Restaurant
Unclaimed profileThe Smoking Gun
San Diego, CA · $$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
The Smoking Gun runs a dedicated cocktail program with a monthly feature, exemplified by the $12 Guava Cucumber Marg. Named drinks like the Trigger Finger and Jalisco Buck show a playful, ingredient-driven approach. The menu also groups taps, cans, and spirits, though the cocktail focus is the main draw.
- What should I order?
- Start with the Guava Cucumber Marg, the September Cocktail of the Month, made with Teremana Blanco, muddled cucumber, guava, and fresh lime for $12. It is the program's flagship seasonal pour.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Cocktail enthusiasts seeking a rotating seasonal special and creative flavor combinations will find clear appeal. The monthly feature gives repeat visitors a reason to return.
- When should I go?
- September is the time to catch the featured Guava Cucumber Marg, as the Cocktail of the Month program rotates seasonally.
- What should I expect to spend?
- The September Cocktail of the Month is priced at $12, indicating a moderate price point for the cocktail list.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The venue runs a Cocktail of the Month program, giving the menu a seasonal, rotating character. A 2021 Reader's Favorite nod from The Union-Tribune adds public recognition to its cocktail focus.
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
The cocktail program is the centerpiece, with a monthly feature and several named drinks. The Guava Cucumber Marg, Trigger Finger, and Jalisco Buck show a range of spirits and house-made components. Public recognition as a Reader's Favorite bar reinforces the program's reputation.
Menu strengths
- — A rotating Cocktail of the Month program keeps the list current.
- — Named cocktails like the Guava Cucumber Marg and Jalisco Buck show specific, house-crafted recipes.
- — Recognized as 'Reader's Favorite Gaslamp Bar 2021' by The Union-Tribune.
Standout selections
- — Guava Cucumber Marg: Teremana Blanco, muddled cucumber, guava, fresh lime.
- — Trigger Finger: vodka, passionfruit, Campari.; Jalisco Buck: tequila, bitters, vermouth, homemade ginger syrup, blackberries, club soda.
Pricing: $12 for the September Cocktail of the Month
Beer
A Radler Spritz blends grapefruit beer with champagne and ginger syrup, offering a hybrid beer-cocktail option.
Menu strengths
- — The menu dedicates a section to taps and cans, indicating an intentional beer list.
- — The Radler Spritz provides a beer-based mixed drink option.
Standout selections
- — Radler Spritz: grapefruit beer, champagne, ginger syrup, candied ginger garnish.
Spirits
Spirits are mentioned in the venue's tagline and menu section, with a nod to whiskey. Teremana Blanco tequila is used in the signature cocktail, but no dedicated spirits list is detailed.
Menu strengths
- — The venue's tagline includes 'cocktails and whiskey food,' suggesting a spirit-forward identity.
- — Teremana Blanco tequila is a named brand in the cocktail program.
Standout selections
- — Teremana Blanco tequila, featured in the Guava Cucumber Marg.
Community reviews
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