Part Time Lover

3829 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104, United States
+1 619-932-4434
$$$ Bar , Cocktail bar
(416 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

Part Time Lover sits firmly in the nightlife scene of San Diego’s vibrant 30th Street corridor, carving out a niche as a retro-inspired cocktail bar with a strong nod to 70s and 80s aesthetics. Walking in, you’re greeted by warm, wood-heavy interiors that mimic the vibe of a well-traveled basement lounge from a bygone era—but with a polished, artisanal twist. The lighting is soft and inviting, bouncing off deep couches and plenty of lounge seating that invite groups to settle in for a relaxed evening.

This spot is best for those who appreciate thoughtfully crafted cocktails served at a leisurely pace; drinks hover around the $17 mark, which reflects the care and quality behind each pour. You’ll find classics and unique spins alike, from Dirty Martinis and Mai Tais to the PTL HI-Ball and the more niche offering of Miyagi Kyo Japanese Whisky on the rocks. There’s also a respectable selection of local craft beers. The bar can get crowded, especially on weekend evenings, so arriving early helps secure a comfortable seat rather than standing at the crowded bar.

One of the defining features at Part Time Lover is the small record shop tucked away in the back. It’s an unexpected element that sets this bar apart, creating a laid-back space for patrons to browse vinyl while sipping cocktails—a nostalgic touch that complements the retro theme and attracts music lovers and collectors alike. The playlist, spun live on vinyl, leans upbeat and eclectic, contributing to an atmosphere that feels lively but never overwhelming.

Staff here tend to keep the service moving efficiently despite the busy crowds, offering friendly, attentive bartenders who add personality to your visit. The overall feel is cozy and communal, making it a popular spot for a casual date night or a fun evening out with friends or small groups. If you’re looking for a vibrant bar where music, decor, and drinks come together in a distinctively vintage package, Part Time Lover offers a local take on retro cool without the pretension.

Highlights
Serves great cocktails
Has live performances
What they serve
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves food
Serves spirits
Serves wine
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Paid multi-storey car park
Difficult to find a space

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

04:00 PM - 02:00 AM

Tuesday

04:00 PM - 02:00 AM

Wednesday

04:00 PM - 02:00 AM

Thursday

04:00 PM - 02:00 AM

Friday

04:00 PM - 02:00 AM

Saturday

04:00 PM - 02:00 AM

Sunday

04:00 PM - 02:00 AM

416 Reviews
Benjamin Penman

02 Jan 2026

It can get really busy, but the vibes are good. Cocktails are nice. Music is fun, unique, upbeat. Record shop at back was fun to peruse. Decor inside is wood and comfy. Reminds me of what someone’s basement would look like in the 80s if they had money and liked to travel.

Joshua

19 Dec 2025

Love the vibe here! Had a fun time with my spouse and her mother. Staff is friendly and gets you your drinks fast, the seating is plentiful but def get there early if you don’t want to stand for a while. The bar fills up fast!

MEGHAN CUMA

10 Nov 2025

This place is definitely for the vibes for a drink or two as it’s quite pricey. You do feel like you’re stepping back in time, very retro. Artisanal drinks taking awhile to make for about $17 a drink. Super cute record store in the back with a variety of records ranging from $25-$45. Great music and friendly staff!

Frank de Jong

05 Nov 2025

Wow, such a cool bar. The 70’s theming is spot-on (from the decorations to the vinyl store in the back) the atmosphere is amazing (lots of deep couches and lounge seats for cozy vibes) and the drinks and music are great. Great spot.

James Voorhies

22 Oct 2025

This place has great vibes and music, they were spinning vinyl which is a lost art these days. The bar tender Nick was quick, entertaining, poured a great drink and is a total babe! The art deco style and warm lighting made for a great atmosphere. The record store in the back was awesome to enjoy a cocktail while flipping through records. If you haven’t been…go!

Marc Milrod

21 Oct 2025

Didn't try any food. Excellent Cocktail Lounge, though it seems to cater to a younger crowd. Most everyone we saw was asked for ID on their way in. Decent cocktail skills evident, and an impressive bar back. They seem to run towards a wood interior, though rum and Tiki culture in their cocktails. Whisky or Whiskey drinkers, be ready with your choices if needs be. Moderately noisy and busy. This place sports a vinyl peddler in the rear, and select tunes creating the mood and vibe. Several bar seating areas with 4 packs of comfy but clunky bar stools. Easy to perch upon, difficult to reorganize along the bar.

israel gold

17 Sep 2025

I am a full time fan of the Part Time Lover. From it’s diverse range of drink options, to its even MORE diverse selection of vinyl (either on rotation or available for purchase), this now extremely well known “hidden gem” proves to be an eternal staple of North Park bar life, the glitz and glam attracting a Wave of Mutilation (and the occasional normies) to the once hallowed remains of Bar Pink.

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