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Noble Experiment
- Hours:
Tue-Sun 7 pm - 2 am
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Good for Groups:
- No
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Music:
- Background
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Thu, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- No
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- No
- Coat Check:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Good For Dancing:
- No
- Ambience:
- Intimate
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
421 reviews for Noble Experiment
Review Highlights
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"The Dealer's Choice was the most impressive." In 50 reviews -
"We push into the wall of kegs and wha-lah." In 25 reviews -
"The cocktails are truly unique and enjoyable." In 113 reviews
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421 reviews in English
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Review from David G.
Updated - 5/21/2012 4 Check-ins Here
I take back any negative thing I ever said.
Noble Experiment won me over. So much so that I can definitely say that it's my favorite place in town to grab a drink these days.
It has all the quality and craftsmanship of the finest cocktail lounges in San Diego -- or anywhere else, for that matter -- but without the crowds, noise, or claustrophobia. Even the pretentiousness is gone now that the "speakeasy" novelty has worn off.
Most of these sublime cocktails are served up by bartender/mixologist Brian L., who is a walking encyclopedia of spirits.
Even better is the fact that I finally mastered the byzantine strategies required to (reliably) get a seat here -- but will I tell you? Hell no -- I keep my secrets secret.
Yep -- I'm definitely won over.2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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10/11/2011
What a difference a bartender makes.
The one and only previous time I poked my head into Noble… Read more »
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Review from mason w.
San Diego, CA
5/17/2012
Man, what the hell! This girl tells me to meet her and her girlfriends at Noble Experiment, I was like alright! I find the address online and go there. I'm standing in some other bar waiting like a dumbass because I thought it was Noble experiment. So I get a drink and walk around looking for them to no avail. I had to pee so I'm waiting for toilet to be free and I lean against these kegs and the fucking wall opens. Im like WTF! Theres a effing hostess there like she was waiting for me to stumble in the whole time. As soon as I do, my friend comes walking around the corner. She's laughing at my childlike intrigue. "it's a bar in a bar. Sick!" it's way cooler than a Starbucks inside of a Starbucks.
I'm telling you, man, this spot is legit. Dope art and skulls, nuff said! I looked like the man, too. I was the only guy with 5 real housewife looking ladies, so much Botox I thought one of them was snarling at me the whole time. Lol but the staff is super chill. I love this place.
Some of the best drinks I've had in San Diego, pricey, but well worth it. If you take a date here with a few friends, you're the man! Its like you know some underground piece of San Diego that the masses don't have access to. Be cool in there though, they're strict and will kick your ass out in a second. But if you're hella chill, theyll be soo cool to you. If you have friends coming in from out of town, text your reservation a week in advance. You'll be a hit. -
Review from Justin A.
Carlsbad, CA
5/11/2012
One of the greatest hidden gems in the city. I dont mean that figuratively, this place is a secret. Its behind a false wall in another restaurant. The place has got one of the coolest vibes around town. Its small though, maybe enough room for 15-20 people total.
Make reservations, its practically the only way to insure you will be able to get in (especially on a busier day/night). Ive been here a hand full of times, and every detail down to the ice has been carefully thought of. If your fortunate enough to find this place, you'll be glad you did... -
Review from MAY J.
San Diego, CA
Updated - 5/1/2012
Here are some more tips for getting in and stuff:
Be polite. Being polite goes a long way.
Be patient. It's a tiny bar. If you're trying to get in without making a reservation, it IS possible to get in, but you're going to need to be patient. There's another bar to drink in while you're waiting to get in. Expect to wait anywhere from 5 minutes up to 2 hours or so to get in, for a party of 2 or 4. Have FUN while you are waiting. Sometimes the wait is only 30 minutes or less: be prepared to go in when you are texted and told it is your turn.
Nearly everyone who works here wants to be nice to you. Be nice to them too. Make friends with all of them even.
Tip well. Some people who go here are tipping 25%, more or less. If your drinks were fantastic and your waitress friendly and as fast as possible for a bar with only two bartenders who are making you custom drinks and such: tip, like a polite member of society. This isn't your dollar per drink kind of bar.
Don't show up drunk. The drinks are strong. Arrive sober. Have manners too.
Maximum party size is 6. If you need more people to get in, up to 35, plan weeks or months ahead of time and rent out the bar. It can be rented out for 2 hours or all night, and the rental price includes the cost of most drinks. (Free drinks!)
Again, be super polite to all the staff. Especially on Fridays. Everyone is doing their best to get you your drink as fast as possible, but sometimes quality takes a little bit extra time to create...
