Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. San Diego
  4. San Diego
  5. Hillcrest
Female inspired craft drinks- The Born This Way - Barrel & Board Social, San Diego, CA

Barrel & Board Social

4.8
4.8
270 Reviews
$31 to $50
Contemporary American
A New Woman-Forward Intimate Cocktail & Food Experience is Here!
Welcome to Hillcrest’s chicest spot for craft cocktails, barrel-aged potables, and chef-inspired shareable boards. An upscale LGBTQ+ bar, restaurant & event space brought to you by the Mo’s Universe Group!
Named San Diego's Top 10 Hottest Cocktail spots by EATER, as well as Open Table's Top 10 DINERS CHOICE Winner!

Make a reservation

2 people

7:00 PM


Booked 10 times today

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Elegant Dining
  • Price
    $31 to $50
  • Cuisines
    Contemporary American, Tapas / Small Plates, Wine Bar
  • Hours of operation
    Tue–Thu 5:00 pm–9:00 pm Fri–Sun 5:00 pm–10:00 pm
  • Phone number
    (619) 902-4646
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress code
    Smart Casual
  • Executive chef
    Chris Walsh
  • Catering
    Yes, we can absolutely cater your next event!
  • Private party facilities
    Please contact our Events Director Lea@barrelandboardsd.com for private events and larger parties reservations.
  • Neighborhood
    Hillcrest
  • Parking details
    Street Parking
  • Additional
    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, BYO Wine, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Full Bar, Gender Neutral Restroom, Gluten-free Options, Late Night, Outdoor Firepit, Outdoor Smoking Area, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, Vegan, Wheelchair Access, Wine

What 270 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.8
4.8 based on recent ratings
  • 4.8Food
  • 4.7Service
  • 4.8Ambience
  • 4.6Value

NoiseModerate

Loved For

  • San Diego

    Best Ambiance

  • San Diego

    Good for groups

  • San Diego

    Contemporary American

  • San Diego

    Best Ambiance

  • San Diego

    Good for groups

  • San Diego

    Contemporary American

270 Reviews
  1. OpenTable Diner

    Richmond

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 3 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Autumn is an incredible server! An absolute pleasure! We love the food but go back to see her!

    Is this helpful?

  2. OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 26, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The food was fabulous and our server gave great recommendations.

    Is this helpful?

  3. CindyA

    San Diego

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 20, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Food and Drinks were amazing. Staff was very friendly and helpful.

    Is this helpful?

  4. LauraG

    San Diego

    15 reviews

    5.0

    15 reviews

    Dined on November 15, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    This was my second visit there and my companion's first. Excellent service, nice menu with some unique items, good wine list, lots of exotic drinks!! I was very pleased with my entree and I felt like the prices were moderate! Great decoration.....and there's a secret here too!!! I will be returning!

    Is this helpful?

  5. Greg

    New York Area

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on November 5, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great food, ambiance, and service! Will definitely be back!

    Is this helpful?

  6. AaronO

    San Diego

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on October 14, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Everything we ordered was delicious, well plated and served with the nicest. The drinks were generous and tasty. We had such a nice time here. The music is good.

    Is this helpful?

  7. OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on October 14, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Food and service was phenomenal! I came early before my party and the lovely host showed me around and showed me the speakeasy! The music was a perfect mashup of all my favorite throwbacks! Food and drinks were all delicious! Shout out to Dorian (I hope I spelled that correct ) who waited on us and was just a delight! Even with our complicated order 😅Exceptional service from all other staff members as well. My second time here and has never disappointed! 10/10 will recommend to everyone!

    Is this helpful?

  8. ChristopherF

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on October 13, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Dorian or server with excellent. You have to choose where in the restaurant you eat. There are different noise levels at different locations in the restaurant. From experience we knew that the back patio area was the quietest area. And had a special ambience that we liked. So we were aware of where we were going to sit.

    Is this helpful?

  9. OpenTable Diner

    Oklahoma City

    1 review

    1.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 9, 2023

    overall1food1service2ambience1
    Really overrated place. Terrible quality food and horrific drinks

    Is this helpful?

