Highlights
- Live music
- Sports
- Live performances
- Great beer selection
oChef » Aquarius – San Diego
Aquarius - San Diego
Photo from Aquarius
Aquarius at a glance
San Diego Mission Bay
- 🍻 Bar & Grill
$$
Price per Person $21–$30
mentioned by 87 of the guests
#479 out of 755 places to eat in San Diego
#15 Bar & Grill out of 17 in San Diego
Good
6.9 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
486
Reviews
68.5%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Live music
- Good food
- Outdoor vibe
Frequently criticized
- Inconsistent service
- High prices
- Loud environment
The restaurant Aquarius, a vibrant Bar & Grill nestled in San Diego’s scenic Mission Bay, invites you to experience an unforgettable evening. Imagine stepping into a cozy, casual, yet trendy spot where the air buzzes with live music.
You’ll find yourself immersed in an atmosphere perfect for unwinding, catching a game, or enjoying a night out with friends. This lively destination offers more than just great food; it’s a hub for entertainment and good times.
Overview: Introducting Aquarius
Aquarius offers a lively atmosphere with live music and a generally friendly service. Many appreciate the relaxed vibe and the quality of the food and drinks available.
It’s a spot where good times and entertainment often take center stage. However, some experiences at Aquarius point to challenges with rude staff and concerns about items being overpriced.
While the setting is often praised, these aspects can detract from an otherwise enjoyable visit.
Good
6.9
out of 10
486
Reviews
68.5%
Satisfaction
124
negative
29
neutral
333
positive
Overall, Aquarius earns a respectable 6.9, placing it in the good category, though customer sentiment is a bit more mixed at 68.5% satisfaction. This suggests that while many have positive experiences, there’s a noticeable segment with reservations.
These insights are drawn from 486 customer opinions, with 333 positive and 124 negative. Diving deeper, the Ambience (7.8) and Food (7.2) are clear strengths, frequently praised for their quality and contribution to the experience.
However, Service (5.4) and Value (5.3) hover in the average range, indicating areas where some patrons feel there’s room for improvement.
What people like
- Lively live music
- Enjoyable food selection
- Relaxed outdoor setting
What people don't like
- Inconsistent service quality
- Perceived high prices
- Loud environment
With a 7 recommendation score, Aquarius is worth considering, especially if you prioritize a vibrant atmosphere and good food. It shines as a spot for entertainment and a relaxed setting by the water, making it a solid choice for a lively outing.
However, be prepared for potentially average service and prices that some find a bit steep. If you’re seeking a quiet, budget-friendly meal, this might not be your ideal destination.
It’s best suited for those looking for an energetic experience.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Aquarius
Food (7.2 out of 10)
mentioned by 75% of the guests
When it comes to the food, youre looking at a pretty solid experience! With a score of 7.2 and customer satisfaction at 71.9%, its clear most diners leave happy. Many of the 92 positive remarks rave about tasty eats like the mahi mermaid platter and mango fish taco, plus a good bar food selection and strong drinks to wash it all down.
However, not everyone was thrilled, with 23 negative comments pointing to some areas for improvement. Some found the food to be very pricey or even garbage food, with specific mentions of plain nachos being a letdown. It seems consistency might be an issue for a few items.
Food
128
Reviews
71%
Satisfaction
23
negative
13
neutral
92
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Tasty food options
- Good drink selection
- Variety for everyone
What people don't like
- Some food overpriced
- Inconsistent food quality
- Poor nachos
Often praised
- foodMy experience at this restaurant was largely positive, with great food and drinks and live bands being three things I particularly loved. The servers and service were also good, and the atmosphere was especially nice on a warm sunny day.
- FoodThe atmosphere truly made me feel like I was on vacation, creating a very relaxed and friendly vibe. The food and service were also excellent, contributing to an overall wonderful dining experience.
- drinksMy experience at this restaurant was largely positive. I found it to be a great place to go kick back by the water, enjoy some good food, and have a few drinks while listening to live music. The bartenders were absolutely fabulous.
- fish tacosWe had the fish tacos for lunch and they were better
- 420 cocktail420 cocktail - both were 5-star delicious
- Aloha burritoAloha burrito was great and had tons of fish
- Baja bowlrecommend the Baja bowl
- Mahi Mahi tacosTry the Mahi Mahi tacos
- Mahi burgerThe Mahi burger is delicious
- Mahi slidersThe Mahi sliders are delicious.
Frequently criticized
- foodMy experience at this restaurant was marred by poor service and poor food. The atmosphere was also negatively impacted due to security guards interfering with the venue.
- pork tacosit looked and tasted like dog food
- FoodFood:1
- Garbage FoodGarbage Food
- Vegetarian optionsVegetarian options:Management is GARBAGE.
