Categories > Guides and Tips

Your Guide to the 20 Best Bars in Phoenix
- Cham Pang Lanes
- Luckys Indoor Outdoor
- Ghost Donkey
- Barcoa Agaveria
- Rough Rider
- Garden Bar PHX
- Gracie’s Tax Bar
- Bitter & Twisted
- Little Rituals
- Melinda’s Alley
- Pigtails Cocktails
- Stardust Pinbar
- Valley Bar
- Killer Whale Sex Club
- Bikini Lounge
- Undertow Arcadias
- Floor 13 Rooftop Bar
- Cobra Arcade Bar
- Sazerac PHX
- Christopher’s at Wrigley Mansion
Phoenix sunsets paint the sky with fiery hues, but the city’s vibrancy doesn’t fade with darkness. Whether you’re in the mood for a fancy cocktail or a chilled-out night with live music, there’s always a spot in Phoenix to have a great time.
In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the 20 best bars in Phoenix. Keep reading to explore the city’s thriving nightlife scene and have an unforgettable time after dusk!
1. Cham Pang Lanes
Website: http://champanglanes.com/
Address: 903 N 2nd St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
Contact details: +16025800000
Operating hours: 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Cham Pang Lanes is a unique destination bar in Downtown Phoenix that offers a unique blend of entertainment, food, and drinks. It provides fun activities like duckpin bowling, pinball machines, and pool tables.
Pair your game with their famous fried chicken, or go for a more sophisticated option with their stellar cocktails. Cham Pang Lanes also hosts fun events like drag brunches, so check their calendar to see if anything piques your interest.
Pro tip: Make a reservation beforehand, especially if you’re going with a group. Their lane rental fee includes an hour of bowling, so gather your friends and prepare for a strike-tastic time. |
2. Luckys Indoor Outdoor
Website: https://www.luckysphx.com/
Address: 817 N 2nd St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
Contact details: +16029758156
Operating hours: 4:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Inspired by Austin’s famous bar culture, Luckys Indoor Outdoor offers a “keep it weird” ambiance. A massive 4,000-square-foot dog-friendly patio complements the indoor area.
Luckys boasts crafty cocktails with unique twists alongside classics. They also feature a rotating lineup of food trucks, ensuring something delicious satisfies every craving.
Pro tip: Since Luckys boasts a fantastic patio experience, aim for a visit on a nice day. Grab a seat outdoors, order a unique cocktail, maybe the Irish Bird, and challenge your friends to a game of bocce ball. |
3. Ghost Donkey
Website: https://www.ghostdonkeyphx.com/
Address: 903 N 2nd St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating hours: 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Ghost Donkey is known for its delicious agave spirits and lively atmosphere. It focuses on agave spirits and offers a vast selection of tequilas and mezcals with its bartenders who go on educational trips to Mexico to learn directly from experts.
A menu of tasty bites also complements their drinks. Their signature “killer nachos” are a crowd favorite, perfect for sharing alongside your agave cocktails.
Pro tip: Feel free to step outside your comfort zone and try a new mezcal. The bartenders are there to guide you through the process and help you discover a new favorite. |
4. Barcoa Agaveria
Website: http://www.barcoaphx.com/
Address: 829 N 1st Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85003, United States
Contact details: +16029800788
Operating hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Barcoa Agaveria specialize in a wide range of agave-based spirits like mezcal, bacanora, raicilla, and sotol. The casual cantina upstairs offers a bright and cheery patio, perfect for enjoying classic cocktails with a laid-back vibe.
Head down to the sexy basement lounge for a more intimate setting. Here, you’ll find a curated selection of craft cocktails and an impressive 40-page menu, perfect for getting lost in agave spirits.
