The Border Bar

We had an excellent first visit to Border Bar yesterday. It sits right in between Annabelles and Barrio Taco which allows you to order from either. The bar is literally split down the middle with decor from both restaurants which is a cool concept. Got over there around 5:30 so we were able to take advantage of the very good happy hour specials. We ordered the 1/2 "hot mess" nachos which were tasty and a huge portion. Then we got an order of the street corn which is the best in town. We got some churros and Smith Island cake to finish things off. Service from Romario was top notch! All-around fun and positive experience. We will be back for sure!

A fabulous experience from the beginning. The restaurant is huge- an awesome concept- BBQ on one end, Mexican on the other and the bar in between. You can order from both places- so something for everyone! :)
Easy to find on the Coastal Hwy- plenty of parking.

We were greeted by a very sweet hostess and young man who was crushing it- seating people so efficiently. They were genuinely happy you came in- refreshing nowadays! :)

We were seated quickly in a busy restaurant. The ambience was lovely- dark enough to provide respite from the hot day, and music levels just right.

Our server was Kierstyn who was excellent- friendly, warm, welcoming, and genuinely hustled for all her tables to make sure that everyone was attended to promptly. Did not make you feel rushed at all.

We walked in past 6 so we couldn’t get 1/2 order nachos. But we still got them anyway- they were sooooooo good! We devoured them very quickly! Full of flavor and generous with meat. The horchata was very good but the star of the show was the agua Fresca. It was a strawberry cucumber one- perfect flavors and sweetness- very refreshing.

We tried the tacos that were flavorful and burnt end special- Korean BBQ burnt ends. Melt in your mouth! Cornbread was outstanding!

We were so pleased with all our food- it was fresh, quick and served with genuine hospitality. A manager was walking around checking on all the tables. We were seated close to the bar and could hear the bartender check in on all his customers frequently and make friendly suggestions. I wanted to try the brisket but knew we had so much food- Kierstyn and the BBQ chef kindly brought me a sample- it was sooooo good! The sauces were awesome! We will be back to try that!

We had no room for dessert but will try some when back.

Highly recommend. Like all places in OC- prices are par for a vacation town. Service is outstanding. Attention to detail whether with the decor, ambience, menus, and flavors is even more outstanding. It was refreshing to have such great service.

Finally of note- it is always nice to see owners respond to reviews. It is obvious that they care- there was genuine effort to check on each table multiple times to ensure you left happy.

Loved it! Will be back every time we are back in OC and for sure again on this trip!

Edit….. went back again on Sunday afternoon…. Same great service, we had a very attentive and sweet Kiki this time. Food and drink were both consistent and flavorful with our first experience. Cantaloupe agua fresca was delicious as well!

Between Annabelle's and Barrio Taco, with the "border" between both played well. Can order food from either location and/or drink from a large spirit selection as well as draft beer and cocktails. Owned by the same group as Liquid Assets, so the selection is top notch. They have a happy hour where bourbon is 50% off as well. The service was awesome. We will return for sure.