The Kraken Bar & Restaurant
2531 S Hwy 101, Cardiff, CA, 92007
The Kraken Bar & Restaurant Menu
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Address :
2531 S Hwy 101
Cardiff, CA, 92007 - Phone (760) 436-6483
- Website https://www.thekrakencardiff.com
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :9:00 am - 1:3
Specialities
- Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Parking : Private Lot
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : No
Good for Groups : Yes
Ambience : Divey
Noise Level : Loud
Music : Live, Juke Box
Good For Dancing : Yes
Alcohol : Full Bar
Happy Hour : Yes
Best Nights : Fri, Sat, Sun
Coat Check : No
Smoking : Outdoor Area/ Patio Only
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Has TV : Yes
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Rourke V.
This place is Religious if you're a Biker! Even the Snooty crowd from across the street can't help but come to the Dark Side to have Fun. Live bands, great Drinks, and a big guy named BC will make the greatest burger you've had in you're whole life.
(5)Keith N.
MINUS 1 STAR This place is out of a 1960's bad dream. Best dirt bag dive that doubles as an off track betting parlor.. Great if you want to "score" or need a fix near the backroom. I do not think a penny has been spent on maintenance on this place in 30 years. Wonder where all that "Cash Only" goes? Hello.......this is the IRS Calling, can we please speak with the owner ? Well ... it is a step up, ... for the parolee crowd that frequents this hole. Do not attempt a bathroom visit. Much better bars on the same street.
(1)Aaron A.
I guess I would call this place a friendly biker bar, that's right I said it. I struck me as being a little bit of a rougher crowed from the outside but that could not be farther from the truth. Everyone was super cool and I can't think of a time that I have not struck up a conversation with some random people at the bar. This is what a dive bar should be like cool bartenders and welcoming patrons. Parking can be limited but I guess if you go on the weekend you can park at the office building next door, you may want to confirm with the bartender. They have live music every night of the week and a gill in back that I think only operates on the weekends or during the season. Overall this is the type of place you should go on a Saturday afternoon, order a Budweiser and take inventory of how awesome it is to live in So Cal. Check this place out.
(5)David K.
As a mid 20's young professional, I think I just may not be the target demo for The Kraken. I'm not wearing biker leathers, I'm not a 45 year old divorced woman, I'm not a fan of having said bikers drop huge stinkers in the bathroom. With a prime location overlooking Cardiff's beach, the place looks like a dive from the outside, not to mention the inside. There are always 10 choppers parked outside, and I'd estimate the average age in this place to be 38. Which is fine. I'm just not 38. Maybe I can start counting down the days when I'll be grown up enough to appreciate it. Maybe not. For the time being, better options are found going a short distance either way on 101. In fact, I'd probably have a better time downing beer and margaritas at Las Olas virtually next door.
(2)Goldy L.
Dive with great nice friendly people. Open mic, good music, calendar of events on wall....on Wed. Did The Beach House, walked across to The Kraken, left to Belly Up and came back!!! To check out more good looking men..LOL.. Big dance floor, open, spacious, cozy and light. Good dancing......
(5)Jim L.
Even though it is called The Kraken Bar and Restaurant, I've never eaten here and to be honest, didn't know they had food?? The bar itself would be described as a "dive bar" at best which makes me feel right at home. The crowd is mixed but mostly locals and accepting of "outsiders" The Kraken offers a couple of pool tables and the times I've been there, I've never had an issue getting a playing slot. There is also covered outdoor seating which is nice when things are a little crowded on the inside and you want to catch your breath. Drinks are pretty inexpensive and they typically are quite liberal with their pours. The only problem I have with this is the fact that it is cash only as others have suggested. That would be the only downside in my opinion.
(4)Kelly H.
Love the authentic biker bar! Lots of High life!
(3)Todd P.
Sitting on the back patio wall we glanced down toward the river mouth and there we see it. Loch Ness monster? No. Jaws?? No! Something far worse and way too close for comfort... the top of a mans head just below us. Not a dead man but a Biker laying a stinker right below us. WTF!!! They have toilets here. Seriously! Pants around his ankles and wiping his ass as he raises, closes up shop and walks away. Kraken just lost a star. Other than that I had a good time but if this is the type of people or animals they attract, I'm downgrading it. This after thought added 7/30/08. After pondering what we had witnessed on that perilous day, I must re-think the star I took away. (OK brain... is this gonna be a poem?) (Todd this is your brain speaking. Talk to the hand) Whatever!!! I don't know who's in charge here but at the Kraken, after all I no longer feel it is a reflection on management or the owner if some $hit for brains decides to leave half a mind coiled up behind the patio wall. (Quit that rhyming) (brain again - $hit it's just timing). (Did I take my meds this morning???) Therefore I give back the star I took away. If this incident doesn't qualify the Kraken as a dive bar I don't know what would anyway(Crap! You win brain). Kraken is back up to 4 stars.
(4)Maria A.
