Here at the San Diego Comic-Con Unofficial Blog, we love to eat. And we know some of you do too, even at a convention as packed as SDCC. That’s why the Restaurant Promotions Guide for San Diego Comic-Con is back again for a fourth year.
With that in mind, we’ve reached out to several restaurants in the Gaslamp and surrounding area to see what is being offered, from special menus, themes, Comic-Con deals, and more.
“But what about [Insert Your Favorite Restaurant Here]? It’s so close and the food is great!” This list is not intended to be comprehensive, but rather a guide to eateries and establishments that are going the extra mile when it comes to celebrating Comic-Con. We probably love some of the same places that you do, but we are keeping this guide a little more focused
Below you’ll find the restaurant with a link to either their site or social media and the distance from the convention center. Keep in mind, this list is not exhaustive, but only those we are aware of and have spoken with. Make sure to check back as we will update this as we get more details. (And if you’re a restaurant that would like to be featured, use our Contact Form).
Let’s start with the San Diego Convention Center itself! They have published their food menu for San Diego Comic-Con. The page includes prices and features items such as tacos, burritos, sandwiches, salads, and much more! The San Diego Convention Center has also revealed its exclusive chocolate bars available at Comic-Con this year.
Asa Bakery
0.9 miles from the convention center
During Comic-Con weekend (Thursday – Sunday), Asa Bakery will be hosting a Kimochi pop-up that fresh fruit daifuku!
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barleymash
0.5 miles from the convention center
barleymash, located on the corner of Fifth Ave and Market St, will transform into Area 619, featuring specialty food and drinks, and an invite-only cocktail lounge from Thursday, July 23 – Sunday, 26.
Sip on The Mothership ($19), with Patron Blanco Tequila, ube, coconut, and lime, Warp Speed ($17) – Bacardi Rum, pineapple, orgeat, blue curaco, and lime, Close Encounter ($18), made with Grey Goose, melon, lime, mint, and melon balls, or the Galactic Buzz ($18) – Cazadores Reposado, cold brew, coffee liqueur banana cream.
Food specials include:
- The Zoidberg-er ($22) – A crab Rangoon-style patty with sweet chili sauce, wonton crisp, and green onion cream cheese spread on a brioche bun with fries
- Drax-A-Roni and Cheese ($22) – Ale braised pork, salsa verde, Mexican street corn sauce, and tortilla crisps tossed with tajin, and topped with cotija all on mac and cheese
- Pizza Planet Pockets ($18) – Pepperoni pizza empanadas with za sauce
- Experiment 626 AKA Stitch ($14) – Peanut butter ice cream and strawberry jam sandwiched between rice crispy treats.
The invite-only cocktail lounge Space Smugglers Cantina will feature exclusive cocktails, galactic vibes, and black market bites. To get in, you’ll have to DM @barleymashsd for the “secret password”.
There will also be away swag, prizes, and out-of-this-world goodies throughout Comic-Con.
The Blind Burro
0.4 miles from the convention center
The Blind Burro is bringing you to the cosmos with their “Aliens in Outer Space” theme this year. Staff will be dressed in far-out looks, the restaurant will be decorated in a stellar theme.
The featured drink this Comic-Con will be a larger-than-life, galactic, glowing, cucumber-melon margarita. We are also featuring far-out fully loaded carne asada fries!
On Friday, the Nutrl promo team will be here from 3pm-5pm. The team will hand out samples and swag, as well as set up a hat decorating station. Guests can pick their hat, pick their patches, and the team will press them on! Saturday night we will have an outer-space themed dance party 8pm-10pm with a live DJ.
Cafe de l’Opera
0.5 miles from the convention center
Cafe de l’Opera is bringing Poke Puffs to the masses, which are Pokémon-themed pastries that will be available in Sweet, Mint, Citrus, Mocha, and Spice, with tiers including Frosted, Deluxe and Wish options.
Cloak & Petal
1.3 miles from the convention center
Located in Little Italy, the Michelin Guide-recognized Cloak & Petal is going all in on Marvel thanks to Executive Chef Robert Cassidy and Bar Director Johnny Perez during Comic-Con!.
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Spidey Sense Roll – Pepper crusted tuna, softshell crab, jalapeno whipped goat cheese, avocado, cucumber, asparagus, chipotle miso, fig compote & shiso
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Deadpool Sashimi – Pan seared gochugaru albacore, sambal butter ponzu, pickled fresno, salsa macha, shaved red onion, guajillo shio & cilantro
- Shinobi Logan – Mijenta Blanco Tequila, Shochu, Cucumber, Shiso, Lime, Light Braulio Float) – a bright and refreshing blend of cucumber, shiso, and citrus with subtle herbal depth. Inspired by Logan’s disciplined warrior spirit and his mastery of the shadows during his time in Japan.
