Best Unique Bars in Orange County, CA (2024)

We decided to compile a list of the best unique bars in Orange County! The main criterion was funky decor—if your bar has a lot of random artifacts (or in the case of Swallows Inn, lingerie) strewn on the walls, you have a good chance of making the list.

Some of these are straight-up dive bars while others are more upscale—a fitting metaphor for Orange County. :)

Ruin Bar (Costa Mesa, CA)

A bar that reminds me of an eccentric granny’s house located at The LAB in Costa Mesa. The entrance is hidden right next to the Habana host stand.

Strong Water (Anaheim, CA)

Strong Water is an incredible tiki bar located in the Anaheim Packing District.

The Blind Rabbit (Anaheim, CA)

From the proprietors of Strong Water, The Blind Rabbit is a dark, intimate speakeasy serving expertly crafted cocktails. It’s located in the Anaheim Packing House.

Goat Hill Tavern (Costa Mesa, CA)

Goat Hill Tavern claims to be “America’s favorite dive bar” and has 141 beers on tap.

Azteca (Garden Grove, CA)

Azteca is an Elvis-themed bar and restaurant located on Main Street in downtown Garden Grove. There’s a separate saloon area, but you can order food there as well.

Know for hearty Mexican dishes and their pink Cadillac margarita!

Johnny’s Neighborhood Saloon (Huntington Beach, CA)

Awesome punk bar tucked away in a Huntington Beach strip mall that also serves amazing pizzas.

The Olde Ship (Fullerton, CA)

A British pub complete with a red phone booth in the front and red tour bus in the back. This is a popular place to watch the World Cup.

Swallow’s Inn (San Juan Capistrano, CA)

Located right across from Mission Juan Capistrano, this local’s favorite has bras stapled all over the walls. You can usually hear the Swallow’s Inn before you can see it—live music almost every day!