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- Hours:
Mon-Fri. 2:00 p.m. - 2:00 a.m.
Sat-Sun. 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 a.m.
- Parking:
- Street
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Music:
- Live, Juke Box
- Best Nights:
- Thu, Fri, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- Yes
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- Outdoor Area/ Patio Only
- Coat Check:
- No
120 reviews for The Ould Sod
Review Highlights
I had not been to The Ould Sod in years until recenetly. I forgot how much I enjoy this pub.
I dig the intimate feel, the occasional bands as soon as you walk in the door. Well poured drinks, booths, and generally enjoyable crowd.
Now that I live closer I think I will be back more often for a drink to warm me up during the upcoming winter.
People thought this was:
- Useful (1)
- Cool (1)
Well, you cannot find me here anymore unless there is gin therapy for a fine young lass of equal education to my own, but I love the place anyways,.
To my friends, even those that aren't with me now, "Slán agus beannacht leat." And to those who do not, come to my house, where I will bid you something different.
May your day be touched
by a bit of Irish luck,
brightened by a song in your heart,
and warmed by the smiles
of the people you love.
And may you find all of these in your moment of need at the Ould Sod.
Francis
People thought this was:
- Useful (1)
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/5/2008
This has to be the best pint of Guiness poured in San Diego. I have NEVER seen them skim the top.… Read more »
Huge fan of the Ould Sod. I went on a Thursday night and the karaoke singers were out of this world. If American Idol just scouted out the Ould Sod on this night, they'd have more than enough candidates for their next season. Ok...maybe it is a wee bit hyperbole and a wee bit alcohol speaking, but as far as I know in my brain, it is completely earnest!
The bartenders were spot on, it isn't too crowded, but just crowded enough. Like I said, the karaoke was very entertaining with terrific singers, and I really liked the bar layout as my friends first hung out at the bar...then moved over to a table later.
A great place and I would not hesitate to go back.
*UPDATE*
Now when one of the Alpha Males of the Yelp pride (particularly a certain Ray Bans-wearing, vocally talented Yelper) calls you out on your review as "lame", you best get your ass working on it faster than Peter Parker does for J.J. Jameson.
In my defense, I've only been to this place a few times so I've been slowly acclimating to it. However, when I was here I was always impressed with the bartenders (absolutely charming with their Irish accents and quick wit) and the service they provide. The place itself is small but comfortable, with both bar seating and several large comfy booths to share with a group of friends. There is always a good crowd whenever I swing by (by good, I mean: somewhat diverse, mellow, and happily loud). Drinks are strong and seem regular priced, but I don't know the exact prices thanks to certain people always paying. [The benefits of being a cute young girl...]
Apparently Thursday nights are also Karaoke nights, so if you have the lungs for it and feel like belching out a ridiculously good version of 'Fergalicious', then you can go up and impress the rest of the bar. [As I have personally witnessed!]
Overall a great bar to have fun and sing your heart out while drunk.
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To summarize this place:
Fast service.
Irish accents EVERYWHERE!
Good live music.
Karaoke Nights? SWEET!
Strong drinks.
Smoking area in the back (door leads to it).
Pretty packed on weekend nights. Ugh...
Fun atmosphere.
========================================
Overall: Great!
People thought this was:
- Useful (4)
- Funny (3)
- Cool (4)
The Sod is solid. Heavy pours and no one looks at you strangely if you're so hammered that you get on stage and sing karaoke. That's right... an Irish pub that has karaoke on Thurs/Sat nights. Really, I thought it was just an Asian thing (not for me, though), but the people in here looooove it! There's nothing like some dude singing "Don't Stop Believin" off key.
Back alley is friendly for the smokers and you don't feel dirty hanging out there either.
You have to love that you can get obliterated in the 'hood, walk 2 doors down to the liquor store, and have fantastic street tacos on a park bench.
Hippould Sodamus! This tiny Hippo must admit he's usually terrified of the concept of "Irish Pubs". Translated into Hipponese it usually means "House Of Rapist Douches Wearing Button Up Dress Shirts". However, this place was rather pleasant. This Hippo wishes they served food but who cares cause' I'm a wee Hippo! There was a traditional Irish band playing as well which was quite entertaining. It made this Hippo ponder the age old question of what happens to band geeks when they get old enough to drink. They play flute and jug-like instruments and make tiny plush Hippos smile! Ah, the luck of the pewter..
