Noble Experiment – San Diego

With only a recommendation that I check out a speakeasy in the gaslamp but without knowing the name, I almost ended up at another bar. But once I knew the name and conducted my due diligence, I found Noble Experiment and immediately felt this would be the place where the cocktail was king.

Booking my spot was swift and efficient, and also accommodating, which I wasn’t expecting during an exceptionally busy weekend in this part of town.

The secret door opened up, with people welcoming me on the other side. The people behind the bar were so personable and knowledgeable – dressed and coiffured a little hipster, but with zero jaded condescending irony that comes with that style. We had questions, they answered them. We needed recommendations, they gave them.

Ambiance was exactly what I’d been hoping for. A mellow buzz, with only a hint of low music. Here, I could slowly enjoy a perfect cocktail and the conversation of friends or the bartenders.

I got the Hemingway daiquiri – I can’t help it, I love real Marasca cherries. My friends got dealers’ choice and were served an excellent Old Fashioned and Gold Rush. Later, a Pan American Clipper with absinthe and apple brandy.

Without being strict on the gimmick of a theme and dress codes, every patron there was respectful of the atmosphere, making the scene feel organic rather than contrived, which I have felt with other bars styled after a speakeasy.

I have to say again that being able to converse at a bar is important to me, and if the atmosphere encourages strangers to find common ground over enjoying a good cocktail, I’m that much more satisfied.
Another yelper was there when I was, and found me, and we all talked! Awesome.

Noble Experiment – Gaslamp District
777 G St (between 7th Ave & Kettner Blvd)
San Diego, CA 92101
nobleexperimentsd.com