No flip flops or ball caps allowed.3 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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8/25/2011
The NEW & BEST way to make reservations:
Text EXACTLY one week in advance, in the morning. (For a… Read more »
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Review from Marlee S.
Belmont, CA
5/21/2012
Amazing atmosphere and super-friendly bartenders. Only disappointed that they don't serve vodka. Will definitely be back soon!
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Review from Jessica L.
San Diego, CA
4/23/2012 1 Check-in Here
BEST COCKTAILS I've ever had.
Noble Experiment is a prohibition era bar behind the Neighborhood in East Village. You push through a secret passageway in the Neighborhood to reveal a tiny bar that accommodates about 25. In order to enter you MUST have a reservation, which can be made via text. This place is pretty busy on all days of the week, so it is best to make a week or so beforehand or even more if you plan on coming on the weekend. It is definitely worth all the effort.
They have a suggested cocktail list, or if you cannot choose, you can just tell the server your favorite spirit and the mixologists will make whatever they feel like. They do not serve vodka though, so vodka drinkers have to opt for gin or clear rum. No worries though all the drinks are delicious.
In my 3 visits to Noble Experiment, I've had about 9 different drinks and they were all delicious from gins to brandys. Definitely recommend coming here, it is an experience all in its own. A great place to catch up with old friends are start off the night! -
Review from Michael E.
San Diego, CA
4/20/2012
Shhh. One of the best bar/lounge experiences I've had.
Tucked away within another establishment, Noble Experiment plays up the speakeasy theme quite nicely. Through the secret entrance, my group was very nicely greeted, seated and well served. Decor had quite the WOW factor.
Although they do have a drink menu, Dealer's Choice is the way to go. Basically you let the mixologist conjure up a magical elixir based on your spirit of choice. I had 3 cocktails created, 2 scotch and 1 spiced rum based. Amazing. My favorite was the scotch based Tattletale.
Great place, nice chill ambiance, amazing drinks. Even though there is no strict dress code enforced like other establishments, dress up a bit to get a lot more of your experience. -
Review from Mark U.
El Cajon, CA
5/8/2012 11 Check-ins Here
I've been coming to Noble a few times a month now, over the past year, so I figured it was about time to write a review.
Hands down this is my favorite bar in San Diego. If you're looking for a place to drink that has a quieter, more intimate setting, then Noble is perfect for you. The staff are all very kind and accommodating, the drinks are strong and taste amazing, and it's a nice quiet getaway from the downtown San Diego club scene.
Before coming here I had no idea how a true cocktail was supposed to taste. My first time was a truly magical experience. Since then I've made friends with the bartenders and I have learned so much about cocktails and alcohol from them. These guys really know their stuff and can teach so much. If you're interested in learning about the art of cocktails and appreciate good spirits, you have to come here and speak with the bartenders. They'll make you some very interesting drinks.
Getting in can be a little tricky, this is a speakeasy, so there are some rules to follow. Here's some tips.
- Getting there:
If you haven't been here before or been told how to get here you'll have a hard time finding it, an address will not get you there. Go the Neighborhood. Walk to the back towards the bathrooms. Face the bathrooms and then turn to your right. You will see a wall of kegs, THAT'S THE DOOR. Push it open slowly, the waiting area behind it is relatively small and there are often people back there. The door is very heavy and you dont want to send it smashing into someone. Once you're inside there will be a cute hostess waiting for you at the front desk.
BE NICE TO HER.
She is your ticket in.
This place gets plenty of business that they don't need to let everyone in that comes to them. So DON'T BE RUDE. The place is always busy and seating is limited. Do not be surprised if there is a long wait.
- Getting in:
The best way to get in is to make a reservation. You will need to grab their business card from the hostess at some point. All reservations are made by text to that number. The hostesses generally work the same nights each week so if you make your reservation EXACTLY a week in advance you are basically guaranteed to be making your reservation with the hostess who will be letting you in. Texting first thing in the morning is best. Any less than a week and the night will be booked and they don't like to take reservations made more than a week in advance.
Let them know how many people are in your party (maximum of 6), which night you wish to reserve, and a couple times you'd like to be there. They will text you back to confirm a time.
If you would like to try and walk-in, it is easiest for couples. They only reserve the booths, so bar seats are for walk-ins. The wait list can be very long though, so BE PATIENT.
If you made a reservation the availability of your booth is still at the mercy of the people in the booth before you. You may have to wait 15-30 minutes, sometimes longer, for a booth to become available. This is not the hostess' fault. Again, DON'T BE RUDE to her and BE PATIENT.
- Once you're in:
There are a couple strictly enforced rules:
- No open toed shoes. Heels or nice sandals for women are probably acceptable.
- No flash photography. It ruins the ambiance and the experience for others.
