July 31, 2024
Arizona’s vast deserts are home to a boatload of watering holes. Across the state, more than 7,000 bars, breweries, distilleries, wineries, tasting rooms and restaurants serve beer, wine, cider, seltzer and cocktails to thirsty customers.
Throughout the metro Phoenix sprawl, there’s never a shortage of bars to choose from. We’ve got everything from rusty saloons to swanky nightlife hotspots, cutting-edge cocktail bars and neighborhood dives. You can even enjoy a tipple inside a replica train car.
So it can be difficult to narrow down your options when you’re looking for a great place to stop and sip something cold. That’s where we come in.
Every year, we update our list of the Top 100 Bars in the Valley and our selections for 2024 are here.
Year after year, many bars continue to deserve their spots on this list. But new ones also make the cut. On the 2024 list, 21 bars are making their debut. And much like the entire list, these new additions range from longstanding dives to elegant cocktail lounges and everything in between. One thing is for sure at every spot on this list — the bartenders know their stuff.
So, next time you get thirsty, we’ve got a recommendation for you. Well, 100 recommendations really, with something to fit every mood. Out of the state’s 7,000-plus places to grab a drink, here’s where to start. Welcome to the 2024 list of the Top 100 Bars in Phoenix. Cheers!
The Top 100 Phoenix Bars of 2024
Jay's Cocktail Lounge
Benjamin Leatherman
Searching for Phoenix’s best little dive west of Interstate 17? Follow the red neon arrow next to the front door of this comfortably shabby watering hole on Indian School Road near 31st Avenue that’s been serving since 1955, moving to its current spot in 1977. Inside its teal-painted brick walls, low-key locals hang out at vinyl-edged tables or belly up to the S-shaped bar where wrought-iron scrollwork weaves its way from the ceiling overhead as the smiling staff supply inexpensive drinks from the standard-issue stash of beer and liquor. Amenities are sparse – there are pool tables, a jukebox, and a large turtle tank (complete with “beware of attack turtles” sign) – but popular. Jay’s bartenders will even sell you bottled beers to go, if you want to keep the party going at home. Just remember to bring cash since they don’t take plastic.
3208 W. Indian School Rd., Phoenix, 85017
The Top 100 Phoenix Bars of 2024
AZ/88
Allison Young
Did someone say martinis? At this off-the-beaten-path bar in Scottsdale, you can get a London favorite Pornstar Martini with vanilla vodka, passionfruit, lime juice and a shot of Champagne. If that’s too fruity for your taste, there are always the classics, such as the espresso martini and Manhattan. But AZ/88 is not your regular neighborhood spot. The people-watching here is outstanding, with crowds ranging from longtime Scottsdale locals to groups of friends celebrating 21st birthdays and bachelorette parties, from dates to businessmen holding lunch meetings, and much more. Rotating art installations also demand attention. Sometimes a cluster of disco balls dangle from the ceiling, casting specks of light around the bar; at other times, fluffy illuminated clouds fill the ceiling. During the holidays, Christmas trees made of anything other than wood and pine needles land smack in the center of the dining room. Meal options include burgers, salads, sandwiches and a small selection of plates. Insider tip: Make sure to visit the restrooms. You won’t be disappointed.
7353 E. Scottsdale Mall, Scottsdale, 85251
The Top 100 Phoenix Bars of 2024
Bar 1
Matt Hennie
Far from the leather bars, rainbow-flagged saunas and diva-filled discotheques found elsewhere, Bar 1 is casual gay nightlife that still knows how to have fun. Established in 2008, its easygoing, candlelit atmosphere allows patrons to talk in their (gasp!) indoor voices whether relaxing in the lounge seating, playing pinball or unwinding on the outdoor patio. Daily specials rotate throughout the week, including beer busts on Monday, Long Island Wednesdays, 2-4-1 Thursdays and multiple happy hours. Menu options include a long list of craft cocktails to pair with bar snacks and specialty shots.
