32 Best Bars in Gainesville

“If you're looking for a true hidden gem in downtown Gainesville, look no further than Kin Cocktail Bar. This charming spot offers an exceptional cocktail experience that you won't soon forget. The moment you step inside, you're enveloped in a sleek metropolitan ambiance that sets the perfect mood for an evening out. The cocktail selection is nothing short of spectacular. Each drink is crafted with precision, highlighting the bartenders' professionalism and extensive knowledge of mixology. They take the time to understand your taste preferences and will recommend something that delights your palate. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic or a unique twist, they’ve got you covered. Kin Cocktail Bar is the perfect stop for a nightcap after dinner or a pre-dinner drink to kick off your evening. It's a cozy retreat that makes you feel right at home while offering a sophisticated touch. I highly recommend swinging by – you won't be disappointed!“

“Popped in for a snack and to enjoy some live music. Had the corn dogs and small loosey's salad. Both were quite good. The corn dogs had a very good batter that was less bready than is typical (which I liked) and the beer mustard and house bbq dipping sauces were great. The band that was playing looked like they were undergrad/grad students. They were very talented and their music perfectly matched the vibe of the bar.“

“Nice place for weekend afternoon“

“Ford's garage fries, crispy yet soft on the inside. Flaky and peppery with a perfect balance of salt to compliment it. Hard to get on point fries, however these people accomplished it. The burger is larger than you would expect from a visual standpoint. It has fresh ingredients. I had the bison instead of the standard beef. It's freshly ground instead of ground beef. So as opposed to the patties being frozen coming in it's slabs of meat that they grind and then cook. The medium well option that I went with I recommend highly. They seared it on the outside and cooked at medium on the inside. The char has good flavor to it and the barbecue sauce has a very nice marriage with the cheddar cheese and the applewood smoked bacon. The romaine lettuce adds a nice touch on the bottom of the burger instead of the top. It's overall a very hard Burger to beat by any other restaurant. I very strongly recommend Ford's garage to any nostalgic burger lover.“

“we had a appointment at Shands and decided to have an early dinner. we started with the grouper fingers which were excellent. For my dinner I had the fried green tomatoes and she crab soup. They were both delicious 😋 Hubby had chicken sandwich and fries which were both good but he wishes he would have gotten something else like the shrimp etouffee. We will definitely be back. Our waitress was an absolute sweetheart sorry I forgot her name. But highly recommend!!“

“All you can ask for in a local dive bar. Pool, darts, drinks, women, and live music. Daily drink specials and the service? Unbelievable! They really make you feel like a local. When visiting Gainesville it's a must see. Part of history.“

“Fun!!🐊🐊🐊💗💗 weekends gonna by too fast!“

“Awesome people, and cold beer.“

“Went to Satchels after the Gator Nationals.Decided to have a few beers at Lightning Salvage while we waited for a table . We ended up staying at LS and having pizza and salad. All very good. Afterwards went exploring thru all the very cool rooms and areas“

“I don't drink the drinks but the $8 bites menu is actually shockingly delicious. Loaded waffle fries , wings , onion rings and more. Never thought the food would actually be so spectacular. I highly recommend those loaded waffle fries. They are $8 worth of omg delicious. Thank you..“

“Are here today the bartender Pattie was great. So was the food!! Will be back“

“We went late on Sunday night to enjoy happy hour and half priced games and had a great experience. We were quickly seated and our server had great energy that really helped set the tone for a fun night. We started with a chicken quesadilla which was delicious and packed with huge chicken chunks. For my meal I ordered the eat and play combo wings and they were terrific. They were crispy underneath and the sauce was sweet and very flavorful. We also enjoyed happy hour beer, although I did not realize it was domestic beer only so my Modelo did not qualify, which was a small surprise. We did an hour of free game play and there was a really good variety of games, especially for a group of three. The game room had a large selection and everything felt well maintained. All of the staff we interacted with were pleasant and friendly. Overall we were really impressed with how much they offer, including catering and large event options. We will definitely be back again.“

“Fantastic!! I took 29 family and friends out for our 40th anniversary yesterday and the the staff and food were fantastic. No one has a complaint. Food cane out hot all at the same time. Yum“

“Awesome exterior heating system on the rooftop bar!“

“My absolute favorite place to go downtown, always a blast. The workers are nice every time and actually remember people when they come in, even if tit’s been weeks. Shoutout Holden, gets me right every time even when I haven’t come in for a while“