Pro tip: Take advantage of the opportunity to explore the basement lounge’s extensive menu. Even if you’re not there for a tasting, ask the staff for recommendations based on your preferences. |
5. Rough Rider
Website: http://www.roughrideraz.com/
Address: 1001 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
Contact details: +16026750439
Operating hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Rough Rider is tucked away in a basement. To enter, you’ll go through a private elevator, instantly transporting you to a different era with its décor inspired by the late 19th century and has a sophisticated, Old World feel.
They specialize in Victorian-era cocktails with a modern twist and offer a menu of contemporary American cuisine with some Southern comfort influences.
Pro tip: Take the chance to try one of their signature cocktails. The bartenders are known for their creativity and skill, so ask for a recommendation based on your preferences. |
6. Garden Bar PHX
Address: 822 N 6th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85003, United States
Contact details: +16028242385
Operating hours: Wednesday to Saturday – 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Garden Bar PHX is more than just a place to grab a drink – it’s a warm and inviting escape that caters to your senses. Housed in a charming 1914 California bungalow, Garden Bar PHX exudes a cozy and relaxed atmosphere.
Their menu boasts a curated selection of handcrafted cocktails that testify to their “garden-to-glass” philosophy. They also offer small plates to complement your drinks, such as charcuterie boards, pretzel bites, hummus, and other savory treats.
Pro tip: Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, as seating is limited. The bartenders are passionate about their craft and can recommend something based on your preferences. |
7. Gracie’s Tax Bar
Website: http://www.graciesphx.com/
Address: 711 N 7th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85007, United States
Contact details: +16027931110
Operating hours: 4:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Gracie’s Tax Bar in Downtown Phoenix offers a unique and memorable experience that blends affordability, quirky charm, and a relaxed atmosphere. Gracie’s boasts good drinks for under $4, making it a budget-friendly hangout.
They quench your late-night cravings with a delicious menu of chopped cheese sandwiches, including a veggie option, tater tots, onion rings, and fried pickles. You can also challenge your friends to a board game or choose your tunes on the jukebox.
Pro tip: Gracie’s is known for its no-frills, cash-only policy, so come prepared. For a must-do, try their signature chopped cheese sandwich—it’s a crowd favorite for a reason. |
8. Bitter & Twisted
Website: https://bitterandtwistedaz.com/
Address: 1 W Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85003, United States
Contact details: +16023401924
Operating hours: Tuesday to Saturday – 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Bitter & Twisted is known for its innovative and delicious cocktails, and its menu features unique flavor combinations. The bar is located in the Luhrs Building, which used to be Arizona’s headquarters during Prohibition.
Bitter & Twisted also offers tasty bar bites to complement their drinks. The bartenders at Bitter & Twisted are passionate about cocktails and can help you find the perfect drink based on your preferences.
Pro tip: Take a look at the menu beforehand and pick a few cocktails that sound interesting. This will save you time when you get to the bar and allow you to explore their unique flavor profiles. |
9. Little Rituals
Website: https://littleritualsbar.com/
Address: 132 S Central Ave 4th Floor, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
Contact details: +16026032050
Operating hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Tucked away on the fourth floor of the Courtyard by Marriott, Little Rituals is an award-winning spot that has garnered a reputation for its innovative cocktails, upscale ambiance, and focus on creating a memorable experience.
Their bartenders are like culinary alchemists, using house-made syrups, infusions, and unique techniques to create libations that are as beautiful as they are delicious. They also offer a curated selection of craft beers and global bar snacks.
Pro tip: Don’t just order from the menu – Little Rituals bartenders love experimenting and creating custom cocktails based on your preferences. Tell them what flavors you enjoy, and let them surprise you with a one-of-a-kind drink! |
10. Melinda’s Alley
Website: https://www.instagram.com/melindasalleyaz/
Address: Renaissance, 50 E Adams St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
Operating hours: Thursday to Saturday – 9:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Melinda’s Alley is a hidden speakeasy tucked away in an alley, accessible only through a discreet entrance. It was once home to the famed Adams Hotel, and some believe the spirit of a former resident, Malinda “Malindy” Curtis, still lingers.
