Gilly's House of Cocktails

I've been coming here since the previous owners. It was one of my favorite old man smelly dives. Interesting characters, cheapest drinks, mostly decent bartenders- some rad some absolute shit. Still, I was sad to see it go and figured it would just become another soulless expensive Consortium bullshit. So I didn't go, for months. Well I was out and about and decided to stop by. Not much has changed! Out went the smelly carpet and the dirty old men. Good drinks, still cheap, great happy hour. Still have steak night! Been a few times now. The staff is an upgrade. I like the dude who looks like Steve from Stranger Things- he makes a mean cocktail- and the big guy who has a different pair of glasses every time I go in tells a great story and gives the best travel advice. The dude in a bowler at the door is also a gem- not your typical muscle head dick standing at the door. I'm glad that it hasn't lost its charm!

The cocktail menu refresh has been great. I have been enjoying the no frills, reasonable cocktail costs vibes at Gilly's, especially during busy nights in North Park when there are long lines to get into everywhere. Service is quick. There's something on the menu for a wide variety of tastes. The French Riviera has been my favorite drink so far and I'm looking forward to trying some of the other cocktails. Need to check out their HH one day.

New ownership kills the vibe. Same dive bar, but no karaoke?? I can only conclude that the owner hates a good time. This new owner's other empty-headed change to this bar was banning smoking on the smoking patio. That's like, the point of the patio. Will miss bringing friends here for karaoke. It was a longstanding tradition.

Me and a friend went to Gilly's last night. Standing at the bar directly in front of the bartenders not once were we served or spoken to meanwhile groups of people on both side of us wereAt one point a woman bartender flirted with a guy right next me taking his order/making drink. After almost 20 mins we watched a second bartender come up to ask if anyone needed drinks completely ignoring us. We were two black guys it was country music playing and majority white people so were the bartenders.we were out of place it seemed.Did not feel welcome NOT A FAN AND WILL NOT RECOMMEND people of color to go.

The NBA playoffs were on during my stay at The Lafayette across the street on El Cajon. My cuz and I came here to watch a game, b4 heading back to TL to cap off the night.Gilly's doesn't serve food. You can bring in food from the pizza and East African place next door. Although they do not serve food, they do serve inexpensive drinks. My ranch water with Cazadores was $6! They also have some of their own creations for about $11.The staff is super cool. Gilly's also has a couple of billiards tables, and an outdoor patio for smokers. A great place to hang out with friends, meet some new ones, and get cheap drinks.

I went when Tokyo Confidential was pouring, and that was amazing. I was so very confused by the vibe, though. It's a neighborhood bar - and the locals will let you know you are not welcome. It's an updated dive bar feel with amazing cocktail list and spectacular guest cocktail specialists coming in. This I love. However, Seating was limited, and when we tried to stand we were informed - three times while being glared at - that we were in their way of playing pool (though we were standing in a straight line next to the wall, where there was space for people and drinks, apparently not enough - I digress- we finally managed to snag a table). My suggestion: If you are a cocktail nerd, get there early for a spot at the bar. Gilly's is a GREAT place to go for cocktails. Other than the slightly confused vibe near the pool table - the bartenders, bouncers and music were all great.

Gilly's House of Cocktails offers a classic dive bar experience with an inviting atmosphere and attentive service. I visited during happy hour, Monday to Friday, 1-6pm, and enjoyed great drink deals. While the espresso martini was too sweet for my taste, the option to switch to a beer was appreciated. The small size and dive bar aesthetic make it a cozy spot, which, while quiet at first, began to buzz as people got off work. It's worth noting they don't serve food, but the allowance to bring in outside food is a plus. I can imagine it's quite lively during nighttime.

Lonnie is the best bartender I've ever encountered. He has a warm welcome and top notch customer service. Each drink recommendation was perfect, showcasing a deep understanding of flavors. He made this most tasteful watermelon concoction. I think I inhaled it. Lol. Lonnie creates a welcoming and fun atmosphere, making every visit memorable. If you want great drinks and even better service, Lonnie is your go-to!

I wouldn't come here, bartenders are so rude. Especially the gentleman with the long hair and glasses. I used to like coming here after a nice dinner with my wife at pomegranate. I will no longer be coming here, thank your bartenders

Stef just whipped me up a rum drink with cinnamon that is out of this world! She said it also works with tequila. Highly recommended! Ask for Stef and the cinnamon drink. Thank me later