Nightlife Guide: The Top 10 Best Bars in Phoenix, Arizona

17 August 2023

best bars

The Top 10 Best Bars in Phoenix, Arizona, is a curated list for those who appreciate fine drinks and vibrant nightlife. Phoenix, known for its desert charm, also boasts an impressive bar scene. From specialty brews to one-of-a-kind concoctions, Phoenix has it all for the discerning drinker. The bars on this list are not just about the drinks; they offer experiences. Live music performances or cozy settings can elevate your night out in Phoenix. Dive into The Top 10 Best Bars in Phoenix, Arizona, and discover places where memorable nights begin with a toast!

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Table Of Contents

Enjoy a Craft Beer at The Whining Pig
    ◦ A Variety to Please Every Palate
    ◦ An Atmosphere Designed For Relaxation
    ◦ Craft Beers And Beyond
Sip on Cocktails at Little Rituals
    ◦ A Distinctive Cocktail Experience
    ◦ An Award-Winning Establishment
    ◦ Celebrating Local Culture
Relax with Wine at Postino Central
    ◦ A Broad Selection of Wines
    ◦ An Ideal Ambiance for Relaxation
    ◦ Gourmet Food Pairings
Experience the Craft Beer Scene at Helio Basin Brewing Company
    ◦ Award-Winning Local Brews with Unique Flavors
    ◦ Creative Food Pairings That Enhance Your Experience
Experience Live Music at Valley Bar
    ◦ Diverse Musical Offerings
    ◦ Cocktail Menu: Classic and Innovative Drinks
    ◦ Vintage Arcade Games For Entertainment
    ◦ Social Hub in Downtown Phoenix
Taste Unique Drinks at The Lost Leaf
    ◦ A Blend of Classics and Creativity
    ◦ An Authentic Atmosphere: More Than Just A Bar
    ◦ Sustainability: An Integral Part Of Operations
Indulge in Craft Cocktails at Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour
    ◦ Ambiance That Transports You Back In Time
    ◦ An Array Of Unique Drinks To Choose From
    ◦ Influencing Local Culture And Nightlife Scene
Unearth Unique Tastes at UnderTow
    ◦ Award-Winning Mixology at Your Service
    ◦ An Unforgettable Journey Through Time And Taste
Quench Your Thirst with Margaritas at La Santisima Gourmet Taco Shop
    ◦ The Artistry Behind La Santisima's Margaritas
    ◦ An Ambiance That Complements Every Sip
    ◦ Margaritas & Tacos: A Match Made In Heaven
FAQs in Relation to The Top 10 Best Bars in Phoenix, Arizona
    ◦ What part of Phoenix has the best nightlife?
    ◦ What is the most famous bar?
    ◦ What parts of Phoenix are good?
    ◦ Where do you party in Arizona?
Conclusion

best bars

Enjoy a Craft Beer at The Whining Pig

The highball cocktail bar, Highball, sits in the heart of downtown Phoenix and is an absolute delight for craft beer lovers. Known as The Whining Pig among locals, this venue offers an impressive array of local and international brews.

A Variety to Please Every Palate

This spot has become a top drinking destination with its selection of over 100 beers on tap and in bottles, sure to satisfy any palate. Whether you're looking for hoppy IPAs or rich stouts, there's something here to cater to every taste bud.

Beyond just serving quality classics alongside fun new offerings from breweries around town, they keep things fresh with rotating taps showcasing seasonal specialties and recent releases from our city-instituted AZ cocktail week favorites.

An Atmosphere Designed For Relaxation

This dimly lit drinking den isn't all about its vast drink selection, though; the atmosphere plays an equally important role in making your visit a memorable one. With rustic decor paired perfectly with friendly staff, it's the perfect place where you can unwind after a busy day exploring the downtown Phoenix area while sipping on some great drinks amidst good company. To add more excitement into the mix during your stay here, make sure not to miss out on their trivia nights which are held regularly, offering another layer of entertainment alongside delicious brews served right before you.

