I was surprised to find this hidden gem inside ASA Bakery (631 Fourteenth Street). From a bakery wall, a secret door opens to a sophisticated bar with vintage furnishings and crystal chandeliers. You’ll love the decor and all the records in the Hibiki Lounge.
Bar Kamon enables passage to another era; this speakeasy transports you to Japan in the 1920s.
Their cocktail menu features innovative drinks crafted with not only spirits and ingredients from Japan but also Japanese techniques. Every cocktail is an experience. The black sesame old-fashioned is a must. They also serve shochu, Japan’s indigenous spirit, not to be mistaken with soju.
If you like your whiskey neat, there are a lot to choose from, even next-level masterpieces like Hikkebi 30 year or the Nikka.
Trying out all their cocktails will have you coming back, and so will their menu. There’s ceviche, Wagyu roll, Mediterranean Harumaki, and if you like to dip your fries in ice cream – order the Bougie Fries. Fun fact: the milk used to make the soft serve in-house comes from Hokkaido.
For roughly two years, this family-run business has continued to gain accolades, including winning the Diner’s Choice Award by OpenTable. Reservations are highly encouraged to experience true Japanese-style hospitality in this intimate setting.
Bar Kamon is open every day except Tuesdays. It may just become your new favorite bar. SDSun
(Kaushal Patel is a former international CNN anchor who’s also worked in local news in San Diego. She’s a downtown resident and co-founder of Seller’s Corner Real Estate. If you’re looking to buy a condo in downtown or any other neighborhood, why not work with a local area expert and start the conversation today?)
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