Have you ever found yourself staring at the shimmering lights of Phoenix, craving a refreshing drink under starry desert skies—yet unsure where to find the perfect spot? The Valley of the Sun isn’t just about breathtaking sunsets and cacti-lined hiking trails; when darkness falls, the city’s nightlife scene comes alive with rooftop lounges, hidden speakeasies, eclectic dive bars, and everything in between. If you’re looking to experience a taste of Phoenix after sundown, you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, we’ll explore 10 of the best bars in Phoenix, each representing a different slice of the city’s vibrant nightlife culture. You’ll discover swanky spots for craft cocktails, laid-back dives that speak to the area’s no-frills roots, and even an island-inspired tiki bar where you can sip rum concoctions that defy the desert landscape. Ready to uncover your next hangout under the Southwest sky? Let’s dive in!
1. Best Rooftop Bar – From The Rooftop
Panoramic Downtown Views
Perched atop the Cambria Hotel Downtown Phoenix, From The Rooftop delivers some of the most incredible panoramic skyline views in the Valley. By day, you can glance out over the patchwork of city streets and desert mountains in the distance. Come dusk, the city lights begin to twinkle, setting the stage for a mesmerizing transformation that truly showcases Phoenix’s urban energy. Whether you’re a photography buff seeking a scenic vantage point or simply love a breezy open-air atmosphere, this rooftop gem promises a memorable vantage.
Stylish Décor & Plunge Pool
While many rooftop bars focus solely on the vista, From The Rooftop raises the bar (literally) by featuring a sleek plunge pool, lounge chairs, and modern décor that wouldn’t feel out of place in Miami or Los Angeles. Vibrant cushions and potted succulents bring a cozy, Southwest-chic aesthetic. It’s an ideal place to gather with friends during weekend brunch, where you might dip your toes in the water while sipping a mimosa, or enjoy a casual evening scene with comfortable seating beneath the starlit desert sky.
Refreshing Cocktails & Light Bites
From The Rooftop curates a cocktail menu that skews toward refreshing, fruit-forward drinks—perfect for battling Phoenix’s summer heat. Look for signature options featuring watermelon, jalapeño-infused tequila, or local citrus. On the snack side, the bar serves an array of sharable plates like tacos, sliders, and chips with guacamole, each prepared to complement an outdoor gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or capping off a long week, the thirst-quenching beverages and breezy ambiance hit the spot.
What People Love:
- Spectacular skyline views that capture Phoenix’s downtown buzz
- A modern vibe complete with plunge pool for those looking to cool off
- Delicious cocktails using local citrus and spicy-sweet flavor combos
- Plenty of comfy seating that encourages mingling and relaxation
2. Best Cocktail Bar – Little Rituals
Elevated Mixology in the Heart of Phoenix
Situated on the fourth floor of the Residence Inn/Courtyard by Marriott in Downtown Phoenix, Little Rituals is anything but your typical hotel bar. The space packs a serious punch thanks to co-owner and nationally recognized bartender Ross Simon. Walking in, you’ll immediately sense the elevated approach to mixology: the bar brims with premium spirits, house-made syrups, and a curated selection of bitters, ensuring each cocktail is meticulously crafted to amuse, delight, and surprise.
Thoughtful, Inventive Cocktails
At Little Rituals, the menu reads like a creative playground of inventive libations, often featuring whimsical names and unexpected flavor pairings. You might find a tiki-inspired rum drink laced with dragon fruit and chili, or perhaps a frothy egg white cocktail boosted by hints of lavender and grapefruit. The bartenders welcome conversation, so don’t be shy about sharing your favorite tastes—chances are, they’ll conjure a custom creation that expands your mixological horizons.
Cozy Luxe Ambiance
If you associate hotel bars with bland décor and basic well drinks, Little Rituals will blow away your expectations. Plush velvet chairs, warm lighting, and jazzy background music set the stage for a refined, intimate atmosphere. You can perch at the bar to watch the mixologists in action or settle into a low-slung couch for a more private catch-up session. With its upscale aura and top-tier service, the lounge feels like a little slice of indulgence tucked within the desert cityscape.
What People Love:
- Unparalleled craft cocktail artistry led by skilled industry pros
- A lounge-like setting featuring plush seating and moody lighting
- Friendly bartenders open to personalizing drinks for adventurous patrons
- Surprising flavor combos that balance creative flair with well-honed techniques
3. Best Speakeasy Bar – Pigtails Downtown
Hidden Bar Behind a Freezer Door
Tucked inside the popular Fox Concepts restaurant, The Strand, you’ll find Pigtails Downtown—if you know where to look. Access this modern speakeasy by stepping through a walk-in freezer door, a playful nod to Prohibition-era secrecy. Once inside, you’ll discover a sleek interior with a warm palette of wood and copper, plus cozy booths and a compact bar. It’s an elegant sanctuary that contrasts with the lively outside world.