This place is Kraaaaakkkeeennnnnn. (sorry, had to do it). Gotta love a place that is not only super chill, but open on holidays. I think i came here christmas eve after church. Yep...after church...i said it. The bands here are pretty chill. I mean, let's get this straight....dont come here if you are looking for class. This is a down right manly man bar. So why do i go?? Cheap drinks and i can dance like an idiot bc i dont really know anyone here. NOt sure if they have food or anything but i probably wouldnt eat it anyway. So get yo dancing shoes on, and get ready to dance to some jimmy buffet. Cheers!
(4)Nick T.
"Release The Kraken !" Hell. No.To this I say... Keep The Kraken ! In Cardiff ! Bikers,1 surfer dude, old biker ladies,1 Mexican dude, more biker dudes, myself and 2 gay guys in spandex chaps (?!) youtube.com/watch?v=YMOq… I really didnt know what to think. I just kept close to T & A so that the regulars would know that I have back up, just in case something went down. It was strange. The atmosphere was calm yet volatile. Kinda like keeping tabs on Amy Winehouse, you just know that something epic could happen at any given minute. I was fortunate enough to be here on their 34th anniversary, which meant that it was busier than usual and more importantly, FREE BBQ !! One thing that I'll say about biker dudes, they know their way around a bbq grill. The chicken was great and so was the brisket sandwich. I actually ate two plates, thanks to A for getting it for me ! Would I ever come here by myself? Absolutely not. Would I ever bring a group here? No way, unless it was a predominantly white group of friends. Would I come back here with T & A? In a heartbeat. They are regulars and that in itself makes me at ease. Its in a great location. The only other bar that could compare to this place is Cheswicks, in OB. Very similar. Cash only, its by the beach and also full of tough looking biker dudes. I cant even begin to comprehend what those two gay dudes in the colorful spandex outfits were doing in this place. They were standing next to me and it was so obvious that they were uncomfortable. They must have lost a bet or something.
(3)Melanie Q.
Great bar! We were here last Friday night and had a great time! Drinks were yummy and the bartender was very cool, I thought! My hubbie didn't like him so much because he had to wait a little bit to place his order of drinks. I think I heard Johnny Cash in the background too...by this point I had already walked "the Captain's" plank so I can't tell you if it was a juke box or a live band...geez, what a lush...I know, I know. There is NO food here. But, there is a great restaurant right across the street that has great nachos. The plus plus about this bar is that it's not your typical 21 year old frat bar. There was a great mixed crowd ranging in all ages. Parking is a little tight, but we seemed to park right out front. I didn't give it 5 stars because of the no food, CASH ONLY, tight parking and hubby said "f that, I had to wait on my drinks." Moral of the story...don't come between a man and his beer. gosh
(4)Amber G.
cool spot, older crowed of people. They started BBQ tri tip on the Deck which was pretty yummy...dive bar,cash only,bathrooms are pretty nasty..
(3)Janelle R.
I get it, it's a dive bar. I love dive bars, but the wafting smell of urine adjacent to the fooze ball table is deathly! I will give them credit for the location (one of the best views in town) and the stiff drinks! Oh, and the hamburger stand on the back patio aint too shabby either. Not sure how they really taste, but anything tastes awesome after three drinks (or just one of theirs). If you're lookin' to meet the love of your life or the man of your dreams, this aint the place (especially if you're one of the youngins hangin' out here), but if you're lookin' just to have some strong drinks and enjoy the ocean breeze, albeit the aforementioned pee breeze in the back room, this is your place.
(3)Craig W.
This is a true dive but it's friendly and non-threatening. Cash only--don't forget! The live bands are almost always good and usually danceable. The servers are friendly and the mood is cool. The restrooms are a horrorshow, but most are these days anyway. Give it a try. You've passed it 500 times and probably always wondered what it was like. It's friendlier than it looks from the outside.
(4)Jerry M.
Hey, its a dive and they know it. The cash register is still chinging and the bar/restaurants across the street have closed. I like the place for what it is.
(4)Joe D.
Hey....we went here...my ex-girlfriend and I...on a Sunday. I'll never forget it. She found $40 at the ATM machine so that was a good sign. When we went to the Kraken..about 6 months ago (I shoulda wrote sooner), we had a blast. The people were very nice. There was a good band. It was warm outside. I played pool in the back...had a smoke, and several drinks...she made friends on the dance floor. We had a blast. We were social and friendly and mostly everyone else was, too. I haven't been there since but I still recommend it. As dive bars go, it tops the list...and if your girlfriend (mine was cool) is too snooty or hoity-toity - do NOT bring her here..the bathrooms are kinda gross. Even I don't enjoy urinating in a trough.
(4)Dolamite J.
its a biker bar
(3)Paula D.
The Kraken fills a niche in San Diego for people who are not 21 but still want to dance and have a great time. The dance floor is a nice size and the bands are usually pretty fun. The people watching can be pretty entertaining at times. The 5th star was lost due to the repulsive state of the bathrooms. Always quite stinky and gross. Parking can be a big challenge, plan to get there early or walk a long way. The lot the Kraken offers is microscopic.
(4)William T.
if you like dive bars, bikers and live music then this place is for you! This place is great for weekend daytime live music and hanging with a fun and entertaining crowd. Cruising in here late night would not be my first choice but is it great as a last resort. Just keep in mind that last call is at 1:30AM so plan your drinks accordingly.