- cocktailsthe cocktails need
- drinkcouldn’t order more than one drink
- drink mixDrink was a little off mix
- fish tacosWe were pressed for time, and they only served us two orders. Apparently, when you order 6 fish tacos, it actually means you only get 4. LoL.
- flimsy plastic cupMy experience at the restaurant was marred by poor service and a flimsy plastic cup for my drink. I reached for the drink I just ordered at the bar, which is served in a flimsy plastic cup, and accidentally spilled one simple Jim Beam straight. The bartender's response was dismissive, saying "move over I have a job to do" despite only three people being in line.
If youre looking for a fun spot with generally good food and drinks, especially some of their specialty items, its definitely worth a try. Just be mindful that a few dishes might not hit the mark, so choose wisely!
Service (5.4 out of 10)
mentioned by 66% of the guests
When it comes to service, opinions are quite a mixed bag, with a customer satisfaction of 48.2% and an average score of 5.4. Many guests, based on 53 positive remarks, frequently praise the friendly staff, great bartenders, and welcoming owners. Youll often hear about the positive energy and helpful employees who make visits enjoyable.
However, theres also room for improvement, as 54 negative comments highlight issues like long lines to get drinks, slow service, and occasional unprofessional security. Some experiences mention specific rude staff members or difficulties with drink policies, indicating inconsistency in service quality.
Service
110
Reviews
48%
Satisfaction
54
negative
3
neutral
53
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly staff
- Great bartenders
- Welcoming owners
What people don't like
- Slow service
- Long drink lines
- Rude security
Often praised
- ServiceThe atmosphere truly made me feel like I was on vacation, creating a very relaxed and friendly vibe. The food and service were also excellent, contributing to an overall wonderful dining experience.
- servicefriendly service
- staffAdditionally, there were a few patrons who seemed overly intoxicated, and it would be beneficial if staff addressed aggressive dancing into strangers. Despite these minor drawbacks, the place is close to perfection, with nice patrons, a chill staff, clean restrooms, and reasonable prices.
- bartendersAs the sun began to set, The Jam Berries provided incredible live music, filling the place with energy and a completely crowded dance floor. I had the pleasure of meeting Debbie, the owner, who was exceptionally nice, as were all the bartenders and the bouncer. We sat outside by the bonfire table and heater, making for a cozy and warm December experience.
- ownerI had the pleasure of meeting Debbie, the owner. She was so nice
- employeesThe employees are great
- Ray and NickRay and Nick are awesome
- StaffStaff was very nice and helpful
- bartenderthe bartender was hustling
- bartenders and staffBartenders and staff are nice
Frequently criticized
- serviceBrian the bouncer is unprofessional and rude
- ServiceService:1
- ownerowner of that Bar and Grill I think her name is Debbie is heavily intoxicated
- securitycontinually antagonized and harassed by security
- bartenderThe bartender says "move over I have a job to do"
- bouncerBrian the bouncer is unprofessional and rude
- staffIf you’re reading this to make a decision, don’t come here! What a disrespectful and rude staff! It was 9am and the place was completely empty.
- 1 drink per person policyif there was a 1 drink per person policy
- EntertainersDO NOT TAKE CARE OF THEIR ENTERTAINERS
- IDbartender verified my ID herself
Service here is a bit of a gamble; you might encounter genuinely friendly staff and great bartenders, or you could face slow service and long waits. If you're patient and the atmosphere is your priority, it might be worth a visit, but be prepared for potential inconsistencies.
Ambience (7.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 84% of the guests
The ambience at this spot is largely a hit, scoring a good 7.8 with good customer satisfaction at 81.6%. Guests frequently rave about the fantastic live music, the inviting outdoor seating, and the overall fun vibe, often highlighting the insane sunsets. This positive sentiment is echoed in 169 positive remarks out of 207 total observations.
However, there are a few areas for improvement, with 31 negative comments noting that the music can be super loud during concerts, and some found parking to be a challenge. Concerns about transients and personal space were also mentioned, suggesting that while the atmosphere is generally great, some aspects could use refinement.
Ambience
207
Reviews
81%
Satisfaction
31
negative
7
neutral
169
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Live music
- Outdoor seating
- Great vibe
What people don't like
- Loud music
- Parking issues
- Personal space
Often praised
- live musicMy experience at this restaurant was centered around its fabulous live music, which is available virtually every night of the week with talented musicians of many genres. The atmosphere was a definite highlight, with a mature 40+ crowd that embraces who they are and enjoys a laid-back vibe.
- atmosphereI went on my birthday with friends and we had a great time. The music was great, creating a fun atmosphere that was very laid back. We enjoyed two bands for only $10: the excellent Electric Waste Band and the talented touring band Fat Paw.
- musicI enjoyed the good entertainment and the outside patio. It's a great spot to head over for good times and music. They also offer good parking out front, and they serve food as well.