Intricate Gin & Tonic Program
Pigtails is especially famous for its gin and tonic menu, featuring an array of premium gins, aromatic tonics, and garnishes like juniper berries, rosemary, or citrus peels. Each G&T arrives in a goblet or tall glass with picture-perfect clarity and a swirl of complex aromatics—almost too pretty to sip. Beyond gin, Pigtails also serves imaginative cocktails with barrel-aged spirits, homemade liqueurs, and fresh-squeezed juices, so there’s something for every palate.
Small Plates & Intimate Vibe
Though modest in size, the bar offers upscale small plates—cheese boards, truffle popcorn, gourmet dips—that pair delightfully with its cocktails. The bartenders and servers know their stuff, welcoming questions about the intricacies of each dish or drink. Thanks to a low-key vibe and the thrill of discovering a “hidden” bar, Pigtails fosters a sense of adventure that’s perfect for date nights or meeting friends for late-night conversation in a hush-hush setting.
What People Love:
- The secret freezer door entrance that adds an element of fun and mystery
- A wide-ranging gin and tonic program showcasing bold, botanical nuances
- Tasty small plates that cater to shared grazing while sipping cocktails
- Stylish, intimate atmosphere with polished service and subtle speakeasy flair
Visit Pigtails Downtown
(Note: Their Instagram is the best place for up-to-date info.)
4. Best Dive Bar – The Dirty Drummer
Phoenix Classic Since the 1970s
First opened in 1975, The Dirty Drummer is a testament to Phoenix’s blue-collar roots and no-nonsense bar traditions. Walk through its doors and you’ll see well-worn bar stools, a jukebox loaded with classic rock tunes, and regulars chatting with bartenders like old friends. Over the decades, it has survived city expansions, economic dips, and changing fads—sticking to what it does best: stiff drinks, cold beer, and a comfortable place to unwind.
Home of the Drummer Steak
While many dive bars stick to peanuts or pretzels, The Dirty Drummer has earned local fame for its Drummer Steak—a thick, juicy cut served with a baked potato and a straightforward side salad. Sizzling and savory, it reflects the bar’s “nothing fancy, just good food” attitude. You’ll also find wings, onion rings, burgers, and other staples that go hand-in-hand with a frosty draft beer.
Neighborhood Camaraderie
Not only does The Dirty Drummer serve hearty plates, but it also exudes an approachable charm that helps newcomers feel at home. Expect a jukebox that might switch from Lynyrd Skynyrd to Dolly Parton, and a TV or two broadcasting local sports. The bartenders are known for heavy pours and even heavier loyalty to their regulars. If you want a taste of honest-to-goodness Phoenix hospitality, complete with weathered bar stools and decades of stories, you’ll find it here.
What People Love:
- An old-school vibe that’s quintessentially Phoenix, untouched by trends
- The signature Drummer Steak – a must-try for meat-loving patrons
- Friendly, straightforward service that treats regulars and newbies equally
- A refreshing break from upscale bars, perfect for unpretentious hangouts
5. Best Live Music Bar – The Van Buren
Historic Venue with Modern Upgrades
Originally a vintage auto dealership in the 1930s, The Van Buren is now a premier live music venue that retains the building’s industrial charm while offering modern acoustics and production value. Located on Van Buren Street in downtown Phoenix, it regularly hosts an eclectic lineup of bands and artists—from indie rock and pop punk to electronic and hip-hop. The exposed brick walls and open floor plan give the space a raw, edgy feel that resonates with concert-goers seeking an immersive show.
Drinks & Casual Eats on Concert Nights
Though music is the star, The Van Buren ensures fans don’t go hungry or thirsty during sets. You’ll find multiple bars around the venue serving beer, wine, and classic cocktails. Quick bites—such as pretzels, nachos, or brats—are available at designated food stations. Don’t expect elevated dining, but it’s enough to tide you over without missing your favorite band’s opening song. Because it’s a general-admission space, you can maneuver easily to grab a refill in between sets.
Vibrant Concert Energy
With a capacity that offers a balance between intimate and large-scale, The Van Buren fosters a high-octane, interactive crowd. Musicians enjoy close proximity to their audience, feeding off the energy of fans pressed against the barricade or dancing in the back. Whether you’re looking to mosh with a rock crowd, sway to dreamy pop melodies, or lose yourself in a DJ’s beats, The Van Buren’s electric atmosphere adds a thrilling dimension to Phoenix’s nightlife scene.