Then there are general guidelines to follow:
- Do not be loud and rowdy. This isn't a dive bar, be polite and respectful to the staff and the other customers.
- If you are seated in a booth all of your orders will be made through a server. DO NOT GO TO THE BAR. If you do the staff will kindly tell you to wait for your server to come around. I'm saving you the embarrassment.
- If you are seated at the bar, don't nag the bartenders, there are only two of them serving everyone, they will get to you when they have the time. Feel free to strike up conversation with them though. They are always very kind and making friends with them is always a plus. The bartenders are very knowledgeable and can teach you a lot.
- As always, BE NICE TO THE STAFF AND OTHER CUSTOMERS. It will go a long way.
Cocktails:
You'll find that the prices for their cocktails are higher than most other places but these aren't your standard dive-bar cocktails. These are CRAFT COCKTAILS, meaning there is an art to making them, it's not as simple as mixing soda and a spirit. They take time care to make. You will notice that when you taste them. They are worth the price.
They change their menu cocktails each season and they are all wonderful. If you aren't that familiar with craft cocktails I would suggest ordering from the menu first and advancing from there. The bartenders can make hundreds of different cocktails and often make up new mixtures to fit your liking. If you want to stray from the menu, go with dealer's choice. You will be in for a treat. Or if you have something in mind feel free to ask for it. Anything the bartenders make is going to be amazing.
I hope this review is helpful. I'm sorry it's so long. -
Review from Jason D.
San Diego, CA
4/4/2012
I had a really good experience here followed by a really bad one. There is some confusion as to making reservations here. My first time in was great and our reservation was met. It is all done through text messaging. The second time I decided to make things special and bring a date. I made my reservation 1 1/2 weeks ahead of time on a week night of all nights.
I showed up on time, with my date right beside me and told the hostess my name and reservation for 2. The place was packed and she (the hostess) must have been having a bad day. She rudely replied with, "no you don't" and I said "excuse me?" I then proceeded to take out my phone and show her the text that confirmed the reservation. She said that no seats were available any time soon and that there was a wait for the bar seating. I said, "what is the point of making a reservation if you guys cannot keep them?" She replied with, "I have other customers that need my attention right now."
I was not only speechless but embarrassed because my date was right there with me. My date said this... "Its ok if they are busy and can't seat us right away but why did she(the hostess) have to be so rude to you?"
We walked out and I will never be coming back here again. There are plenty of other fine establishments in San Diego. If this business thinks it can afford to treat a few customers badly then good for them. I will take my money elsewhere.
I only wanted to have a nice evening with my date and I did.... somewhere else. -
Review from Calvin H.
4/21/2012 1 Check-in Here
A secret bar within a bar! It doesn't really get much cooler than that. To get in you have to go to the back of Neighborhood towards the restrooms and push on the wall of kegs which is actually a secret door. Inside you'll be greeted by the hostess. But before you get to this point you should have reservations as the bar is extremely small with very limited seating.
This isn't the place to order a Jack and Coke. Drinks are about $12 and crafted to your taste. The bartenders are very knowledgeable and friendly. I suggest talking to them and asking for recommendations. Based on your likes they will introduce you to some new and different drinks. Half the fun is watching them spend the 2-3 minutes making your drink. -
Review from Ashley F.
Las Vegas, NV
Secret bar hidden within another bar, reservations via text, and drinks made to your liking is why Noble Experiment is my go to spot when ever I visit SD. The ambiance of this place is what sets it apart from any other place around. First off, the door to this place is a wall of kegs at the back of Neighborhood bar. As you enter you are greeted and seated at the bar or at the booth/lounge seats (for those that had reservations). There's only eight cocktails on the menu but I suggest going with the, 'Dealer's Choice,' you pretty much choose the liquor of your liking and what sort of taste you would like and in a matter of minutes...ta dah! your very own specialty drink that seems to always hit the mark on what your taste buds are craving for. IF you are a vodka drinker AND only drink vodka, steer clear from here, they do not serve it! My bf and I had a total of TEN cocktails from them..scary..I think I got carried away with how many sweet whiskey combinations they can make me. I think a good number to stay around is three..you don't want to feel like death the next day.
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Review from Dmitriy S.
San Diego, CA
Ever since being introduced to singlebarrel in San Jose, I've developed a fascination with hidden underground speakeasies. There's just something so exhilarating about walking into a secret room and getting a taste of the finest cocktails out there. When my friends suggested we come to Noble Experiment, I was very excited to see what all the fuss is about.
To get here, you first have to walk into Neighborhood, a nice modern joint with a vast beer selection. Follow the red tint to the bathrooms, and you will see a wall of kegs on your right. These kegs magically turn into a door, which reveals Noble Experiment behind it. Even after reading several Yelp reviews, I was still confused on how to exactly get in.
