About Realm of the 52 Remedies

Realm of the 52 Remedies is a speakeasy bar in Convoy District, hidden within a large beer bar called Common Theory. The Realm, as one might call it, feels a world away from the loud and spacious pub it sits within. When you enter Realm of the 52 Remedies you start in a brightly lit, Matrix-like apothecary where a hostess gives you directions on what to expect on your journey, like Morpheus giving Neo a choice of pills. You then are led through a door where you follow a maze before arriving into the space itself. Inside the Realm you’ll find a large lounging space and a bar, all decorated with Chinese flare (the name of the speakeasy comes from Recipes for 52 Ailments, an ancient Chinese medical text). The whole experience is intricately laid out and a lot of fun to experience.

Realm of 52 Remedies offers a food menu – the charred broccoli and smashed cucumbers are great, as is the ribeye. Talk to your server or bartender about the drinks before you order instead of pretending like you know what everything is – they are knowledgeable and happy to help. Reservations are necessary and there is a time limit on each stay.

Best Parts

• Something unique
• Good cocktails
• Date night
• Ancient remedies for the soul

Behind The Counter

Realm of the 52 Remedies is owned by local San Diegans Cristian Liang and Joon Lee. They grew up in Chula Vista and went to UCSD together. Their first business venture was the gastropub Common Theory (where 52 Remedies is). They just opened another Common Theory in Chula Vista – taking it back home.