If you come on the right night, there is nary a hipster! One did pedal in close to midnight on a Monday, but he was flanked by two dude-bros, so he kind of cancelled himself out of the stereotype.
I will say it right now: This is the best pour of Guinness in SD. Hit me back with a better one. (I know the Field is good but only because they sometimes put the shamrock in the head.) Anyhow, they do it just perfect with the first half straight in the glass, wait a half minute for the head to form and the cascade to make the bottom all brown and cafe latte looking, and then fill 'er up with creamy goodness that can only be a beer 250 years in the making. Great job.
On Mondays, they have free jukebox!!! That will always win with me. Although their box is mainly Irish stuff and classic rock, it is a good selection of tunes and you will love singing along while you hoist another pint and say cheers to life and friends and an expert bartender.
You will see all kinds of people in here on any night. The business guy that was in there had a tie that was too long and covered with some kind of stains. There were two greasers on the opposite end who didn't talk, and just watched the football highlights. Two girls that liked the greasers, but didn't talk to them. Two guys that were like Laurel and Hardy one fat one skinny, that kept going outside to smoke. One lonely girl between all these parties talking to everyone or trying to at least. After a while, some college rookies came in with their ladies and asked for bud light and tequila drinks... happily though, most of the aforementioned folks were drinking Guinness.
A problem I always have here is the tables at the booths. My long legs don't fit under them, and if you scoot the table out it gets knocked by everyone walking by. It's not a huge problem, but it can lead to spills or robust conversations. Come here on a weekday for more "Elbo" room... (nostalgia wins!)
People thought this was:
- Useful (5)
- Funny (2)
- Cool (5)
Went here for a re-union (of sorts) recently. Very unique bar. Unlike most bars around SD, it would be almost impossible to peg the demographic that shows up at this place.
All different ages, colors, types, mingling well and getting along. I sat in the back (outdoor) area. Coulda done w/out all the smoke, but I was with a group, so... can't complain too much.
Would definitely go back there again.
People thought this was:
- Useful (1)
- Cool (1)
Cool joint in Normal Heights. Went there for Kareoke night on a Saturday. Had a blast. The bartenders and patrons were friendly, typical friendly San Diego folks just having a good time. Good selection of whiskey and beer. One thing to note is the quality of karaoke hustlers there. Some are actually good singers as opposed to myself who is tone deaf not to mention a face for radio.
Awesome specials, awesome staff, awesome location, but the one thing that keeps me coming back time after time:
ONE TIME I GOT HIT ON BY A COUPLE OF SWINGERS.
Also, there is nothing, I repeat NOTHING, funnier than karaoke singers who aren't joking.
People thought this was:
- Useful (1)
- Funny (5)
- Cool (1)
friendly friendly friendly
packed ... but the good kind. i can still get a drink within a couple minutes.
good times!
and for my boyfriend they have a smoking section in the back
I went here for the first time after watching a performance at Lestat's a block down. I didn't know what to expect, but when we got in, it felt like it was packed beyond fire code regulations. It's not that big of a place and walking from the front to the back end (or anywhere for that matter) was a challenge.
The thing I enjoyed the most about this place was the karaoke! I didn't sing (I wouldn't torture anyone with that), but the song choices patrons chose were pretty entertaining. This one guy sang "Too Close" by Next and was really good! The next song was probably "Build Me Up Buttercup"...now that got the whole bar singing (whether we can carry a tune or not). I can go on with the list of random, entertaining songs in the one hour we hung out , but you get the picture....good times!
I had a great time and I sense that everyone else did. They do have a very clean restroom, but only one stall for the ladies, so be prepared if you load up on pints and you have a bladder the size of a raisin.
People thought this was:
- Useful (3)
- Funny (3)
- Cool (4)
The good Ould Sod, a friend for many a late night drink and Karaoke trainwrecks.
The Sod will always boast a full house of good people and fine drinks which are a little pricey, but the extra buck or two is paid back by good vibes and good people.
And, if that is not enough, there are three other bars on the block to visit while in that part of town so good times are a sure thing when in the neighborhood.