Craft Beers And Beyond

In addition to being renowned wine bar across Phoenix due to the extensive collection of crafted meads and spirits offered by them, aside from the variety of craft beers available, it makes it a truly versatile spot worth checking out whenever you find yourself near the vicinity next time round. Ensuring everyone finds something suited according to their personal preference, adding yet another reason why it is considered a must-visit location within the region by both tourists and locals alike, regardless of whether you are visiting for business, travel, vacation, or a purposefully planned tour dedicated specifically towards the exploration of unique flavors found only within these walls.

The Idea: Phoenix's The Whining Pig, a highball cocktail bar known for its craft beers, offers over 100 varieties to cater to every palate. Beyond the brews, it boasts a relaxed atmosphere with rustic decor and friendly staff. Trivia nights add an extra layer of fun while their extensive collection of meads and spirits make it a versatile spot worth visiting.

best bars

Sip on Cocktails at Little Rituals

For those looking to imbibe in Phoenix, Arizona, Little Rituals offers a distinctive cocktail experience. One of these establishments is the renowned cocktail bar - Little Rituals.

A Distinctive Cocktail Experience

Little Rituals stands out in downtown Phoenix for its highball cocktail bar. The dimly lit atmosphere of this drinking den is further enhanced by its menu's 19th-century design, which perfectly complements the classic cocktails and innovative creations they serve. The unique rock-and-roll-inspired drinks pay homage to music legends like David Bowie, adding another layer of intrigue to your visit. With a range of traditional favorites and adventurous new mixes, there's something to suit every visitor's palate.

An Award-Winning Establishment

This isn't just any ordinary watering hole; it's a recognized establishment that has earned accolades during AZ Cocktail Week - an event established by the city to celebrate Phoenix's thriving cocktail culture.

In addition to serving quality classics alongside fun concoctions, their skilled mixologists have also incorporated locally crafted mead into some signature recipes, such as "Campo de Coles Made". This enticing blend features mezcal infused with charred cabbage and lime juice - certainly not your everyday drink.

Celebrating Local Culture

Little Rituals is not only one of the top places for exceptional cocktails in Phoenix, but it also serves as more than just a place to unwind after work or meet up with friends over good food and great drinks. It functions as a collaborative community space downtown, reflecting the local culture at its finest, making it the perfect spot for those seeking the genuine taste of what makes downtown Phoenix exciting today.

best bars

Relax with Wine at Postino Central

If you're in downtown Phoenix and looking for the perfect place to unwind, consider visiting Postino Central. This wine bar is situated inside a historic 1950s building that once served as the Arizona Bank. It has now transformed into an authentic drinking destination.

A Broad Selection of Wines

The menu's 19th-century design helps navigate through their extensive collection of wines from across the globe. Whether your preference leans towards robust reds or crisp whites, there's something on offer to suit all palates.

In addition to serving quality classics alongside fun new blends, they also have daily specials worth exploring. For instance, every Monday and Tuesday after 8 PM, patrons can enjoy any house bottle of wine along with a bruschetta board for just $25.

An Ideal Ambiance for Relaxation

Beyond its impressive drink offerings, Postino Central creates an ambiance conducive to relaxation. The interior boasts exposed brick walls paired with modern industrial decor, creating a dimly lit drinking den where guests can relax while savoring their favorite glass of vino. This blend between classic architecture and contemporary design makes it one among many ideal locations within this city-instituted AZ Cocktail Week locale - making it even more attractive.

Gourmet Food Pairings

To enhance your winning experience further at this bona fide drinking destination, don't miss out on trying some items from their innovative food menu too. They serve everything ranging from artisanal cheese boards right up to gourmet sandwiches - each designed perfectly to complement the various types of wines available here.

No matter whether you are meeting planners or business travelers seeking respite after long hours, vacation travelers wanting to explore local flavors, or event planners scouting potential venues - remember next time when in Phoenix: drop by Postino Central. You won't be disappointed.