What People Love:
- A well-preserved historic building that retains an industrial-chic allure
- Diverse lineup of live acts across multiple genres
- Multiple bar stations and snack-friendly eats, perfect for mid-show cravings
- A not-too-big, not-too-small layout that fosters engaging, high-energy concerts
6. Best Tiki Bar – UnderTow
Immersive Island Adventure
Hidden beneath the Sip Coffee & Beer Garage in central Phoenix, UnderTow is a fully immersive tiki experience that makes you forget the desert outside. Stepping inside feels like boarding an old wooden ship: the dark, wood-paneled “cabin” is lined with portholes that display stormy seas and flickering lanterns. Nautical décor, sea shanties, and subtle lighting complete the illusion that you’ve somehow traveled to the high seas.
Elaborate Rum Cocktails
UnderTow’s bartenders are rum aficionados, skillfully blending multiple rum varieties, fresh juices, and house-made syrups into cocktails that push the boundaries of tiki tradition. Drinks come in elaborate mugs—sometimes adorned with smoke, flaming garnishes, or edible flowers. Each menu item has a backstory connecting to UnderTow’s maritime theme, immersing you in a fictional voyage as you sip. Expect potent potions that are both theatrical and meticulously balanced.
Limited Seating & Time Slots
Because of its small size and thematic popularity, UnderTow operates on timed reservations, typically allowing guests around 90 minutes to enjoy the spectacle. This ensures that each group has a chance to fully experience the bar’s ambiance without feeling rushed or overcrowded. The short window heightens the specialness of the experience: you savor each round, each sip, and each element of décor, knowing your “cruise” will eventually dock.
What People Love:
- A fantastical tiki interior that whisks you away from the desert environment
- Innovative, rum-forward cocktails brimming with theatrical flair
- Spirited storytelling that links each drink to a nautical adventure
- Reservations that keep the bar intimate and crowd-free for a unique outing
7. Best Sports Bar – Zipps Sports Grill
Multiple Valley Locations
A staple in the Phoenix area since 1995, Zipps Sports Grill has expanded to multiple convenient locations around the Valley, including Arcadia, Scottsdale, and Tempe. Whether you’re near downtown, out in the suburbs, or traveling between the two, there’s likely a Zipps not too far away. Each location maintains a consistent vibe: lively crowds, big-screen TVs covering various sports, and menu items that keep fans well-fed through halftime and beyond.
Wings, Pizza & Game-Day Essentials
Zipps is famed for its wings, smothered in signature sauces like Golden Medium or Spicy Teriyaki. You can also build-your-own pizza, load up on nachos, or chow down on hearty salads if you want something lighter. Cold draft beers, including local craft offerings, pair beautifully with game-day fare, and a rotating list of daily specials means you’ll rarely pay full price for your favorite brew.
Relaxed, Family-Friendly Vibe
While sports are definitely the focus—especially during Cardinals, Suns, or ASU games—Zipps also maintains a family-friendly environment. There are arcade games, pool tables, or shuffleboard in many locations, so kids (and adults!) can stay entertained while the rest of the group cheers for their team. The energy ramps up during major tournaments or playoffs, but Zipps never feels too rowdy or unwelcoming. It’s a comfortable go-to for any sports fan in the Valley.
What People Love:
- The reliable presence of multiple locations across the Phoenix metro
- Flavorful, well-sauced wings considered among the best in the area
- A laid-back, family-friendly setting perfect for all ages
- Plenty of TVs and pool/shuffleboard tables, ensuring all-around entertainment
8. Best Wine Bar – Postino
Stylish Wine Café Concept
Launched in a restored post office in Arcadia (hence the name), Postino quickly became one of Phoenix’s most beloved wine-centric hangouts. Now with multiple outposts scattered around the Valley, each location retains a chic café vibe—think airy interiors, modern art on exposed brick walls, and communal tables for friendly gatherings. It’s a welcoming blend of sophistication and approachability, perfect for both wine aficionados and casual drinkers.
Over 30 Varietals & $5 Before 5
While some wine bars lean toward stuffy exclusivity, Postino embraces the motto “everyone’s invited to the party.” Their ever-rotating wine list highlights 30+ varietals from around the world, and each glass is available for just $5 until 5 PM daily—a local favorite deal known as “$5 ‘til 5.” Knowledgeable staff can guide you to a jammy red, a crisp white, or a unique rosé from an up-and-coming region.
Bruschetta Boards & Shareable Plates
A hallmark of Postino is the famous bruschetta board, letting you choose four flavor combos (like prosciutto & fig, brie & apples, or artichoke spread) served on house-baked bread. A range of small plates—charcuterie boards, panini, salads—round out the menu, all crafted to complement the wine selection. With the warm Arizona weather, patio seating is especially popular, providing a laid-back environment for a slow afternoon sip or a romantic evening out.
