Even though Phoenix may be best known for its desert landscape and hot temperatures, it actually has a great bar scene that many people don’t know about. Great bars, pubs, and clubs can be found throughout the city and its suburbs. If you’re looking for the best watering holes in the city, here’s a list of the best bars in Phoenix to check out in 2016.
Cowboy Ciao
7133 E Stetson Dr., Scottsdale, AZ 85251
480-946-3111
Yelp
Wine lovers will appreciate this bar in the Scottsdale area, since it features a huge wine list with wines originating from countries across the world. Not only does the Cowboy Ciao offer a great wine selection, they have a menu that features craft beers and special house cocktails. Try the Peas and Thank You cocktail, which features rich honey syrup blended with snow pea-infused vodka.
Four Peaks Brewing Company
1340 E. 8th Street #104, Tempe, AZ 85281
480-303-9967
Yelp
Families and college studies enjoy heading to the Four Peaks Brewing Company. It offers four locations throughout the Phoenix Metro area and with a delicious, inventive lineup of brews, the bar has become a household name in the area. One of the best brews to try is the classic Kilt Lifter, a Scottish-style ale that is wildly popular.
RnR
3737 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
480-945-3353
Yelp
When you’re looking for the best bars in Phoenix and you also want a great place to watch a game, you’ll definitely want to try out RnR. It’s a perfect place to enjoy a great brunch, and the drinks are awesome too. A DJ is often on hand so you can enjoy great music as you enjoy Bloody Marys, mimosas, and your favorite comfort food in this two-story, modern bar.
Magnum’s Cigar Bar
731 E. Union Hills Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85024
602-493-8977
Yelp
While this is first and foremost a cigar bar, it offers a huge whiskey list that whiskey lovers are sure to appreciate. You’ll find great cigar and whiskey pairings offered, and even the cocktails offered at Magnum’s are whiskey-based.
O’Connor’s Pub
2601 W. Dunlap Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85021
602-997-7714
Yelp
If you’re looking for an Irish Pub, O’Connor’s is a great spot that has the matching atmosphere. You’ll enjoy Irish hospitality and a great selection of draft and bottled beers. It’s a popular spot for people who want a laid back evening with friends and a beer.
Bikini Lounge
1502 Grand Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-252-0472
Yelp
On any Friday night, the Bikini Lounge is packed with funky urbanites, hipsters, and artists, while everyday drinkers hit this bar the rest of the week. The tiki-centric vibe has been the same since the bar opened back in the 1940s, offering a charm to this hole-in-the-wall spot.
Crudo
3603 E Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018
602-358-8666
Yelp
Head towards the Scottsdale area and you’ll find the perfect atmosphere of Crudo, one of the best bars in Phoenix. It offers a one of a kind atmosphere that is upscale and laidback at the same time. Expertly designed cocktails will make your tastebuds sing, and house-made syrups and Michah Olson, an award-winning mixologist, uses fresh ingredients to make signature drinks like the Daring Dutchman.
Sandbar Mexican Grill
21001 N Tatum Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85050
480-585-5900
Yelp
You’ll get more than just great drinks when you head to the Sandbar Mexican Grill. This is a great taco spot if you want to enjoy some of the best tacos with your drink. Offering a packed events calendar, including live music events, you’re sure to find something that you like in this bar’s beach-inspired atmosphere. Even better, the bar offers almost 100 different tequilas that you can try while you party.
Carlsbad Tavern
3313 North Hayden Road, Scottsdale, Arizona 85251
480-970-8164
Yelp
Carlsbad Tavern offers far more than drinks – you’ll love the New-Mexican food offered by the tavern. The cave-like atmosphere indoors and outdoor patio dining make it a great spot to hang out with friends. With misters during the summer and heaters in the winter, you can eat and drink outdoors comfortably year round. From margaritas to unique Carlsbad favorites, everyone will find a great drink at this spot.
Kelly’s at SouthBridge
7117 E 6th Ave, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
480-393-3205
Yelp
Featuring an upscale ambiance and a laid-back crowd, Kelly’s at SouthBridge also offers great drinks and delicious food. Seating is plentiful and you can enjoy playing pool or darts while you indulge. The menu is packed with great choices, from Dom Perignon to popular craft beers.
Windsor
5223 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85012
602-279-111
Yelp
Located in one of Phoenix’s historic neighborhoods, the Windsor calls itself a bar where “everyone is welcome.” With a huge food menu, amazing house cocktails, and eight different rotating craft taps, it’s easy to see why everyone feels welcome here.
Alice Cooper’s Town Bar
101 E Jackson St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
602-253-7337
Yelp
When you’re in Downtown Phoenix, Alice Cooper’s Town Bar is one of the best spots for great drinks and excellent pub food. The funky, fun atmosphere comes with plenty of rock and sports memorabilia to enjoy, and if you’re a sports fan, you’ll be able to keep up with the action.
Derby Public House
4420 N Saddlebag Trl, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
480-999-3311
Yelp
Head down to old town Scottsdale and you’ll find one of the best bars in Phoenix – the Derby Public House. It’s colorful, fun, and huge, so you’re sure to have a great time on a first date. In the center, a huge square bar dominates the room. Enjoy great cocktails, check out the long list of draft taps, enjoy skee ball, or relax on the scattered sofas found throughout the bar.
S.E.E.D.
3802 E Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018
602-296-7118
Yelp
Head to the Madison Improvement and you’ll find the S.E.E.D café, which offers some of the best juices in the city. They offer some delicious, unique flavors for you to enjoy, and the prices are reasonable as well. It’s a one stop shop for juices and yoga.
Roscoe’s
4531 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85014
602-285-0833
Yelp
One of the most laidback gay bars in town, Roscoe’s comes with staff members that are fun and helpful. In fact, they’re known to confiscate keys if you drink too much. If you want plenty of fun and a laidback vibe, Roscoe’s is definitely a great choice.
The Duce
525 S Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004
602-253-9033
Yelp
The Duce is a gym and resto combination that offers some of the best cocktails in Downtown Phoenix. It’s not your typical bar or club, but check out the cocktail menu and you’ll be hooked on this spot. Enjoy trying out a traditional Moscow Mule or try something different with the Southside, which is specially made with muddled organic lime and mint, agave, gin, soda, and lime juice.