The Idea: Unwind at Postino Central, a historic wine bar in downtown Phoenix. Its extensive global wine selection caters to all tastes and is complemented by gourmet food pairings. With daily specials and an ambiance that blends classic architecture with modern decor, it's the perfect spot for relaxation or exploring local flavors.

best bars

Experience the Craft Beer Scene at Helio Basin Brewing Company

Phoenix, Arizona, is not just about picturesque landscapes and vibrant city life. It's also a bona fide drinking destination for beer lovers. One of the shining stars in its craft beer scene is Helio Basin Brewing Company.

Award-Winning Local Brews with Unique Flavors

At Helio Basin Brewing Company, a wide selection of award-winning local beers with unique flavors are available to satisfy any taste. From light lagers to robust stouts, there's something for every palate.

  • The American Pale Ale delivers balanced bitterness that hits all the right notes.
  • If you're looking for something fruity yet crisp, their Blackberry Wheat won't disappoint.

Creative Food Pairings That Enhance Your Experience

An Inviting Atmosphere Located Inside Downtown Phoenix

The atmosphere inside this downtown Phoenix bar adds another layer to your experience. With friendly staff guiding patrons through extensive drink lists, plus free vintage arcade games available, it becomes more than just quenching thirst but building memories.

best bars

Experience Live Music at Valley Bar

The Phoenix nightlife is alive and buzzing. A standout venue in downtown Phoenix is the Valley Bar, which provides patrons with an eclectic mix of live music performances.

Diverse Musical Offerings

In this dimly lit drinking den located inside a mid-century building's basement, you can enjoy everything from rock-and-roll-inspired tributes to David Bowie to jazz and indie artists' performances. The bar offers something for every taste, making it one of the most popular spots during the city's AZ Cocktail Week.

Cocktail Menu: Classic and Innovative Drinks

Beyond its musical offerings, what makes Valley Bar stand out as a bona fide drinking destination is its cocktail menu that serves quality classics alongside fun modern twists. Their highball cocktail bar sits prominently on their drink list - definitely worth trying when visiting. If cocktails aren't your preference, though, they have other options, too, including locally crafted beers or selections from various wine bars around town.

Vintage Arcade Games For Entertainment

Apart from drinks and music, another unique feature of this place is the free vintage arcade games available for customers' enjoyment before or after shows - adding another layer to your entertainment experience here.

Social Hub in Downtown Phoenix

This collaborative community space downtown isn't just about providing great drinks and music but also aims to offer locals as well as visitors alike experiences beyond typical nightlife activities. If you're seeking classic cocktails while listening to some fantastic live tunes - make sure not to miss out on experiencing what's been described by many as the perfect place to unwind with friends over good times - none other than our very own 'Valley Bar'.

The Idea: Phoenix's Valley Bar is a must-visit nightlife hotspot, offering an eclectic mix of live music in a unique basement setting. With its diverse cocktail menu and vintage arcade games, it serves up more than just drinks—it's the perfect place to unwind with friends while enjoying quality entertainment.

best bars

Taste Unique Drinks at The Lost Leaf

Amidst the bustling cityscape of downtown Phoenix, The Lost Leaf, with its 19th-century design menu and dimly lit ambiance, has emerged as a bona fide drinking destination. It's not just another bar in the city; it is an experience that brings together quality classics alongside fun and unique drinks.

A Blend of Classics and Creativity

The extensive drink list boasts over 100 different beers from around the globe to cater to every taste preference. But their offerings don't stop there - they also have an impressive array of wines and spirits for patrons looking beyond beer.

If you're seeking something more adventurous than your usual order, their cocktail menu won't disappoint. With classic cocktails given creative twists like 'Campo de Coles' made using locally sourced ingredients or rock-and-roll-inspired drinks honoring music legends such as David Bowie - this place keeps things interesting.