3702 N. 16th St., Phoenix, 85016
The Top 100 Phoenix Bars of 2024
Bar 1912
Georgann Yara
Hidden behind the restaurant on Seventh Avenue, Valentine’s love letter to Arizona cuisine continues in drink form. The entry of Bar 1912 is marked only by a neon sign that reads “Cocktails.” Inside, Mission revival-style niches behind the bar frame bottles, but the space’s feeling, down to its staff-curated vinyl, is a nod to Japanese listening rooms. Bar 1912’s menu takes cues from Arizona, including a quintet of cocktails inspired by the state’s five Cs. Try Cotton or Cattle. Cotton packs a playful pistachio flavor that conjures thoughts of pistachio cotton candy, while Cattle riffs on a classic Manhattan, infusing rye whiskey and añejo tequila with bone marrow. The fat-washing results in a velvety spirit-forward drink without the bite. Chef Donald Hawk and his team crank out elevated bites inspired by classic bar snacks, such as foie gras-stuffed olives and whipped pimento-raclette cheese. This all makes Bar 1912 a solid standalone spot or a perfect part of a splurge-worthy night that includes dinner at Valentine.
4130 N. Seventh Ave., Phoenix, 85013
The Top 100 Phoenix Bars of 2024
Bar Bianco
Sara Crocker
Bar Bianco may be the most and least Phoenix bar. It reaches peak-Phoenix because, if you’re there, you’re likely killing time while waiting to enjoy the pizza that in many ways put the Valley’s culinary scene, and its connection to incredible local ingredients, on the map. At the bar, you can enjoy curated wines, local craft beers and a handful of classic cocktails while you wait, or you can satiate your hunger with fresh, slightly charred bread and olive oil or a plate of soppressata with dried cranberries. So, what makes Bar Bianco feel so not Phoenix? Its location next to the flagship Pizzeria Bianco in Heritage Square in a home that — gasp — predates air conditioning is surrounded by mature trees and in a rare area reserved for pedestrians, not cars. As such, the bar is transportive and invites you to linger and maybe, just maybe, forget about that wait.
609 E. Adams St., Phoenix, 85004
The Top 100 Phoenix Bars of 2024
Barcoa Agaveria
Tirion Boan
Food festival producer David Tyda says he never set out to be a bar owner. But when he opened Barcoa with Ryan Oberholtzer in 2020, the space quickly became a haven for agave spirit enthusiasts. And, you can choose just how far down the rabbit hole you’d like to go, as Barcoa houses not one bar but two. The cantina on the main level is energetic and connected to Latino and indigenous arts organization Xico. Browse artists’ work on First Fridays and sip on a Mezcalrita on the patio. There’s also a solid rotation of food trucks thanks to Tyda’s food festival connections. For a more intimate evening, make reservations for the basement bar. Choose from a wide selection of agave spirits, or have one of the bartenders make you a craft cocktail, such as the Leche de Pistachio, made with mezcal, pistachio milk and lime.
829 N. First Ave., Phoenix, 85003
The Top 100 Phoenix Bars of 2024
Barley & Smoke
Barley & Smoke
At Barley & Smoke, the team behind Peoria Artisan Brewing takes a chef’s table and speakeasy and mashes them together — with delightful results. The space, which is tucked behind the brewpub’s kitchen, is sleek and stylish, with the open kitchen and bar as the focal point. Plan to arrive stylish yourself; Barley & Smoke has a business casual dress code. Two outstanding sips from the craft cocktail list are the Blackberry Thyme-Out and El Hefe Grande. The former gin-based tipple finds a way to bring out the flavor of its two namesake ingredients. The latter is a fresh, balanced riff on a margarita, using bacanora in lieu of tequila and charred lemon juice instead of lime. Don’t skip the pork belly and cured watermelon to snack on while you sip. With only 30 seats, reservations are strongly encouraged.
10144 W. Lake Pleasant Parkway, #1130, Peoria, 85382
The Top 100 Phoenix Bars of 2024
Bikini Lounge
Benjamin Leatherman
In a town as young as Phoenix, a bar that’s been around since 1947 certainly counts as a grande dame of the local drinking scene. Long before Interstate 10 connected us to California, The Bikini Lounge welcomed visitors from the west into town as they exited the U.S. 60. Today, there are divier dive bars and tiki-er tiki bars, but there’s no other establishment in the Valley with The Bikini’s exact flavor of lowbrow kitsch. The bar has no windows, so the place is always as dark as a confessional, conferring intimacy on the most casual of interactions. Thatched coverings, vintage paintings and tiki masks watch over the patrons, who are a mix of grizzled regulars and hipsters dropping in after First Fridays or a show at The Van Buren. Drinks aren’t fancy, but they’re strong and cheap — just how we like them (make sure you bring cash, though). Over the decades, The Bikini has seen plenty of growth around its Grand Avenue location, but we love it best because, despite the passing of the years, it never seems to change.
