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The Wine Cabana
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Music:
- Background
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Thu, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- Yes
- Alcohol:
- Beer & Wine Only
- Smoking:
- Outdoor Area/ Patio Only
- Coat Check:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Quiet
- Good For Dancing:
- No
- Ambience:
- Romantic, Intimate
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
84 reviews for The Wine Cabana
Review Highlights
"comfy wicker chairs, cozy fire pits, super chic cabanas."
(in 7 reviews)
"The atmosphere was chill and the staff was friendly."
(in 21 reviews)
"Check this place out kids."
(in 3 reviews)
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84 reviews in English
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Review from KaWai Y.
San Diego, CA
1/23/2012
I threw a baby shower over the weekend and it was a big hit! I decorated the outside patio with lanterns and they allowed me to bring in my cupcakes and my cake. We ordered a variety of paninis which were delicious thanks to Frank and got Mimosa's (even though they usually don't carry OJ!) Can I say best customer service ever? They accomodated all my needs which allowed me to be the best baby shower host I can be :)
A big shout out to Bill and Frank. Both of them were awesome and helped me in each and every way to create awesome memories for my expecting friend.
From the bottom of my heart: THANK YOU Bill and Frank, you are the best! -
Review from E W.
San Diego, CA
1/21/2012
I wanted to like this place. I did.
My girlfriend and I came in on Friday night at around 7:30 and sat at the end of the bar since the couches were taken up and the bar didn't have 2 spots open in the middle. The big goofy guy behind the counter seemed friendly and handed us a menu... and then about a minute later another menu since there were two of us... and he started using an exacto-cutting tool to slice up menus for the week right in front of us. And when I say right in front of us, I mean ON the bar, with his hand hitting my girlfriend's purse every time he sliced. We told him which glasses of wine we'd like, and he said "Okay" and sliced about 2 more before walking over to get the bottle. He came back with it, poured, and right back to slicing. Then as we're about to order some food, he walked to the opposite end of the bar and started talking to his coworker behind the bar about some date she was on or something and we waited through about 10 minutes of that before he came back and had to grab his attention to place our order for the $18 cheese plate, which ended up being about two pounds of block slice cheddar and parmesean from Von's with some huge chunks of gorgonzola. Whatever. We didn't have silverware, plates, or napkins. Also, whatever. After a few minutes, my girlfriend asked for a napkin. He said "Okay" and cut a few more menus in front of us before heading down the bar, coming back with ONE napkin. "Here you go." Back to cutting menus... I felt too awkward to ask for my own, so she ripped hers in half and gave it to me...The bar cleared out by about 8, which was about the time that they started playing with the dimming switch on the lights (4 times up and back down), and we were the only two people in there. He came over and again started cutting menus RIGHT in front of us, as we were having what was quite obviously an intimate conversation. He was close enough that I could reach up and touch his face. I mean... come on. That's not even etiquette, that's just common sense.
It was a poor showing all around, mainly because of this guy who we can only assume is named something like Doug and must be the son of the owner. Oldtown is a trek in itself; I can't see myself going back out for Wine Cabana. -
Review from Tiffany A.
San Diego, CA
12/19/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Great place to hang out with friends or to rent out for your own party.
I've been here many times over the past couple of years and I'm always happy to see many of the same faces working here and feel welcomed each time I visit.
The place is split up into three areas, the bar, the indoor lounge and the outside fire pits. The bar has bout 10 or so seats, so great for just grabbing a drink with a friend. For something a little more private they have a nice semi indoor area that has booths and lounge furniture. For bigger groups they have the outside fire pits that you can sit around and enjoy a couple drinks.
I've been here to just get a drink on a pitstop to dinner or after dinner, for birthday parties and for private parties. I've planned a few reunions here myself and have had nothing but compliments about the venue from those who attended. I've been able to close out the lounge area and the fire pits and it makes for a great mingling venue.
P.S. Half of the place is set outside and although they have heaters and fire pits, during the winter months it can get pretty cold in Old Town, so bundle up.
P.S.S. For those interested in having an event here, the staff is really easy to work with and you can work out bringing outside food vendors in since they do not have a full kitchen. -
Review from J. M.
San Diego, CA
12/13/2011
Really cute spot. I came here with two friends, but didn't know that it coincided with a poker tournament happening just a few minutes after we arrived. It didn't bother me too much since I was there with friends, but if I was with my boyfriend on a date night, it totally would've killed the ambiance the place usually gives off. There was a couple there who actually went to the outdoor cabana instead (thank God for firepits!).