Reservations should be made well ahead of time. 6 guests max due to the limited seating and small intimate feeling of this place.
WARNING: If your purpose for coming here is to simply get drunk off of cheap drinks, you came to the wrong place. If you genuinely enjoy fine elegantly crafted cocktails, you will love it here.
Walking in, you are greeted by a wall of skulls, a beautifully designed bar, leather seating areas, and vintage photos that resemble 19th century France. Aside from the skulls, a setting like this is perfect for a date or a quiet elegant evening.
Cocktails for the night:
- Rattlesnake: Rye Whisky, egg whites, sweetened lemon juice, and absinthe (the legal American kind). This drink was phenomenal. A perfect level of sweetness with a creamy texture thanks to the egg whites. You get a very dry but mysteriously pleasant sour feeling in your mouth after it. Definitely a unique drink that's hard to find anywhere else.
- Coconut Kallaloo: Amber rum, lime juice, Coco Lopez, and lots of ice. Not as special as the Rattlesnake but still quite delightful. This has a rich coconut taste that is not overwhelmed by the rum or lime juice. The ingredients all compliment each other very well and work in harmony. This drink does contain a lot of ice, so make sure to consume quickly before it all melts and dilutes the flavor.
$12 a drink? Very worth it, especially considering that a shot of Tequila at any bar in Gaslamp will cost you $7-8. The service is great and you are provided cucumber flavored water to enjoy before your drink. A nice touch to an already great experience. -
Review from Christine K.
San Diego, CA
4/15/2012 2 Check-ins Here
Love Love Love this place! The downside is that bartender service may be inconsistent due to the volume of people. The hostess may is extremely kind and helpful with reservations and the drinks are of course, excellent.
Drinks: $12-$15, decent for a personalized experience. Decor is gorgeous. And of course, its a speakeasy. One of my favorite places in San Diego. -
Review from Mike W.
Encinitas, San Diego, CA
4/24/2012
Reservation only, a secret entrance and by far the best cocktails in town... You can't go wrong.
I recommend letting the bar tender know what spirit you are in the mood for and they will make you something that you've probably never had that looks and tastes amazing. -
Review from Rebecca L.
Bellevue, WA
4/27/2012 1 Check-in Here
when i saw pappy van winkle as one of their scotch, i knew that this place was going to be tasty. but their cocktails was a bit of a let down. tasty, but nothing amazing and the bartender missed the mark when i described the flavor i wanted. i dunno, maybe it's because i'm so in love with needle and thread up here in seattle, that that's the benchmark i place for all speakeasies.
i thought the skulls on the wall were cool and we def. had a few "kalahmah" sort of references throughout the night, but i wasn't too thrilled about it.
the entrance is cool, the ambiance is def cool (the paitings on the ceilings eyes look like they're following you) but i don't know if the cocktails are really worth it. i think next time i'll just order pappy's neat. -
Review from Dinah M.
San Diego, CA
5/21/2012
Omg, I felt so bougie here that it was ridiculous! And I loved it!! Haha! From the secret entrance, to the small (reservations only) area, to the strong as hell drinks and the cool decor, Noble Experiment is a great experience. I had The Rumble and Sunflower...they were both off the menu and they were both crazy delicious and VERY dangerous..HAHA! It's great because you tell the bartender what kind of alcohol you like (except vodka, that wasn't around during prohibition) and let them know what taste you like (sweet, sour, fruity etc.) and the bartender comes up with your own special drink! It's great!! Downside, is the bathroom is outside in the main restaurant, so you have to mingle amongst the regulars for a bit (LOL) but other than that, I really enjoyed this place =) oh yeah, you're not allowed to use flash photography so it's really hard to get good pictures of you and your drunk friends enjoying your moment here, but that just adds to the cool factor...HAHA! ENJOY! OH yeah, one more thing, they don't serve food here whatsoever, so I suggest nibbling on something before you get here because the dranks are strong as heck. I made the mistake of not eating and after my drinks (one had absinthe) I had a small blackout moment and don't really remember how we ended up at Tipsy Crow...
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Review from Lissa -.
Los Angeles, CA
4/5/2012
The best part is finding how to get to it. See the kegs by the bathroom? Push on them and you'll find it's a door leading to the lobby of this bar.
I don't understand the gold-painted skulls on the wall. Ugh. Creepy and gross, much?
Once inside the actual bar, it's super small so it's probably not a place you want to hang out hours on end. -
Review from Erik R.
San Diego, CA
Hands down my favorite bar in town.