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- bandsWhile the crowd was okay, it lacked the energy I remembered from the past. The food and drinks were overpriced, though the bands were great, and the crowd was fun for dancing.
- vibeAlways good vibe down here!
- Grateful Dead cover bandGrateful Dead cover band was playing and they were great
- crowdThe crowd was friendly, older
- dog friendlyThe atmosphere was filled with good vibes, enhanced by live music and a large outdoor area. They offer enough choices for food & drink to satisfy everyone, and it's great that they are both dog and disability friendly. I particularly enjoyed the jetty bowl, giving it 5 stars, and was pleasantly surprised to find they even serve sloppy joes!
- locationThe restaurant is on mission bay marina surrounded by boats and all sorts of water sports activities
Frequently criticized
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:1
- atmosphereit seems like the old deadheads that place as a personal hangout club
- musicOthers loved the music but too loud for me
- bandMy experience at this restaurant was disappointing. We were charged $5 each for the band, but we arrived just after the band had stopped playing at 3pm. When we asked for our money back, we were told we were contributing to the bands.
- band membersall over sloppy drunk hanging on all the band members
- bandsbands sometimes are a bit too loud
- conversationI can't hear what people are saying to me and I can't yell very loud
- crowd energylacked the energy of the past
- customersThe band was also wonderful. However, the experience was marred by the behavior of some customers who used foul language around children and those who don't speak that way. It's a family-friendly bar and grill, and some people clearly have no manners.
- entire establishmentThis guy was NO WHERE NEAR respectful towards us, and I’m shook from the whole experience. Seeing other reviews, this is not the first time this has happened… and sadly that reflects on the entire establishment. I can’t back up places that allow this kind of treatment, period.
If you're looking for a lively spot with great live music and a fun outdoor vibe, this place is definitely worth checking out. Just be prepared for potentially loud music and consider your parking options beforehand.
Value (5.3 out of 10)
mentioned by 30% of the guests
When it comes to value, many guests find things to cheer about, often highlighting great prices and reasonable prices for food and drinks, especially during happy hour with tempting $5 sliders, tacos, and drinks. The convenience of a Free parking lot and Plenty of parking also adds to the overall appeal. With 19 positive remarks out of 41 total observations, theres a noticeable appreciation for these deals, though customer satisfaction sits at a 46.3% mixed level.
On the flip side, value can be a sticking point for others, with complaints about the general price feeling overpriced, especially when unexpected cover charge or band charge fees pop up. The practice of charging for refill sodas' also left some feeling nickel-and-dimed. These 16 negative observations, among the 41 total, contribute to the 5.3 average score and 46.3% mixed customer satisfaction, suggesting value is a bit of a mixed bag.
Value
41
Reviews
46%
Satisfaction
16
negative
6
neutral
19
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Great happy hour
- Reasonable food prices
- Free ample parking
What people don't like
- Unexpected cover charges
- Overpriced food/drinks
- Charged soda refills
Often praised
- Free parking lotParking options:Free parking lot
- Plenty of parkingParking space:Plenty of parking
- Price per personPrice per person:$10–20
- priceFood is good for the price
- $5 sliders, tacos, and drinksThe service was great. We took advantage of their happy hour, which offered $5 sliders, tacos, and drinks. The food was great.
- Parking optionsParking options:Free parking lot
- cheap beercheap beer
- cheap pricesimpressed by the cheap prices
- domestic beerCan still get a domestic for 4.50
- entry coverit’s reasonable
Frequently criticized
- cover chargeI asked if I could use the bathrooms before we got on our boat, and they refused. I told them I would purchase a drink or food, but the guy refused and said there’s a cover charge of $10. I told him I’m okay with paying it, so he charged me the $10 to use the bathrooms but denied me service when I said I would buy something.
- priceThe food was decent, but nothing special. What really stood out was the price; it felt expensive for what you get. They even charge to refill sodas, which is a bit much.
- OverpricedOverpriced
- band chargecharged us $5 each for the band
- food and drinksFood and drinks were over priced
- food pricesFood prices are a little high for what you get
- gated parking areado not park in the gated parking area...too expensive
- happy hour priceshappy hour prices are not so great
- moneynever give this business my money again
- refill sodasWhat really stood out was the price; it felt expensive for what you get. They even charge to refill sodas, which is a bit much. While the location is right by the water, you can't actually see it from anywhere in the restaurant.
If youre hunting for a good deal, definitely check out their happy hour specials and free parking. However, be aware that unexpected cover charges or higher regular prices might make the overall value feel a bit overpriced' for some, so plan your visit wisely.
How are the prices at Aquarius?
You’re looking at roughly $24 per person – reported by 87 diners. That puts it in the $21–$30 category. For a Bar & Grill, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Looking at what everyone else is spending, most guests are right in that sweet spot, with the majority of prices clustering between $11–$30. So, it’s not a wild mix of super cheap and super premium, but rather a consistent mid-range experience.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 87 reviews.