The waitress was very friendly, and answered all of our questions. The paninis were delicious too!
I'd definitely come back - hopefully there won't be any distractions this time. -
Review from Dan D.
San Diego, CA
11/7/2011
Atmosphere - Very nice date and chill place in Old Town that offers a different option than the norm in that area. Seating at the bar (small) inside and well as chairs and couches. Outdoor seating with music and crafts (sometimes) with heaters and fire pits. Dogs are allowed. Friendly service.
Food/Beverage - Typical wine bar offerings for food. Usually have 6ish beer options and wine as well.
Cost - On par with wine bars I guess...that being said I always use the $25 http://Restaurant.com certificate...spend $35 and get $25 off....not too shabby. That usually equals 5-6 drinks depending on the wine/beer mix.
Summary - Short review but they offer a cool date place where you can sit back, talk and relax. The main knock would that they have very limited options for a wine bar (both beer and wine) and their beer is fairly blah as far as options. They also usually only have one person working but it usually isn't super packed...just means sometimes you need to get up from your situation and get your drinks.
*** BONUS BONUS BONUS ***
http://Restaurant.com $25 certificate costs $2 and you have to spend $35 (alcohol included!). I usually pair this with the same exact certificate with 25 Forty Bistro & Bakehouse - DIRECTLY ACROSS THE STREET - and have a killer night out with dinner and drinks for under $50. -
Review from Chase S.
9/18/2011 1 Check-in Here
The best thing about the Wine Cabana was my bartender Bill - but he was pretty much the only highlight of my wine tasting adventure in Old Town.
Wine selection: Poor-fair. I was really hoping to taste some local wines from Temecula but they didn't have any, I was kind of shocked.
Food selection: Poor. They had plain goat cheese but not much else as far as cheeses and really nothing interesting to nibble on. I need to eat if I plan on tasting a lot so this was pretty disappointing.
On a positive note it was nice to be able to get wine in Old Town since I was not in a tequila mood. The ambiance was pleasant and as I mentioned before Bill was top-notch. He was so cool I'd drop in again but probably just for 1 glass.
peace, love, and good booze ~ chase
http://www.chasesterli...Listed in: San Diego'ish
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Review from Livia G.
San Diego, CA
10/12/2011
I had my birthday party / fundraiser event at the Wine Cabana this year. The venue is adorable nestled in Old Town you walk into what feels like a tropical pool side oasis.
Services is good, wine select is good. They do also have bottled beers (none on tap)
The owner and staff were very accommodating for our large group and even opened early on Sunday to fit our needs. They were generous in donating wine to the raffle we had to raise money for Making Strides Walk Against Breast Cancer.
I will definitely go back for a happy hour soon! -
Review from Jessica Q.
San Diego, CA
9/3/2011 2 Check-ins Here
How has this place been in Old Town for 5 years and I've never heard of it?????
Some friends and I decided to venture down to Old Town for dinner. We were starving so we opted for the early dinner and then wanted to find somewhere chill to just hang out afterward. While I was trying to find the name of a different wine bar in Old Town, this place popped up on my google search, and I am so happy it did. Not only was this place better than what I was hoping for, but now I've got a new favorite location within walking distance to my house.
The ambiance in this place was just perfect. There were cabanas with comfortable-ish chairs circled around working fire pits. The server definitely took her time finding us but since we had already had dinner/ started drinking elsewhere and were just planning on hanging out for awhile, it wasn't something that we were concerned about. She more than redeemed herself when it came to wine selection. We knew we wanted a Pinot Noir, but were unsure of which of the 3 we would like. She suggested that we meet her at the bar where she offered us a generous tasting of all 3 wines so we could make an educated selection.
The only reason that this place didn't get that 5th star for me is the extremely limited food/ dessert menu. I like to munch while I'm sipping on my wine, and although I wasn't there for food on this visit, it would have been nice to know that it was an option for when I returned. -
Review from Shelby Z.
Escondido, CA
7/13/2011 1 Check-in Here
5 stars for atmosphere
5 stars for service
3 stars for selection...
1 star for only having one unisex bathroom!!!
came here for my girlfriends going away bash (she's off to Spain for 2 months to teach English! woo go Lori!!). we called ahead about 3 weeks to let them know we were going to have about 40 people coming, and they said no problem (also, Lori knows people who work here, etc). the whole place is GORGEOUS. the inside & outside areas are actual "cabanas", so cute, and a couple fire pits outside. for being in Old Town, the bottle prices are great too ($20-$40). the food selection is minimal, though. so grab a bite before you head down.
negatives:
1). one bathroom. 40 drunk well-wishers... eh :/
2). for being a wine place, the selection is a little dismal. maybe 30 wines to choose from total?