(4)Jay B.
The Kraken has been there since 1976. Besides the photos on the wall, I doubt much changed in all that time. The Kraken is fun, live music 7 nights, good drinks, reasonable prices, great accoustics. Just an old, fun beach bar. Ages seem to be 30's - 60's .. Pool tables, Juke Box and a food consession during the weekends. Open Jam with Doug Allen of the Mar Dels every Monday and Tuesday, the Brokers Band every Sunday.
(4)Rhiannon R.
My 3 friends and I went here and got 1 drink and then left. I would say this bar is more or cougars. Even the bouncer had mentioned something along those lines when we walked in. For 4 Lemon Drops it was $28. The bartender was really nice and she even put our leftovers in the fridge for us.
(3)Alisa M.
Naming this place Kraken "Bar and Restaurant" is a big stretch. There is no kitchen. There is a BBQ on the patio run by BC and OMG his tri-tip sandwiches are knee knocking, ass shaking, screaming orgasm delicious!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Seriously one of the best things I have ever had in my mouth!!! (Sorry Todd) I would give this place 5 stars for the that sandwich alone. But all in all a typical dive bar. Cash only which bugs me because the owners are sitting on a goldmine and can sooo totally afford to accept credit cards. But then again the majority of the clientele probably don't have a credit card. I like coming here on occasion because they usually have good live music and there is usually a friendly crowd. I usually bring my friends who visit me from Hemet here because they always feel right at home and I always feel so incredibly beautiful. Except for that one hottie who was playing pool there Friday night. Sweet Jesus, she had some legs on her. And she was offended for some reason when I told her I wanted to exchange bodies for an hour so I could run around naked. Or that could have been when I said I wanted to decapitate her and sew my head onto her body. Huh? Not sure which freaked her out but she pretty much avoided eye contact with me for the rest of the night. This place is deserving of more than 3 stars but I just can't get past the most totally vile, disgusting, pukerific, gawdawful bathroom I have ever been in. It almost makes me want to wear Depends to avoid using the rest room. So YAYE for the TriTip sandwich, pool room, bands, service and NAYE GAK GAK BARF BLECK PUKE for the bathrooms.
(3)Jill B.
The Kraken is fun. It's my mom's favorite bar. You have to check out the Brokers Band, they play every Sunday night. It's small and crowded, but good music and good drinks!!!
(4)Tina C.
I looked up the slang word for dive in the American Heritage dictionary: Slang; A disreputable or run-down bar or nightclub. A run-down residence. Underneath were examples. I think I will get in touch with AH and leave Kraken Bar & Restaurant as a Top 10 dive. Danced, played pool, drank beer...what more can I say .....I came alive in that sweet little dive.
(4)Roger M.
Time stopped and the Kraken choose to stay. Not much difference over the past thirty years and that's a good thing. Last of the North County dives, friendly, pool tables, Bass ale on draught... sea smells, guys in baseball caps, talking fondues? Quirky cool. And there's pool tables.
(3)Joe K.
My dog loves this bar... perfect way to break up a day at the beach in CBS. Everything I have had here is delicious, tri-tip sandwich and the burgers are some of the best around & Jimmy always takes good care of us, especially marley
(4)Penny Lane S.
Yikes. I wanted to like you, but I just can't pretend. Even with 3 of my favorite people, I couldn't handle this place. I love dive bars, but this place is frightening. After some old man stumbled over and said "you're the best looking couple I've ever seen" and kissed my guy friend's hand, I knew this place was something special. I know lots of people love this place, but there are plenty of other dives I would choose over this one. I tried to warn the crew the Kraken may be a bad idea. Did anyone listen to me? Of course not. The upside? We met our favorite cab driver. Thanks Sam. We'll call you next time we want to go dive bar hopping.
(2)Jeff C.
The drinks are always a good pour, and the music is good. The crowd is always interesting. Best dive bar in North County.
(4)Jen T.
I can't believe this place hasn't been reviewed. This is a total dive place right on the 101 in Cardiff. Its right across the street from the beach. I have only been here on Thursday nights. I have a friend that lived in Cardiff, and I've them talk about this place. So one night, after Station Sushi, my girlfriend and I decided to come here afterward. We didnt know what to expect, and from the outside, we were scared. Once we went inside, we were still a bit hesitant. It is very divey. The front area has a little stage area with a dance floor and s bar with a fish tank in the middle. Then the middle room has a foos ball table. The back porch is covered, has heat lamps and pool tables. You can also smoke in the back patio. This place usually has live bands that play almost everynight. On the night we went, it had a great 80s cover band. We had such a good time dancing and just hanging at this place. The crowd was fairly mixed, tho more leaning towards younger since the band. The drinks were pretty cheap here, at least to me since I'm used to downtown pricing, so $6 for a Grey Goose Redbull wasnt bad. I've heard that there are nights where this place is like a biker bar. But it seems as tho everyone is pretty chill when they come here. Yes, its a total dive bar, but its fun.Oh yeah, no credit cards accepted. Cash only for your drinks.
(4)Chris H.
Go on Sat to get great food
(4)Kimmy N.