  10. MarcieR

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 3, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Dorian is the best server. We always request to be sat in his section. The food is always divine. Couldn’t ask for a better experience. This is our favorite restaurant by far!

    Is this helpful?

  11. LauraG

    San Diego

    15 reviews

    5.0

    15 reviews

    Dined on August 31, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    My first time there and it was a delight! Nice menu, lots of options, enjoyed the charcuterie board I ordered. The server was great and attentive without hovering. Nice drinks list, too. Afterwards, we went into the speakeasy for a nightcap and to listen to the live music. Great evening!

    Is this helpful?

  12. StephdR

    San Diego

    2 reviews

    4.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on August 27, 2023

    overall4food4service4ambience5
    We sat in the front patio which was perfect for the weather. We were informed that they were hosting a wedding as well which accounted for the very slow service, which I will assume isn’t normally the case so. We weren’t all to bothered by it because the servers were very pleasant and we were enjoying conversation. The board servings were a good size. The food was flavorful (I ordered the Achiote marinated steak). Drinks were beautiful and my margarita flight was nice and strong, so thumbs up to that! Overall good experience and would recommend

    Is this helpful?

  13. OpenTable Diner

    Palm Springs

    15 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    15 reviews

    Dined on August 26, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Excellent experience as always. We brought friends from out of town because it’s always a lovely experience. They loved it! Food was beautifully presented. We truly enjoyed myself.

    Is this helpful?

  14. ChristiB

    San Diego

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on August 20, 2023

    overall5food4service5ambience5
    Dominique was a fantastic bartender and server, would go back just to sit at the bar to have her make us drinks all night and chat. Boards are always a good choice and really loved the prosciutto and pesto flatboard! We were not fans of the Cesar salad.

    Is this helpful?

  15. PaulR

    San Diego

    4 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on August 20, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Great dining experience, sever was very attentive, drinks were fantastic, Mediterranean Board was delicious and Salmon Board was perfectly cooked - skin and all. Dog friendly outside! I would highly recommend going with anyone you enjoy sharing your meals with!

    Is this helpful?

  16. Foodiesrus

    San Diego

    8 reviews

    2.0

    8 reviews

    Dined on August 19, 2023

    overall2food3service1ambience3
    Service and food took forever to be served. Tables that came after us were served and left before our main dishes came which was an hour and a half later. I would advise avoiding this place on Friday evenings altogether

    Is this helpful?

  17. OpenTable Diner

    Dallas

    1 review

    vip
    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 18, 2023

    overall4food5service5ambience5
    All great, kitchen a little slow

    Is this helpful?

  18. Bday

    San Diego

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on August 10, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Spent my birthday dinner here & it was the most lovely evening!! We had the semi private enclave room area. It was so fun - the boards, drinks & atmosphere. Can’t wait to come back again soon!

    Is this helpful?

  19. MeganT

    San Diego

    10 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    10 reviews

    Dined on August 4, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The server was so nice and she recommended a bunch of great wines

    Is this helpful?

  20. Lawrence

    San Diego

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on July 28, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Had a great time, food was great and hot and fresh. Everyone was so pleasant.

    Is this helpful?

  21. marlenaf

    San Diego

    7 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on July 27, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Came here with girlfriends for a birthday we had a lovely table. We ordered a charcuterie board to share and each got a main dish. We all had fun different cocktails. After dinner we went into the speak easy in the back to get a drink and listen to the live singer. It was jazzy and special. The service was great the food was great and the ambiance was amazing. We need more places like this in San Diego.

    Is this helpful?

  22. OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    2 reviews

    3.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on July 23, 2023

    overall3food5service1ambience3
    Our charcuterie board came out after our meal, when we specifically ordered it as an appetizer. Our server offered us water towards the end of the meal, my partners Paloma’s (we were kicked out of the dining area at 10:27, but maybe if they knew how long we waited for each drink that would have been adjusted) took forever. And to top it off they wouldn’t take my little visa gift card that was given to me (and I confirmed the balance was available) as partial payment. I mean after gratuity, drinks at the bar, and dining, spending $295 in total for three people, I would expect a little better. This also is not my first visit there. While I will return, I hope that this was just an off night for our server. Food was amazing as usual.