This is the bar to which I compare other bars.
I cannot stress how strange it is to say that a bar is my second home, but this is truly the feeling I have towards the Sod.
It's not because I spend way too much time here per se. It's more the feeling of comfort I have when I'm hanging out at the bar or in the back patio. From the very first time I came through the swinging door, I have never felt out of place. Considering that I'm usually the only chubby Asian dude or the youngest person in the bar, that's a pretty huge feat. It helps that everyone who frequents the bar are from the hood and like me, are drunkards.
The ownership and the staff from the bartenders to the doormen are class acts which are getting harder to find these days, given the recent boom in new over-hyped drinking establishments.
Is there anything lacking? I'm sure there is. But whatever that something is, I don't need it because the Sod as is, is my perfect getaway.
People thought this was:
- Useful (10)
- Funny (8)
- Cool (10)
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/5/2007
Oh God, how would I be able to make it through the week without Thursday nights at the Sod?
Ok, I'd… Read more »
I went here on a whim... one random night with 2 friends we pushed our way through the crowded entrance and were greeted by 2 energetic guitar-serenading singers - live music and no cover is always a plus in my book! Miraculously we found a spot at the bar and just chilled for about an hour. As the night grew more lively, strangers smiled and conversations started... all of a sudden we found ourselves chatting away in a cozy booth with a few new people. I really liked the atmosphere here... friendly, eclectic, social. It's a tiny place, so it's nice to know that when you accidentally bump into someone, they actual smile and say "it's ok".
People thought this was:
- Useful (1)
- Funny (1)
- Cool (1)
After several months of Karaoke Thursdays and many beers later, I now proclaim this to be My Favorite Bar Ever. It's the only bar I have ever not wanted to leave, and have shut the place down quite a few times.
Thanks for getting me hooked! :) I love you guys!!!
[ps: if only you could do something about the bar/cat pee smell, you would get that fifth star, but that's the only downfall. besides, it fades after you've been there more than 20 minutes.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/16/2009
The Sod is one of those places where you walk in and feel like you know everyone, even if you… Read more »
Being of Aryan descent I wasn't sure how my venture to this bar would turn out, In the end though I'm glad I decided to take a chance and try it out because it is amazing!
On thursdays and saturdays they have karaoke which is a much younger crowd which is a good thing (younger girls make ernest and fluffy happy). I've had the privilege of singing on this stage once as I had one too many Mai Tais in me and I proceeded to sing "Since You Been Gone" by that american idol girl.
Fun bar you should check it out!
People thought this was:
- Useful (2)
- Funny (2)
- Cool (2)
I'd like to start by saying that Guiness is NOT my kind of beer. Over produced, over marketed, and under quality. But I WILL admit that every time I go to the Ould Sod I feel the need to have a Guiness.... or 5. For the most part the bartenders are cordial, although it can take a bit to get a drink even on slower nights because they can be a bit chatty with the regulars. And if you can make it on a Monday or Wednesday night after 8pm, buy 2 and get the 3rd free till they close. SWEET!
Like others have said, quite an authentic pub. All the way down to the bathroom door handles, which read "In case of emergency HOLD". I love that.
So if you're lookin' to get in touch with your Irish side, go here, drink a couple Guiness, down a REAL Irish Car Bomb, and buy the bar keep a shot of Jamison. Trust me.
People thought this was:
- Useful (2)
- Funny (1)
- Cool (2)
Wanna feel like going to a Irish pub, Ould Sod is great for that almost authentic feel. When walking in to the pub you get greeted by smiles and hellos. I dig that so much!
I like the feel as though im in a family style pub. However if your into Karaoke this is the place to be on saturday nights! Its amazing the talent that pops on that stage. Puts a lot of America Idol to shame.
Im a big fan of the Stella and shots of Jameson. Bartenders are nice and friendly. However dont get caught dancing on the tables they will kick you out.
People thought this was:
- Useful (2)
- Funny (3)
- Cool (2)
I don't want to be a debbie downer here, but this bar is over rated. Wait... should I say that? Hold on.. Let me think... Yes. This bar is over rated.
