oChef » Fairweather Rooftop – San Diego

Fairweather Rooftop - San Diego

Bar & Pub Fairweather Rooftop in San Diego
Photo from Fairweather Rooftop
How do the guests rate it?
Fairweather Rooftop at a glance
San Diego East Village
$$
Price per Person $31–$40
mentioned by 14 of the guests
#586 out of 755 places to eat in San Diego
#20 Bar & Pub out of 22 in San Diego
Good
6.1 out of 10
6.7
Food
5
Service
6.9
Ambience
3.9
Value
344

Reviews

61.6%

Satisfaction

Often praised
  • Stadium views
  • Friendly staff
  • Decent food
Frequently criticized
  • Overpriced drinks
  • Inconsistent service
  • Cleanliness issues

The bar and pub experience at Fairweather Rooftop in San Diego’s vibrant East Village offers a truly unique escape. You’ll discover a trendy, casual, and cozy spot perfect for unwinding.

With its fantastic rooftop seating, you can enjoy the city views while savoring a great beer selection. It’s an ideal destination for those looking for a lively atmosphere and delicious offerings.

Overview: Introducting Fairweather Rooftop

Fairweather Rooftop offers a compelling experience, particularly for its fabulous view and vibrant atmosphere, especially on game days. Many appreciate the friendly bar staff and the relaxed vibe when it’s less busy.

It’s a spot where the setting often enhances the overall visit. However, some guests have noted concerns regarding value, with drinks often perceived as overpriced.

There have also been instances of service inconsistencies and issues with cleanliness, including dirty tables and crowded conditions, which can detract from the experience.

Good
6.1 out of 10
344

Reviews

61.6%

Satisfaction

120

negative

12

neutral

212

positive

Fairweather Rooftop earns an overall score of 6.1, placing it squarely in the average category, with customer satisfaction at a mixed 61.6%. This indicates a place with both notable strengths and areas needing attention.

The feedback, gathered from 344 customer remarks, shows a fairly balanced sentiment with 212 positive comments against 120 negative ones, suggesting experiences can vary quite a bit. Digging deeper, the Ambience (6.9) and Food (6.7) generally receive positive marks, highlighting the appealing setting and decent offerings.

However, Service (5) is perceived as average, and Value (3.9) stands out as a significant concern, often cited for its higher prices. This breakdown suggests that while the setting and some menu items are well-regarded, the overall experience can be hampered by service and cost.

What people like
  • Fabulous stadium views
  • Friendly, helpful staff
  • Decent food and cocktails
What people don't like
  • Overpriced drinks
  • Inconsistent service
  • Cleanliness issues

With a recommendation score of 6.2, Fairweather Rooftop presents a mixed bag. It’s a solid choice if you prioritize a great view and a lively atmosphere, especially around game times.

The friendly staff and some of the food and drink options can certainly enhance your visit. However, be prepared for potentially higher prices on drinks and occasional service hiccups.

If you’re seeking consistent value or a pristine environment, you might find it falls short. Consider it for its unique setting, but manage expectations regarding cost and service consistency.

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Verdict: Our expert take on Fairweather Rooftop

Food (6.7 out of 10)

mentioned by 69% of the guests

When it comes to the grub, many folks found plenty to cheer about, with 76 positive remarks out of 110 total comments. Guests frequently praised delicious items like the Surfn Turf Burrito, carne asada fries, and various tacos, often noting the generous portions. Many highlighted the excellent food and a menu that offers something for everyone, making for some tasty experiences.

However, the food experience isnt without its bumps, with 28 negative comments. Some diners were disappointed by dishes like fish and chips tasting burnt from old oil, or finding the food bland. There were also complaints about awful sandwiches and terrible chips and guacamole.

This leads to a customer satisfaction of 69.1%, indicating mixed feelings, and an overall score of 6.7, suggesting it's decent but has room for improvement.

6.7 Food

110

Reviews

69%

Satisfaction

28

negative

6

neutral

76

positive

Rating distribution
What people like
  • Delicious Mexican food
  • Generous portions
  • Varied menu options
What people don't like
  • Burnt, bland food
  • Awful sandwiches
  • Poor chips, guacamole

Often praised

  • food
  • drinks
  • ceviche
  • cocktails
  • tacos
  • beer
  • margaritas
  • portions
  • Bbq bacon burger with fries
  • Blue Ricardo

Frequently criticized

  • food
  • drinks
  • 12 ounce can of Pacifco
  • 4 beers
  • Moscow mule
  • appetizers
  • beers
  • burnt
  • chips and guacamole
  • cocktail

If youre looking for some solid ballpark-style eats and delicious Mexican-inspired dishes like tacos and burritos, youll likely be pleased. However, be cautious with certain fried items or simpler fare like chips and guacamole, as quality can be inconsistent. It's a mixed bag, so choose wisely to avoid disappointment.

Service (5 out of 10)

mentioned by 69% of the guests

It looks like service here is a bit of a mixed bag, with a 5 score indicating its average, and customer satisfaction sitting at a 45.8% mixed level. Based on 96 comments, theres a slight lean towards negative experiences (50 negative vs. 44 positive). Many guests have praised the bar service, staff, and bartenders, often highlighting their attentiveness and friendliness, with some even commending the owner for being accommodating.

