The Merrow, San Diego CA

Horrible service, they treated us like we were less of humans. Can't believe this place exists in Hillcrest

Such rude customer service. Got the vibe that customer is never right. We were trying to have a good time to celebrate my birthday. My boyfriend was on stage signing, when I got told to leave because I had a drink (mind you no one told me I couldn't bring a drink in). I offered to buy a drink and was told to leave in the middle of my boyfriend's performance. We were not causing any disruption or anything, but they decided we had to leave the premesis. Never going back. Don't bother. Empathy skills are what needs to be taught

This venue is large and with ample indoor and outdoor space. They have great shows and I will definitely be attending more of them now that I know this venue exists.

The Merrow offers a great repertoire of live music, dance and EDM events including a variety of genres from pop, industrial, new wave, etc. The bartenders are friendly industry veterans as well as the security who are thoughtful and keep everyone safe.

The venues has classic stylings like a car in the ceiling, metal embossed ceilings and tiles bathrooms. It's a hidden trasure.

Small bar area. Dark, dive type vibe in the day where you talk to the bartender and meet a local or two who are regulars. Great martinis.

The Merrow has been through several iterations through the years, and slowly has become one of the best places to hear music and dance in San Diego. Firstly, it has some of my favorite underground events like Sabbat, Blue Monday, and Ascension. They have other regular nights that I've heard good things about but I haven't been to all of them. The bar has what I'd call an upscale-divey feel, meaning that it's not a super classy place but it's not a dump either. It's pretty dark inside typically with a cool nautical theme. Also atypical of your normal dive, it's not cramped. The dance floor is pretty large and you can always find a good place to dance, even when it's a busy night. The sound system is good too and they have some club lights for nice atmosphere. The bar area is not huge but big enough for 2-3 bartenders to get you drinks pretty quick. Pours are sturdy and they have a nice selection of craft beers and tequilas relevant to my interests. Staff and security have always been excellent. They keep an eye on things and do their best to keep everyone safe.
Outside they've converted the small parking lot into a smoking patio that sometimes has another bar open where you can hang out with some fresh air, chairs, and movies projected onto the wall. I usually only come out here to cool off from dancing! It's probably not allowed due to ordinances or whatever but I always thought it'd be cool if there was a speaker somewhere playing the music from inside.
Overall, if you wanna have an affordable night out of dancing and drinking with good people and vibes, the Merrow is easily one of my favorites! I'd check their calendar to see what's going on since the themes are always rotating. For the most popular nights like Sabbat you might even want to get a ticket in advance to avoid getting stuck in line.

This is our favorite go-to spot for music nights and themed events.everyone is so nice and it is not overpriced. It is never way overcrowded like nearby places and the outdoor seating is vast, a godsend for those looking for a quieter place with fresh air.

The Merrow is a gem that feels like a home away from home. The bartenders, security, and DJs (Blue Monday, Sabbat, Ascension) are awesome folks who are welcoming and prioritize making the Merrow a safe place. Really grateful for this space.

I go on an event night. Bartenders are usually on point & friendly, bathroom cleanliness is managed well, especially for being a bar. Drinks are getting more expensive, but so is everything these days.

My favorite safe space to go for any of their events or even on a weekday, blue mondays and sabbat so much fun, bartenders and security are lovely people and so chill.always a good time! They look out for you here at the merrow! <3

Was turned away for having an expired ID (which was only 2 months expired) even when I presented my birth certificate. Incredibly disappointed. Be wary of employees on a power trip. Not welcoming whatsoever.

Huge group of friends came to go to the club but a lazy security guard didnt let us go through, despite having valid forms of ID. Casinos and other bars caused us no issue but this place did? Stupid. Looking at the other reviews seems like we saved up on overpriced drinks and headaches from the people running it.

Great beer selection! On tap or bottle. Good price and 2 free pool tables. If you like beer and playing pool look no further. Parking can be a pain but hey you can't have it all lol.

Reasonable Drinks and a Specific Environment. You'll go here if you're looking for the right thing.

Small bar area, nice dance area. Disco ball included lol. Bartender was extremely friendly and offered nice alternative ingredients when they don't have everything needed for cocktails you like. Really loved their pool tables. Smoothest game I've played in awhile. Also recommend their open mic karaoke. Very supportive crowd.

If you're ever up for a completely different vibe than your norm. This is the place. Everyone was great and goth night was epic!

This bar Caters to all tastes play music. With themed nights and great shows. Step outside of the box and into the Merrow

Charlie is the best bartender / mixologist in all of Hillcrest. He can make anything you want, and is always on his game.

Great place!

It was fantastic, with 3 times as many people as before, and of those people, almost all were new, except for a few diehards. Make me want to come back more often. Prices very reasonable. Loved it!

If you like dimly lit swanky bars with live acts and the occasional karaoke, this is the pace for you.