Carlsbad Art and Culture

Coyote Bar and Grill (MAP)

Higher drink prices and cover charges usually push us upstairs where an overhead view of sloppy dancing accompanies sushi and warm Saki, but the Rum and Cokes were stiff and the service was great. Jalapeno poppers have been eliminated from the menu, but it’s always a plus when chips and salsa are slid down the bar along with your drink. Avoid the night life unless you are down for lines, cover charges and prowling swingers. I think I had more fun working there than as a patron, but overall it was an enjoyable stop.

The Alley (MAP)

Also known as the Wrinkle Room, the Alley has one of the best back patios in Carlsbad. Stashed in the back alley, in the shadows, but with a wide view of a good chunk of the village. Karaoke and dancing attracts an older crowd and cougars can be seen prowling nightly. $1 Jack and cokes and free chili dogs once drew a younger crowd during Monday night football, but that is as distant of a memory as your last visit. The neon red lights are that of a stroll along a Red Light District canal and the toys in the bathroom would lure a lot lizard like a light house guides a gasping tugboat. The service was under par, but the tender did mumble some good jokes as she thumbed through a Carlsbad Magazine.

What do you think of these two stops?