Smuggler's Cove

Smuggler's Cove was opened in December 2009 by Martin Cate, a renowned rum expert and longtime tikiphile who was one of the founders of Forbidden Island

Forbidden Island Tiki Lounge

Alameda, CA

Bar

9.4

in Alameda. Smuggler's Cove specializes in all varieties of rum and rum drinks, with a particular emphasis on historic and exotic cocktails. Cate has attracted some of the top bartender talent in the talent-rich city of San Francisco. Smuggler's Cove regularly appears on the lists of the best bars in the world. It has proven incredibly popular: if you go on a weekend, be prepared to possibly wait in a line for entry.

The decor is a blend of nautical and tiki. The dimly-lit bar spans three floors: the main and lower levels each have their own bars, and an upper half-level is a tiki hut that overlooks the main floor. There is a waterfall between the main floor and the lower floor, with a small pool at the bottom. The construction was led by Ignacio "Notch" Gonzalez, of San Jose's Top Notch Kustoms

Top Notch Kustoms

San Jose, CA

Store

The offerings can be overwhelming in scope: over 500 rums, and more than 75 cocktails. If you're intent on trying as many as possible, consider entering the Rumbustion Society; those who complete the list are rewarded for their efforts.

In September 2016, Martin Cate opened False Idol

in San Diego.

Comments

Jasper Meer

Jasper Meer is a semi-regular at Smuggler's Cove.

July 22, 2017, 9:46 AM

This is bar to measure by.

desolo1410

desolo1410 is a semi-regular at Smuggler's Cove.

July 19, 2017, 12:09 PM

Martin Cate and SC are the real deal(s). I had my first taste of Appleton 50 there a few years ago and have been a fan ever since. Best rum elixirs in the world. Period.

bob

bob is a regular at Smuggler's Cove, and is usually there After work a couple times a week..

July 11, 2017, 4:57 PM

I freaking LOVE Smuggler's Cove. It's tiny, cramped, and understaffed, but the drink selection is comprehensive and the bar staff are phenomenally friendly and knowledgeable. Get in there, start punching your card to work your way through the ranks of the Rumbustion Society while raising your rum IQ, and maybe exchange some trading cards with the regulars.

View all 23 comments