The 7 Best Bars of San Salvador

San Salvador is the heart of El Salvador, and it has one of the most vibrant nightlife scenes in the country. With a mix of modern and traditional venues, this city offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, it’s hard not to fall in love with the energy of San Salvador when the sun goes down. In this blog post, we’ve curated a list of the 7 best bars in San Salvador, so you can experience the best of what this city has to offer.

1. El Tonel

El Tonel is one of the oldest bars in San Salvador and has been open since the 1920s. Located in the historic neighborhood of Santa Tecla, this bar is known for its impressive collection of rum, whiskey, and beer. You can enjoy your drinks in the outdoor patio or relax inside, surrounded by vintage decor. Their signature drink is the “Tonel Especial,” a mix of beer, lime juice, and sugar cane brandy.

2. La Ventana

La Ventana is a stylish bar located in the trendy neighborhood of Zona Rosa. With its chic decor and welcoming ambiance, it’s a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. They offer an extensive list of cocktails, wines, and spirits, along with small bites and flavorful appetizers. Their “Paloma Azul” cocktail, made with mescal, grapefruit, and soda, is a must-try!

3. The Beer Market

The Beer Market is one of the newest additions to the San Salvador bar scene, and it’s already making waves. This bar offers an unparalleled selection of craft beers from around the world, with over 150 beers available. It’s a great place to socialize and try new things, with knowledgeable staff on hand to guide you through the different options. If you’re a beer enthusiast, this is the place to be.

4. Pilsener Haus

Pilsener Haus is a beer garden and restaurant located in the heart of San Salvador. With its long communal tables and rustic decor, it’s a casual yet lively spot to enjoy a cold beer and some hearty food. They serve traditional German-style beers, along with Salvadoran and international beers. Their “Pilsener Haus Sampler” is a great way to try a variety of their brews.

5. La Zona

La Zona is a popular club located in the upscale neighborhood of Escalon. This venue features a spacious dance floor, state-of-the-art sound system, and a lineup of top DJs. It’s a high-energy spot for dancing and socializing, and they often host special events and themed nights. Make sure to check out their rooftop terrace for stunning views of the city skyline.

6. The Tipsy Mermaid

The Tipsy Mermaid is a beach-themed bar and grill located in the coastal neighborhood of Costa del Sol. It’s a fun and relaxed spot to enjoy tropical drinks and fresh seafood, with an unbeatable oceanfront location. They often host live music and beach parties, making it the perfect spot for a weekend getaway.

7. Los Alambiques

Los Alambiques is a historic distillery that has been transformed into a bar and restaurant. Located in the charming town of Panchimalco, just outside of San Salvador, this venue offers a unique cultural experience. You can tour the distillery and learn about the process of making aguardiente, the national spirit of El Salvador. Afterward, you can relax in the bar area and taste different varieties of aguardiente, along with traditional Salvadoran snacks.

In conclusion, San Salvador has a diverse and exciting bar scene that is sure to impress any nightlife enthusiast. From historic landmarks to trendy hotspots, this city has something for everyone. We hope you enjoyed our list of the 7 best bars in San Salvador and that you have the chance to experience them for yourself. Cheers!

Welcome to San Salvador: An Insider’s Guide to the City

Are you planning a trip to San Salvador and want to experience the city like a local? Look no further! In this insider’s guide, we’ll take you off the beaten track to uncover the hidden gems of the city that aren’t in the guidebooks. From local attractions to dining spots, cultural experiences to local history, we have you covered. Let’s get started!

Local Attractions

Many visitors to San Salvador head straight to the popular attractions such as the Joya de Cerén and El Boquerón National Park. But, if you want to experience the city like a local, check out the following hidden gems:

– La Laguna Botanical Gardens: This serene oasis is home to numerous species of plants, birds, and wildlife. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature.

– Mercado Central: The bustling market is a hive of activity and a sensory overload. Here you can find everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to freshly prepared pupusas.

– Monumento a la Revolución: This impressive monument is dedicated to the Salvadoran Revolution that took place from 1979 to 1992. The monument is situated in the heart of the city and is a popular spot for locals to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Dining Spots

No trip to San Salvador is complete without sampling some local cuisine. Here are a few places to check out for an authentic Salvadoran experience:

– La Pupusería de Olocuilta: If you want to try the quintessential Salvadoran dish, pupusas, look no further than this bustling pupuseria in Olocuilta.

– El Zócalo: This popular restaurant offers a modern twist on traditional Salvadoran dishes, such as seafood ceviches and pork belly confit.

– La Cebadilla: If you’re looking for a local coffee spot, you can’t go wrong with La Cebadilla. This rustic cafe serves up some of the best coffee in the city along with a range of snacks and light bites.

Cultural Experiences

San Salvador is steeped in history and culture, and there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the local traditions. Check out the following experiences:

– Museo de Arte de El Salvador: This museum houses a vast collection of Salvadoran art from the pre-Columbian era to modern times. The exhibitions offer a fascinating insight into the country’s rich artistic heritage.

– Festival de La Calle San Miguel: This vibrant street festival takes place annually in November and celebrates the San Miguel Arcángel. Expect colorful parades, traditional dances, and plenty of delicious food.

– Mercado de Artesanías El Pueblito: If you’re on the hunt for souvenirs, don’t miss this bustling craft market. Here you can find traditional Salvadoran textiles, ceramics, and jewelry.

Local History

San Salvador has a complex and rich history. Here are a few stories to uncover:

– The Cathedral of San Salvador: This impressive cathedral has been destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout its history, including during the devastating earthquake of 1986. Today, it stands as a testament to the resilience of the Salvadoran people.

– Casa Presidencial: This grand mansion was once the residence of the President of El Salvador. Today, it serves as a museum exhibiting Salvadoran art and history.

– The Jesuit Church of San José: This historic church was once the center of the Jesuit mission in El Salvador. It survived the 1986 earthquake but was later damaged during the Salvadoran Civil War.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Want to experience something truly unique in San Salvador? Check out the following suggestions:

– Visit the Ruta de las Flores: This 36-kilometer road winds through the stunning countryside of El Salvador’s coffee-growing region. The route is dotted with charming colonial towns and is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

– Los Planes de Renderos: This scenic hillside suburb is famous for its stunning views of the city and delicious street food. Be sure to try the delicious grilled meat known as churrasco.

– Take a street art tour: San Salvador is home to some incredible street art. Book a street art tour and discover the city’s vibrant and colorful artistic culture.

We hope this insider’s guide has given you a taste of what San Salvador has to offer. From hidden attractions to traditional dining spots, cultural experiences to local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, the city has something for everyone. Happy exploring!