1502 Grand Ave., Phoenix, 85007
The Top 100 Phoenix Bars of 2024
Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour
Heather Hoch
A self-described “cocktailian,” Ross Simon of Bitter & Twisted is known for his tome-like illustrated menus that offer studied riffs on legions of classics, resulting in libations that are proudly “whimsical as fuck.” Among those is the coldest old-school martini in town, which can be sipped in expansive booths upholstered in red leather under sky-high ceilings. Whether you're in downtown Phoenix for a show, or you make a special trip, be sure to stop in at Bitter & Twisted. Pro tip: Join the wait list online to secure an earlier spot in the queue.
1 W. Jefferson St., Phoenix, 85003
The Top 100 Phoenix Bars of 2024
Boycott Bar
Benjamin Leatherman
This lesbian-leaning Melrose District spot has cold beers, well-mixed cocktails, dancing, drag shows and good people. Boycott also maintains a varied and thoughtful event calendar: Patrons can expect everything from Pride-related events to Latin and country dance nights. It’s a solid stop while bar-hopping along the Melrose curve — and a sturdy local watering hole as well. Look for the pink light.
4301 N. Seventh Ave., Phoenix, 85013
The Top 100 Phoenix Bars of 2024
The Brickyard Downtown
Tirion Boan
When visiting downtown Chandler, a stop at The Brickyard is a must. This cocktail bar and restaurant is located inside the former home of the Chandler Arizonan, a newspaper that dates back to 1912. But you’ll find more than just history here. Start with the cocktail menu, which is located inside the plastic DVD case dropped off at your table. The video game-themed booklet outlines your drink options by such creative categories as Arcade, Disc, Multiplayer and Next Gen. From the Console section, we love Save the Princess, a bright refresher with Ketel One peach and orange blossom vodka, Leblon cachaca, crème de pêche, orgeat, lemon and yuzu. While the cocktail menu shines, don’t forget about the food. The lamb chimichangas and pork belly skewers are winners.
85 W. Boston St., Chandler, 85225
The Top 100 Phoenix Bars of 2024
Buqui Bichi Brewing
Sara Crocker
The Sonora-born, award-winning craft brewery chain has brought not one but two taprooms to the Valley. In downtown Phoenix and Chandler, you’ll find Buqui Bichi’s Mexican-made brews, a full bar and a large menu of tacos, pizza, burgers and more. The spaces have an upbeat, energized vibe thanks to live DJs and warm glowing lights that feature the labels of their beers. The brewer’s year-round taps include Banquetera, a crisp, crushable Kolsch-style ale. In the summer months, you also can find a seasonal prickly pear-infused version that adds a hint of sweetness and a bright pink hue. Another Buqui Bichi standard that’s not to be missed is Talega, a warm, roasty coffee stout. The brewpub’s al pastor sopes are a standout among its food options — the perfect snack when enjoying a pint.
325 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler, 85225
The Top 100 Phoenix Bars of 2024
Butler's Easy
Sara Crocker
This north Phoenix bar is truly a neighborhood spot, but it serves up more than draft beers and two-ingredient cocktails. Instead, imbibers will find a large selection of craft cocktails, such as Indoor Smoking, a rye-based old fashioned infused with smoke. You’ll also find a solid selection of beer and wine, as well as a deep spirits list. Try one of Butler’s Easy’s splurgy curated flights to sample several at once, with the option to add a cigar. The Whistle Up a Storm flight, for example, features 10-, 12- and 15-year old WhistlePig whiskeys. The lounge is sleek and dark, perfect for a nightcap, and sun seekers will find a cozy patio in the back. There’s always something happening at the bar, with a number of events throughout the week, ranging from trivia and bingo nights to wine tastings and cocktail classes.