Maybe it's because I've never really liked Irish bars in general. Stupid "proverbs" on the wall and drunken d-bags swinging beer glasses around never quite got me jumping up and down. Not that I've experienced such a thing in The Ould Sod, but that image comes to mind and it's detracting.
Or maybe it's because Abnormal Heights has always been my least favorite section of the not-so-San-Diego part of town. I mean... Lestats is down the street. It's High School 24/7 there. (Apologies to my sister who is a regular)
Whatever it is, The Sod just doesn't do it for me as a destination bar. However, anyone who lives down the street is likely excited to have a decent neighborhood spot not too far from home. More power to you people, and Happy New Year.
People thought this was:
- Useful (6)
- Funny (7)
- Cool (6)
I used to work with this one girl who would go on-and-on about this place. She really made it out to be the cat's pajamas. I finally decided to go here the other night for karaoke, and it made a meh impression.
I think that my first mistake was coming after the Chargers won a play-off game. I'm all for people liking football and supporting the home team, but when almost every person in the bar is in a football jersey and a hat I know I am usually out of place. I felt a little more out of place in my floral print shirt.
The bar was super crowded and under normal circumstances it would have been a pain to get a drink, but luckily I am a savvy bar snake, and I slithered up to the front and ordered a smart cocktail.
"Sapphire Tonic" I ordered
"Oooo sorry, we only have regular" the bartender replied with a slight tone of remorse.
"That shall be fine, bar-keep"
As it turns out they did have Sapphire, and the bartender informed me of this and poured the drink which costs $6.50 which I believe is a wee bit pricey for this bar.
I went to look over the list of karaoke selections and was pretty disappointed. Only 64 pages of large print top 20. Not really too many fun selections, and from what I was hearing, everyone was singing sad, mopey, or cheesy (not fun cheesy either) songs. Quite lame, not to mention the hour wait for the list.
The bar was at capacity by 11 or so which might deter some people from going if they plan to meet others there later. According to the doorman, the bar consistently gets that crowded on Saturdays. They really need a better selection of songs to make it worth all the effort. Meh!
People thought this was:
- Useful (4)
- Cool (3)
I stumbled upon many reviews that this bar had great karaoke. I was very excited to see this, so I decided to check it out last saturday. I was greatly disappointed in the karaoke entertainment provided. I feel that a real karaoke bar/crowd gets more into the singers and performances--but it was not the case here. Hey, maybe I came on an off night...but for a Saturday?
I was also unimpressed with the placement of the karaoke, since it's a small bar, there is not a lot of room to get through crowds of people when you have to get up and sing. It's difficult to have to navigate through the crowd to get back to your booth too. Oh well!
All in all it's a fine little pub with cool seating and a cool crowd, just not what I was expecting for a fun karaoke experience.
Yep, just went back again after a couple of years and ran into some old friends who still frequent the place. There isn't anywhere to sit if you arrive late, but if you try to make friends you can share standing space with a group or, as I did the last time I went, manage to take the booth of a departing party. Thankfully, still a friendly-as-can-be crowd and, if you're willing to make new friends, it's almost nice that you're crowded in with a bunch of other fun-loving folk.
Oh, Sod, how I miss you when I'm gone! Karaoke your hearts out you lucky bastards who live nearby. :)
People thought this was:
- Useful (2)
- Funny (1)
- Cool (2)
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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9/15/2008
Karaoke! Wednesdays and Saturdays and even if you're super shy, the crowd is so warm and loving… Read more »
For me, the Ould Sod epitomizes drinking in Normal Heights. From packed karaoke nights that I never once attended on purpose to third-beer-is-a-penny specials, from drinks with mysterious Brazilian women to drunken pit stops during Adams Avenue street festivals, from surprisingly quick expulsion triggers to deep conversations about troubled relationships, a lot has gone on at the Sod. Some might say too much, I would say not enough.
It's cramped, in most places it's worn down almost to a metaphorical (and/or literal) nub, the drink prices aren't generally going to work for your serious boozehound-on-a-budget, and there's a certain tinge of surly to some of the regulars and bartenders. Which I suppose would be bad if it didn't mix together so good.