I've been here a "few" times. The hostess and waitress are always very welcoming and most of the bartenders know how to make some really good drinks. I usually ask for the dealer's choice, but once the tall blonde kid, I think his name is Eric, made this really bitter disgusting cockatil...it tasted like poop. He must be a trainee or something.
The place doesn't have too many seats so it can get annoying when you have people inside who are just sitting there and nursing that one cocktail that they buy.
Overall I like the decor and atmosphere of the place. They recently changed the digital paintings on the walls to some creepy weird art. They should change them back to the image of the deer. -
Review from Angela Y.
3/4/2012 3 Check-ins Here
When I finally got the chance to check out Noble Experiment, I completely understood why I wasn't able to get a reservation the previous two times I tried. The bar can only accomodate a few parties (largest party size is 6) but it definitely adds to the atmosphere. Try and text a few days prior to get a reservation.
Of course, the cocktails were amazing! The drink of the night for our group was called the "Carlsbad Cooler" - a cocktail made with gin and citrus flavors. So delicious (but a little on the sweet side).
The best part is you get to customize your drink by describing the flavors you like the most. It might help to name some typical cocktails you enjoy so they can get a feel of your preferred palate. If there are certain flavors you really can't stand, I'd mention that too.
For the quality and the ambience, I think the price of each drink (~$12) is definitely worth it. The experience is very unique, even comparing it to other speakeasy type bars.
P.S. LOVE the secret entrance. -
Review from Nemish P.
Anaheim, CA
5/7/2012
I've only been once, but it's small, quaint, and the perfect place to a good drink on Sunday evening. If you're a scotch lover as I am, you will instantly fall in love with their selection of scotches and cocktails.
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Review from Taylor G.
Solana Beach, CA
Updated - 3/15/2012 4 Check-ins Here
I am now at peace with Noble. I have accepted that I just have to take my chances and walk in. If there is room, I am meant to drink there. If not, it's okay. I have this luxury of working downtown, and thus being in the area quite often.
Polina always welcomes the Saltbox crew with open arms. She's amazing!
I'll be sad to see the winter menu go. They make their own coconut reduction for one of the seasonal drinks (Kallaloo) and it's pretty much the nectar of the gods.
Thank you to each of the bartenders who have served me. You're always incredibly obliging, even when I usually finish my night with a non-alcoholic option. It's always delicious!Listed in: Craft Cocktails in San Diego
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/28/2011
Amazing atmosphere, fabulous drinks.
Now for the bad stuff -
Absolutely worst reservation system I… Read more »
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Review from Esther J.
Long Beach, CA
3/30/2012
They tried to be San Francisco... you have to text to get a password... small... intimate... skulls on the wall.. all that jazz..
It's ok.. but I didn't think it was sooooo cool or man I wan to go back kind of thing. The bartenders do know their liquors and drinks. They can make you anything you want if they have the liquor.
I just think there are many places in SD that can make it and do it better. So for all of you that are dying to get inside and have a drink. Eh. Don't fret. -
Review from Stacey C.
Alpine, CA
Updated - 2/17/2012
Oh Noble, you never cease to amaze me.
I've visited on numerous occasions, and even written a review (see below), but I just have to say again how wonderful this place is. Quality in bartending is a dying art, and Noble is certainly helping to keep it alive. Specifically, i'd like to make a shout out to Brian, the best bartender Southern California has ever known. He's hilarious, and amazing with a cocktail shaker and some whiskey &/or scotch in his hand. Seriously, the man does amazing things.
As for the guy below me who gave two stars because the bartenders were slightly appalled by his request for vodka:
1) Vodka IS tasteless. It's the "all I want to do is get drunk" alcohol. No one drinks vodka because they actually like it.
2) They don't carry vodka because they are a speakeasy, also known as a Prohibition Era inspired bar. That's why it's a "secret", behind a wall of kegs. Vodka was invented after the Prohibition Era, and therefore it would be historically inaccurate for them to carry it.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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9/27/2011
Now that I've had proper processing/sleeping time- it's time for a review of a little place called… Read more »
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Review from Ryan P.
San Diego, CA
5/5/2012
Didn't wake up the next day until 1 PM.. Which is either a good sign or a bad one depending on how you look at it, either way, those are some strong drinks! Fun concept, very classy. Don't show up early - they'll tell you to wait outside while they put the finishing touches on things, but once you're in it's worth it. The drinks on their menu are decent, but its when I went off-menu and just described to the waitress what kind of drink I felt like that they really blew me away. My favorite of their creations for me was essentially an old fashioned in a glass that had been washed in absinthe. Incredible.
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Review from Lana R.
2/26/2012 1 Check-in Here
You get what you pay for, right? Right!
