Sycamore Den - San Diego’s Retro Cocktail Den.

Tucked away like a circa 70’s bungalow in quaint Normal Heights lives some of the tastiest craft cocktails San Diego has to offer.

Upon arrival to Sycamore Den I knew I was going to love it. The vibe is ultra groovy – like a scene straight out of ‘That 70’s Show’. Dark, rustic, and fully equipped with vintage games making it a perfect first date destination. Not only did I find parking directly out front, (a miracle), but I realized the street Sycamore lives on is quite possibly one of the cutest in SD. Lots to see, lots to do, and lots to drink. Pourstyles approves.

I prompted the bartender to bring me something he was proud of, but also threw in the fact that I was a certified Sommelier as well as a wine blogger so a cocktail containing some sort of vino would be highly appreciated. He surely did not disappoint.

We started off with the ‘Bet on Black’, a unique drink featuring rye, pinot noir, suze, blackberry, peppercorn, honey, and lime. My oh my.. it may have been the best combination of flavors I’ve ever had. The pinot noir mixed with pepper, honey, and lime really took my taste buds on a magical journey and I pretty much chugged it in 10 minutes flat. I was ready for another. Again, I asked the bartender to design another concoction along similar lines. Almost as if he’s known me since high school, coming up next was a bourbon cocktail. (My go-to booze.)

A Sycamore Den classic, he tells me, ‘The Ticket’ showcases bourbon, peach, lemon, and bitters. Simple ingredients but certainly not a simple taste. Beautifully crafted, tremendous taste, and incredibly photoshoot ready, I left a very happy girl.

All in all, I absolutely loved it all. The drinks, the atmosphere, the neighborhood. The pinot noir emulsion particularly dazzled.

The craft cocktail competition is stiff here in San Diego, but Sycamore Den will always stand out as one of the best. Put it on your to-drink list ASAP.

Thanks for having me, friends. I will without a doubt be back in no time.