8375 N. Seventh St., Phoenix, 85020
The Top 100 Phoenix Bars of 2024
Captain's Cabin
Tirion Boan
Next to the entrance of the uptown location of Hula’s Modern Tiki, there’s a second door hiding in plain sight. It looks to be an employee entrance or maybe a storage room. But inside, you’ll find a dark space serving bright cocktails. Tiki drinks in shades of pink and blue come adorned with purple orchids and green pineapple fronds. Spotlights illuminate individual tables and seats along the bar causing the drinks to glow as customers sip them in the darkness. Wood paneling, seaside paintings and other nautical decor complete the vibe. Whether you’re headed to Hula’s for dinner or looking for a nightcap, this tropical hideaway is the perfect spot to stop for a while.
5114 N. Seventh St., #2, Phoenix, 85012
The Top 100 Phoenix Bars of 2024
Casey Moore's Oyster House
Jennifer Goldberg
Casey Moore's Oyster House is a Tempe mainstay, known for its sprawling patio surrounding the former home of William A. and Mary Moeur, built circa 1910. The bar itself is named after an Irish woman who was born even earlier, in 1886, and who was known for singing, playing the piano and hosting frequent gatherings. (She is said to still haunt the place.) The home was rehabilitated in 1973, and a few bars came and went in the space until 1986, when it became Casey’s. The bar attracts students from nearby ASU, as well as neighborhood regulars, cyclists, tourists and service industry types. Indoors, you’ll find neon décor, some seating and a cozy bar; on the patio, you may smoke, bring your dog till 5 p.m. or bend elbows at the always-packed outdoor bar. The beer selection features a mix of local, domestic and imported brews, and the pub fare is above average. Go with the oysters or the neighborhood favorite, French onion soup.
850 S. Ash Ave., Tempe, 85281
The Top 100 Phoenix Bars of 2024
Catalyst Crafted Ales
Sara Crocker
Catalyst Crafted Ales is a paradise for craft beer heads who lean toward big, bold and sometimes irreverent styles and flavors. Inside the brewhouse, which opened in 2023 under brewer Will Walthereson, drinkers will find playful sours, hoppy IPAs and plenty of imperials of the beer and seltzer persuasion. There are more traditional beers on tap, too, such as Vesuvio, an Italian pilsner that drinkers can have poured from Catalyst's regular taps or via its side pull, a faucetlike tap that creates a European-style pour with a couple extra inches of foam. A pint goes well with an ahi tuna tostada from the in-house eatery S.A.L.T. (short for Sea and Land Tacos). Get comfortable inside at the bar or outside on Catalyst’s expansive patio. After you try one of the brewery’s unique tipples, you’ll already be pondering what to order for the next round.
1845 E. Broadway Rd., Tempe, 85282
The Top 100 Phoenix Bars of 2024
Central Records
Tirion Boan
On a quiet stretch of Central Avenue, close to the bustling district of Roosevelt Row, Central Records has put down roots. This new space is a wine bar, record store, coffee shop and cafe all in one. Stop by for a coffee, and then work on your laptop until it’s time to order a bottle of wine to split with friends. In the evenings, DJs spin vinyl records while a giant disco ball casts sparkles across the warmly lit room. Sit near the window, at a table with raw wood banquette seating or at the low bar if you want to chat to the barista-cum-bartender about the latest offerings.
824 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, 85004
The Top 100 Phoenix Bars of 2024
Charlie's Phoenix
Matt Hennie
Charlie’s is a slice of Phoenix gay bar history that has huddled along Camelback Road just west of Seventh Avenue since its debut in 1984. In those days, the “lil bitty ol’ pissant country place” and dance hall opened by John King (co-founder of the International Gay Rodeo Association) was aimed at gay urban cowboys and country music fans. As times and interests changed (and competition increased), so did Charlie’s. Today, the place boasts a larger dance floor, an even bigger parking lot, a taco truck out front, an outdoor patio with two bars and bleacher seating in the back, and a wide cross-section of the entire LGBT community. Charlie’s events calendar is just as diverse. Drag performances, bingo games, Latin and country dance nights, and karaoke are some of its most popular activities. It's also famous for its after-hours weekend dance parties.
727 W. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, 85013
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