This is your typical run-of-the-mill dive bar. The crowd is slightly older, with what appears to be a bunch of regulars, when I came in with some girlfriends on Friday. FYI my girlfriends and I are all late-twenties to mid-thirties working professionals, so when we came in, nearly everyone turned around, we heard catcalls, and several gentlemen offered right off the bat to buy us our drinks. Of course we're used to this kind of entrance everywhere we go (hahaha), we took no offense and instead enjoyed our new find for a couple drinks before deciding to go over to Yogi's for an ambiance a little more familiar to us. For a dive, it did the trick. I would come back here if in the area and in the mood. In other words, I'll be back!
(3)Marjorie D.
I used to like to go there for the music. BUt NEVER AGAIN ..will not recomended it all. The bartender was so incredible rude and claim to be the manager when I asked to speak to one..he Kick us out of this bar for not reason. We just got there and the first drink i order was water down so I asked if he could fix it or change it please, he rudley said I know how much I put in it ok so dont drink it if you dont like he kept the money and told me to deal with it pretty much. I couldnt believe his etiquette. I didnt drink it all and my friend order a new drink in disbelieve I asked for a manager he took the drink toss it slammed a beer and asked us to leave. I was this close to call the cops on him. I will take action on this abuse...really unbeliebable, a couple said they witness it. And when I said this was the first drink we ordered I meant the FIRST ONE and last one there. I am going to find out who the really owner is and do him a favor, he is going to run customers away
(1)Daniel P.
Okay - It looks like a dive from the outside, it looks like a dive from the inside.... by george, it's a dive!! That being said, it's a pretty friendly place. Hang out back & play pool, that's my suggestion. If you want quiet, or clean, or pretty, you might try other joints, but personally I don't think you can be a local and not try the Kraken out for size. You deserve it. Not a place for groups to go together - just not enuf space!! Better for a night out with a friend than a night out with three friends, if you understand me.
(3)Ty N.
great place to rock out with all my cougar friends!!! hahaha! pool tables chill people, oh yeah some of the people you will find here are like good natured obetians, better than your office/shanty crowd the kraken is popular around here...
(3)KURT M.
this place is fun. was here durning the day on the weekend, and walked in and there was a blues band playing. crowd was into it, and having fun. drink prices were good.
(4)Nick W.
We love to camp at the nearby San Elijo, and since we were just up there for one night we decided we would forgo the usual camp stove and everything and just go out for dinner. We love dive bars and since the reviews here were good we decided to walk on over. There was a band playing cover songs as we walked in. The crowd ranged from mid 20's to 60's and even a little older in one or two cases. There seemed to be a pretty solid crowd of "regulars" as well as quite a few people new to the place. We stepped through the front door and since it was crowded and a bit loud made our way into the back room. Quite a mistake, it turns out. A smell I can only describe as "pungent" or "assaulting" permeated the area. As we walked in and smelled it I half wondered if the smell was from the lagoon which sits directly behind the bar. We went outside to check and found that outside had none of the odor so we sat out there. Not sure if that situation is a normal thing or not. Some observations: 1. The pool playing crowd seemed friendly, not too competitive, and in good spirits. 2. Multiple signs around the place discouraging drug use make us wonder if that is a regular problem there, though we saw no indication of that. 3. The little red trailer next to the back patio serves as the kitchen. It has a limited menu but the tri-tip sandwiches we had were pretty good. We would try other things on the menu next time, as everything the other people around us ate looked good too. 4. Parking is limited, but you can pay to park across the street in the beach lot. 5. Drinks were cheap. 2 mixed drinks and 2 beers for $15.50- not bargain basement, but definitely surprisingly cheap for the area. 6. People watching is phenomenal. We would definitely return, but would hope the stench improves by the time we get back.
(3)Renee G.
Such a cool chill Place great bartender sweet waitress beautiful views and I even got carded which was hilarious since my kids are all over 21... But good service sweet music a great spot to stop after our clubs ride
(4)Michael H.
Meh, is right. Dive bar, I was taken there by friends in the area. Typical for what a dive bar is I suppose. The redeeming value, its by the beach! Which by the way I will not jump in the ocean for only $11! please!
(2)Jerry W.
It is a fun place. They get really good bands there and so if you like dancing this place can be a lot of fun. It is a bit of a dive bar, but the crowd seems pretty mellow and everyone seems to get along. The tri tip sandwich is delicious.
(4)Andrew F.
Such a great local bar offering live music. Can't beat the location. Cool breeze coming in from the beach. My band loves playing here. Always a great time.
(5)valerie m.
Not my fav spot basically because of the parking which is a small lot and sucks to find close spots nearby. You can pay across at the beach parking for 6$ an hr. The bartenders are fast and efficient. The crowd varies. My friend had a bday there over the weekend and it was packed. The wine list is almost non existent and probably not the best choice for a real wine drinker. Best to go with a cocktail which they are good at making with very good prices. Music playing, fun atmosphere, pool tables out back and lots of people watching potential.
(3)Lisa S.