- Ronin Wolverine – Mijenta Reposado Tequila, Yuzu, Cherry Blossom Tonic, Dash of Tres Tribus Mezcal) – a crisp highball balancing smoky tequila, vibrant yuzu, and delicate floral notes. Inspired by the wandering samurai searching for purpose, honor, and redemption.
- Berserker Weapon X – Nikka Whisky, Hine Cognac, Black Sesame Orgeat, Smoked Salt, Chocolate Bitters, Orange Bitters) – a rich and powerful cocktail layered with nutty, smoky, and warming flavors. Inspired by the untamed rage of Weapon X and the raw power that lies beneath Wolverine’s control.
The Diamond Room
0.3 miles from the convention center
There will be festivities at The Diamond Room, including:
- Grab & Go Lunch June 23-26 with daily lunch specials starting at $12
- Comic-Con Trivia Night June 23, featuring two rounds at 6:00 PM and 7:30 PM with special Comic-Con prizes
- Cosplay and DJ After Parties July 24 and 25
El Chingon
0.4 miles from the convention center
El Chingon, located at the center of the Comic-Con-verse at 560 Fifth Ave., will be hosting a Star Wars brunch on Sunday, July 26 from 11am-4pm. The Star Wars themed brunch will be filled with out-of-this-world cocktails, galactic beats, themed photo ops, and brunch favorites worthy of The Emperor himself. Whether you walk the path of the Jedi or embrace the Dark Side, this is the brunch you’ve been looking for.
You can purchase your brunch ticket via Eventbrite.
Also happening at El Chingon on Tuesday, July 21 at 5pm is Pokémon Trading Card Night. Bring your latest and greatest cards to potentially trade with others just steps away from the convention center in the heart of the Gaslamp District. On top of food and drink specials, when you RSVP you receive a Charizard Cocktail or taco on the house. You can RSVP on the Eventbrite page.
Far Corner
0.5 miles from the convention center
Cowabunga! Far Corner is going full turtle lair mode as they are putting together the ultimate sewer lair with fresh pizza and rad drinks.
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Garage Kitchen + Bar
0.7 miles from the convention center
Located on 4th Ave, Garage Kitchen + Bar is a short walk from the convention center and this year they are offering a few “Super Deals” on July 23 – 26!
- $20 Bottomless Mimosa Brunch from 11 AM – 3 PM
- $6 Crazy Bob’s Burger & Fries from 11 AM – 12 PM & 3 PM – 4 PM
- Happy Hour: 51% OFF Drinks & $3 OFF Apps from 4 PM–6 PM (Excludes specialty cocktails & top-shelf liquor.)
Gaslamp Lumpia Factory
0.6 miles from the convention center
LumpiaCon returns for year 5 at Gaslamp Lumpia Factory. Each night on Thursday, July 23-Saturday, 25, Gaslamp Lumpia Factory will be having a themed night to LumpiaCon. On July 23 it is “SKETCH & SCRATCH” night and July 24 it becomes “CREATORS NIGHT”. Saturday is still to be announced but make sure to keep on eye on their Instagram for more details!
Kamon Craft Cocktail Bar
1.0 miles from the convention center
Hidden inside of Asa Bakery, Bar Kamon is some very fun themed cocktails during Comic-Con this year. This year you will be able to sip on The Upside Down, Ponyo Loves Sosuke, and Spirit of the Forest!
Landini’s Pizzeria
1.4 miles from the convention center
The Landini’s Pizzeria located in Little Italy will be running a special during Comic-Con: Buy 3 slices, get 1 free.
LandShark Bar & Grill
0.5 miles from the convention center
Located in within the Margaritaville Hotel in the Gaslamp Quarter, LandShark Bar & Grill is transforming in to the Lunar Landing Bar which will be an immersive tropical spaceport where ocean breezes meet intergalactic adventure. You can expect cocktails inspired by the cosmos, celestial decor & atmospheric lighting, interactive photo moments, and live entertainment. This event runs July 22 – 26 and they currently have an Eventbrite page for free reservations.
Le Charcuterie Bar
0.6 miles from the convention center
Le Charcuterie Bar is excited to join the festivities of the Con this year and in addition to their con decor, they are offering:
- SDCC Discounts: 10% off for Badge Wearers and Costumes.
- Star Trek Wines: Come stop by Le Charcuterie’s own “10th Forward”. Enjoy some Chateau Picard wines from Bordeaux, France or try alcohol-free Synthehol from Star Trek Wines.
- Themed Boards: Share a large charcuterie board with your friends and have your charcuterie served on fun themed boards e.g. LCARS or Star Wars’ Death Star and Millennial Falcon!