An Authentic Atmosphere: More Than Just A Bar

The appeal of The Lost Leaf extends beyond its innovative beverages - it offers a vibrant atmosphere where visitors can relax while enjoying free vintage arcade games. Nestled within a historic house turned into a bar, this venue combines old-world charm with modern entertainment seamlessly.

In addition to being an after-dark hotspot for locals and tourists alike, during daytime hours too - The Lost Leaf transforms into a collaborative community space hosting art shows featuring local artists' work displayed throughout the venue, making it the perfect place for daytime socializing too.

Sustainability: An Integral Part Of Operations

Making A Difference:

With sustainability practices ingrained in their operations wherever possible, The Lost Leaf stands out among other bars located inside Downtown Phoenix. It contributes significantly towards making our city diverse and vibrant.

best bars

Gracie's Tax Bar in Phoenix

If you're looking for a bona fide drinking destination in downtown Phoenix, look no further than Gracie's Tax Bar. This dimly lit drinking den is known for serving quality classics alongside fun, rock-and-roll-inspired drinks that honor icons like David Bowie. The bar's 19th-century design helps create an atmosphere that is both cozy and lively.

The Cocktail Menu at Gracie's

The highball cocktail bar Highball sits right inside Gracie's. Known as the city-instituted AZ cocktail week highlight, it offers a variety of classic cocktails to satisfy any palate. Whether you prefer your drink shaken or stirred, their expert bartenders are sure to impress with their mixology skills.

A Perfect Place for Events and Gatherings

With its vintage charm and welcoming ambiance, Gracie's has quickly become one of the most popular wine bars in Phoenix. It provides a perfect place for meeting planners and event planners alike who are seeking out unique venues within the city. The garden bar PHX situated just outside, adds an extra layer of appeal during those warm Arizona nights.

Beyond Cocktails: A Community Space Downtown

But what sets Gracie's apart from other establishments is not only its extensive drink menu but also its commitment to being a collaborative community space downtown. Located inside this bustling establishment are free vintage arcade games providing entertainment beyond just great drinks.

Innovative Additions: Mead on Tap

In addition to traditional offerings such as beer and spirits, they have brought locally crafted mead into their selection - showcasing local talent while diversifying options available for patrons. For more adventurous drinkers wanting something different from the usual fare offered by other bars around town, try Campo de Coles, made exclusively at Barcoa Agaveria, which honors tradition while pushing boundaries through innovation. To sum up everything about this wonderful watering hole – if you find yourself thirsty when visiting Phoenix, then make sure to stop by at least once!

best bars

Hula's Modern Tiki Bar in Phoenix

Located inside the vibrant downtown Phoenix, Hula's Modern Tiki Bar has established itself as a bona fide drinking destination. It's a perfect place for meeting planners and business travelers looking to unwind after a long day or vacation travelers seeking to experience the city's AZ cocktail week.

The highball cocktail bar sits at the heart of Hula's, serving quality classics alongside fun, rock-and-roll-inspired drinks that honor iconic figures like David Bowie. The menu's 19th-century design helps set an atmospheric tone while you enjoy your cocktails in this dimly lit drinking den.

Award-Winning Tiki Bar Undertow

Nestled within Hula's is another gem - the award-winning tiki bar Undertow. With its unique Campo de Coles made from carefully selected ingredients and classic cocktails that have brought locally crafted mead into the limelight, it offers an immersive Polynesian experience unlike any other.

Garden Bar PHX Situated Within Hula's Premises

Beyond just being a basement bar, there is also Garden Bar PHX situated on-site providing free vintage arcade games for patrons who prefer some entertainment with their drink. This collaborative community space downtown adds yet another layer of appeal to visiting Hula's.

Innovative Cocktail Menu

The innovative cocktail menu at both bars showcases creativity and a passion for mixology. From traditional tipples such as Mai Tai and Zombie Punch to signature concoctions like Thunderbird Lounge Keeping Things Cool – every sip promises an explosion of flavors!

