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“

“Every time we go it seems like we have more fun than the last time. Every aspect of Century Grand is more thoughtful than the last. Case in point: they used to have a drink on a previous menu that was my favorite drink I’d ever had and a server on a previous visit (Teagan) suggested a very similar drink that would “scratch the itch”. Not only was she right but we went back tonight after many months and not only did she remember me but she remembered the drink and made it for me herself. Outstanding service, ambiance, and cocktails, I just can’t say enough about this place!! 12/10“

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

“Atmosphere is exactly what you'd expect from a midtown cocktail bar, nice downtempo music, dimly lit, fragrances to spark the imagination. Tge Back bar looked stellar but i went for the cocktail menu. Two perfectly balanced tequila coctails. The first was the Tokyo Drift, second name is escaping me. Hostess was great on first drink orders but after that, a little less attentive than desired. The elote flavored popcorn was stale and will be a hard pass on future trips. In their defense, i dont think Highball handles the food. Will definitely go back.“

“We stay at the hotel every time we go to watch the suns or the DBacks but this is our first time trying Little Rituals…we love it…I had a cocktail with passion fruit and the 50/50 enchiladas and I was actually surprised those were legit enchiladas“

“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.“

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

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

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

“Finally had a chance to stop in and check this place out. Wish we would have done it a long time ago! It doesn't look like things have changed much from the outside and the inside still has a lot of it's old school appeal, but it does definitely have an edgy vibe inside. It still maintains a neighborly kind of feel to it but it effectively belies some amazing cocktail service!
Anna treated us to a fantastic Mai Tai and one of their other specialty cocktails. What impressed me the most was they're agave selection. I think they had six different expressions of Wild Common, Don Fulano, G4, Arette, Cazcanes, Site Leguas, and the ever elusive Fortaleza. I'm sure I'm missing some that I either didn't notice or forgot. Very unpretentious place but offers some seriously high-end cocktails and spirits. There is a small menu, but I guarantee you it won't disappoint if you just want a bite to eat or something a little bit more filling.
Looking forward to coming back!
Hopefully, it will be when Anna is working there otherwise I'm sure someone else will take care of us with some great drinks“

“Great beers and great Vibe“

“Great beers and great Vibe“

“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.!!“

“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.“

“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!“

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

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

“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“

“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!“

“I had not been here since the move from the old location (moved out of state). The bar was well done. Inside was stylish, and a great outside area as well. The woman bartender was friendly and chatty. If I lived here I would make this a regular place to visit! On a Thursday around 4, the bar was quiet but guys were starting to come in. I'll have to make it back this trip at a busier time to feel the vibes when it's more crowded!“

“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!“

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

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

“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!“

“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“

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

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

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

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

“Great. I made a mental note not to eat too much but everything was too good. I could not control myself. We are not unbiased. 25 year fan of everything Bianco including Marco's amazing bread at Pane. Tratto new (/old) location is a little bit louder than we would like if we had a choice.“

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

“I can’t even begin to explain how much I love this place!! Five stars doesn’t even equate to the magic this place brings. There are staff members that go above and beyond to make every night special. Paige (what an all star), Andrew (bartender/bongos), Andrew (the happy go lucky security guard).
& Johnathon (I believe the bar manager).
They go above and beyond and make every night so special!! We will be back. Thank you Paige for continuing the PLUR and you made our night!!!“

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