News Summary
San Diego is joining the ‘Sit at the Bar October’ movement, which encourages singles to meet in person rather than through dating apps. Originating from a TikTok campaign, this initiative aims to rejuvenate social interaction in local bars. With several recommended venues, this fall promises to create authentic connections for singles in the vibrant bar scene of San Diego. The movement serves as a remedy to online dating fatigue, inviting individuals to socialize and enhance their social lives in a welcoming atmosphere.
San Diego is set to join the growing trend of face-to-face socialization as the “Sit at the Bar October” movement takes hold this fall. This initiative encourages singles to meet in person rather than relying solely on dating apps, which many have found to be exhausting. The movement initially gained traction through a TikTok campaign by Laurie Cooper, an 86-year-old real estate broker from New York, who advocated for social gatherings in popular bars. Through this campaign, she highlighted the importance of direct human interaction, sparking interest from major media outlets.
With San Diego’s vibrant bar scene, October promises to be an exciting month for singles looking to connect over cocktails. Numerous local bars offer inviting atmospheres that are conducive to mingling and creating new connections. Each of these establishments presents its own unique atmosphere, making them appealing options for those eager to engage with fellow singles.
Recommended Bars for Socializing
The following bars in San Diego have been highlighted as ideal settings for singles to meet:
- The Waterfront Bar & Grill (Little Italy): Established in 1933, this bar is known for its welcoming bartenders and relaxed vibe, making it a favorite among locals.
- Tivoli (Gaslamp Quarter): A dive bar with a notable history since its opening in 1885, this spot is especially popular during baseball season, drawing in fans eager for a social setting.
- Aero Club (Spruce Canyon): Recognized for its extensive whiskey selection and arcade games, this bar promotes a laid-back environment that encourages social interaction.
- Tiki Oasis (near Little Italy): Offering a speakeasy vibe paired with tiki-inspired cocktails, this venue attracts a diverse crowd, particularly during weekdays.
- Nine-Ten (La Jolla): Located within the Grand Colonial Hotel, this upscale bar is noted for its elegant ambiance and gourmet food offerings.
- Modern Times (Encinitas): This dog-friendly brewery provides a relaxed atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for casual meetups among beachgoers.
Encouragement for Singles
The “Sit at the Bar October” movement invites singles to embrace their “main-character energy,” encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones and actively participate in socializing at these recommended bars. The initiative aims to combat the fatigue associated with online dating, paving the way for more fulfilling in-person connections.
Context of the Movements
The first iteration of this movement was titled “Sit at the Bar September,” initially suggested by Laurie Cooper as a remedy for the growing dissatisfaction with online dating experiences. Many are now recognizing the benefits of interacting in real life, viewing social engagements in bars as an effective remedy for the loneliness that can accompany digital dating. As interest continues to rise, the notion of returning to traditional social settings is gaining momentum, promising to reshape how singles meet and connect.
As San Diego embraces the “Sit at the Bar October” initiative, it is poised to become a hub for singles looking for genuine connections this fall. With its array of bars offering distinct ambiances, the city is ready to host countless opportunities for individuals seeking to mingle over drinks, create lasting memories, and possibly even find romance. As the month unfolds, the excitement surrounding this trend is expected to grow, with more singles turning to bustling bars as a vibrant alternative to the digital dating landscape.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- San Diego Magazine: Date Ideas for Every Neighborhood
- Locale Magazine: Best Dog-Friendly Patios in San Diego
- Eater San Diego: Best Romantic Restaurants for Date Night
- CBS8: California Law Requires Bars to Provide Drink Lids
- The Infatuation: Best Restaurants in North Park

Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.