Fine Wine Bars In Downtown Phoenix

If wine is more your speed than spirits or beer, don't worry! There are plenty of fine wine bars around downtown Phoenix too, where you can savor exquisite vintages from around the world.

Please note: Always remember to drink responsibly and ensure you have safe transportation arranged if needed; consider using services such as Phoenix Limo Service.

The Idea: Experience the fusion of classic and creative at The Lost Leaf in downtown Phoenix. With an extensive menu boasting over 100 beers, fine wines, spirits, and unique cocktails like 'Campo de Coles', this bar is more than just a watering hole. It's a hub for art shows, vintage arcade games and sustainable practices - truly making it a vibrant cornerstone of the

best bars

Indulge in Craft Cocktails at Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour

The quest for a bona fide drinking destination ends with the discovery of Phoenix's downtown gem, Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour. The establishment is celebrated not only for its vintage 19th-century design but also for its innovative approach to serving quality classics alongside fun and imaginative drinks.

Ambiance That Transports You Back In Time

Bask in the dimly lit charm of this basement bar that once housed Arizona's Prohibition Headquarters. Today, it stands as an emblematic figure amidst Phoenix's vibrant nightlife scene. This cocktail parlor provides the perfect place to unwind after a long day or celebrate special occasions with colleagues or friends; each visit promises an immersive experience of classic elegance coupled with modern sophistication.

An Array Of Unique Drinks To Choose From

At Bitter & Twisted, every drink tells a story - from time-honored favorites like Old Fashioned and Martini to exclusive creations such as 'Duck Duck Mule'. Each concoction serves as a testament to their mixology prowess.

'Campo de Coles', made using mezcal combined with lime juice and agave nectar garnished uniquely with grilled baby corn, offers patrons unique flavors reminiscent of traditional Mexican cuisine while rock-and-roll-inspired drinks honor music legends including David Bowie, making your night out even more memorable.

Influencing Local Culture And Nightlife Scene

Situated inside the historic Luhrs Building since 2014, this cocktail haven has been instrumental in shaping up the city instituted AZ cocktail week by uniting local bars under one roof, showcasing what they do best - craft exquisite cocktails.

As part of collaborative community space downtown initiatives, locally crafted mead was introduced, which significantly contributed to diversifying Phoenix's nightlife offerings.

best bars

Unearth Unique Tastes at UnderTow

In the heart of Phoenix, Arizona, lies a unique cocktail experience like no other. The award-winning tiki bar, UnderTow, is not just another bona fide drinking destination; it's an immersive journey that transports patrons to distant shores.

The dimly lit drinking den located inside Rise Uptown Hotel takes inspiration from 19th-century ship interiors, with wooden barrels and nautical decor adding to its charm. But what truly sets UnderTow apart is its innovative cocktail menu.

Award-Winning Mixology at Your Service

This isn't your average watering hole in downtown Phoenix. From classic cocktails such as Mai Tai and Zombie to original creations like Campo de Coles made with mezcal, each drink tells a story. UnderTow's cocktail menu's 19th-century design helps set the mood for an unforgettable evening.

Serving quality classics alongside fun innovations, they also offer rock-and-roll-inspired drinks that honor David Bowie, with themed beverages that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.

An Unforgettable Journey Through Time And Taste

UnderTow's expert mixologists have crafted a selection of exotic concoctions inspired by traditional Polynesian drinks, along with modern interpretations, creating new flavors for every palate preference.

  • Crafting Quality Classics: Serving quality classics alongside fun innovation, you can expect nothing less than top-notch service when you step into this establishment.
  • Globally Inspired Spirits: Besides their eclectic range of cocktails, they also house spirits from around the globe, including rum, whiskey, and tequila, among others, catering to those who prefer straight-up sips over mixed drinks.