3). we called to tell them we were coming 3 WEEKS ahead, but they still were out of a lot of wines. you think they would have stocked for the weekend a little more appropriately, oh well.
positives:
1). flipping great service. before buying a bottle, our bartender had us try a few to check them out beforehand. +1!
2). the seating areas inside and out are so fabulous. comfy wicker chairs, cozy fire pits, super chic cabanas... take a trip inside just to look if you're in Old Town.
3). NO SMOKING on the patios!! I know this is a negative for smokers (me!) but I love it so much more when they're aren't 7374875 people around me being nasty. also helps keep their wonderful patio clean.
4). no credit card limit! sweet.
go go go go go -
Review from T-Bone R.
San Diego, CA
11/5/2011
I like this place, nothing on the wine list ever jumps out at me but I can always find something I like. They usually have some interesting Italian wines. The snack menu is satisfactory, just little things to compliment the wine. The house made peanut butter is great. The bar area is nice but the patio out back is really cool, kind of like Beach Party meets Lawrence of Arabia.
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Review from Henry T.
10/25/2011
A nice place to chill out and relax, though their food menu is a bit limited from the looks of things. My cousin's friends decided to stay in this place to kill time after finding out that there was a 90 minute wait at nearby Harney Sushi on a Saturday night. The two girls in our party had glasses of white wine while the four guys had beer. We all ordered Stella Artois and by the time we were in our seats, I was really hungry. I hadn't eaten in about eight hours by this point and I have found out that I just drink alcohol better if I have some food in me to better absorb the alcohol. As I've said, this place's food menu was severely limited and I didn't want to look like an idiot by being the only person to order a soda while in a wine and cheese bar so I went ahead with the beer. I barely drank from the glass, which might have been socially inappropriate, but I didn't really care. It was a cheap beer and I actually only wanted food.
They did take the cabana theme a bit too literally. We were seated in an actual cabana with giant relaxing chairs that allow for too much slouching for my taste. I'd like a stiffer chair, and probably would've done better if I had sat at the bar in the next room, which had a TV set to a football game then later the World Series game for that night. The problem was that the room the bar was in was incredibly, claustrophobically small. The one saving grace was that there was a jazz band in the big outdoor space next to our cabana and it made me wish we could've been seated there instead of one of the cabanas off to the side. -
Review from Joanne B.
San Diego, CA
8/24/2011
My date suggested I find a quite place in old town to get together. I said there is nothing quiet in Old Town, it's filled with tourists. He said that he knew a place off the beaten path that was perfect. I was pleasantly surprised.
The atmosphere at the Wine Cabana has great ambiance with private cabanas inside and out, wicker couches and fire pits for colder weather. It was delightful. It was the perfect place to have a romantic interlude and enjoy some great wine and a wonderful cheese plate (the Red Wine Cheeses were absolutely wonderful).
Ryan was our host for the evening and he was exceptional! He was attentive and informative without being intrusive. Ryan gets 6 stars for answering all our questions about the delicious cheeses and then disappearing so my man and I could be alone.
I only wish you could maybe have a little more privacy in the cabanas by closing the curtains. Just a thought! -
Review from Gregg S.
Oceanside, CA
11/1/2011
Had the pleasure of visiting the Wine Cabana before my wife and I went on another tour of old Town. Stopped by around 430pm and had a couple glasses of wine. The atmosphere is great and the seating was very relaxing. I would recommend this place to anyone wanting to pick up a glass of wine before hitting any of the local restaurants in the area.
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Review from nicole c.
1/19/2011
Throughout the perils and uncertainties of life, we as a species tend to find and cling to the few things in life we know we can count on. Our loved ones... religion maybe, or a favorite pet, perhaps.
I, too, have my rock. My solid ground where no one can hurt me, where I feel safe and sure and like everything might just be okay in this crazy world.
That solid rock, of course, is cheese.
So when I hit up the unassuming-looking Wine Cabana one Sunday night in the 28-days-later-like human-less zombie world we know as off-season Old Town, I was excited to see a cheese platter on their happy hour menu. "Oh, that's nice. A little cheese with my wine," I thought. NOPE. NOPE. NOT A LITTLE CHEESE.