You do get pretty nice cocktails here for your hard earned $$.
Extremely hard to get in, even if you know a hostess and bartenders.
You still have to wait.
The bar is very tiny. The ambiance is very dark.
I am not sure if it is that great of a dating spot...
With all its uniqueness and darkness I did not find it romantic. -
Review from Heather W.
San Diego, CA
4/3/2012 1 Check-in Here
now i know why its so difficult to get a reservation here: its the size of a shoebox. oh sorry, its very "intimate." :)
reservations via text required...open seating to you when you arrive for reservation merely a chance. our chance came up short :/ awkward wall flowers for at least 30 minutes in a corner of the bar until our booth was available to us. btw noble - i dont think it should be allowed to seat a single couple in one of the 3(?) booths when a party of 5 has upcoming reservations. but i digress...your business and you obviously are doing very well.
ok so i am one of the losers who didnt even know how to get here. i write reviews regularly but failed to research before walking down G st. walk...walk...walk.. oh wait, im at 4th now, this isnt right. ya oops. its INSIDE neighborhood. past the crowded room, past the even more crowded bathroom line, through the fake barreled door.
i admit, you feel rather cool walking into a "secret" room. poof, there is the smiling hostess and an entirely different space and vibe a mere inches away from the hustle and bustle of the gastropub. skulls lining the entire wall, video picture frame, erie old portraits staring down on you from the high ceiling. i enjoyed the space. get a little dressier, come on a date or with friends, sip on delicious cocktails and actually have a conversation without the need of shouting.
after reviewing the ultra-scripty fonted paper menu in the dim lighting, i went with a cocktail of including Apple Brandy, Ginger, Club Soda. it was lovely and actually in a tall glass. i LOVED that it had a huge chunk of candied ginger and (i think) a liquor soaked peach slice for a garnish. what an elegant and thoughtful drink. and delicious.
im glad i finally got to try the elusive noble experiment. its worth at least one visit.
**i came thinking the cocktails were $14 (they are $12) so i was actually thrilled with the price -- it was validated by tasting great with high quality ingredients. its kinda like when you think its thursday and its really friday :))Listed in: Where to fly with the social…
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Review from Christopher N.
Phoenix, AZ
2/6/2012
To to the pretentiousness jerks who not only mocked my gang's ugly Xmas sweaters, but couldn't get in, this review is for you.
Don't bother stopping by, if you're looking for your normal well drink. This place is dead serious about mixology. The server boasted at least 500 potential drinks, so come prepared for a new drinks not named Long Island.
To get the most out of trip, I recommend to order something you'd never consider at your home bar. I though I'd try my luck with a Scotch Dealers Choice. Dealer's Choice just means the bar tender pick your drink with your choice of spirit. Both my drinks were fantastic. I got a Penicillin, a Scotch ginger drink, which singed my lips a little. The other was clean smokey Scotch citrus drink.
My only complaint was that the drinks were a bit short in liquid, but the presentation and alcohol made up for it. Don't be scared by their pure liquor drinks. They're just as lovely because homemade almond liquor taste better than almond syrup. The price is fair for drinks and exclusivity.
Stop by if you've never had the speak easy experience and want a quiet classy drinking environment. It's the perfect place to start or end your night.
Oh yeah don't be a jerk to your patrons, because they might have space to let you in. -
Review from Gracie M.
San Diego, CA
2/9/2012 2 photos
I've visited the Noble Experiment before but it's been awhile; last night I partook in the extravagent beverages so intimately mixed. The bartender asked me what I liked and put together a delicious cocktail with bitters, rum, and ginger shavings.
This place is amazing, so much attention to detail and so warmly lit with wonderful atmosphere. A party sitting not far from me started to get a little rowdy and loud, but they were quickly hushed and I love that! That, and the unique libations served, make the Noble Experiment a fantastic "speak easy" and art gallery. -
Review from Freedom r.
San Diego, CA
2/27/2012 1 Check-in Here
It was pretty awesome that I was clearly fooled by the fake kegs door. I heard about the hidden lounge in the neighborhood so I walked around trying to find it on my owe. Finally the waitress told me, I gentlely pushed the kegsand a freakin secret red light room with a hostess appear. Awesome
Room was covered in gold skulls and it felt a little like twilight zone. Drinks are pricey. -
Review from Justin L.
San Diego, CA
3/2/2012
My first experience (this was two years ago) with a speak easy bar and I was quite impressed.
All drinks are $12, which is a deal because the high quality spirits that are used.
This place is quiet and tiny, which is great for a super 'lax time with good conversation. -
Review from nicole c.