The beer and whiskey selection is smart, the wall bric-a-brac is consistently entertaining in a drunken haze, the narrow elbowed smoking hallway in the back adds a fantastic air of haphazard skullduggery in the most classically romantic sense I can imagine, and if you aren't a jerk everybody'll be glad to talk to you.
Not all bars can lift the weight of the world from your shoulders just by welcoming you through the door. The Sod does that. Sometimes everyone needs that.
People thought this was:
- Useful (5)
- Funny (2)
- Cool (4)
Fun times on karaoke night with the dominant UYE Yelp crowd last Saturday!
At the risk of being ostracized by my Yelp friends, though, there were some serious issues I have with the joint:
- You still have to BRIBE the karaoke-master/mistress. I thought that was a unique thing that the jokers at Lamplighter do, but apparently it's a universal, or at least a SD thing. Money talks, BS gets bumped to the bottom of the list (or, rather, not added at all)!
- The staff (the karaoke master and at least one of the other staff) gets up there and sings. Now I'm all for everyone having some fun, but on a Saturday night, when there is an "hour and fifteen minutes" wait as I was told when I gave my request, then the staff goes up there and sings some numbers, THAT AIN'T RIGHT. (note to self: call Turko files)
- This place is not a dive bar. Drinks were not "dive bar" cheap ($5.50 for a draught pint); plus the bathrooms were clean. I didn't have to hold my breath or anything while in there! By my reckoning, that makes this place a faux dive.
All in all, it was a fun night, though, but much more so because of the company than the establishment itself.
People thought this was:
- Useful (7)
- Funny (3)
- Cool (5)
This place is a really comfortable environment to sing karaoke, chill, drink, and / or just have a conversation with someone.
I'm giving one star for service, one star for coziness, one star for great karaoke selection and setup and a fourth for having such a good time during my first visit.
I was amazed at how much space was available in the back area. A woman I was with grabbed me and pulled me through the main bar area, past the huge booths and the bathrooms, into a back hallway and then up and out into a really cool outdoor area.
My bottom line for the Sod: I've already told coworkers and friends how much this place impressed me and it hasn't even been 24 hours. I can't wait to go back and share the wealth with others that haven't been here yet.
People thought this was:
- Useful (2)
- Cool (2)
I have to give this place 5 stars because they had Widmer, a rocking freaking fun band and the clientele were nice as hell.
I was already 3 sheets to the wind when I arrived and I was feeling a little droopy. But not for long. The Dateless Losers started playing and my energy level shot through the roof. This band is fantastic. Can't rave enough about it.
As for the bar, the service was great, they had my favorite beer on tap and everyone was really friendly. And I wasn't even flashing. My kind of place!!!!
People thought this was:
- Useful (10)
- Funny (10)
- Cool (9)
The price is right, but I really could give or take this place. I have come here with a specific group of friends, and I love that, but I wouldn't come here with anyone else. They are generous with their liquor, but stay away from the pineapple juice - it didn't taste right when I had it (I tried twice). Go with something safe: beer or something like a gin and tonic.
There are a lot of bars in San Diego.
I have been to many many of them.
The Ould Sod is among the elite of them for having a simple and warm good time.
There are two bars I have been to and NEVER (not once) had even a chance of having a bad time. One is Aero, the other is The Sod.
So the details.
It walks the line between many worlds.
It is American. It is Irish. And not Irish in a downtown Dublin Square kinda way, but Irish in an Irish kinda way ... a way that the Publican knows the people, greets them by name, and knows their drink. Irish in the way that it is happy, and celebrates the greatness of life through beer and whiskey. Irish in its Failte Hospitality.
It is a popular hangout, and a neighborhood bar. This place is WIDELY known, keenly popular, and holds onto its local feel and roots.
I know that in Dublin there must be a fair share of Douche Bag bars ... and Striped Shirt wearing hangouts.
There are also real great bars.
This is one of those.
And they pour a GREAT Guinness.
People thought this was:
- Useful (7)
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- Cool (6)
Karaoke is Japanese for "Empty Orchestra".
I've been here several times on various nights, and it's always a good time.
During the week I've gone Tuesdays and Wednesdays and it's definitely a solid place to get a chill pint. They even stamp the shamrock in your Guinness, which is pretty hardcore. I don't even really remember getting that kind of treatment back in Boston.