Melinda’s Alley is known for its innovative and expertly crafted cocktails. The menu changes seasonally, so you can always try something new and exciting.
Pro tip: For the ultimate Melinda’s Alley experience, dress in speakeasy attire like flapper dresses or dapper suits to match the atmosphere. It’s a fun way to embrace the theme and enhance the night. |
11. Pigtails Cocktails
Website: http://www.pigtailscocktails.com/
Address: 1 E Washington St #128, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
Contact details: +16026754416
Operating hours: 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Pigtails Cocktails is a speakeasy-style bar with a unique and secretive ambiance. Imagine plush seating, dim lighting, and perhaps even a “secret” exit—all adding to the clandestine feel.
They take pride in their craft cocktails, barrel-aged whiskeys, organic vodkas, and house-made infusions, which are served alongside fresh fruits. They also have a dedicated raw seafood bar with fresh oysters, shrimp cocktails, or seasonal ceviches.
Pro tip: Pigtails can get crowded, especially during peak hours. To avoid a wait, consider going during their happy hour for special deals and a slightly less bustling vibe. |
12. Stardust Pinbar
Website: http://www.stardustpinbar.com/
Address: 401 W Van Buren St Suite C, Phoenix, AZ 85003, United States
Contact details: +16023542931
Operating hours: 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Stardust Pinbar combines the nostalgia of classic arcades with the fun of a lively bar.
Before 8:00 PM, Stardust Pinbar is family-friendly, and kids can enjoy the 12 pinball machines. After that, it transforms into a 21+ venue with a pumping dance floor.
They offer a wide selection of craft beers, specialty cocktails, and non-alcoholic options. Plus, you can grab delicious bites like pizza, wings, and sandwiches to keep you fueled for your pinball battles.
Pro tip: Go early to avoid crowds and snag a machine you want to play. Try their signature “Stardust” cocktail – a refreshing drink that complements the electrifying atmosphere. |
13. Valley Bar
Website: https://valleybarphx.com/
Address: 130 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
Contact details: +16023683121
Operating hours: 6:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Nestled in a basement, Valley Bar offers a speakeasy vibe. Its unassuming entrance and lack of signage add to the mystique. The venue has a ticketed music hall, a rose room with free entry showcasing different acts, and even a game room.
You can catch a live show, grab drinks at the bar, play games in the game room, or enjoy delicious gourmet hot dogs. Valley Bar also carries on that tradition, providing a platform for local and upcoming artists.
Pro tip: Check their website or social media for upcoming events before you go. With shows happening most nights of the week, you can plan your visit around a band or genre you’re interested in. |
14. Killer Whale Sex Club
Website: https://www.thosepourbastards.com/killerwhalesexclub/
Address: 922 N 6th St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
Contact details: +15203527768
Operating hours: 6:00 PM to 2:00 AM
The Killer Whale Sex Club boasts a menu of inventive cocktails, with bartenders crafting unique drinks to tantalize your taste buds. The atmosphere is upbeat and friendly, perfect for catching up with friends or meeting new people.
The Killer Whale Sex Club is known for showcasing local artists. The walls might be adorned with paintings, murals, or even sculptures by talented Phoenix creators, adding another layer of interest to the space.
Pro tip: This bar can get crowded, especially on weekends. To avoid waiting in line, make a reservation in advance through their website. |
15. Bikini Lounge
Website: https://www.instagram.com/thebikinilounge/
Address: 1502 Grand Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85007, United States
Contact details: +16022520472
Opened in 1947, Bikini Lounge is one of the oldest remaining tiki bars in the world. It offers a glimpse into a bygone era. It’s a great place to unwind with friends, play pool, listen to the jukebox tunes, or catch a DJ night.
They focus on making classic tiki drinks and have a good selection of beers on tap to quench your thirst. It’s a favorite among locals, offering a genuine Phoenix experience.
