September 13th, 2012 
“Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name and they’re always glad you came!”
(Photo Credit: Alternative Strategies)
Made popular by its incorporation in the theme song of the long-running sitcom “Cheers”, this lyric provides the perfect sentiment for the camaraderie one might find after a few visits to the recently opened Uptown Tavern. Nestled in the Hillcrest neighborhood of San Diego and sister to the popular West Coast Tavernin North Park, Uptown offers patrons a home-away-from-home with their laid-back atmosphere, open-air seating, thirst-quenching libations and delicious cuisine. And with restaurant hours dipping into the wee hours of the morning, it’s the kind of place you can sit back and stay a while.
(Photo Credit: Alternative Strategies)
And stay a while you will will, for its convenient location right off University Avenue lends itself an energetic and upbeat clientele, meaning you’ll never know who you might run into over dinner! The vibe was certainly buzzing on my recent visit to this local hot-spot. From the hostess to the staff to my fellow diner, the positive energy was visceral and immediately put me at ease. I think the glass of wine helped, too. Speaking of alcohol, Uptown boasts both extensive wine and cocktail lists and has over 20 beers on tap. Come in for their daily Happy Hour from 4-6 p.m. and you’ll enjoy $3 Well Drinks, Domestic Drafts and House Wine. And now that football season is back in full swing, you can sip your discounted beverage while taking in your favorite NFL or college game as the restaurant boasts many strategically placed big screen television sets to ensure that you never miss a play.
While “tavern” could equate to bland or greasy finger food offerings, Uptown Tavern smashes that stereotype by fueling guests with everything from healthier fare like their “Better than your Momma’s” Charred Brussel Sprouts, Braised Baby Beet Salad and Pan Seared Sea Bass, to their variety of flatbreads and sliders, to their more decadent options of Burnt Macaroni and Cheese and their take on the traditional Southern classic -Chicken and Waffles, there is truly something to satisfy every palette and preference. Vegetarians can even partake in all of the tavern fare fun with Uptown’s delicious Quinoa and Farro Saute served with sweet peas, leeks and chard and beet greens. And if the generous portions don’t have you too full prior to evening’s end, be sure to save room for a nibble of their delectable Pistacio Bread Pudding or take a walk on the wild side with their Maple Bacon Creme Brulee.
(Photo Credit: Alternative Strategies)
So if you’re looking for a new neighborhood haunt for you and your friends to call home, look no further than Uptown Tavern in Hillcrest. From its convenient location to its lively atmosphere and comfortable seating, it might just become your own San Diego version of Cheers, except with better looking people, food, and weather, too.
WHERE:
Uptown Tavern
1236 University Avenue
San Diego, CA 92103
Ph. 619-241-2710
HOURS:
Monday -Friday: 4 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Saturday & Sunday: 10 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Happy Hour daily: 4-6 p.m.