I love this place and have since I first found t a few years ago. It's locals spot, not a fancy bar, which is one of the reasons it's great. It has a roadhouse vibe, if roadhouses were on an amazing beach and super chill and friendly. They make good drinks and staff and customers are nice. The food truck in the back has food, although the day we were there they only had dogs, which were good. Not sure how their menu/ schedule works anymore but they also have tri-tip and burgers sometimes, which are great. It's nice that they take cards now too. The parking lot is definitely small but what are you gonna do? Not a lot of real estate down there. (Honestly we should all probably be taking cabs anyways... Ha!) The views are wonderful and it's just one of my happy places. It's a great place to catch the sunset and they often have bands on weekends. I love their signature drink, the Kraken Krush. Cheers!
(4)Mandy L.
Typical dive bar, but in an excellent location The Kraken is footsteps away from Cardiff State Beach and makes an excellent venue for a drink or several before and/or after a day at the beach. Recently under new management, small improvements have started to unfold. Hopefully the bathrooms are on this list because they are awful. With live music, pool tables and a mostly friendly clientele, The Kraken is sure to provide entertainment for just about anyone-- that being said, don't expect to see Encinitas' finest at this place. It's cheap and grungy, just the way it should be.
(4)Rachel M.
Cardiff Encinitas #1 Dive Bar Right across from the ocean and campgrounds on Hwy 101, this place has contributed to many good times in my twenties. With that said, there are patrons of all ages, however the majority of them are older (40+). It's CASH ONLY, but don't worry they have an onsite ATM for a $2 fee. Live Band gets the dance floor crowded and for those who want to chill or talk, pool tables and quieter sitting areas are in the back. Don't mistaken this place for nice by it's 4-star review as it's being reviewed as a dive bar and it is such; rowdy, dirty, terribly built/not-so-clean restrooms, etc. In a nutshell: More mature clientele, cash only, casual, affordable drinks, difficult parking, band, pool tables and lots of 70's dance moves
(4)Jeff W.
I love this place. What's not to like. Great live music, great food from the red trailer that's cheap, three pool tables, and a super vibe. It's located next to many good restaurants. The Chart House across the street among others very close. The clientele is mostly 40 on up. The music is classic rock. Take a walk on the beach across the street where you will probably have to park because their parking lot fills up quickly but that's ok. I have been here many times and it is one of my favorite dance venues. It's an institution and has been around forever. New owners have upgraded it and it is labeled as a dive bar. It's really not at all that divey by my standards though. Come to meet and greet and to have a super time!
(5)Matt M.
Last night I attended the Kraken for my very first time. I went into it knowing its a dive bar with live music, and overall I had a pretty good evening. The building itself is a nice size comfortable bar. Racing and rock decorations cover the walls. The drinks were very strong which is rare to find at a bar. The bathrooms were a bit under par but that's kinda expected. The live music was good and there was a pretty good crowd. I would definitely come back again.
(3)Stacie H.
Came here on a Saturday night after going to the Union. I was ready to just dance and people watch. The Kraken used to be a cash only bar and just started taking credit cards. There was live music and the band played all kinds of covers from the 70's to current. A very eclectic crowd, but everyone was having fun, laughing, dancing, talking, drinking. It's a dive bar so there was no A/C which made for a lot of sweaty people, but nobody seemed bothered by it. Parking was ok. Bathrooms were typical dive bar bathrooms. Looking forward to coming back and dancing again.
(4)Tami L.
Probably one of my favorite local dive bars with bands in North County. Small dance floor but I make it work and the drinks are always on the money. Friendly door staff, never paid a cover charge to go here and all of our friends have a great time when we take them here.
(4)Rob L.
I have written a review for The Kraken Bar before, and rated it highly. However tonight I had an experience that motivates this review. Towards closing time, the door to the office which you can see from the entire back office was open as the staff was setting up to close. There was an American flag stuffed into a filthy cardboard box. was a bartender coming through the room that I thought was a decent guy. Tall young guy probably about 30. I pointed that flag out to him, and he said it was too rainy too put it up. Putting it up was not the point, it was the message that it sends. I responded that a lot of people have died for that flag and I found it utterly disrespectful. This is including an Uncle of mine who died in combat defending that flag and what it represents. And also I have a son and nephew who are currently in the military. The Kraken's bartenders response? He said that he would call the Coast Guard or the Marines to come take care of it. He was arrogant, blind, and a rude person who probably never respected or served this great country. Anyone who serves, served, or supports our brave sons of liberty and freedom take note and do not go to the Kraken. Am I being too sensitive? Maybe, but it really got to me at the moment.
(2)Michelle L.
After a change in ownership, I went back twice and was most pleasantly surprised. The new owners seem to care and have made many changes for the better. The bartender I encountered was very friendly and helpful. And the music is still great. Keep up the good work, and thank you for caring to the new owners. Be sure and try the good food being served in the trailer out back. I had the tri tip sandwich and it was delicious.
(4)KT T.
My favorite dive bar in NOrth County. The people are pretty....except the crusty ones.....and the music is dive bar-y...the drinks are strong and the bouncers are yummy. Go there enough and you become family. Beth, Sarah, BC, and the gang......love those people. They take good care of everyone who is respectful. Play pool, eat delicious grilled delights, bring your party, bring yourself....you will never be alone or feel like it either.