The atmosphere in the bar itself is great. It's probably one of the coziest bars I've been to in San Diego. The bartenders are all extremely friendly and attentive (even on busy nights).
Saturday night karaoke is great even though I've never actually sang. I brought a friend of mine there a couple of weeks ago and he was going to try out Exile - I Wanna Kiss You All Over but was sideswiped by some dude who did it before he went up.
One day I'm going to karaoke Rick Roll the entire bar... it's gonna be huge.
People thought this was:
- Useful (3)
- Funny (2)
- Cool (2)
I used to be a resident of Normal Heights, and the Sod was my go-to spot in the hood. Now, I live closer to Live Wire, so visits to the best Irish hang on Adams are fewer and far between.
Ould Sod is one of those places that has a serious community feel. I don't think I've ever hung out there without running into someone I knew. GREAT vibes, and great people. What more can you ask for?
I challenge you to find another pub in town that pours a better pint of Guinness. Oh my GAW... I think Mother Teresa must brew the kegs that get delivered to the Sod, because their frothy-topped libations taste simply divine.
They do karaoke on Thursdays, and though there are some pretty good ringers that step up, I'd guesstimate that about 50% of 'em are tweakers off the street looking for their next big break. It's hilarious to witness... but sadly, if any of you are reading this review, you won't be running into L.A. Reed at Ould Sod anytime soon. Keep the yucks 'a coming, but the next Kelly Clarkson or Bo Bice won't be crowned here.
PS-Don't add your own cuss words to the karaoke songs... the lady that runs the machine is kind-of conservative and she doesn't take kindly to four letter words.
People thought this was:
- Useful (8)
- Funny (10)
- Cool (7)
Thank you, my gal Em who invited me here this past weekend. This could become a 5 but I think I'm in the pre-I'm falling in love with you stages for this place so I'll say 4 in the interest of playing hard to get.
First of all, I had no idea you cheeky bastard! Who knew you would find a karaoke night in a place called the Ould Sod? I was shocked.
The crowd was pretty mellow...except when it came to karaoke! Everyone was just having a grand ol' time. The drinks are at good prices and the bartenders are pretty cool. The karoake madame was also very nice. Waaaay normal looking. Which. Is weird to me.
The clincher: I have been to a few karoake bars in my time but this is the first place I've been to where there was no presence of dying rockers trying to be revived through glorious rock ballads (well, I take that back there was one but just one very tolerable one!), or wasted college girls slurring some Britney Spears to death, or that eerie draft that comes with a karoake bar's need for acoustics. There was just a mix of people who liked to drink and sing a song in front of some friends and a bar-load of strangers. No wanna-be Dinos or Celine Dions. Just some really awesome regulars and not so regulars who like to work their vocal chords out.
People thought this was:
- Useful (2)
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- Cool (2)
I vaguely remember this place, but it was only a short walk from Blind Lady and they had hard liquor so that was what sold me. I like beer, but sometimes you just wanna shot.
Cheap drinks from what I remember, and there was a band playing so that was cool.
Not a lot of walking room, it was literally only wiggle room...trying to inch into the bar or pass people to get out, but it was all good.
I'll probably hit up the Ould Sod whenever I'm back in NoHe.
Gotta love the stank of the place right after they open at like noon. After a good pint of Guiness under your nostrils, it slowly fades. They're known for having the best Guiness in San Diego County solely for the proximity of the keg to the tap. It's right underneath, behind the bar. Allegedly, Guiness is not happy about it because it's not consistent with the majority of other establishments which allow the beer to travel through sometimes stale PVC for tens of meters before reaching the tap. But Guiness can't say much because, purpotedly, they go through more Guiness than any other establishment in San Diego County.
They know how to pour a proper Guiness too. They fill about 3/4 of the glass, allow it to settle for about 4 minutes and then finish it off, sometimes drawing a shamrock (not a 4-leaf clover) in the head. $5.
Outside of the blaring karaoke, this place is legit. Ok, nevermind, the karaoke gives it that goofy touch that warms the cockles of my heart. I'm a fan of the American "Irish pub." I put it in quotes because the places that claim that nomenclature are about are Irish as Lucky Charms; they throw short, pleated skirts on their waitresses and throw some Guinness on tap and !WAH-BAM! apparently you've got an authentic joint. Well, in response to that, I say "Nay, good sir, thou hath been trumped by the Ould Sod."