Nothing could have prepared me for the SPARTAN SHIELD OVERFLOWETH WITH CHEESE AND CRACKERS AND FRUIT that they brought out. Now, sure, mind you, it may have because we were the only couple in an empty wine bar full of aging-quickly cheeses, but my GOD, it was like CHEESEARIA GODDESS OF CHEESE had smiled upon me on this day. That, coupled with a decent hummus plate and a few glasses of wine and I was down for the count within an hour.
I decided then and there that if I ever trick some sucker into marrying my socially-inept, borderline retarded self, this is where my engagement party will be. Adorable indoor/outdoor patio, cabanas, candles, heaters, wine, and MOTHAFUCKIN CHEESE PLATES.
4 stars, Wine Cabana. Nice work. -
Review from Jennifer L.
San Diego, CA
6/21/2011
To all of you wine guzzlers out there who have very few options in Old Town:
Hit up the Wine Cabana. I've been coming here since the year it opened, as when I head to Old Town it's typically for Harney Sushi and wine as opposed to carnitas and margaritas. (As a Mexican food snob, I have honestly had much better Mexican food in North Park, Chula Vista and of course Baja. But we're not here to talk about that...)
The Wine Cabana started out as a great concept, with a welcoming Hawaiian theme and a really warm and comfy atmosphere - complete with indoor and outdoor cabanas, and Brother Iz softly caressing the air with his Hawaiian tunes. However, though the atmosphere, service and selection were for the most part great, I think that this hidden gem remained hidden, and suffered carbon monoxide poisoning from the tour buses because of course people don't venture to Old Town for wine. The food menu after a year lacked the punch it started with, and the wine selection thinned out a bit.
So after some time of having quiet experiences at the Cabana highlighted by drunk diatribes with my girlfriends, I showed up for the "Hawaiian Jam" this Spring - which was a charity event to benefit those affected by the earthquakes and tsunami in Japan. It was a GREAT event! There was Hawaiian food by DaKine's in Point Loma, live Hawaiian music, hula dancers, raffle prizes and drink specials. All in all, it was a great night, and I definitely did not go home sober.
I expected that this was a one-time event, but as it turns out, this new lineup of free entertainment, a re-vamped food menu, and an expanded wine list are here to stay. Some of the entertainment I've experienced lately are: live jazz, a monthly charity poker tournament, and the recurrence of the "Hawaiian Jams" night. Most recently, my man and I headed to the new 25 Forty Bistro & Bakehouse for dinner (also VERY good), and then to the Cabana for live music and wine after.
After a bit of a sophmore slump, the Wine Cabana has become the best it's been since it opened. I would highly suggest you stop by! -
Review from John B.
San Diego, CA
9/21/2011
a band I am in played here and the owner and staff treated us right. Nice venue,
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Review from Tiffany L.
San Diego, CA
8/29/2011 3 photos
I love this place. The atmosphere is completely inviting and comfortable. It's big enough to feel intimate and not cramped, and there's plenty of cozy seating options, both inside and out. The service is friendly and knowledgeable. Their menu is small, but their options change fairly commonly. We are a huge fan of the Chocolate Port, if it's still on the menu. We love port. And we love chocolate. Put them together? Oh man. I definitely recommend this place for a romantic date, night out with friends or just some quality wine tasting!
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Review from Kitty S.
San Diego, CA
8/2/2011 1 Check-in Here
Had a surprisingly awesome night here. Was with a big group and not only did our server stay on top of it but also was able to keep up with all the separate checks! The hummus was yummy and huge and the wine selection was good and not overwhelming.
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Review from Angelo F.
12/10/2010 1 Check-in Here
This place is so versatile! If you're looking for a place to take a date, this is it! If you're looking for a place to be social with friends just for a gathering, this is it! If you're looking to have a birthday party which can accommodate 40-50 of your friends, this is it! I've had all of the above here. Kevin and Ryan are the best! They can recommend all sorts of wines to suit your liking. There will even be times when the owner is there and he checks up on you to make sure your experience is top notch.
The atmosphere is subtle and relaxing. The wine selection and pricing is very decent. The seating is plenty whether you're indoors or outdoors. The music is chill and the staff is cool!
This place is tucked away so look for a sign stand that says Wine Cabana.
Here's a tip: Get on their mailing list. They send out monthly emails which show themed nights and specials! You have no idea how many times I've heard people talk about ladies night at the Wine Cabana!!! -
Review from Debra G.
San Diego, CA
9/1/2011
Had a fabulous time at the The Wine Cabana last night for my birthday. Great champagne, craft beers and munchies. Our waitress Sara took awesome care of us. Love the private draped cabana lounges with fireplaces. Had so much fun, never left for dinner! Check it out if you're in the area. We'll definitely be back.