A comparison of value for money at this restaurant versus similar spots in San Diego.
Overall, we think the pricing feels pretty fair for a Bar & Grill in San Diego. It offers a solid mid-range option without breaking the bank, making it a good choice for a casual meal.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Aquarius
Service Intent
- Casual Outing
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Large Group
Visit Type
- Dine-in
10
Coolest Surf Shack Bar with Live Music!
My experience at this bar on Quivira Way was absolutely fantastic! The spot has a really cool vibe, giving off major chill surf shack vibes. The music was upbeat, and I was impressed that they offer live music five days a week.
The bartender was also super rad. I'm giving it a 10 out of 10 and will definitely be back, bringing all my friends!
- chill surf shack vibes10
- upbeat music10
- live music10
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Service Intent
- Casual Outing
Visit Type
- Dine-in
9
Cool Beach Vibe with Live Music
My experience at this restaurant was great! It has a really cool vibe, very reminiscent of a San Diego beach, with a unique blend of Grateful Dead and Stan Getz. The bar menu is simple, nothing too fancy, but I'd recommend trying the Mahi Mahi tacos.
There's a large outdoor seating area that faces the jetty towards OB. They also have live music every night, which adds to the great atmosphere.
- cool vibe9
- Mahi Mahi tacos8
- outdoor seating area7
Service Intent
- Casual Outing
Visit Type
- Dine-in
10
Amazing Food, Music, and Sunsets!
My experience at this restaurant was fantastic! The food was great and the portions were generous. I was also impressed by the cheap prices, making it a great value.
The live music was amazing, and the insane sunsets provided an unforgettable atmosphere.
- food9
- cheap prices9
- live music9
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Service Intent
- Casual Outing
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Small Group
Visit Type
- Dine-in
Noise Level
- Moderate
9
Great Spot with Live Music!
This is a great little place off the beaten path. The food menu had a nice selection, and I particularly enjoyed the indoor/outdoor venue. Parking is plentiful on the street, but avoid the gated area as it's too expensive.
The staff was very nice and helpful. The live band was rockin' – 3 Door Garage! I'll definitely be back for sure!
- food menu8
- indoor/outdoor venue8
- street parking7
- gated parking area3
Price per Person
- $21–$30
Service Intent
- Casual Outing
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Visit Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
7
Good atmosphere despite menu issues
My experience at the restaurant involved a cover charge for live music. Unfortunately, they were out of steak and shrimp due to a menu revamp, which meant many items were unavailable. Despite these limitations, the atmosphere was still good, and I had a pleasant time.
- cover charge5
- menu revamp5
- atmosphere7
- steak and shrimp3
What Aquarius offers
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Tourists
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Kids' menu
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Popular for
- Solo dining
- Lunch
Amenities
- Restroom
- Free Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
- Bar onsite
Offerings
- Dancing
- Food at bar
- Late-night food
- Hard liquor
- Vegan options
- Happy hour drinks
- Food
- Quick bite
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Small plates
- Happy hour food
- Cocktails
- Organic dishes
- Vegetarian options
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Dinner
- Seating
- Lunch
Service Options
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
- Takeout
Pets
- Dogs allowed
Parking
- Paid parking lot
- Usually plenty of parking
- Free street parking
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Casual
- Trendy
FAQs
What kind of entertainment and dining options can you expect at Aquarius Bar & Grille?
At Aquarius Bar & Grille, you’re in for a treat with live music, sports, and live performances creating a dynamic atmosphere. You can enjoy a great beer selection, hard liquor, wine, and cocktails. For dining, they offer food at the bar, late-night food, quick bites, small plates, and full meals for lunch and dinner, including vegan and vegetarian options.
Is Aquarius Bar & Grille accessible and suitable for families or those with pets?
Absolutely! Aquarius Bar & Grille is fully wheelchair accessible, with an accessible entrance, parking lot, seating, and restroom. Families will appreciate the kids’ menu, high chairs, and the fact that it’s good for kids. Plus, if you’re bringing your furry friend, dogs are allowed, making it a welcoming spot for everyone.
How does Aquarius generally perform?
Aquarius holds a 6.9 overall score, indicating a good experience for many. Its Ambience (7.8) and Food (7.2) are particularly strong, while Service (5.4) and Value (5.3) are perceived as average.
What are the main draws of Aquarius?
Customers frequently praise Aquarius for its vibrant `live music` and `friendly service`. The `atmosphere` is often described as relaxed and enjoyable, especially with its outdoor areas.
Are there any common complaints about Aquarius?
Some patrons have noted issues with `rude staff` and `overpriced` items, including cover charges. The `music` can also be quite loud, which might not suit everyone.