This place is definitely up there among the few places edging on totally authentic.
Employees: My bartender was real Irish person with an accent and everything. I'm not talking about the bleached-blonde chick that's living in PB with 40 of her closest friends from Dublin. I'm talking about the aged Irish dude, who has smoked his fair share of Dunhills and downed his fair share of Guinness. He knows how to pour a Guinness because he's been drinking them since age 4. He pours it slowly and waits for it to settle, not because he's a dickhead or lazy, but because he wants you to have a kick ass pint. Oh yeah, they pour their Guinness with NO2 - major plus because that makes it fucking COLD! I showed him my 5 Irish tattoos; he showed me his lack of teeth. I told him I lived in Dublin; he retorted, "Oh God help ya! What're you doon in that shitehole?" They are good people and pour a damn tasty pint.
The Joint: Yes, it's tiny. But doesn't that increase the number of boobs you accidentally graze as you're walking toward the back for a cigarette?
The Clientele: Standard 20-/30-something crowd. Although I did see a pair of Wranglers with a leather vest, which was, um, cute?
We went in after our kickball game last night, sang happy birthday to some random chick, and basically took over the bar. 'Twas a grand old time, and I hope we make this a weekly occasion because there are few things I enjoy as much as hearing a sober patron sing "Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy" with complete conviction. Plus, my kickball team rocks.
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Shamrocks on a head of Guinness.
5 Stars.
Went here last night after kick ball awesomeness, then I rocked out on karaoke and it ruled. Everyone sang along and we had a great time. This was a classic awesome night scenario at the Sod where I knew a lot of people. Makes you feel warm and fuzzy inside... I'm sure that's how drunk, Irish people feel all the time.
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1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/25/2008
Dear Irish People at the Ould Sod:
The Ould Sod is a tribute to drunken Irish everywhere. My favorite… Read more »
This is my bar. It has been my bar for about 7 years now. There is nothing else like it in SD. No not even The Field can compare. Why? Because of the feel. If you don't know what I'm talking about, go to Ireland or Boston and hang out for a while at a small Irish bar and you will know. Either you get it or you don't. That is all. I love you Sod, just the way you are, always and forever (cheesy I know - I can't help it the Irish are sappy, it's cultural) ;)
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Love this place. I am moving into the neighborhood soon and I have a great feeling that this is going to be one of my new hang outs.
The only down side is that it gets so packed that there is standing room only (barely). I had friends sitting at the bar and a few of us were standing pretty close behind them. Every time someone walked by we would have to squeeze close to the person in front of us. The guy in front of me didn't mind (it might have been the low cut shirt I was wearing). We even made jokes about it as the night passed. Finally we found a few empty tables in back and migrated back there.
PS: Kudos to the karaoke singers. They really weren't bad at all.
Over all, this is a great bar. I will be going back!!
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Many a 4 star night has been had here, as have 2 and below. It completely depends on what's going on, who's around, and whether or not you are able to get a seat. Karaoke is fun here, though there's not a lot of talent and the mic sucks. Usually the karaoke is so loud I wind up on the smoking patio inhaling second hand smoke and drinking myself into a haze knowing some friend of mine has probably signed me up for karaoke since I walked out of the bar. These are sometimes great nights.
I've been here a couple times on a Monday while waiting for open mic at LeStat's or some such excuse. These are usually not great nights. There is a core group of people who always seem to be here. They are nice enough, but really into whatever football game happens to be on. How can you be so fired up about every Monday game? The bonus is that if you buy 2 drinks you get the 3rd for a penny. The downfall is that I don't live around the corner and rarely want a 3rd drink on Monday night. As it were, I usually manage to find the penny.
Huge perk: The Greek restaurant next door will serve you at your table in The Ould Sod.
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Wow is this place small. The karaoke was a nice touch but it meant the place was packed. It was hard to get a drink due to the amount of people and I had to stand in the back corner with my friends and had to constantly move as people walked through.
I am sure if I had arrived early and scored a table things would of been fine but I think that they should say sorry we are full so that you can move on the a less crowded bar.
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