As San Diego prepares for the city’s annually anticipated Comic Con weekend, local bars and eateries are gearing up to welcome an influx of convention goers, as well as locals who flock downtown to partake in the festivities. We’ve highlighted some of the best places to eat, drink and take a breather from the excitement, all within walking distance or a short drive from the San Diego Convention Center.

Techo Beso

Escape to an oasis in the sky at Techo Beso. The rooftop restaurant and bar recently debuted a brand-new menu featuring internationally-influenced cuisine. Enjoy bites perfect for sharing including Jerk Chicken Lettuce Cups, Habañero BBQ Wings, and 5 Spice Brisket Bao Buns made with a plum glaze and orange-ginger marmalade, along with Churro Bites finished with a dulce de leche & dark chocolate drizzle for something on the sweeter side. Quench your thirst with a robust selection of cocktails including the Sand in My Boots, a pineapple & tamarind margarita; the Coba, a spa-inspired cocktail made with elderflower, cucumber & lime; and the BBL, a tropical adventure made with coconut cream, rum and botanical aperitivo. For those looking to elevate their experience even more, Techo Beso offers cabana rentals and bottle service, perfect for large parties and celebrations.

The Blind Burro

Just three blocks from the San Diego Convention Center, The Blind Burro is a must-try Mexican restaurant specializing in Baja coastal cuisine with a unique twist on traditional Mexican dishes. Escape the convention madness with Blind Burros’ extravagant Beetlejuice themed cocktails and specials! Try out the refreshing Lydia-Rita, a blackberry margarita featuring Cutwater Blanco Tequila Triple Sec, blackberry puree, agave, soda, and topped with a lime. Or try the Burro Juice, a shooter featuring Cutwater Blanco Tequila, Midori, sour apple, and lemonade. Once you have tried the exciting Beetlejuice cocktails, move on to some delicious bites. Start off with the Queso Especial made with triple cheese sauce, crispy smoked paprika potatoes, house made chorizo, pico de gallo, cilantro and house made corn tortilla chips. For your entree, move onto the Street Tacos with your choice of Carnitas, Carne Asada or Pollo Asada including citrus-chile de arbol, onions and cilantro or the Birria Burro-ito with slow braised beef shoulder, butter rice, queso oaxaca, red cabbage, crema, onion, queso cotija, cilantro, pickled red onions, diced avocado and salsa de birria. Also, don’t miss out on the Beer & A Shot Special all day everyday, which includes a 24 oz can of Estrella Jalisco and a shot of Casamigos Blanco or Casamigos Jalapeno Tequila.

Moonshine music stage in San Diego — *Photo Credit: Courtesy of Good Time Design*

Moonshine Flats + Deck

Looking to let loose and take a break from Comic-Con? Head on down to the biggest honky-tonk party, happening every night at Moonshine Flats! Nestled in the heart of the lively Gaslamp quarter, Moonshine Flats is the ultimate destination for country music enthusiasts, line dancers, and party goers alike. Start your evening out at the adjoining Deck at Moonshine Flats. This open air extension offers a Smokehouse BBQ menu, unique drinks, and fun games including corn hole, shuffleboard, and giant beer pong. During Comic-Con, The Deck will be going all out with a Borderlands themed weekend, complete with speciality cocktails. Get in on the action with The Nuke Margarita Shooter, a mix of Milagro Reposado, mango puree, lime juice, simple syrup, and completed with a tajin rim. Try out the nuclear purple Eridium Lemon Drop cocktail, made with Hooch Brothers Vodka, lemon juice, simple syrup, and purple glitter. And if you need some energy before hopping on the dance floor, go for the Handsome Jack's Coffee Old Fashioned, a delicious mixture of First Light Coffee Whiskey, cold brew, simple syrup, and chocolate bitters. Once you have refreshed with some fun cocktails, bring out your cowboy boots and join the excitement on the Moonshine Flats side of the venue. Get ready to learn some new moves and enjoy the fun during the live country music performances on July 26 and July 27! Whether you’re a seasoned line dancer or just looking for a good time, Moonshine Flats promises memorable experiences during Comic-Con weekend.

Tajima East Village

I chose you, Tajima! After a long day exploring Comic Con, re-up with a bowl of tasty ramen at Tajima. Their newly expanded East Village location, less than a ten minute walk from the Convention Center festivities, is the perfect spot to gather with friends, fill your stomach, share some drinks and dig through your Comic Con swag bags. Tajima’s ramen offerings reflect authentic Japanese techniques with modern twists and come in a variety of flavors including their original Tajima Ramen, made with their signature Tonkotsu pork broth, as well as more adventurous selections such as Carnitas Ramen, Spicy Sesame Ramen and Vegetarian Ramen. In addition to their regular beer and sake offerings, Tajima will be serving a Pokemon Sake Flight specially made for Comic Con, featuring three different Pikachu, Bulbasaur, and Squirtle themed cocktails with mini figurines included. Gotta catch ‘em all!