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Review from Mike C.
9/17/2010 1 Check-in Here
Another bar in historic Old Town that people would just walk by and not take advantage of. I guess that's good on my end since I can sit in peace, but the lady said that they had to cut their hours and only open after 5pm now, now that less people are coming over. Sorry to hear that. Hopefully this place will pick up, it's a pretty decent, chill, relaxing wine bar.
Well again, took advantage of their happy hour, 5-7pm and it's $2 off wine, $3 beers, $5 hummus, $6 antipasto or $10 duo of cheese. I went with the IronStone Symphony Obsession blended wine. The nice lady ran out of the riesling that I asked for so she recommended this nice suhhhweet wine. Very nice, very aromatic. And yah, kinda sweet. Good choice my friend.
Decor was cool, music was jazzlike, and other chill, relaxing music. They have cabanas/lounges out in the patio area. But it's getting hella cold these days, and yah people were still sitting out there. Nice looking fish aquarium out in the bar area. The bathroom was super cool too. As you are in there pissing away, just look around and above you with the nice undersea murals. It's as if you are eating, swimming and sleeping with the fishes. And no, not like sleeping with the fishes Godfather style, but like hanging out with Nemo and stuff. Check it out, you will probably piss on your pants because you've been focusing way too much on these cool fish, sea murals thingee. Again this is inside the unisex bathroom. Ooops, sorry to leave the toilet seat up.
Lady was super cool too. I don't know what's up chicks but they have extra sensory or something. Like you know what's going on in your mind and stuff. Earlier in the day, she noticed I was just staring at the bar and essentially spacing out, and she got me back to my balance. Then later noticed again, that I was...well..not into it, and again she got me through it. Super cool bar lady who has ESP or something. I dont remember this in 8th grade Health class, but I guess chicks have that ESP thing embedded into their seraphomes or hormones...or whatever you call that feminine thingee.
Other than that, nice chill wine bar. You can also sit out in the front patio, no credit card minimum. And like other parts of Old Town, your AT&T service sucks here as well. They need to update their menus too to reflect current restaurant hours and new food menu. But yah, come by for a visit. -
Review from Debra H.
El Segundo, CA
1/23/2011
After planning a trip to San Diego, I checked out http://Restaurant.com for dining suggestions and ideas. Came across Wine Cabana and thought it might be a sweet place to go to after walking around Old Town. Some of the reviews weren't the best but I decided to give them a chance. Our experience was wonderful. Like some of the other reviews, it's not the place you would come to look for new friends. We found it a nice and relaxing place to chill with a date or a group of friends. We sat at the bar and our bartender Angela was awesome....very friendly and gave us great service. She was quick to offer tastes of the wines and suggestions for restaurants in the area.
The wine selection was limited which was interesting for a 'wine bar'. There were only 3 or 4 wines of each variety. Most I had not heard of before and it was great to try new wines.
Overall, when I return to San Diego, I would definitely make a stop at Wine Cabana, with or without a coupon! -
Review from Teej T.
Urbana, IL
2/23/2008
The Wine Cabana was the site of my monthly hang out with Paul P. and Ms. G, and I must say I was delighted by the experience.
The cabana itself is rather incongruously placed in Old Town, about a block south of the main stretch, and next to a ludicrously cheesy Mexican restaurant (hardly an unoriginal scene in Old Town). The space is set up in two distinct sections--one simple bar area, and another lounge area of several cabanas, set up with curtains, small tables and stools. It's a lovely spot. Too bad it was effin' freezing (read about 55 degrees) the night we were there, or we'd have enjoyed it even *more* thoroughly. However, I definitely enjoyed my flight of "Racy White" wines. They were delicious and wondrous, and I certainly enjoyed every last drop of the well-put together assortment. Good job, Wine Cabana!
The sausage/cheese platter was a bit mediocre, but I honestly wasnt' here for grub, I was here for company and zesty wine. The Cabana did not disappoint. Later in the spring when it's warmer, I'm certain to be back.
The owner himself is incredibly friendly, gregarious, and interested in his customers. They offer a community oriented listserv that broadcasts local events and attempts to make customers feel like they have a local place in the Cabana.
On top of that, their bathroom is freakin' awesome. Lots of candles, super clean, well laid out....Bathrooms are important, and it's done with style and panache here. :)
I have to say I loved every minute of it. Go cabana!Listed in: Going out with Paul P. and Ms.…
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Review from Mick G.
10/18/2007
Very low key and unpretentious Wine Bar.
