Phoenix is a desert metropolis that drinks like it’s trying to stay cool — because it is. The bar scene clusters in a few walkable pockets (Roosevelt Row, Old Town Scottsdale, downtown) and leans heavy on patios, pools, and anything with air conditioning. The cocktail scene has exploded in the last decade, and the city’s proximity to Mexico means the mezcal and tequila game is strong.
Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour
Downtown Phoenix — Located in the former Arizona Prohibition headquarters (the irony isn’t lost on anyone), Bitter & Twisted is Phoenix’s flagship cocktail bar. The menu is huge, playful, and exceptionally well-executed. Order: the Smoke Show or ask the bartender to surprise you — they thrive on creative challenges.
Valley Bar
Downtown Phoenix — A subterranean bar and live music venue beneath downtown streets. The cocktail bar in the front room is dim, cool, and stylish; the back room hosts live music and events. It’s downtown Phoenix’s living room. Order: a mezcal cocktail — the agave-spirit selection is deep.
Coach House
Scottsdale — An old-school dive bar that’s been pouring since the 1950s, surrounded by Scottsdale’s glossy nightlife. Coach House doesn’t care about trends — cheap drinks, dark interior, and a jukebox that leans classic rock. Order: a Bud heavy and a shot. The simplicity is the point.
Platform 18
Downtown Phoenix (Found:RE Hotel) — A rooftop bar with sweeping views of the downtown skyline and Camelback Mountain in the distance. The cocktails are polished and the sunset views are spectacular — this is where the desert light shows off. Order: a paloma while watching the sky turn pink over the mountains.
The Yard
Phoenix (The Yard complex) — A sprawling food-and-drink complex with multiple concepts under one roof, including cocktail bars and a wine bar. The outdoor spaces are designed for desert evenings when the temperature finally drops. Order: browse the concepts and settle where the vibe fits — each spot has its own menu.
Huss Brewing Co.
Tempe — A family-run craft brewery that’s become one of Arizona’s most awarded. The taproom is straightforward and friendly, and the beer is consistently excellent. Order: Scottsdale Blonde or Koffee Kolsch — clean, crushable beers made for desert heat.
Century Grand
Phoenix — A multi-concept bar disguised as a train station, featuring a cocktail bar (Platform 18 speakeasy inside), a wine bar, and an absinthe bar. The theming is immersive and the cocktails across all concepts are top-notch. Order: an absinthe service at the Grey Hen — it’s not something you do every day.
Undertow
Phoenix — A tiki bar hidden inside Century Grand, accessible through a ship’s hull door. The space is tiny (maybe 35 seats), the rum cocktails are outstanding, and the interior genuinely feels like you’re below deck on a ship. Reservations essential. Order: the Undertow signature cocktail or a classic Navy Grog.
Angels Trumpet Ale House
Downtown Phoenix — A craft beer bar with 30+ taps that rotate through Arizona and national craft selections. The patio on Roosevelt Row is ideal for people-watching and warm-evening drinking. Order: something local on tap — Arizona Wilderness or Wren House if they’re pouring.
Drink in Downtown Phoenix/Roosevelt Row for the cocktail bars and walkability. Old Town Scottsdale is the party strip (loud, bottle-service energy on weekends). Tempe (Mill Avenue) skews college. The desert heat is real — hydrate between drinks and lean into patios after sunset when temperatures drop 20+ degrees. Our Phoenix venue directory and Phoenix city page have everything you need.