- Games: They will have themed games (Star Wars trivia, Marvel Tarot Cards, Star Trek’s three dimensional chess or Lower Decks’ buffer time) at the shop for you to play while you enjoy charcuterie and wine. They’ll also give out character stickers with purchase (while supplies last).
Lucky’s Lunch Counter
0.3 miles from the convention center
Grab your favorite Pokemon and poke ball and head over to Lucky’s for their Pokemon themed establishment. They have will two Pokemon themed menu items
- Smoliv’s Pesto Club: Grilled chicken, pesto sauce, mozzarella, onion, tomato & green leaf lettuce on ciabatta bread. Served with your choice of side. Make it a wrap for +$1!
$17.25 - Machamp’s Mega Burrito: Flour tortilla filled with scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, ham, cheddar and jack cheese & hash browns. Served with a side of homemade spicy salsa.
$16.25
Maryjane’s Diner
0.2 miles from the convention center
Maryjane’s will be in the business of superheroes with their themed menu for Comic-Con!
Moonshine Flats & The Deck
0.3 miles from the convention center
Moonshine Flats & The Deck will be going all in on Marvel this year. Staff will be dressed all weekend and will have a handful of themed Marvel drinks. Free cover with your SDCC before 10PM on Friday and Saturday.
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Wanda-melon Magic
Hooch Brothers Vodka • Watermelon Liqueur • Lime Juice • Simple Syrup • Watermelon Red Bull -
Arc Reactor Mule
Tito’s Vodka • Ginger Beer • Lime Juice -
Hulk Smash
Smirnoff Blueberry Vodka • Red Bull Juneberry • Lemonade -
Peter Parker Turns 21
Smirnoff Peach Vodka • Ginger Beer • Lime Juice -
Captain Moonshine
Ole Smoky Blackberry Moonshine • Ole Smoky White Lightning Moonshine • Lemon Juice • Lemonade -
Thor Hammered
Bandero Silver Tequila • Coronita • Lime Juice • Simple Syrup • Salted Rim -
Cowboypool Cooler
Jack Daniel’s Honey Whiskey • Lemon Juice • Ginger Ale -
Groot Juice
Bulleit Bourbon Whiskey • Cranberry Juice • Pineapple Juice • OJ • Ginger Ale -
Loki Lit
Captain Morgan Coconut Rum • Cutwater Dark Rum • Pineapple Juice • OJ・grenadine
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Moxy San Diego
0.7 miles from the convention center
Even if you are not staying at the Moxy, there are some awesome things to check out including a RSVLTS activation, trivia, and a great looking menu!
Omni San Diego Hotel at the Ballpark
0.2 miles from the convention center
Located just steps from the San Diego Convention Center, Omni San Diego Hotel at The Ballpark is the ultimate home base for Comic-Con attendees looking to stay in the center of the action without sacrificing comfort. The culinary highlights are include:
Fres.co (open 6:00 am – 4:00 pm): The hotel’s breezy grab-and-go café features full-service daily breakfast, comic book-inspired specialty coffee creations, carryout breakfast and lunch favorites, plus donuts from local favorite, Parlour Doughnuts.
Ace Porter (open 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm): This lively restaurant and bar will feature a chef-curated, Comic-Con-
Walking Dead Tostilocos Pop-Up (open July 24-25): A themed taco stand serving Walking Dead-inspired Tostilocos during Friday & Saturday of the convention.
Marvel’s Wolverine-Inspired Drink: Throughout the whole weekend, guests can stop by the hotel lawn to enjoy the Madripoor Sunrise Slushie, a specialty frozen drink inspired by Marvel’s Wolverine.
Osteria Panevino
0.5 miles from the convention center
In need of some authentic Italian cuisine during your Comic-Con week? Panevino is offering a Comic-Con special: $45 for a three course meal per person. They are also open to reservations in you want to plan ahead.
Patrick’s Gaslamp Pub
0.6 miles from the convention center
Patrick’s is jumping into Comic-Con week with a Super Mario theme with a decorated venue, staffed dressed up, and specials every day until 8PM. $5 Select Draft Beer, $6 Wells, $6 House Red & White Wine
Pendry San Diego
0.3 miles from the convention center
Pendry has a few different events happening July 23 through July 26 that may be of interest to the Comic-Con crowd!
- PopUp Bagels x Pendry – Fresh hot bagels with plain or scallion schmear served daily from 7AM until sold out
- BERO x Nason’s Beer Hall – A Spider-Man themed Comic-Con celebration featuring BERO, the premium non-alcoholic beer from Tom Holland, alongside interactive pop culture moments and collectible mementos. Fans can stop by Friday, July 24 and Saturday, July 25 from 12pm-4pm.