The outside seating area is awesome ... it is suitable for large groups, small groups in cozy settings, and one on one ...
The service is pleasant, and they seem to have some kind of special going on almost every night ...
I was there on a Cheese Night, and there was a free mini cheese platter! nice. Had a flight of reds, and found that the ordering on the flight was maybe a bit poor (arranged by price and not flavor and the first one was very very strong and overpowered some of the other more subtle flavors later on.
Overall a good little place!!!! -
Review from Miss J.
San Diego, CA
11/7/2007
This place is so cute! It would be a perfect bar to have a party because it's stylish and elegant, without being stuffy. The wine is tasty and reasonable, and pairing it w/ cheese and sausage platter is soooooo good.
The staff is really friendly and knowledgeable. My only complaint is that there aren't enough people AWARE of this place! It's kind of hidden. I told the owner that they need to advertise. He told me that word-of-mouth is the best advertisement! Touche!
Check it out sometime! It would be a shame to see it go out of business or something. -
Review from Pilar B.
5/11/2009
l was visiting SD for vacay and met up with an old HS friend and her boy! We were thinking of a place to chillax and have drinkee drinks! This place was our choice for the night. My friends knew someone here so that was a plus, he was cool and the atmosphere was chill. When we arrived, it was kind of dead. I was hoping more people would show up because damn it...eye candy ya'll..HELLO!
The words: "It's a Small World" did come into play because as soon as we sat down, a few of their friends showed up randomly. There were a total of six cool peoples chilling around a table having wine. My friend, her boy and I had white wine; while the other three peeps had red. It was good. We ordered appetizers: cheese, salami, olives and crackers. It wasn't fancy just a plate of edible finger foods while sipping on the wine.
Décor is nice. In the middle, where we sat, there are comfy couches with pillows, Rattan style chairs and off to the sides are tables with booth seating and canopy curtains. It was a very nice ambiance. There is a patio area for outside drinking, however, you can not smoke near by, it's not Korea town lounges (heheee).
Nice place to hang out, converse, laugh, joke, take pictures all while having wine and crackers...but I would suggest going to eat after. -
Review from Joanne A.
12/20/2008
This place was okaaaay. I was only here briefly for a happy hour event before I went to dinner else where. This street is pretty dark at night, but there is a decently lit parking lot diagonally across the street from this place which is where I parked. I'm glad I used my GPS since I had a hard time reading the numbers on the other buildings up until I approached Wine Cabana.
The wine list was okay, the Gypsy Kings-esque music playing ambiance of the place was okay, the food selection was okay and my $4 dollar happy hour special glass of riesling was okay. That's pretty much all I have to say about Wine Cabana. Oh wait, one nice thing that was a plus in my eyes was the toilet paper at this place; they didn't skimp on the cheap stuff...I think they use Charmin.
Yeah, that's all folks. -
Review from Emily A.
New York, NY
2/18/2008
I want to be friends with the owners of the Wine Cabana. This place is extremely chill. There are actually cabanas inside and outside, with heat fans for those chilly San Diego nights, as well as a bar with stools if it's crowded, which it was when we were there. (I believe there was a birthday party happening at the time.) But anyway, the bartender was great- not overly friendly, but very efficient, and offered help with our choices. I love the option of so many different wine flights- I got a flight of four South American reds, which was fantastic. They even give you a little placemat, where they put the mini glasses and write descriptions of the wine. There's also space to write your own notes if you're feeling particularly nerdy.
You can tell that the owners- one of whom was working on his computer behind the bar during our visit- have a great, wine-for-everyone type of attitude. The wine list was totally accessible and the beach-y feel eradicated that bit of snootiness that usually hangs in the air at wine bars. After I gave the bartender my email address to inform me of events, I came home and checked my email to see two emails that the owner had sent during my visit! Spee-dy. They have five thousand different events going on each month, like "Stitch and Bitch," and days to go and drink with your dog and fun things like that. I will definitely be back. -
Review from Anthony D.
San Diego, CA
12/3/2008
Last week, I was on a second date and was totally embarrassed. When we were served our flights, the glasses were spotty/dirty and two of them still had smudges of lipstick on the rims from the past tasters. Wow! Is that Plum lipstick from MAC you are wearing?
Also, the glasses were tiny compared to over 25 other places that I have wine tasted at various locations around CA (Wine Vault Bistro will be getting an excellent rating from me in that category).
Some of the wines appeared to have been opened a few days prior to our visit (watch out for that stale wine). Atmosphere "cabana style" was good and service ok. Price, not worth it ;-( -
Review from suzanne h.