What People Love:
- A lively, unpretentious wine bar concept with multiple Valley locations
- Great deals like $5 wines until 5 PM daily
- The mix-and-match bruschetta boards, perfect for sharing and exploring flavors
- Friendly, informed staff who help demystify the ever-changing wine list
9. Best Brewery – Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co. (Downtown Phoenix Beer Garden)
Celebration of Local Ingredients
While the original Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co. taproom is located in Gilbert, the Downtown Phoenix Beer Garden brings the brand’s farm-to-table ethos into the city center. The brewery prides itself on using local grains, fruits, and even wild-foraged elements to craft beers that reflect Arizona’s unique terroir. For lovers of handcrafted, small-batch ales that champion sustainability, it’s a can’t-miss stop.
Spacious Outdoor Beer Garden
The downtown location boasts a sprawling beer garden dotted with picnic tables, string lights, and desert greenery. It’s an ideal setting for enjoying the Valley’s moderate winter temperatures or occasionally braving the summer heat with a refreshing pale ale in hand. Indoors, you’ll find a rustic-chic space with large communal tables, providing ample room for groups or solo drinkers looking to chat with fellow beer enthusiasts.
Creative Brews & Locally Sourced Menu
Arizona Wilderness is known for pushing boundaries with experimental IPAs, saisons, sours, and stouts—often infusing them with Arizona-sourced honey, citrus, or even mesquite flour. Whether you opt for a flight to sample multiple styles or go all-in on a pint of their current seasonal, you’ll taste the desert-fueled inspiration in each sip. The bar also serves a food menu that highlights burgers made with locally raised beef, farm-fresh salads, and other hearty plates reflecting the brewery’s commitment to sustainability.
What People Love:
- Uniquely Arizona craft beers that incorporate local farm and foraged ingredients
- A laid-back, open-air beer garden perfect for mingling with friends
- Thoughtful pub fare, including locally sourced burgers and salads
- A deep sense of community and sustainability woven into every aspect
Visit Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co.
10. Best LGBTQ+ Bar – Stacy’s @ Melrose
Colorful Mainstay in the Melrose District
On the corner of 7th Avenue and Glenrosa in Phoenix’s Melrose District, Stacy’s @ Melrose stands as a welcoming hub for the LGBTQ+ community and allies alike. Step inside this longtime neighborhood fixture, and you’ll be greeted by high vaulted ceilings, vibrant murals, and a lively crowd dancing to a DJ’s upbeat tracks or cheering on a weekend drag show. Since 2013, it has provided a safe, fun environment for self-expression, friendship, and celebration.
Drag Shows & Theme Nights
Stacy’s always keeps things interesting with rotating theme nights—from drag performances and karaoke to disco parties or Latin-themed dance floors. The bar’s layout provides plenty of space to move, mingle, or watch the stage from the perimeter. During Pride season, Stacy’s cranks up the festivities even more with special events and partnerships that shine a spotlight on Phoenix’s diverse LGBTQ+ population.
Signature Cocktails & Outdoor Patio
While the interior gets plenty of action, the spacious outdoor patio is a prime spot for conversation under the desert sky. The bar menu includes refreshing vodka lemonades, spiked seltzers, and the typical selection of well spirits, beer, and wine. Expect laughter and bright neon lights to flow as freely as the drinks. Whether you’re exploring the city for the first time or looking to meet new friends, Stacy’s fosters an inclusive vibe that captures the welcoming spirit of the Melrose neighborhood.
What People Love:
- A vibrant LGBTQ+ hotspot in the heart of the Melrose District
- Drag shows, dance parties, and themed nights that keep the energy high
- The large outdoor patio, perfect for relaxed chats or post-dance cooldowns
- A friendly crowd and staff that embrace all genders, orientations, and backgrounds
Visit Stacy’s @ Melrose
(Note: Their Facebook page is updated regularly with events.)
Conclusion: Embrace Phoenix Nights—and Billy’s Tequila
From indulgent cocktails at Little Rituals to the desert-meets-island fantasy of UnderTow, Phoenix’s nightlife scene is an ever-evolving tapestry. Each of these 10 standout bars captures a distinct facet of the city’s after-dark allure—be it panoramic rooftop views, underground speakeasy vibes, or crowd-thrilling live music. The Valley of the Sun offers experiences for every taste, uniting urban flair with a welcome dash of Southwest warmth.
Once you’ve savored those desert evenings, why not keep the party spirit alive at home? Elevate your own gatherings with Billy’s Tequila—known for exceptional quality and an ultra-smooth finish. If you’re seeking a bright, crisp flavor profile, reach for Billy’s Blanco Tequila; if you prefer deeper, more nuanced notes, Billy’s Añejo Cristalino Tequila offers a refined twist on aged tequila. Whether you’re mixing up a desert-inspired paloma or savoring neat sips under twinkling patio lights, Billy’s Tequila brings a taste of celebration straight to your glass.
So here’s to chasing Phoenix sunsets, discovering hidden speakeasies, and toasting to new experiences. Cheers—and may your nights in the Valley be as radiant as its daytime skies!