    1 person found this helpful

  23. Bday

    San Diego

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on July 15, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Love the boards & ambience! Great way to kick off pride weekend.

    Is this helpful?

  24. OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on July 14, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    I can’t begin to express how much I love love love this place! The charcuterie boards never disappoint and the service is always top notch! The drinks are STRONG so if that’s not your thing I’d maybe skip the cocktail. The cheese and meats are spectacular and the ambiance is amazing! I like to sit on their outdoor patio, it’s a lot quieter out there!

    Is this helpful?

  25. AnthonyS

    San Francisco

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on July 9, 2023

    overall5food4service5ambience5
    Very aesthetically pleasing restaurant and our server Dorian was amazing! Both the food and drinks were very good! We will definitely be back

    Is this helpful?

  26. OpenTable Diner

    Los Angeles

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on July 8, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Moe’s staff and service and the food quality is always superb here. You can never go wrong with some boards, wine and specialty cocktails. A must go to for anyone that is in the neighborhood or who visits Hillcrest

    Is this helpful?

  27. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on July 2, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great place for a nice yummy charcuterie board and beautiful, tasty drinks

    Is this helpful?

  28. CJohn

    San Diego

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on June 25, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Such a special place. We have so much fun here. The staff are upbeat and fun. The food is delicious. The back patio is our favorite for 4 of us. It's like we are hanging out in someone's backyard, you can relax and enjoy the time with friends without feeling rushed or like you need to yell over the music.

    Is this helpful?

  29. OpenTable Diner

    San Diego

    2 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on June 24, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Everything was lovely! Service, ambience, and drink selection were my favorite things.

    Is this helpful?

  30. CWnewyorknative

    San Francisco

    34 reviews

    vip
    2.0

    34 reviews

    Dined on June 18, 2023

    overall2food1service1ambience3
    Friendly host and waiter who "allowed" us to split the 7 person bill. Waiter didn't show itemized bill, just a device which had a total -- including a tip whether you wanted to give or not. Appetizer ordered when first seated never showed up Only one dish was served to 1of 7 guests 20 min before others entrees came to table. Fish tacos were well played but fish was very overcooked. Excellent Ribeye and burger but ratatouille had mixed reviews from the two that ordered it. Loved the Boardroom's music and energy. Bartenders are inattentive.

    Is this helpful?

  31. Michelle

    San Diego

    6 reviews

    5.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on June 16, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    A great time. A very interactive meal with good food. The cocktails are pretty and tasty and the Boards are beautiful. Also having the Gluten Free bread option is a real plus.

    Is this helpful?

  32. JisooK

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on June 15, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We went for our friend’s birthday and we had a BLAST! Dom was amazing with the service, food, cake, and drinks. The interior was gorgeous and perfect for photos! So close to bars and clubs for any after parties❤️

    Is this helpful?

  33. TeresaM

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on June 15, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Had the best time here. Was given plenty of time to order and never felt rushed. Great vibes and was the best dinner date I’ve had in a while.

    1 person found this helpful

  34. MyraH

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on June 4, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Such a wonderful xperience. Very thoughtful and attentive. Food and drinks were great.

    Is this helpful?

  35. Taylor

    Seattle

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on May 28, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    My partner and I always have the best time when we go to Barrel and Board! It’s our favorite date night spot. They have the best cheese boards and the staff have been so wonderful each time we visit.

    Is this helpful?

  36. OpenTable Diner

    Nashville

    1 review

    vip
    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 28, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We had the best experience ever. My fiancé and I came to celebrate our engagement with our friend Janna. The manager took amazing care of us and our waitress (Autumn) took it to the next level. We were treated like royalty and the food was so so so delicious. This is truly the best place to eat, hangout and be gay!

    Is this helpful?