(5)Amy L.
Wonderful live bands! My husband and I went there on Friday and Saturday nights. Loved to see so many people dancing non-stop. The drink is in-expensive. The people there are very friendly, diversified. Mostly mature crowd. Some younger people came after 10:30pm. You can almost hear the ocean waves from the bar, it is right cross the street from the beach. The wooden floor and deco are cozy. Plenty of pool tables are at the back. How ever, the bathroom is very tiny and broken town, it needs some fix up.
(4)Dean K.
Fun , but the bathrooms for sure need help. The also do not seem to clean up all the graffiti which makes the experience pretty low class. However the staff was nice.
(3)Meleah N.
I like a good dive bar as much as the next girl but really guys? The smell of raw sewage is so strong I could barely breathe in the back room. The restroom was beyond dirty. It makes you wonder what other health violations are happening there.
(1)Lyndi P.
Dee-lish food at the lil red food truck behind the Kraken. The burger was the best one I've had in years with a perfectly toasted potato bun. Highly recommend the burger!
(5)Vicki C.
Going to the Kraken is a right of passage in San Diego. You simply must go there. If you do not expect anything fancy then you will not be disappointed. People have asked why they do not have good wine, a kitchen or have clean bathrooms. The answer is that they just don't. Do they accept credit cards? No. The beautiful location, live music and the patrons somehow create a magical ambiance that is beyond description.
(5)Laurel R.
I love the fact that they have fun new bands with great music all the time. I HATE their restrooms tho....really people? Filthy beyond disgusting. That said and out of the way, the drinks are good (except for the wine - better to go with a cocktail). The location is perfect. A true true dive bar.
(3)Cristo G.
Went on a Sat morning on a motorcycle ride. Beer selection was 'meh'. Prices were ok. Bartender was cool and helpful. Bathroom was clean but very small for a place that plays live music and probably gets pretty packed. Nice little back area with pool tables and the bar generally has a pretty cool vibe. We left around 1 pm and it was starting to get really busy. Definitely recommend as a cool stop for a motorcycle ride due to it's location on PCH in Cardiff
(4)Natalia M.
A place to Creat great memories w ur good friends in your favorite jeans, a cold glass of bear and great live music! Highly recommend:)
(5)El J.
Leave the kids at home and come on out to the Kraken. And by the kids, I mean the 20-somethings who just don't know how to party with the grown-ups. Strong drinks, live music and the night starts while the night is still young. Leave it to the baby boomers to start partying early to get the most out of the night. Let the cougars in training hob-nob in the Gaslamp clubs or Mission Valley. Let the frat boys take over the Double Douce and scream at each other over canned music elsewhere. Whatever the music style they have at the Kraken, it is live and the crowd is dancing, not standing around with their drinks in their hands. The Kraken is what it is, a dive bar. Heavily tatted bartenders and the crowd is um... eclectic. And it has its regulars. The tall, well dressed couple way into their sixties that comes to the Kraken to rock out. The guy who spent just a little too much time stoned in the 70s and probably well into the 80s. The retro couple with the Suicide Girls style tats. The bikers who probably took the truck or a cab tonight but are still representing in the leathers. The cougar and the over 40, heck, over 50 guys - and the people who love them. Everyone is here from the burnouts to the well heeled. And then there are the newbies. The young cuties whose night crashed and burned at another club and show-up after 11 in their Gaslamp club wear all glammed up and walk in looking confused by all the "older" people. There is a small food stand in the back, but you don't go to the Kraken for the food. I always chat up the big burlly biker guy who serves and cooks the food. He's a sweetie. Pool tables and foosball too. Smoking patio too near the food as far as I am concerned. (I stay far away from the cloud of smoke.) Go out front to get some fresh air, fewer smokers. Parking is right next to the venue. Oh... buried in this review should be a mention of the restrooms. (icky...) So just expect that and bring the Purell. No need to really get into details here. Its a dive so no one really expects attendants and the smell of magnolias etc... I guess that's all that needs to be said. Getting back to the good stuff... 1) Strong Drinks 2) Live Music and 3) A Crowd Like No Other. Go to The Kraken you'll have a great time then come back again and again.
(5)Whitney S.
Fun place but bad service! There was a woman server who was brash and literally pushing people out of her way to get through the crowd. I've never seen this behavior at an establishment. It was completely disrespectful. When I went to the bar to ask for a water, I was the DD, the male bartender told me to go to the cooler that had water in the back of the bar, he had too many pint glasses to clean at the end of the night. The group I was with had a large tab going at the bar, my jaw dropped when he was speaking to me basically telling me he was not going to serve me water. The woman bartender overheard what the male bartender was saying to me and got me the water. She was the only server that had any redeeming qualities. She was hard working, served with a smile and very pleasant. I've been in San Diego for 3 months now, until last night, I have been very impressed by the service in San Diego and how nice people are.
(1)Marc G.
Update to last review: they took out that big clunky bar next to the dance floor....lots more room! I was told other remodeling efforts were under way.
(4)Kanani B.