Puesto at the Headquarters

Located less than a mile from the San Diego Convention Center and nestled near historic Seaport village, Puesto at the Headquarters is a taco lover’s paradise. Puesto is renowned for award-winning luxury tacos that will be sure to fill you up after a long day of Comic-Con. With options such as the Short Rib Quesabirria, filled with crispy melted cheese, braised short rib, Jalisco salsa, pickled radish and classic guacamole, the Mushroom taco with crispy melted cheese, garlic braised seasonal mushrooms, pickled onions, stone fruit serrano salsa and hearts on fire, and seasonal additions like the new Swordfish taco featuring marinated local swordfish, avocado salsa, sunflower matcha salsa and pickled jicama slaw, there’s something for everyone! Compliment your meal with a specialty cocktail made with additive-free agave spirits such as the Honeydew Margarita with mezcal, honeydew, and fresh lime or the Paloma with Cimarron blanco tequila, Fever Tree grapefruit soda, and fresh lime. Kick off your Comic Con weekend at Puesto’s happy hour on Friday 3 pm-5 pm, or come anytime to savor the vibrant atmosphere and good vibes.

Union Kitchen and Tap

Known for its farm-to-fork dining experience, Union Kitchen and Tap is the perfect place to refuel for weekend brunch and dinner in the heart of the Gaslamp. Dinner highlights include Skillet Cornbread made with jalapeño and aged white cheddar, served with burnt honey and maple butter; Braised Short Rib made with tasso grits, swiss chard, crispy onions, and braising gravy; along with shareable flatbreads, salads and more. Brunch highlights include the Short Rib Breakfast Burrito made with beer braised short rib, scrambled eggs, cotija cheese, avocado, french fries, and chipotle cream; Breakfast Flatbread made with bechamel, mozzarella, andouille, cherrywood smoked bacon, roasted tomato, sunny farm eggs, chives, maple syrup; along with Micheladas, Bloody Marys, and bottomless mimosas. Craft cocktails including the Some Like it Hot (served hot or cold) made with Jack Daniel's Single Barrel, Montenegro Amaro, honey, cinnamon, and lemon; along with beer and wine are also available throughout the day. Reservations can be made here.

Le Parfait

During Comic-Con, a visit to Le Parfait is not just a culinary delight, but an elegant escape from the hustle and bustle of the convention. Located less than a mile from the Convention Center in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter, Le Parfait offers a true taste of Paris with its award-winning French bakery delights. Indulge in an assortment of macarons, decadent desserts, flaky croissants, and artisanal gelato. More menu highlights include the avocado toast flight, short rib breakfast hash, croque madame, french BLT sandwich, and an array of sweet and savory crepes. Whether you’re grabbing a quick breakfast, a leisurely brunch, an afternoon coffee, or a delightful dessert after a long day of events, Le Parfait provides a tranquil oasis reminiscent of a Parisian cafe. Be sure to stop by and let Le Parfait’s charming ambiance and gourmet treats elevate your Comic-Con experience.

The Crack Shack

The Crack Shack, San Diego’s family-friendly gourmet fried chicken destination, is a must-visit for all Comic Con attendees, young and old. With a location in Little Italy, just a hop skip and a jump from the Convention Center, this vibrant eatery offers a playful, casual atmosphere that's perfect for unwinding after a day of panels and cosplay. The menu, which utilizes high-quality ingredients to craft delicious comfort food, features something for the whole family. Choose from sandwiches, salads, and sides including unique options like the California Dip made with Jidori chicken, pickled vegetables, crispy onions, French onion dip, and a torpedo roll or the Power Bowl with chicken al pastor, chato’s salsa verde, pickled red onions, soft boiled egg, avo, arugula, warm quinoa, and baby cilantro, or feed the whole fam with a Big Flock which includes whole bird bone-in fried chicken, 12 nuggets, large fry, classic slaw, 6 biscuits & 2 cookies. With spacious outdoor seating, eclectic decor, and a lively vibe, it’s an ideal spot for fans to gather, share their convention experiences, and enjoy top-notch food.

San Diego’s Guide to Eating & Drinking during Comic Con Weekend

Caesar Salad’s 100th Anniversary – Best Spots in San Diego

Mother’s Day Guide | Where to Eat & Things to Do