  37. Robo

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 27, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    This place was great and the food and atmosphere was the best! I highly recommend this place for anyone wanting great food and atmosphere.

    Is this helpful?

  38. SusieB

    San Diego

    10 reviews

    5.0

    10 reviews

    Dined on May 25, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Exactly what we wanted for a birthday girls get together. The vibe, presentation & service. Perfection. We will be back. I love this concept~

    Is this helpful?

  39. Brian

    San Diego

    24 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    24 reviews

    Dined on May 21, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The brunch menu and cocktails were delicious. Our server was also extremely sweet and courteous.

    Is this helpful?

  40. AnnaBNana

    Washington DC

    14 reviews

    1.0

    14 reviews

    Dined on May 21, 2023

    overall1food5service1ambience4
    Barrel & Board Review The was my single worst experience at a restaurant of this caliber—the service was simply awful. Let me start by saying this was my 3rd visit to Barrel & Board since we moved to the neighborhood 6 months ago. The other experiences were great and we enjoy the food. So when our friends came down to visit from Santa Barbara, we were eager to take them here. I made a reservation on OpenTable for 4 and requested a table at the front of the restaurant. When we arrived, no one had read the note and there were no tables up front—we ended up in the back patio. If this had been the only issue, this would have been long forgotten. We ordered drinks and a cheeseboard for the table to start and entrees to follow. We waited about 30 min for our drink order of beer and wine. Then quite a while later, all the food came out at once. Our table was covered in food—it was ridiculous. And no one checked on us at all after taking the order. They never asked us about our food, if we needed anything, or even if we wanted a 2nd drink. We all wanted another round of drinks, but we didn’t want to wait for our server any longer. I walked to the front to ask a random employee for the check. After we paid, we walked to a nearby spot for that round of drinks. The biggest concern we had about the whole night was that no one asked us about our experience or food, never asked if we needed anything other than that first order, and never apologized for the long waits—not even a thank you for joining us when the bill was dropped. I have over 15 years of experience serving and typically hesitate to leave a bad review. I understand that hiccups happen, but this was unbelievably poor service.

    Is this helpful?

Safety precautions

  • Cleaning & sanitizing

    • Surfaces sanitized between seatings
    • Digital, disposable or sanitized menu provided
    • Common areas deep-cleaned daily
    • Sanitizer or wipes provided for customers
    • Contactless payment available
  • Protective equipment

    • Waitstaff wear masks
  • Screening

    • Sick staff prohibited in the workplace

FAQs

You can order delivery directly from Barrel & Board Social using the Order Online button. Barrel & Board Social also offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (619) 902-4646.

Barrel & Board Social is rated 4.8 stars by 270 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people

7:00 PM


Booked 10 times today

Order delivery or takeout

Google Map for Barrel & Board Social

1027 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103-3309

Additional information

  • Neighborhood
    Hillcrest
  • Hours of operation
    Tue–Thu 5:00 pm–9:00 pm Fri–Sun 5:00 pm–10:00 pm
  • Price
    $31 to $50
  • Cuisines
    Contemporary American, Tapas / Small Plates, Wine Bar
  • Dining style
    Elegant Dining
  • Dress code
    Smart Casual
  • Parking details
    Street Parking
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Executive chef
    Chris Walsh
  • Additional
    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, BYO Wine, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Full Bar, Gender Neutral Restroom, Gluten-free Options, Late Night, Outdoor Firepit, Outdoor Smoking Area, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, Vegan, Wheelchair Access, Wine
  • Phone number
    (619) 902-4646
  • Catering
    Yes, we can absolutely cater your next event!
  • Private party facilities
    Please contact our Events Director Lea@barrelandboardsd.com for private events and larger parties reservations.
OpenTable
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Careers
  • Press
More
Businesses
  • Restaurant reservation software
  • Industry insights
  • Hospitality resources
  • Marketing resources
  • Operation resources
  • How to open a restaurant
  • For restaurants
  • For restaurant groups
Join us on
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2023 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
Rentalcars Logo
OpenTable Logo