This one-of-a-kind establishment has carved out its own niche within Phoenix's burgeoning bar scene, making it not only the perfect place but rather an unforgettable journey through time and taste.

best bars

Quench Your Thirst with Margaritas at La Santisima Gourmet Taco Shop

If your travels or business engagements have brought you to downtown Phoenix, Arizona, a refreshing margarita from the locally renowned La Santisima Gourmet Taco Shop is just what you need. This bustling venue stands out as a bona fide drinking destination in the heart of Phoenix.

The Artistry Behind La Santisima's Margaritas

Serving quality classics alongside fun and innovative twists on traditional cocktails, this bar has carved its niche within the city's vibrant nightlife scene. The classic lime margarita here pays homage to timeless recipes, while their unique offerings, like prickly pear and tamarind, add an adventurous twist for those seeking something different.

A standout among these creations is their spicy mango margarita - blending fiery habanero peppers with sweet tropical fruit notes into one tantalizing drink that honors tradition yet boldly ventures beyond it.

An Ambiance That Complements Every Sip

Beyond crafting impeccable drinks, La Santisima also offers an immersive experience through its ambiance. Its colorful Mexican art-inspired decor sets up a perfect backdrop against which patrons can savor award-winning concoctions under Arizona's stunning sunset skies right in downtown Phoenix.

This lively atmosphere extends outdoors onto their patio area, where views over the busy streetscape add another layer of charm to your visit - making it not only about what's inside your glass but around you too.

Margaritas & Tacos: A Match Made In Heaven

Gastronomic Delights:

No trip here would be complete without indulging in some gourmet tacos along with your chosen beverage. Their diverse taco menu includes options ranging from carne asada and al pastor pork made using locally sourced meats, all served on homemade tortillas crafted daily onsite. Their vegetarian-friendly alternatives, such as nopal cactus paddle tacos, are equally impressive, ensuring there's something for everyone regardless of dietary preferences.

The Idea: For a refreshing break in downtown Phoenix, look no further than La Santisima Gourmet Taco Shop. With its unique margarita blends and vibrant ambiance, this hotspot offers more than just drinks—it's an immersive experience. Paired with their gourmet tacos, it's the perfect place to unwind after a long day.

best bars

FAQ - The Top 10 Best Bars in Phoenix, Arizona


What part of Phoenix has the best nightlife?

Downtown Phoenix is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, boasting a plethora of bars, clubs, and live music venues to explore.

What is the most famous bar?

The Whining Pig in Phoenix is well-known for its extensive selection of craft beers from local and international breweries.

What parts of Phoenix are good?

Arcadia, Downtown, Roosevelt Row, and North Central are popular neighborhoods in Phoenix known for their amenities, dining options, and lively atmosphere.

Where do you party in Arizona?

In Arizona, Scottsdale's Entertainment District or downtown Tempe offer bustling nightlife scenes with numerous bars and nightclubs. In addition to this, downtown Tucson also offers a variety of entertainment options.

best bars

What You Need To Know

Phoenix, Arizona, has proven itself as a city teeming with vibrant nightlife and unique bars.

The Whining Pig offers the best craft beers for local and international brew lovers.

Little Rituals sets the mood right with its signature cocktails in a cozy setting.

A world-class wine selection awaits you at Postino Central, perfect for any occasion.

Helio Basin Brewing Company serves up Phoenix's finest local brews that are worth trying out.

If live music is your thing, Valley Bar won't disappoint while serving your favorite drinks on the side.

The Lost Leaf brings an adventure to every sip with their mixologists' uniquely crafted drinks. Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour elevates the cocktail drinking experience with handcrafted mixes made from premium spirits and fresh ingredients.

Intriguing flavors await discovery at UnderTow thanks to their expert mixologists crafting one-of-a-kind combinations.

Rounding off our list is La Santisima Gourmet Taco Shop, where refreshing margaritas pair perfectly well with gourmet tacos!

All these make up The Top 10 Best Bars in Phoenix, Arizona - each offering a distinct experience worthy of exploration! So go ahead.

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