Made my first trip to the Kraken this past weekend and it exceeded my expectations (granted I did not have the highest expectations to begin with)! It's a pretty sweet dive bar on the east side of Highway 101 just across from the beach in Cardiff. It's a biker bar, so naturally we rode our bicycles there during a birthday booze cruise. It was the last stop, so we chowed down on some BBQ (really great hamburger and tri-tip cooked right in front of you with all the fixings)! They also had a live band there which I could have danced to all night long. It's a bit of an older crowd, but everybody seemed friendly. P.S. They don't have ginger ale here, but props for having ginger beer! +1 - live music and jukebox +1 - waterfront location in Cardiff +1 - awesome, covered back patio with pool tables +1 - reasonably priced drinks and BBQ -1 - cash only
(4)Vicki S.
My 2 best friends and I were out for the first time in forever. We sat at the bar and opened a tab. As the bar tender Joe ,gave us our drinks we tipped him. He must not have noticed as the bar was very busy. We were having a great time, until we closed the tab so another member of our party could continue to pay with cash. I gave him $2 as I closed the tab , he threw the money back at me and said " no thanks ". I was so surprised I didn't know what to do. I've never been so disrespected in my life. Did I not give him enough tip? We were going to keep on drinking, but now we felt wierd. When I told the other bar tender what happened she literally gave us the finger. I have never been so disrespected in my life. I used to be a waitress and tips come and go but I never treated my patrends like that. Our evening was ruined by the total lack of professionalism of the bar tender and the supposed "manager" Sara
(1)William W.
Have been told this is a great motorcycle destination.Awesome kinda dive bar, I hope the hipster don't move in.Local great upbeat people.Live music" TogaParty"was just right to keep us for another hour.Bar manager rules!!!! She made it to one top five in my book. No Screwing around, took orders from a line and took care of locals at the bar.Like being around other bikers for a change.Wish we lived closer .
(5)Adriana S.
My husband and I rode the Harley up to this bar over the weekend. We immediately saw all the bikes outside and were pleased. Inside the place has a dive bar/biker bar vibe which was cool. They had a live band playing classic rock which I enjoyed. Drinks were cheap. My only complaints are super slow (But very friendly) service, and wishing this place had some kind of ocean view considering its across the street from the water. I think we would have stayed longer had there been able to enjoy that million dollar view. I'm sure we will be back at some point during a weekend afternoon cruise!
(3)Graham T.
It's a very simple concept....Every local knows that The Kraken is a legendary bar. Good music and room for dancing. New owners are awesome. LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION...steps to the beach. Enjoy!
(5)Tammy M.
not for me, definitely a dive bar
(1)Trish S.
The kraken is an Cardiff must. Across the street you have some fancy pants restaurants with views and price tags to match so if you want all the kooks and none of the bourgeois and maybe just the sounds of crashing waves... This is your place. It's a beachy dive bar with live music often and the burgers in the back? Serious business and a surprise to non locals. Parking is a bitch, that's just the truth. Beers and picnic tables and Harley's, all along the coast hwy!
(4)Thuy C.
LOL! This place is packed with older folks that knows how to party! I've been here once and ended up drinking and people watching (I am usually the ones who do the dancing) but I couldn't keep up with the older folks that were groping and getting down with one another (weird but cute at the same time that they still get down like that). The place was extremely dirty though and hey use plastic cups and disposable cups... Not very sanitized and will not be coming back! Lots of motorcycle owners meet up here.
(1)Nicole W.
Kraken rules. Music plus cheap drinks. Always nice people and plenty of parking. Sometimes they have classic rock bands, sometimes country but always good. It's a little cramped in the bar/music area so it can be hard to move around on busy nights but the dining area isn't cluttered and has great food.
(4)Yishayahu E.
Too wierd. I walked from the bar next door to the Kracken and entered another world. These words describe my experience: dirty, rude, poor Feng Shui, loud and obnoxious. There are tons of--I don't know what, trinkets maybe, hanging on the wall. The band was the only good thing about this place. When I walked out, the parking attendant hurled insults at me, which I won't repeat here. The funny and ironic thing is how many people like this place. I guess if you want to get down and dirty, go here. I'd prefer to keep things a bit more upscale.
(1)Josh E.
LOVE LOVE LOVE this place. I'd give them 6 stars if I could. In fact the biggest shame of where I live (NP) is that this place is so out-of-the-way that I'd really be rollin' the DUI dice if I went there all the time. The obvious good points about this place are: fantastic location... being a bar that has $5 beers and cheapish mixed drinks and is so close to the beach is unbelievable. Decor - complete hole in the wall, but behind the bar is a great-looking and well-maintained tropical fish tank with an octopus in it (THE KRAKEN HIMSELF!!) And finally the layout. Dance floor and stage? Check. Large bar? Check. Large rear "patio" area with pool tables? Yup. About the only thing this place doesn't have is a view.. and you ain't gonna need it while you're here ; ) Finally, the live music is excellent - lots of blues and old school rock groups play here.. and when there isn't a band, the music is very low-key. Finally, might be worth noting - it's cash only, but they have an ATM in the back near the pool tables. Now, probably the best thing is the atmosphere/people. This seriously has to be the most laid-back bar in SD. And almost everyone you meet here has got a serious story to tell.. I've met: Vietnam-era Army Snipers, ex-British SAS, tech startup millionaires, trophy wives, Russian mail-order brides, Alaskan fishing boat crewmen, and recovered heroin addicts here.. not to mention a dozen other types of folks. The bartenders are really nice and chill. And if you don't want to talk to anyone, that's ok too.. this is a relaxing place to just sit and have a drink. The only thing that is a (slight, imo) knock on this bar is that it skews a little older. If I had to guess I'd say the median age is 40ish. So if you're heavily on the prowl, you might wanna skip this spot. But the bottom line is, if you're rolling by Cardiff and are thirsty for a beer and a really, really pleasant experience.. check this place out!