“Great local spot with some awesome WW2 artifacts. Affordable, no-frills sandwiches and the cheapest beers in town. During happy hour, you're paying less than $2 for a domestic draft. Fun atmosphere during big games and friendly, welcoming regulars. Be cool, tip the staff, and this could be a tentpole in your Gainesville local gem list.“

“The place to dance, especially on 80s night.“

“We had a great time at Lillian’s when we were in town for the UF-Arkansas basketball game last weekend. The Hogs couldn’t get the win and Lillian’s was the highlight of our trip. Kevin was a fantastic bartender and made us feel so welcome. If we ever find ourselves back in Gainesville, we’ll happily be back!“

“One of the best bars in Gainesville. Quality drinks, creative and skilled bartenders. Go to if you want good cocktails and a chill atmosphere.“

“I love the hamburgers and the atmosphere works.“

“Went for pinball. Lots of UF students celebrating. 3 floors, the third available for groups.The door to the Arcade on the West side is actually the original First National( name may have changed over time)which located on the opposite side of Main and is now,I think,the Morgan and Morgan building and Wells Fargo.I just wanted to play pinball,at Arcade. Great atmosphere for it.“

“Been a patron for years. Like the food, the prices and the vibe. Last night I ordered takeout. Online menu prices were not included. Upon arrival I discovered my Philly Cheese sandwich was $19.50. What is this, Ruth Chris? Good sandwich for ten. Not 20. Taking a break from Crafty.“

“first time visiting, Randy was on point with his customer service! 5 stars for sure!“

“Good food, good service,,“

“Delicious food in a cool, eclectic atmosphere. Adorable outdoor patio seating. Great for vegetarians because they have TVP and tempeh that you can sub in any dish. The chimichanga with tvp and smothered in queso is to die for! And while you're eating, look around and spot all the hidden dinosaurs!“

“We went to Mr. Han's for first time for my brothers birthday celebration tonight and we can not get over how great all the food was! It was not only fresh but so delicious! It was quite a feast with many dishes and everything was so good. I am a picky eater and my husband even said he had not seen me enjoy a meal so much ever. The service was wonderful as was the atmosphere. We will definitely be back - we can say this is the best restaurant in Gainesville for any type of food!!“

“Gainesville had a real gem with this place. We chose to go to Chopstix Cafe after searching for a local eatery. So happy we did! We order Spring rolls as an appetizer, and they arrived piping hot and full of fresh goodness with. Great dipping sauce. My husband ordered a combo noodle bowl with beef, chicken and pork which was full of flavor and tender meats and vegetables. I ordered the special, Short Rib Bun Bo Hue, and I’m glad I did! Best I’ve ever had! A large, tender short rib was situated on top with an extra plate to cut it off the bone and add back to the soup, a rich lemongrass, lightly spiced broth with soft noodles and a plate of fresh bean sprouts, Thai basil, a lime wedge and jalapeño slices to add for extra flavor. I was in heaven!🤗. We met the beautiful TiTi and her handsome hubby, owners, while enjoying our meal and learned their family has had this restaurant for over 30 years! Please go if you are in town-you will be glad you did. I give them 10 ⭐️s😋“

“The seasonal meatball here is TO DIE FOR. Absolute must try. Best meatball of my life maybe ever. If there was a meatball contest, the salty dog would win every single time. Personally, I come here ONLY for the meatball. The seasonal meatball is only on the secret menu so you have to ask but it’s worth it every time.“

“My daughter and I agreed that the pastrami sandwiches we had pre-flight were among the BEST we've ever had, anywhere. And the onion rings definitely were the best - perfectly crispy until the last one was consumed. Great service, too!“

“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ We had the best time ever tonight, dope venue and great people.“

“Had about a 10 minute wait for a booth so not bad at all. Got a great seat and server as well. My wife and daughter and I thought we would do something different and not cook for once and we picked a great place. Parking was fair so that's a plus. My family ordered the buffalo mozzarella cheese sticks and chips and salsa and queso. Drinks we got watermelon lemonade sweet tea and blackberry sweet tea. My wife and I got the trio for our main and our daughter got the buffalo sandwich couldn't ask for a better meal to end our day before heading home. Will be dining again here at this location soon.“

“Very nice establishment. A good spot to take a family out for a night of fun. In a prime location off right off Williston Rd. Everything appears to be well-kept, and it’s very evident that the staff does the best they can to make sure everyone that steps through the doors has an enjoyable experience.“