6/2/2008
This is my new favorite. Some of my friends were walking around old town, and one friend told us that they had accidentally found the wine cabana so we immediately searched for it as our final destination.
the place was great, they had adoreable little cabanas, and it was empty! which i love, so we got our pick of wherever we wanted. the service was great, and they had really yummy looking stuff on the menu. my friends and i shared 2 bottles of wine which was a little pricey, but no more than expected. and we got a plate of cut up apples with this yummy homemade honey peanut butter (which literally reminded me of airplane peanutes that i love)
It was almost too comfortable, my friends and i were falling asleep. but i am DEF going there again. -
Review from Joe C.
La Mesa, CA
9/7/2008
Went there on my brother's suggestion to celebrate my dad's 70th. I have to say I really like the atmospher and the overal 'concept'. Sampled a few wines and shared a cheese plate.
The staff was freindly and gave us a room to ourselves.
The only no-no's were the lack of available parking and the recuurent smell of sewer gas that occasionally wafted through. (may not be their fault). there is a lack of breeze through the place due to the architecture, and some cieling fans or area fans would help. -
Review from leahnora r.
San Diego, CA
12/4/2008
Ok so 5 stars for ambience...It's perfect for a cozy girls reunion if your in your middle to old ages. Or a romantic date (if he's paying).
Or if Kevin is working b/c he hooks up the good cheese and even throws in some crackers and nuts. (On the menu you have to order them separately and the cheese plate only comes with bread).
My companion and I thoroughly enjoyed the chocolate fondue fountain; we took turns feeding each other dipped strawberrys, trying to be sexy as possible while fishing out seeds and wiping off drips of chocolate from our chins.
I glanced briefly at the bill after he had already paid and was in the bathroom and notice that it was very expensive, so I don't believe I will be going back there unless I'm escorted again or Kevin's working.
Also, the lady serviing us must have had an off day. She just had a frown that you couldn't turn upside down. -
Review from Erik S.
Carlsbad, CA
10/9/2008
The Wine Cabana is a great concept that was seriously marred by nonexistent service and bad food.
The layout of the place is beautiful -- with indoor and outdoor cabana areas of various sizes and shapes and dimnesses to hang out in and put away wine. That combined with a thorough by-the-glass and flight list... what could possibly go wrong?
Well, to start with, reds probably shouldn't be served at room temperature when it's a sweaty 80 to 85 degrees indoors. Other than that, I found some good selections while working my way through the burgundy bathwater.
There was only one person serving 20+ patrons, which led to some waits and necessitated abandoning the cabana to trek to the bar to pick up extra pours.
We had a selection of hummuses (humii?), and they were damn good, although they were sloppily splooged into and over the side of lil' cups. The accompanying scattering of crumpled pita chips resembled what you find when you reach the bottom of a well-worn bag of Stacy's.
Then there was pizza.
I claimed hints of Mama Celeste and Jeno Pizza Rolls. My cohort claimed Bagel Bites. Not that there is anything wrong with any of those microwave concoctions, but for $12?
When the fresh whiff of ass rolled in, as noted by a previous reviewer, we rolled out.
Damn, Cabana. I'd hoped for so much more. -
Review from amber c.
San Diego, CA
Updated - 12/14/2008
I have to update this. I liked it the first few times, but man, this place has really gone downhill.
Let me delineate the events that lead to this realization...
My first visit: Overall good. I liked the down-to-earth feel and the choices of wines by the glass. The waitress was wearing a stupid t-shirt about getting wasted, which I found irritating, but also sort of ironic and amusing. Then she sloshed my wine on the table when she poured it haphazardly, and I got over it because, hey, I had my own cabana and was with charming company, and felt at ease in a very casual setting.
My third visit: My white wine was room temp. The glasses were spotty. We ordered some food, and they didn't have our first two choices. When we got our third choice, it was stuff we could have eaten at home but less of it.
Our last and final visit: After being told to take a seat wherever we'd like by one waitress, we were ignored for a good 15 minutes until we flagged down another waitress, who found our girl. we ordered a bottle of white wine. We asked for a recommendation from the waitress. She told us we'd love this Spanish white. So she brings it out, and it has ALREADY BEEN OPENED and there is some wine missing from the bottle. I shit you not!! This was beyond the pale, as far as I'm concerned.
The setting is cute, but that cannot sustain my good opinion of it, given my experiences. What a waste of a nice space...1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/29/2008
my first thought about wine cabana was, "hm, i wonder if they actually have *cabanas*?"
yes, yes… Read more »
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Review from Jill W.