- Pendry x Donut Bar – Character-themed daily donuts from San Diego’s Donut Bar served on the Provisional Kitchen patio from 7 AM alongside sweet and savory offerings
Relic Bakery
1.1 miles from the convention center
Gotta catch’em all with Relic Bakery’s Pokémon-themed pop-up in collaboration with Tailored Hair and Sneaky Fox Records. The pop-up is happening on Friday, July 24 from 9am-1pm where guests can enjoy the themed experience along with at least two available Pokémon-inspired pastries.
Salt & Whiskey
0.4 miles from the convention center
Salt & Whiskey, located in the Horton Grand Hotel, will have some limited time specials from July 22 – 26 during the hours of 1PM – 10PM. What are they?
PORTAL OF FLAVOR
Doctor Strange Portal Wings – $16 Crispy chicken wings tossed in a ginger honey glaze, with chili crisp and lime
Asgardian Meatballs – $17 Swedish-style meatballs served with a rich lingonberry glaze and creamy Dijon sauce
Doom’s Castle Sliders (3ct) – $18 Three beef sliders with gruyere cheese, caramelized onions, and black garlic aioli, served on a toasted bun
COSMIC COCKTAILS
Emerald Dominion – $12 Vodka, honeydew, melon liqueur, lime – mead
Ruby Rebellion – $12 Tequila, watermelon, watermelon liqueur, lime, with a Tajín and chamoy rim
Quantum Crush Mocktail – $10 Pineapple, honeydew, cranberry, and lime, topped with sparkling soda
MULTIVERSE DESSERTS
Pearl of Talokon – $8 A delicate cream puff filled with citrus infused tropical cream
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The Smoking Gun
0.5 miles from the convention center
The Smoking Gun will be your retro arcade and good eats headquarters during Comic-Con! They are opening early on Thursday, July 23 and Friday, July 24 (12PM on both days). They will be offering a handful of themed menu items and drinks:
- The Final Boss Burger – two ¼ pound wagyu beef patties, American cheese, roasted garlic aioli, and pickled all served on a butter-brushed brioche bun
- Level-Up Nachos – crispy tortilla chips piled high with beer cheese, sour cream and salsa fresca, with the option to add wagyu chili
- Frogger’s Frito Pie – a classic pile-up of crunchy Fritos topped with wagyu Texas-style chili, cheddar cheese blend, and green onions
- 8-Bit Fries – golden fries seasoned with signature house chile rub and smoked salt, and more
- Power Up Punch – made with Volcan Blanco, elderflower, Italian aperitif, bitters, and lemon
- Bonus Round Rita – Casamigos Blanco, agave, and lime
- Centi-Bean Martini – with vodka, Irish cream, and Spill the Beans Cold Brew
- Prickly Kong – made with vodka, green chili, passionfruit, prickly pear, rhubarb bitters, strawberry, and lemon
- Pac-Tai – a boozy secret blend of rums with a limit of two per person
Spill the Beans
0.5 miles from the convention center
The Gaslamp location of Spill the Beans on Market St will be featuring two specialty lattes that will be available during Comic-Con weekend, July 23 – 26. Going with the Peanuts theme this year, the specialty lattes are:
- The Great Pumpkin Latte – Made using espresso with pumpkin pie sauce, homemade vanilla, caramel drizzle, and milk, served hot or iced.
- Charlie Brown Lemon Bar Latte – Made with homemade lemon bar syrup, milk, and espresso, topped with lemon bar cold foam and wafer cookie crumble, is a nod to Charlie Brown’s iconic yellow shirt
SugarBear’s Sweet Provisions
0.4 miles from the convention center
SugarBear’s is opening at 5AM July 22 – 28 for breakfast sandwiches to go. If you are more a lunch or dinner person, they will be offering platters for $12.99. Thanks to Parks and Cons for the heads up!
Tipsy Crow
0.6 miles from the convention center
While the Tipsy Crow (located on Fifth Ave and F St) hasn’t announced what their Comic-Con specials are just yet, they have put out a teaser on Instagram…
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Union Kitchen + Tap
0.3 miles from the convention center
Union Kitchen + Tap is going all in on Pokemon this year with a secret Pokemon speakeasy, Eeveelution drink specials, as well as reffle and collectible prizes! They are also holding a costume contest on Saturday, July 25.
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Werewolf American Pub
0.5 miles from the convention center
Werewolf will be hosting a Ghostbusters After Party on Friday, July 24 at 7PM
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Wild Hare Bar Garden
0.2 miles from the convention center
Located at the Hilton Gaslamp Quarter, Wild Hare Bar Garden is welcoming visitors to their transformed “Level Up Lounge”
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