Hennessey's Tavern

While most La Jolla spots charge for proximity to the cove, Hennessey's sits a few blocks inland on Herschel and focuses on what actually matters in a pub: beer selection, TV sports, and burgers that don't cost $28. It's the go-to for locals who want a proper bar atmosphere without the tourist spillover from Prospect Street.

The Tuesday two-for-one burger deal is the main event here — solid patties that won't change your life but also won't drain your wallet. The mac and cheese gets mentioned repeatedly by regulars, and the brussels sprouts with cauliflower app is an unexpectedly decent vegetable option if you're cutting the grease. Skip the shepherd's pie entirely; recent visits suggest the kitchen's inconsistent on anything beyond the core pub menu.

The space opens to Herschel in several spots, so you get decent airflow without committing to full outdoor seating. Live music happens regularly, though quality varies. Service is a coin flip — some servers are attentive, others treat water refills like an inconvenience.

Practical notes: Parking on Herschel can be tight during dinner rush. The after-work crowd shows up strong, especially when games are on. If you're here on a weekend morning, the breakfast menu exists but isn't the reason to visit. This is a late-night spot and a business lunch fallback, not a destination dining experience.

Come here when you want a beer and a burger below the bluff without the La Jolla markup. Don't come expecting Irish pub authenticity or memorable food — it's a chain doing chain things competently, which in this neighborhood counts as refreshingly straightforward.