San Diego, CA
11/7/2008
I liked the Wine Cabana's concept. For a Thursday night is was pretty mellow, so our group of six had a comfortable set of couches and chairs inside. With the doors open and all the outside seating, it was a really laid-back scene. Several of us ordered wine tastings, which come themed in whites or reds. I had the "Light and Fruity" flight which was four half glasses of sweet whites ranging from light to sticky (the Reisling). For $20 is was not exactly a bargain, and I would have rather had two whites and two reds. Four sweet wines was a bit much and left me craving savory snacks.
For food we ordered several knick-knacks to eat. The humus platter was good but the pita chips tasted like they were out of a bag. The flatbread margarita pizza was bland and cooked on an oversized cracker. The salami and cheese platter was tasty after the sweet wines, but the trio of olive oils and vinegar were not interesting at all.
Parking on a Thursday in Old Town wasn't bad. They had a dedicated lot out back, and the free public parking across the street. There were plenty of spaces.
I will head to the Wine Cabana again. Lots of wines to still try, and with that atmosphere, who cares if the food's not thoroughly intriguing. Any bar with big cushy chairs, candles and lots of wine is a-okay in my book!
PS- Unlike previous postings, the bathroom was scented with candles and was not offensive in anyway. In fact, I liked how it was decorated, beachy with bamboo. Sometimes a dookie gets dropped, but you can't blame the restaurant you're in since it was probably a meal or two ago that caused the offensive odor. -
Review from Jenn C.
5/26/2010
I came here for happy hour on a Tuesday with my friend. We caught the last few minutes of happy hour and ordered an antipasto and two glasses of wine. I had the Zinfandel and she had the Malbec. I had initially tried the cab on their wine list, but found it to be kind of on the tart side. My friend tried the Shiraz and also found it a bit tart. I like the zin better. It was full and fruity. My friend enjoyed her Malbec. The happy hour wines were $2 off each glass (about $5-7/glass after the discount). We didn't order any beer, but it was $3 for beers.
The anti pasto was a plate of salame and cheese with some crackers and a dish of olives. It was pretty standard. The olives were Greek olives (yummy), but the salame and cheese were unremarkable.
The atmosphere was chill and the staff was friendly. -
Review from Mariah C.
San Diego, CA
8/1/2008
This place is so cute... can't believe I just now discovered it!
I went on a Tuesday night, so that may in part explain the non-existent crowd at the place. My friend and I were the only souls in sight for 3 hours! And considering that this place is in the middle of old town and I went during the height of tourist season in San Diego - I was seriously expecting much more of a crowd!
In any event, I had a delicious Pinot Nior and a wonderful Cheese plate (but then again, how can you go wrong with wine and cheese!?). The happy hour prices are great, and the outdoor cabanas are simply adorable! If this place were in the middle of the gaslamp I think it would have a bigger draw... -
Review from Bionda C.
San Diego, CA
6/14/2007
What I love about The Wine Cabana:
* Great wine selection
* Affordable tasting menus
* Delicious appetizer plates (try the smoked salmon, delicious)
* Outgoing, friendly staff (owner Keith will answer any of your questions)
* Cabanas, inside and out
Check this place out any night of the week, especially during one of their theme nights. Monday is Industry Night with deals for service industry staff. Every month features a Birth-Day with specials for people born in that month.
Cheers!
email: info@winecabana.com
phone: 619.574.WINE (9463)
web: http://www.winecabana.comListed in: The Places I Go Out
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Review from Sue L.
San Diego, CA
6/15/2008
Cute doesn't begin to describe this place!! Wine Cabana actually has little quaint cabanas! Can you believe that? They have both outdoor and indoor seating... the atmosphere is super laid back and relaxing. I like the fact that you can sit there with friends and your wine and feel completely secluded. It would also be a great place to have a romantic night...
The only thing that could make this place better is if the cabanas were sitting on a tropical beach somewhere! That and maybe better service. We had to go get the waitress before she took our order... and then we had to bring our check to the bar at the end of the night. But it is all worth it... this place is cool in my book! -
Review from Kelly W.
San Diego, CA
5/1/2007
WOW! You can't get much better than this! Only been around for about 5 months so I suggest you check it out now before too many people discover this treasure. The wine selection is wonderful and the appetizers are delicious. The atmosphere blows away any wine bar I've ever been to and the staff is great! Seriously, this is my new favorite wine bar. I hope you will agree :)
Oh ya, they even have a great monthly email - make sure you get on it!!
