Swallow’s Inn

The Legendary Swallow’s Inn

TLD: How long have you been associated with Swallow’s Inn?
Grimes: I started out here as a doorman back in 1994. I love it here. I have poured my heart and soul into this place for more than 20 years and worked my way up to GM a few years back.

TLD: Congratulations on Swallow’s Inn being recognized as the “2015 Best Dive Bar in OC!” What sets you apart?
Grimes: It’s our atmosphere. Anyone who walks into Swallow’s can feel right at home. Our laid back bar appeals to such a wide variety of clientele, from cowboys to bikers, surfers to professionals. You never know who might walk in the door or be sitting on the next barstool. That keeps things interesting!

TLD: Live entertainment has always been a big draw for patrons of the Swallow’s Inn. How do you maintain a fresh and relevant lineup that appeals to varying musical tastes?
Grimes: We make sure our entertainment provides a bit of something for everyone. We feature a DJ and Country dancing on Mondays. On Tuesdays, we roll in an entirely different crowd with our Top 40 DJ. Wednesdays have been the Swallow’s Karaoke night for over 20 years now. Thursday and Friday nights we have Country bands playing live. Saturday afternoons from 2:30 – 6:30 p.m., we have live Rock and Roll bands and a Country Western band that hits the stage after 8:30 p.m.

TLD: Can you share a little about your food service options?
Grimes: Most people don’t know we offer Mexican fare for breakfast, lunch and dinner most days. On Monday nights, we feature a delicious $12, 8 oz. Top Sirloin steak dinner. Tuesday nights are Taco Tuesdays with $1 street tacos and $2 Macho Tacos. Lisa’s Burgers are served Thursday nights and Saturday afternoons.

TLD: What does being part of the iconic Swallow’s Inn mean to you?
Grimes: I love the people. I am still amazed by locals, many of whom are middle-aged, who walk into Swallow’s for the first time. Their eyes get big and their smile gets wide as they take in their first view of Swallow’s Inn. They’ll say, “I’ve lived here all of my life, but have never been in.” They’ll say,“I don’t know why I’ve waited so long.” It’s satisfying to watch people have such a good time at our place. It makes me feel grateful!

Swallow’s Inn
31786 Camino Capistrano
San Juan Capistrano, CA
949.493.3188 | SwallowsInn.com