(5)Serene E.
It is a bit of a hole in the wall bar, near the beach. It used to be a biker bar I believe, but if you are looking for some live music they usually have a band there. They are a cash only bar, so make sure you have some money with you. And parking is limited so may have to search for a parking space along the be
(3)Abbie H.
If you like yourself a dive bar, good dive bar food, strong drinks, and some pool, then this is your Cardiff spot. Locally known as a "biker bar", you will definitely find a biker crowd along with any and all other types, and that is why I love it! Some nights they have a DJ and people are out on the dance floor dancing to all types of music. Parking is horrific, so you just have to be prepared to swear and bitch before you find a spot somewhere in the lot or along the 101. Drinks are cheap, service is quick, and everyone is friendly here!
(4)Agent F.
Finally braved this place with my guy after a few beach hours and 2 empty stomach's...The grill food (esp. the tri-tip) was great, the dive bar was perfectly dive, the beers were cheap, and the music was perfect... And most important, even though we stole one of the pool tables from he regulars 4 or 5 times (to my surprise) they were friendly, cool and fun to hang out with. Will go back again. The minus 1 star is due to the bathrooms. Even dive bars should have a little better standard for their restrooms. Otherwise tons of fun with a great view front and back...even saw a paddle boarder paddling by the canal with his white goat on-board!
(4)Derek A.
My wife and I have been searching for a good spot listen to live music and go dancing. We kept hearing about the Kraken, and finally checked it out on Friday night. I kept hearing people call it a biker bar, however I would classify it as a dive bar; to me a biker bar is where you have worry about getting stabbed (plus don't you need at least of couple of bikes parked outside to be a biker bar?). :-) Anyway, the place is what you would expect for dive bar, and pretty low key. It's not exactly "clean", but it's also not "dirty" if that makes any sense. I also can't remember the last time I uses a trough in the men's room outside a stadium. The staff is super friendly and pretty efficient given how packed the place can get once the band starts. Haven't tried to food yet, but I probably will they next time we go. The dance floor is smallish, so be prepared to rub some elbows. The band on Friday was really good; my only complaint there would be they stretched out their songs way to long (we were there about an hour while the band was playing, and they band only played 6 songs in that time) but that is not the bars fault. It's cash only, but if that is how they can maintain the low prices I am fine with that. Parking is "problematic", however that is pretty much the case anywhere along the Cardiff beach on weekend evenings. I do believe we will be heading back there. A lot.
(4)Erin B.
Now this place is a dive! Always live music and people always seem to be having fun! It's dirty and it's gross but it's been open all these years for a reason! It's an older crowd at night but it's worth it for the experience alone.
(3)Judy R.
I have been going to the Kraken for years and have a lot of fun dancing on a Saturday afternoon. At night it is pretty crowded but Sat. afternoon is a blast!!! If you like to dance, that is the place to go.
(4)T B.
I've been with my crew to many dive bars but this one drives the term to a new low. Don't go in the middle of summer, way too hot and the staff are incredibly rude (saw one tatted up male staffer shouting vulgar profanities at a young female customer for spilling her drink on him when HE bumped into her). Really wanted to like Kraken because of its location but the staff (with the exception of the cool bouncer at the door) and the expensive, cash only, watered down drinks were a real turn off. Jon Taffer, come rescue this dive!!!
(1)Cindy J.
Went here last week for a Jimi Hendrix tribute and had a blast. I love, loved the crowd. Hippies who have seasoned a bit! Awesome! Drinks were strong and it wasn't too jam packed. Yes, it's a dive, but it's not dirty or skanky at all. The waitress was a bit brusk, but I understand that she was just trying to get it done. Parking is a challenge here. We were lucky and got a spot, but just know that you may have to drive around a bit. Thumbs up!
(4)Brad C.
Great venue for a mature crowd. Live music with a beach across the street. Bartender gal is always nice and people there are friendly. Very casual.
(4)Erin B.
If you are looking for a chill dive bar with live music and fun games this place is for you!
(4)Robin D.
BEST dance floor EVER!! What a FUN-tastic place for great live music, A+ bartenders (we love Joe!), full bar, friendly crowd.
(5)Brian H.
I also thought this place was super cool. You can roll out across the street and gaze into the ocean. The Kraken always has live music, the atmosphere is fun, the drinks are cheap, what's not to like? One of the times I came here the owner even bought me a drink. If I ever hit the Forbes List I'm buying The Kraken.
(5)