1/2/2012 ROTD 3/1/2012
I rolled my eyes so many times in the hours leading up to my first sip at Noble Experiment that I'm pretty sure I damaged my optic nerve. Picture me rolling my eyes when my friend got us reservations via "secret text". Picture me rolling my eyes at the Yelp review reminding me that they, like Craft and Commerce, "don't believe" in vodka. Picture me rolling my eyes when we walked through that hidden keg door. Picture me rolling my eyes at the skull wall and the nearly unreadable font on the menu. Picture me rolling my eyes all those times and more, and you'll see that I was NOT looking forward to this little adventure last Wednesday night.
But, with my first sip of whisky drink, I was sold. It's true - the handcrafted cocktails these mixologists (eye roll) create are pretty damn delicious. And once I stopped being a cynical little jerk, I was able to enjoy Noble Experiment for what it was: a cool, upscale spot for fancy drinks with good friends.
I couldn't really tell you what our drinks were, as we went with the "dealer's choice" option... you pick the booze, and the bartender makes you a potent, interesting, and delicious cocktail that you've definitely never had before and will probably never have anywhere else. While not a place I'd frequent ($12 drink prices are definitely only a "sometimes" in my book), I would definitely choose this spot to bring friends from out of town to look especially cool. "Oh, this? Yeah, it's pretty exclusive, but you know, I have my people." (eye roll)
The decor was neat, the hostesses and servers as friendly and knowledgeable as can be, and the drinks spectacular. Noble Experiment is like the popular girl in school you want to hate but then she's REALLY nice, on top of being pretty and smart, that bitch. It is absolutely worth a visit, so go in with an open mind, be willing to try something new, and don't laugh when the cocktail server spritzes rose water into your drink with a little perfume bottle because she is totally not joking about that. -
Review from Kari L.
San Diego, CA
1/10/2012
Do you consider yourself cool? Trendy? In with the crowd? Well, then you're still not cool enough to come here. Noble Experiment is the glorious semi-secret that we still want to keep from everybody so it can still be enjoyed by us snobs.
But in all seriousness, I love this place. If you're into the Prohibition Era or can realize that a cocktail can be art form than you really need to get your keester in here. Or if you like to keep it a good secret, than don't come. It's classy and elegant, but definitely for those who can appreciate it's hidden allure and exceptionally good cocktails. Those bartenders are sneaky fellows...The cocktails are so strong, but you don't even notice the alcoholic taste. I'm just buzzed off one drink. It's that good. A lot of the ingredients are seasonal and locally sourced so the quality is definitely there.
FYI: NO VODKA. Sorry sorority ladies and frat boys. Vodka wasn't made prior to the Prohibition and Noble only honors what was available during that time.
I definitely recommend it for a romantic evening or if you're looking for an stimulating conversation with someone. Noble Experiment has an intimate allure and is NOT a place to be belligerent and rowdy. -
Review from Jas S.
San Diego, CA
2/23/2012 1 Check-in Here
Amazing drinks and good atmosphere, what else can you ask for?
Reservations are a bit tough, try booking at least a week in advance for the prime time spots. -
Review from Daniel L.
La Jolla, CA
3/6/2012
was a task to get in and once inside we had to wait for a seat. However, i must say it's a cool little place with good drinks. I like the fact you can actually talk to a bartender about a drink and have them customize something to your liking.
i enjoy food and am seeking the right drink. This is a good place to find that regular drink......mine is a gin rickey.
text them from another nearby bar and get warmed up.....it may take a bit. Also, go on a weeknight or plan to wait. -
Review from Devin B.
San Francisco, CA
2/3/2012
If you're in SD you have to check this place out (if you can get in).
I've been probably 4 or 5 times and when friends would visit we always took them here. Very intimate, classy, chic (but not pretentious). Its not something you would expect in SD and you certainly feel special when you find your way in.
As you probably know you need to text you reservation (no more than 6). I would suggest 4.
Also talk with the hostess, shes super awesome and if you go a few times/stick to your appointments/aren't a douche you might even make it on the preferred list. That means that youre a high priority when you ask for a reservation. Had some great nights here, highly recommended. -
Review from Abby W.
12/30/2011
This is an awesome, one-of-a-kind bar experience. My boyfriend first heard about this "secret" bar a year ago on his last birthday and decided that he wanted to go here for his birthday this year. We stopped in about a month ago and found out that you have to text them a week in advance to get reservations. I texted early on Saturday morning and got our spots reserved for the following Saturday evening. We also learned that they don't accept reservations for more than 6 people.
We arrived shortly before our reservation and were led to the bar. As I was the DD, I only had a couple sips of my boyfriend's drinks. He tried one of their listed drinks and had the bartender make him something special too. After choosing the liquor and flavor, the bartender created the drink on the spot. At $12 a drink, the price is a little expensive but the atmosphere more than makes up for it.
