50 Best Cocktail Bars in Phoenix

“Platform 18 is one of those rare cocktail bars where every drink feels like it was engineered by someone who genuinely loves the craft. I’ve tried a solid spread of their menu by now, and not a single miss—each cocktail shows up with its own personality, polished flavors, and that signature Platform 18 flair.

The bar staff might be the real secret ingredient. They’re not just skilled; they’re engaged. Chatty in the best way, quick with recommendations, and genuinely fun to talk to. It’s the kind of crew that makes the whole experience feel alive, like you stumbled into a story instead of just a bar.

Between the atmosphere, the consistently stellar drinks, and a staff that turns hospitality into an art form, Platform 18 has become an easy favorite in Phoenix.“

“Coming from a culinary background (Le Cordon Bleu trained pastry chef) the flavors and balance of drinks and dishes was spot on. I was hesitant about charred tomato and strawberry in a cocktail, but it was amazing. The beef tallow potatoes had the right touch of kosher salt and fatty unctuous mouthful was perfect. The sabayan was to die for. The service was absolutely top notch. Our bartender (I forgot his name, but he's from NM) was so friendly and personable. He made excellent recommendations based on small clues from our conversation. All in all, a fabulous experience“

“Really enjoyed this little bar. This is my first time in Phoenix and even though it was Monday, it has a great atmosphere, staff were friendly and the cocktails were great. Wish I was staying longer to go here again!
I have put food as 0 star because we didn't eat here.“

“We went to celebrate my cousin's 12st birthday and it was the entire group's first time there. The place is super cool and immersive. The bartender was very attentive and curated a drink my cousin ended up liking for his first drink. All in all, I would recommend and we'll definitely go back. 👍🏽“

“Small but busy bar with amazing drinks and great food. Atmosphere is nice and chill.“

“We came in to celebrate my little sister’s bachelorette party, and Charity made the entire experience absolutely amazing! From the moment we sat down, she was friendly, attentive, and on top of everything. Our drinks were always refilled, food came out perfectly, and she made sure our group had everything we needed.

The food tasted great, the drinks were delicious, and Charity’s service truly stood out. She helped make our celebration even more special! Thank you, Charity, for such outstanding service! We will definitely be back!“

“Definitely something different, loved the newspaper menus. The cocktails were true to theme (China Town) and even the mocktail was delicious!

There is a 4% staff benefit charge added but you can ask to take off (according to the receipt)“

“Great time always with amazing drinks and service.“

“Great atmosphere! Super friendly staff & experienced bartenders at all of the establishments in the food court.“

“Although I’m not from Arizona, nor from the U.S., every time I come to this bar (I’ve been here more than ten times since I live closer), the people and bartenders treat me wonderfully. Shout out to Amanda for her great smile and excellent customer service. The drinks and food are fantastic. 100% recommended.“

“Great place for drink and dinner, very professional people!“

“Atmosphere: 5.5/10
Located in Phoenix. Dive-y, lively, and casual with a generally good mood, but not particularly refined. Music volume is slightly too loud. Backbar is solid. Seating is versatile with bar seats, high tops, booths, and even a patio. Same ownership as the Century Grand bars (Platform 18, Undertow, Grey Hen Rx), but the atmosphere here is clearly more relaxed and less polished.

Drinks: 7.5/10
Recommendation: Espress-OREO Martini
Nice-looking menu with average overall quality. Good drink selection. Flavors are generally good—Espress-OREO Martini stands out for being not overly sweet. Mr. Lee’s Manhattan could use better balance. No coasters. Glassware is average. Garnish is nice and drink-specific. Presentation, including ice, is good.

Service: 7/10
Water served on arrival. Very friendly and attentive team. Professionalism is average. No reservations needed. Prices are below average for Phoenix—watch out for the 100% tip option.“

“Great beers and great Vibe“

“Great beers and great Vibe“

“We had drinks here on a chilly Sunday night. The courtyard area was pretty comfortable. We found this place while exploring the downtown area in the morning. We got the Day-O and the Mr Crowley and settled in for some people watching. Both drinks were yummy. The Mr was nice and strong too.“

“BEST BAR IN THE CITY! The Boom Boom Room is for the GROWN and SEXY Crowd. Fellas its some beautiful women in here. Go check it out. Drinks are fundamental as well.!!“

“Number one reason… NO PHONES ALLOWED!!! Excellent cocktails Attentive and informative waitstaff Chatting with others Not rushing No posting, selfie’ing, scrolling or trolling.“

“It's pretty cool hangout, interesting vibe and unique cocktails.“

“we love the Womacks atmosphere which depending on the day can be very diverse - great cocktail menu along with classics. we enjoy the bar snacks too and the staff is exceptional! they have a variety of live and DJ entertainment as well“

“Cocktails were great. Food was good. Overall experience was awesome.“

“We found out about this bar sort of by accident after dining at Valentine's. When we went in it was early so we were the only ones in the place, very cool vibe, with Miles Davis playing. Alyssa (sp?) came right to our table and gave us a full rundown on the drinks and helped w/recommendations. The drinks were fantastic, interesting blend of flavors and textures. We will be back! Great experince!“