However, there are notable concerns, particularly around breach of contract and cancellation issues, which point to significant management problems. Some patrons also felt ignored by bartenders or experienced inefficient ordering systems, suggesting that consistency can be an issue, especially when the venue is understaffed.

5 Service

96

Reviews

45%

Satisfaction

50

negative

2

neutral

44

positive

Rating distribution
What people like
  • Attentive bar staff
  • Friendly, helpful crew
  • Accommodating owners
What people don't like
  • Breach of contract
  • Ignored by bartenders
  • Poor management communication

Often praised

  • service
  • bartenders
  • bartender
  • staff
  • Betty
  • Service
  • bar service
  • bar staff
  • better options
  • better service

Frequently criticized

  • service
  • bartender
  • bartenders
  • waiting time
  • owner
  • tip
  • agreements
  • availability
  • being ignored
  • breach of contract

If youre looking for a quick drink and catch them on a good day, the bar staff can be great. However, be cautious if youre planning an event or expect consistent, attentive service, as there are serious concerns about management reliability and service consistency. It's a place that might delight or disappoint depending on your luck.

Ambience (6.9 out of 10)

mentioned by 72% of the guests

When it comes to ambience, this spot generally hits the mark, boasting a 6.9 score and a solid 74.1% customer satisfaction. Many of the 86 positive remarks rave about the fantastic views, especially from the rooftop, creating a cool vibe and enjoyable atmosphere, often perfect for game days or a chill evening. However, not everyone is impressed, with 27 negative comments pointing to some significant drawbacks.

Concerns include the bar being dirty, feeling crowded at times, and the venue appearing a bit run down, with mentions of a rather sketchy staircase leading up.

6.9 Ambience

116

Reviews

74%

Satisfaction

27

negative

3

neutral

86

positive

Rating distribution
What people like
  • Fantastic rooftop views
  • Fun atmosphere
  • Great game day vibe
What people don't like
  • Dirty bar
  • Crowded space
  • Run-down venue

Often praised

  • view
  • atmosphere
  • rooftop
  • great view
  • location
  • rooftop bar
  • ambiance
  • chill spot
  • Atmosphere
  • San Diego breeze

Frequently criticized

  • crowded
  • rooftop
  • tables
  • ambience
  • area
  • bar cleanliness
  • bathroom
  • booths
  • casual atmosphere
  • cockroaches

If you're looking for a place with great views and a lively atmosphere, especially on game nights, this spot could be a fantastic choice. Just be prepared that some areas might feel a bit worn or crowded, so manage your expectations for cleanliness and upkeep.

Value (3.9 out of 10)

mentioned by 21% of the guests

When it comes to value, it seems this spot is a bit of a mixed bag, with an overall score of 3.9, placing it in the poor range. However, some folks really appreciate the affordability, especially when compared to the ballpark, and rave about the great value and happy hour deals. Out of 22 customer remarks, 6 were positive, highlighting aspects like being cheaper than ballpark and offering affordable options.

On the flip side, customer satisfaction sits at a poor 27.3%, with 15 negative comments pointing to significant concerns. Many feel the prices are too high, with mentions of surcharge, expensive drinks, and even highway robbery for beers. There's a clear sentiment that the cost for drinks and other items is just not worth it, making it a tough pill to swallow for many.

3.9 Value

22

Reviews

27%

Satisfaction

15

negative

1

neutral

6

positive

Rating distribution
What people like
  • Affordable options
  • Cheaper than ballpark
  • Great happy hour
What people don't like
  • High drink prices
  • Unexpected surcharges
  • Overpriced items

Often praised

  • Affordable
  • Price per person
  • cheaper than ballpark
  • cover
  • happy hour
  • value

Frequently criticized

  • drinks
  • surcharge
  • 16-17oz beer
  • 20 Oz beers
  • beer
  • charging for drinks
  • cup of beer
  • highway robbery
  • invest more money
  • money and time

If you're looking for a budget-friendly pre-game spot with a good happy hour, you might find some value here. However, be prepared for potentially high drink prices and unexpected surcharges that could quickly add up, making it less appealing for overall value.

How are the prices at Fairweather Rooftop?

On average, you’ll spend around 39 per person – from 14 guests. That puts the restaurant in the $31–$40 category. For a Bar & Pub, that’s mid-range, maybe slightly above.

Looking at the individual spending, its quite varied! While the average is 39, many guests found options in the $21–$30 range, and some even lower. On the flip side, a few diners went for more premium choices, with some spending over $101.

So, theres a good range of prices to explore.

Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 14 reviews.

See how this spot stacks up against similar restaurants in San Diego when it comes to value for money.

Overall, for a Bar & Pub in San Diego, we think the pricing feels pretty fair, especially with the variety of options available. You can likely find something to fit your budget.