The cozy hidden room only holds about 30 or so people, which allows room to move and time to chat with the bartenders. The decor is lovely with a wall of gold skulls and portraits on the ceiling. It definitely has a Prohibition vibe to it, which makes the experience all the more fun.
We'll definitely be coming back again! -
Review from Ashley H.
San Diego, CA
This small speakeasy transforms a cocktail into art--akin to a culinary masterpiece. I had a great conversation with the bartender who was telling me all about how to make handcrafted drinks and the importance of mixing textures and flavors in cocktails.
The staff was super friendly and accommodated us no problem. Mind you, I went on a Wednesday night around 9pm. I texted a week in advance for a reservation on Saturday and they were completely booked. So, if you want to go on a weekend, I would try getting in 2 weeks prior if you can.
Definitely worth the price of the cocktails. I told the bartender what flavors I liked in a cocktail and he surprised me with an amazing one each time.
Best drinks I've had in San Diego! -
Review from Robert C.
San Diego, CA
5/11/2012
This place is great, unlike anything I've every seen in San Diego. It reminded me of something you would see in San Francisco. Went here with friends from out of town to enjoy some drinks and it was the perfect setting for a low-key Sunday night cocktail. Upon entering, you really do feel like you've stepped into another time. It seems to attract a different crowd than the typical "downtown" types. I got the coconut/lime and rum cocktail. I'm usually a vodka drinker, but since this speak easy lounge doesn't carry vodka I had no choice but to try something else. I loved it! You can tell a lot of thought went into crafting these cocktails and it showed--the presentation was beautiful. The staff was really chill and weren't "in your face." They let you lounge and enjoy your cocktail for as long as you want, so you don't feel like they are constantly trying to turn tables. Space is limited so we did have a little wait, but it was well worth it. I will definitely be back here!
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Review from Angel H.
12/3/2011 1 Check-in Here
Intimacy, sophistication, and elegance. Noble Experiment definitely exhibits all these notable qualities that a classy establishment shall entail.
Visiting my home in San Diego, my beautiful friend, Sara T., and I decided to look for a lounge in Gaslamp that was not infested with ridiculously inebriated souls. Upon looking up prospective locations on my Yelp app, we noticed that Noble Experiment was right around the corner according to Google Maps. Bemused, my friend and I stood in front of Neighborhood, not seeing a sight of Noble Experiment. As several kind gentlemen noticed our confusion, we were directed to go to the back of the restaurant and push the wall of kegs. Naturally intrigued by the interesting instructions, we pushed the wall, and there it was, the red neon lights that spelled, "Noble Experiment".
We were promptly seated after realizing that the hostess and my friend were brief acquaintances. There were portraits anchored on the ceiling, chandeliers hung in gracefulness, golden skulls installed on a top of each other on the side wall. Sara and I each enjoyed a delicate cocktail, deriving from cosmopolitan and cape cod respectively. The drinks were potent--Sara and I quickly became jolly characters giggling about unimportant things in life.
When I'm in San Diego again, I'll definitely revisit Noble Experiment as this holiday can definitely use some swankiness.Listed in: A 21-year-old Debauchery
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Review from kimberly m.
San Diego, CA
1/1/2012 1 Check-in Here
I can't believe I'm a native San Diegan and I just heard about this...from a gal from Jersey. WTH?
Anyways, Noble Experiment is a fantastically intimate bar, branded cool with its decor, custom cocktails, and definite speakeasy vibe. Reservations are made only by texting, and its hidden inside of Neighborhood restaurant. A wall of faux barrels is the secret entry way.
It's tiny when you first walk in. The cute hipster girl at the desk smiles and greets you- very friendly. We turn the corner to walk into a very cozy bar with 20 ft ceilings. Walls are lined with golden skulls, ceiling is lined with framed paintings. Cool atmosphere achieved.
Bartender = awesome. I told him I wanted bourbon. I also mentioned I want something to reflect the holidays. What I got: Bourbon vanilla flip with cinnamon- Dude, I got Bourbon eggnog- frikkin' amazing bourbon eggnog. SOLD. Each custom made concoction made us giddy. We giggled in delight as the sweet nectar danced on our lips.
My only gripe- the texting thing. My friend was trying to secure reservations. The hostess said she had an 8:00, my friend texted her back and said we'd take it. We show up and guess what? Hostess didn't confirm it. I will say though, they did try to accommodate us. We stood by the bar for a while, but then the hostess brought some stools she finagled from God knows where (it's a really small bar).
I will absolutely be going back
