AUGUST 23, 2009 -- Prohibition is a new, hidden gem from the owner of Nicky Rottens and Sloppy Joey's. That will give you a hint as to where it is in the Gaslamp Quarter--but it won't help when they ask you for the password to gain access.
Prohibition brings a Roaring '20s-era speakeasy to San Diego, with live jazz performances by local musicians, and great cocktail specials. It's my ultimate spot for getting out of the crowded, sweaty, noisy clubs full of drunk guys smacking a girl's rear end to the beat of the music.
Recently, Prohibition has locked down access, to keep the shorts-and-flip-flop crowd out. I've had them close the door behind me and not let tailgaters in at all.
I want it intimate, sophisticated-yet-friendly, with live music that can be enjoyed, reasonably-priced and refreshing cocktails (they seem to rotate their menu every month or so) and light crowds. Every time I've been, that's what I get.
FYI: Prohibition is open Thursday-Saturday, from 9 p.m.-2 a.m. The password changes daily. Folks can visit their Web site (ProhibitionSD.com) or find them on Twitter (@ProhibitionSD).
(DowntownRob is CEO of DowntownRob.com, a social media consulting and promotions company, as well as WebWizards.Net, a Web development company. He lives, works, and plays downtown, and lives on Twitter as @DowtownRob.)