Customer Reviews: what people think about Fairweather Rooftop

Visit Type
  • Casual Outing
Service Type
  • Dine-in
Dave M.
Review date: 09/28/2025
8
Great Service, Good Atmosphere, Pricey Beer
My experience at this restaurant was positive, particularly with the service, which was great. The atmosphere was also a strong point, rated a 5 out of 5, making it a great place to watch the game or post-game fireworks. While the beer was a bit expensive, the overall experience was good, especially considering the location.
  • location7
  • Service9
  • atmosphere10
  • beer4
Price per Person
  • $21–$30
Visit Type
  • Casual Outing
Service Type
  • Dine-in
Noise Level
  • Loud
Katrina D.
Review date: 09/14/2025
9
Amazing service on a busy game day!
My experience at the restaurant was fantastic, especially thanks to Rachel and her crew at the bar. Despite it being a busy game day, they managed to keep up with everything. The service was truly amazing.
  • crew at the bar10
  • service9
Price per Person
  • $21–$30
Visit Type
  • Food Exploration
Service Type
  • Dine-in
ARNEL D.
Review date: 07/09/2025
9
Priceless View, Delicious Eats
My experience at this restaurant was fantastic! The bar service from the staff was excellent, and the view is truly priceless. It's a perfect spot for pregame drinks and eats. I found the food, such as the ceviche and tacos, to be delicious. It's definitely worth the visit when you're in the area. Remember to tip well!
  • bar service9
  • view10
  • ceviche9
Visit Type
  • Casual Outing
Service Type
  • Dine-in
CDG
Review date: 07/07/2025
6
Great Atmosphere, High Prices
My experience at this restaurant was mixed. The atmosphere was great, earning a 5/5. However, the prices were a significant issue. I found it quite expensive, especially for drinks. For example, $11 for a 12-ounce can of Pacifico felt more than ballpark prices. Paying $50 for just 4 beers, plus an additional $6 for a tip for simply handing over a can, made me question how people afford to go out these days. In fact, I could get two tickets to a game for cheaper. The food received a very low rating of 1/5, indicating a poor experience in that area.
  • atmosphere10
  • prices2
  • 12 ounce can of Pacifco2
  • 4 beers2
Visit Type
  • Tourist Experience
Group Type
  • Solo Dinner
Group Size
  • Solo
Service Type
  • Dine-in
Noise Level
  • Loud
J I.
Review date: 06/20/2025
1
Assaulted in sketchy area near stadium
I was assaulted right outside of this bar a few weeks ago while in town for a conference. A man in a green shirt and black pants with shoulder length hair approached me, acted like he knew me, and when I didn't respond, became aggressive. He started pushing and shoving me. He was obviously drunk. He shoved me several times. Then I called out for help, and stadium security saw what was going on, but took no action. He also shouted racial insults at me because I'm "Indian", made derogatory remarks about "Indians", and on and on. Be aware of irresponsible, drunk, abusive, racist individuals in the area. The area around the stadium is a sketchy area, and there seem to be a bunch of people like this who hang out there.
  • area1
  • individuals1
  • security1

What Fairweather Rooftop offers

Highlights

  • Sports
  • Rooftop seating
  • Great beer selection

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible restroom

Crowd

  • Transgender safespace
  • Tourists
  • LGBTQ+ friendly
  • Groups

Payments

  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments

Popular for

  • Solo dining

Amenities

  • Restroom
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Wi-Fi

Offerings

  • Food at bar
  • Hard liquor
  • Happy hour drinks
  • Food
  • Wine
  • Beer
  • Happy hour food
  • Cocktails
  • Alcohol

Dining options

  • Seating

Service Options

  • Outdoor seating
  • Dine-in
  • Takeout
  • Delivery

Parking

  • Paid parking garage
  • Usually difficult to find a space
  • Paid parking lot
  • Free parking lot
  • Paid street parking

Atmosphere

  • Cozy
  • Casual
  • Trendy

FAQs

What kind of atmosphere and seating options does Fairweather Rooftop offer?
Fairweather Rooftop provides a cozy, casual, and trendy atmosphere perfect for any occasion. You can enjoy your visit with various seating options, including comfortable indoor seating and fantastic outdoor rooftop seating, allowing you to soak in the San Diego vibe.
At Fairweather Rooftop, you’ll find a great beer selection and fantastic rooftop seating, making it a prime spot for sports enthusiasts. They offer a wide range of drinks like cocktails, wine, and hard liquor, alongside delicious food at the bar and tempting happy hour specials.
Fairweather Rooftop holds an overall score of 6.1, indicating an average experience. While Ambience (6.9) and Food (6.7) are generally well-regarded, Service (5) is average, and Value (3.9) is a notable area for improvement.
Guests frequently praise the stunning views and vibrant atmosphere, especially during events. The friendly staff and some of the food and cocktail offerings also receive positive remarks.
Common concerns include drinks being overpriced, occasional inconsistencies in service, and issues with cleanliness, such as dirty tables or crowded conditions.
Loading map…
Location
793 J St, 92101 San Diego
Opening hours
Monday
Closed
Tuesday
Closed
Wednesday – Thursday
4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Friday – Saturday
12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Sunday
12:00 PM – 6:00 PM