The article outlines 46 essential bars in metro Phoenix, categorizing them by type, including beer gardens, live music venues, speakeasies, and rooftop bars. Each venue reflects the local scene’s vibrancy, featuring innovative cocktails crafted from local ingredients and unique décor.
Bars are cherished not just for the drinks they serve but for the atmosphere they create—a place to unwind, meet friends, and perhaps discover something new. Here’s a guide to some noteworthy bars that embody the spirit of nightlife in Phoenix:
Beer & Cider Bars
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Arizona Wilderness: Known for its great beer and delectable menu, featuring items like Buffalo Cauliflower and popular brews like the Camp Light Lager.
- Location: 201 E. Roosevelt St., Phoenix. azwbeer.com
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Cider Corps: A veteran-owned taproom in Mesa renowned for its gluten-free cider, especially the Mango Foxtrot.
- Location: 31 S. Robson, Suite 103, Mesa. cidercorpsaz.com
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Wandering Tortoise: Offers a vast selection of beer along with unique eats from a food truck onsite.
- Location: 2417 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix. thewanderingtortoise.com
Best Bars for Live Music
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Linger Longer Lounge: A hidden gem featuring local musicians and a menu of quality German bar food.
- Location: 6522 N. 16th St., Phoenix. lingerlongerlounge.com
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The Womack: A cocktail bar with live music six nights a week, evoking a classic lounge atmosphere.
- Location: 5749 N. Seventh St., Phoenix. thewomack.us
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Valley Bar: A popular basement venue that combines live music with unique cocktails.
- Location: 130 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. valleybarphx.com
Award-winning Cocktail Bars
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Carry On: Recognized for its design and cocktails inspired by vintage travel.
- Location: 2 N. Central Ave., Suite 101, Phoenix. carryonphx.com
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Little Rituals: Offers a panoramic view of Phoenix and an inventive cocktail menu.
- Location: 132 S. Central Ave., Phoenix. littleritualsbar.com
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Bitter & Twisted: Located in a historic courthouse, celebrated for its creative cocktail menu.
- Location: 1 W. Jefferson St., Phoenix. bitterandtwistedaz.com
Speakeasies & Unusual Cocktail Bars
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Rough Rider: A subterranean speakeasy with a poetic cocktail menu.
- Location: 1001 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. roughrideraz.com
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Bar 1912: This speakeasy-inspired venue provides a cozy setting featuring innovative cocktails.
- Location: 4130 N. Seventh Ave., Phoenix. 1912phx.com
Best Rooftop Cocktail Bars
- Don Woods’ Say When: Offers stunning views of Camelback Mountain with an innovative drink selection.
- Location: 400 W. Camelback Road, Phoenix. riseuptownhotel.com
Cowboy Bars
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Not My First Rodeo: A lively western-themed bar known for its outrageous shot menu.
- Location: 7150 E. Sixth Ave., Suite B, Scottsdale. notmyfirstrodeoaz.com
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Buffalo Chip Saloon: Offers a rustic atmosphere complete with line dancing and mini-rodeos.
- Location: 6823 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek. buffalochipsaloon.com
Dive Bars
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Gracie’s Tax Bar: Known for its affordable drinks and eclectic nightlife.
- Location: 711 N. Seventh Ave., Phoenix. graciestaxbar.com
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Bikini Lounge: The oldest tiki bar in Phoenix, beloved for its character and cheap drinks.
- Location: 1502 Grand Ave., Phoenix. @thebikinilounge
This extensive guide features bars suitable for a variety of preferences and occasions, ensuring that there’s something for everyone in metro Phoenix’s vibrant nightlife scene.