Pro tip: Try one of their signature tiki cocktails in a fun, themed mug! It’s the perfect way to soak up the atmosphere of this historic Phoenix gem. |
16. Undertow Arcadias
Website: https://www.drinkundertow.com/
Address: 3626 E Indian School Rd Suite 100, Phoenix, AZ 85018, United States
Contact details: +16027391388
Operating hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Undertow Arcadias combines a tiki bar’s fun and kitschy elements with a spacefaring theme. Imagine sipping on tropical cocktails surrounded by porthole windows and nautical spaceship decor.
Their bartenders are known for crafting inventive and delicious tiki-inspired drinks. Expect fresh ingredients, unique flavor combinations, and playful presentations that tie into the space theme.
Pro tip: Try a classic Mai Tai or a Zombie to experience the genre’s core flavors. For the adventurous, ask your bartender for their current recommendation or try a flight of cocktails to sample a variety of their unique creations. |
17. Floor 13 Rooftop Bar
Website: https://floor13rooftopbar.com/
Address: 15 E Monroe St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
Contact details: +16023967168
Operating hours: 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Perched 13 floors up, Floor 13 Rooftop Bar offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Phoenix skyline. The contemporary design, spacious sundeck, and comfortable furnishings create a stylish atmosphere.
Floor 13 boasts a menu of handcrafted cocktails inspired by Alfred Hitchcock and his movies. Additionally, they offer a selection of light bites to complement your drinks and enjoy the scenery.
Pro tip: Since Floor 13 is a popular spot, especially around sunset, making a reservation beforehand is recommended to secure a table with the best views. |
18. Cobra Arcade Bar
Website: http://cobraarcadebar.com/
Address: 801 N 2nd St #100, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
Contact details: 801 N 2nd St #100, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
Operating hours: 4:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Nestled in the Roosevelt Row Arts District, Cobra Arcade Bar is a unique spot that blends retro vibes with modern nightlife. The main attraction is the impressive collection of vintage arcade games.
It also has a 41-strong cabinet collection that boasts custom paint jobs and artistic flourishes. Craft beers are on tap and inventive cocktails with playful names like “Punch Out” and “Princess Peach” make it a great place to unwind with friends.
Pro tip: Many of the Cobra Arcade Bar’s games operate on tokens, so remember to grab some at the token machine upon arrival |
19. Sazerac PHX
Website: http://www.sazeracphoenix.com/
Address: 821 N 2nd St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
Contact details: +16023341626
Operating hours: 4:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Sazerac PHX has carved a niche in Downtown Phoenix’s Art District. The interior features a thoughtful blend of old and new design elements, creating a warm and inviting space for socializing.
Sazerac PHX provides a dedicated outdoor smoking area for those who enjoy a good cigar. They also have a hand-picked selection of premium cigars, making it the perfect spot to unwind and indulge.
Pro tip: If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, Sazerac PHX offers a fantastic happy hour from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Monday through Thursday. It’s a great way to sample their drinks and bites at a discounted price. |
20. Christopher’s at Wrigley Mansion
Website: http://wrigleymansion.com/christophers/
Address: 2501 E Telawa Trail, Phoenix, AZ 85016, United States
Contact details: +16025222344
Operating hours: Tuesday to Saturday – 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Christopher’s at Wrigley Mansion is a fantastic fine-dining restaurant in a historic mansion. Chef Christopher Gross, a James Beard Award winner, creates a seasonal menu using fresh, local ingredients.
You can choose between a classic three-course prix fixe menu featuring signature dishes or an eight-course tasting menu. Christopher’s at Wrigley Mansion provides the perfect setting for a romantic dinner or a special night out with friends.
Pro tip: If you’re planning a visit, make early reservations, especially for weekends. For an exceptional experience, try the tasting menu to savor Chef Gross’s culinary creativity and enjoy a variety of dishes that showcase the best of his talents. |