other reviews I can't state if any bartenders were rude. All the employees seemed pretty happy to be there :) The line moved pretty fast to get in and they only have 2 restrooms but they were pretty clean prior to the concert starting. Bathrooms 5/5 stars Venue 5/5 stars Employees 5/5 stars Parking 5/5 for plenty street parking (i'd suggest getting a lil early to the venue) Pricing for concert ticket 5/5
Location
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3615 El Cajon Blvd San Diego, CA 92104 Hotline: (619) 955-5551
Welcome to Soda Bar, a dive bar and music venue located in San Diego, CA. This establishment offers a unique atmosphere that combines divey, hipster, and classy elements, making it a popular spot for live music enthusiasts and fans of punk and hardcore scenes.
With a full bar and happy hour specials, Soda Bar caters to a diverse crowd looking for a good time. The venue is known for hosting big-name bands and providing an intimate setting for guests to get up close and personal with the performers.
Customer reviews praise the staff for their courtesy and helpfulness, as well as the energetic and lively atmosphere that makes every visit memorable. Whether you're into loud music, good vibes, and casual dress codes, Soda Bar has something for everyone.
While the sound quality might not be perfect, the overall charm of this dive bar adds to the punk rock house party vibe that keeps patrons coming back for more. So grab a drink, enjoy the music, and immerse yourself in the unique experience that Soda Bar has to offer.
