Restaurant
Unclaimed profileKnB Bistro
San Diego, CA · $$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
KnB Bistro pairs a serious spirits program with a broad draft beer list and a wine selection that covers the bases. House cocktails show craft, from the KNB Old Fashioned to the Aviation Nation, while exclusive KNB Barrel Picks and allocated bourbons make it a destination for whiskey drinkers. The brunch Champagne Flight adds a playful note.
- What should I order?
- Start with the KNB Old Fashioned or the Off Hours Paper Plane. For spirits, the Weller Bourbon Flight showcases rare pours, and the Blanton's Bourbon Flight is a splurge. Beer lovers should seek out Russian River Pliny the Elder on draft.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Whiskey enthusiasts and collectors will appreciate the allocated bourbons and exclusive barrel picks. Craft beer fans will find local and rare drafts, while cocktail drinkers have creative options. The venue also operates as a liquor store, appealing to those who want to take a bottle home.
- When should I go?
- Wednesday's Pint Night offers discounted drafts, and happy hour includes well drinks and rotating house wines. Brunch is the time for the Champagne Flight.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Cocktail prices are not listed, but wine by the glass runs $10-$21, drafts are typically $8-$11, and spirit pours range from $8 to $100 per 2oz. Flights run $18-$55.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The KNB Barrel Picks are exclusive single-barrel selections, and the spirits list includes rare bottles like Weller Full Proof and E.H. Taylor Uncut & Unfiltered. The dual identity as a liquor store adds a unique retail angle.
Beverage categories
We only score what a venue sets out to do. Categories a venue doesn't attempt are left unscored rather than penalized.
Cocktails
Creative and classic house cocktails use fresh ingredients and specific spirits, from the KNB Old Fashioned to the Aviation Nation. A customizable Mule and specialty options like the Aztec Bloody Mary add range.
Menu strengths
- — Customizable Mule with vodka, tequila, mezcal, or whiskey
Standout selections
- — KNB Old Fashioned: Buffalo Trace, aromatic bitters, sugar, orange peel, Luxardo cherry
- — Off Hours Paper Plane: Off Hours bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, fresh lemon juice
Pricing: Cocktail prices are not listed on the menu.
Wine
A broad selection across varietals and regions, including premium bubbles like Ruinart and Laurent-Perrier. The Champagne Flight at brunch is a distinctive offering.
Standout selections
- — Veuve Clicquot Brut (750ml bottle) at $65
- — Belle Glos Pinot Noir Las Alturas at $18/glass
Pricing: White wines $10-$21/glass, reds $13-$18/glass, bubbles from $9 split to $65 bottle.
Beer
A draft list with local craft and rare options like Russian River Pliny the Elder. Wednesday Pint Night and happy hour specials add value.
Menu strengths
- — Includes local and rare draft options; Wednesday Pint Night discounts
Standout selections
- — Russian River Pliny the Elder (West Coast IIPA 8%) at $11/16oz
- — Alesmith.394 Pale Ale at $4/16oz on Pint Night
Pricing: Draft beers typically $8-$11/16oz, with specials like Alesmith.394 at $4 and happy hour select beers at $6.
Nonalcoholic
Limited but thoughtful non-alcoholic options, including a non-alcoholic IPA and low-sugar or dairy-free cocktails. No dedicated non-alcoholic menu.
Menu strengths
- — Non-alcoholic beer available; Low-sugar and dairy-free cocktail options
Standout selections
- — Athletic Run Wild IPA (non-alcoholic) at $6.00/16oz
- — Lalo Sugar Free Margarita: Lalo tequila, Above Board Orange Liqueur, lime juice
Pricing: Non-alcoholic beer Athletic Run Wild IPA at $6.00/16oz.
Spirits
An outstanding spirits program with rare allocated bourbons, exclusive KNB Barrel Picks, and curated flights. Includes local craft spirits and international selections.
Menu strengths
- — Rare and allocated bourbons like Weller, Blanton's, E.H. Taylor
- — Exclusive KNB Barrel Picks; Whiskey and tequila flights
Standout selections
- — Weller Bourbon Flight (Special Reserve, Antique 107, Full Proof KNB Barrel Pick) at $45/3oz
- — Blantons Bourbon Flight (Original, Gold, Straight From the Barrel) at $55/3oz
- — E.H. Taylor Uncut & Unfiltered Bourbon at $100/2oz
Pricing: Whiskey pours $8-$100/2oz, tequila pours $15-$33/2oz, flights $18-$55.
How it sits with the food
The menu suggests cocktails complement appetizers and brunch items. The Champagne Flight pairs with brunch, and the Aztec Bloody Mary could match savory dishes.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
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