“This place is amazing. The staff is doing an amazing job under the new owners. congratulations and continued blessings“

“Caring owner and staff. Wonderful food.“

“Cook & Craft was fantastic we had our wedding welcome drinks event here in March, they did a great job and fair prices. Well over 100 guests and they easily catered to every request. Food was great and tons of fun craft cocktails. Heather was excellent and so was Mike. Highly recommend!“

“Love this place. Amazing staff, food & drinks. Marie & Alex always are on top of everything & so friendly. Definitely recommend Lookout Tavern to anyone & everyone.“

“Nana had the kids, so we stepped out for an after work cocktail date night. Twenty6 lounge is the bar in the lower lobby of @jwdesertridge and is a casual spot for resort guests, or a couple on a mini date night.

We each enjoyed a couple of drinks while chatting about life. Sitting at the bar was quick service and quiet, but you can also relax in a plush patio chair out in the courtyard. Next time, we will plan better and be sure to play some arcade games in the new space before it closes at 9!“

“Everything is 5 star for sure. The only reason I didn't give this place 5 stars for all the categories is because I didn't eat the food, so I couldn't rate it here. But I gave it 5 stars for all the other categories. Great place for a friendly game of pool, and the bartender was absolutely amazing and very attentive. Best bartender I've ever had!!“

“Best salads and breakfasts! Great Ramen nights!“

“I am nothing short of satisfied and impressed. I will.be eagerly counting down the days until I can make it back in.

We had such a fantastic time at Filthy Martini and couldn't be more impressed with the service and atmosphere - friendly, attentive, and she genuinely made us feel welcome from start to finish, She was on top of everything and really elevated out experience.

A huge shoutout as well to Brittany, the AGM, who went above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect, and to the GM: Steven, whose leadership clearly shows in how smoothly everything runs. It;s are to see a management team so involved, supportive, and committed to guest satisfaction.

Between the great service, welcoming atmosphere and overall energy of the place, Filthy Martini truly stands out. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an amazing and memory-filled night!“

“Cobalt is truly a place you can go, socialize, drink and have a blast with no judgemental people, everyone is accepting and social. Me being an Ali love going and appreciate the entertainment, staff and patrons. Great job, would love to talk to the owners about bringing my food trailer there on event nights.“

“Great place to be. Awesome hockey games.“

“Love this place, I don’t drink and drive so I am usually just ordering a soda, but I usually tip well to make up for it. The bartender (cassie) is awesome and she’s super cute! I’m always hiding by the Dartboards (3) playing online & they also have a pool table and multiple televisions showing sports… good times and good people… never had an issue!“

“Incredible. The service was perfect, the food was perfect, the wine was perfect. The space was gorgeous and warm.“

“Great staff! Personable and knowledgeable employees, and the atmosphere is very welcoming!“

“Great food and service. Innovative beverages, excellent wine list. Definitely recommend.“

“Todo está delicioso, lo que se les antoje, sin problema, todo está delicioso“

“Love Butler’s Easy! It’s such a great place to hang out. They also have lots of fun events and live music throughout the week. It’s hidden gem in Sunnyslope!“

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“First I'd like to point out the food is fantastic, but my service was very off-putting. I came in town to visit friends and we decided to come to Richardson's because we love the food. My friend and I were seated, we ordered our food, and had some water while we waited. Close to 20min or so after, my friend asked our waiter Trey if we could get an estimated time on our food. Trey seemed annoyed and responded "I put the order in ladies, I don't know what else you want me to do"...wait, what?! We were clearly upset at his response because it was rude and uncalled for. I'm not sure if he sensed the vibe afterwards but he shortly came back with an estimated time which should have been his first response. He barely checked on us while making sure to stay on top of his other tables. That was very upsetting to me considering I flew in from another state, and it's tradition for my friend and I to eat here when I come in town. This experience has made me reconsider where our new traditional spot will be.“

“Great atmosphere and great food“

“this bar is a great place to hang out with a cozy atmosphere“

“Great vibe!! Great food! Great service! Will recommend to family and friends“

“Best quesadillas, tacos, and margaritas in town!!“

“Great place. Nice staff and good menu Outside seating is great during cooler weather too“

“Great atmosphere and fantastic tasty food! Service always with a smile.“

“Went to a concert here recently and it was one of the coolest venues I’ve been to, the outdoor seating area was really nice to sit and hang out between the meet and greet and actual concert, the inside has really cool art on the walls and hanging from the ceiling, the bartenders were very nice and did a great job. Overall it was a very good time and would definitely go back here if another artist I like has a show there!“

“I really enjoy this place. You have to be patient because it gets busy. But the food hookah music and atmosphere is amazing. Audrey was our helping us out. She made sure my allergies were acknowledged and respected. I don't mind waiting gives you time to talk and you don't feel rushed. The visuals people watching here is superb. So many beautiful people with elevated senses of style and diversity.“

“Captain is the best guy! He developed this menu and it is THE BEST.“