39 Best Cocktail Bars in Rochester

Edibles Restaurant and Bar American • $$
704 University Ave, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Quinoa Black Bean Burger
Caramelized Brussels
Chicken De Medici
Lobster Ravioli
Chicken French
Bread Pudding
Truffle Tots
Green Salad
Gummy Bear
Lamb Chop

“As a chef for a fine dining restaurant, I give Edibles Restaurant a 10/10. I have not been able to eat anywhere since before March 2022 since that was the last time I was off from work to go out for dinner. I am so thrilled that I was recommended this fine establishment with the most down to earth, kind, and most hospitable team members. I very much enjoyed the lobster ravioli and my friend enjoyed the flank steak. Thank you for this amazing experience and I look forward coming again and recommend all to check this place out!“

4.7 Superb81 Reviews
Cafe Sasso Coffee Shops • $
739 Park Ave, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Chocolate Hazelnut Croissant
Caramel Chameleon Big Boss
The Stone Roller
The Peace Train
The Honey Bear
Iced Latte
Latte Art
Panini
Bagel

“I was in the mood for a pastry and coffee and came here. The setting with some tables, a counter against the wall, draperies, photos & paintings creates an appealing ambiance to sit and chat with a bunch of friends or just sit quietly to sip and eat your meal. It has an ample menu of cocktails, sandwiches, and a few pastries, coffee, tea. I really liked it.“

4.6 Superb91 Reviews
Pourin Joy Bar • $
111 Park Ave, Rochester

“Great bar with a cool vibe and an awesome staff. Really great thoughtful selection overall including a solid beer list. They had an inventive yet unpretentious cocktail list. I ordered a cosmo with a local cucumber vodka, which was perfectly balanced. My partner got their bourbon cocktail which was seasoned with allspice bitters. I also had to try their espresso martini which was one of the best I've had, great flavor and intense coffee notes enhanced with a hazelnut liquor. Their staff was also incredible and very attentive. Go here asap!!“

4.8 Superb38 Reviews
Jack’s Extra Fancy Dive Bar • $$
825 Atlantic Ave, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Standard Smashburger
Yes Chef Smashburger
Okay Frisco Kid
Pastrami

“This place is nothing short of amazing. The food, drinks, atmosphere, and the staff are top tier. I would highly recommend their smash burger (make it extra fancy), their latke frites, and any of their craft cocktails (though puttin' on the razz is my favorite!).“

4.7 Superb36 Reviews

5
Lucano

Lucano Italian • $$$
1815 East Ave, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Salmon Brussels Sprouts and Mashed Potatoes
Tiramisù Zuppa Inglese Profiteroles
Bucatini All'Amatriciana
Light Potato Gnocchi
Veal Medallions
Shrimp Calamari
Veal Marsala
Rack of Lamb
Barramundi
Veal Chop

“Lucano is truly a gem in Rochester, there is nowhere else like it! The service is so warm and friendly and of course the food incredible. They always have a great list of rotating specials, I highly recommend trying the frito misto and barramundi specials if they’re available!“

4.6 Superb53 Reviews

6
AVVINO

AVVINO American • $$$
2541 Monroe Ave, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Charred Hurricane Lettuck Salad
Donut Bread Pudding
Roasted Bone Marrow
Farmers Flatbread
Dry Aged Pork Chop
Loaded Baked Beet
Y-Aged Pork Cwop
Charred Octopus
Nine Gem Korma
Avvino Burger

“The food here is really good! They have a limited menu, which allows their food to be delicious. They even have a vegetarian option, which I feel like you don't often see on limited menus. Our server was very attentive and checked on us several times without being over the top. The inside of the restaurant is nice and quiet...easy to have a conversation.“

4.5 Superb92 Reviews
Flight West Bar • $$
836 Long Pond Rd #3049, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Kung Pao Calamari and Tuna Tartare
Smoked Korean BBQ Chicken Wings
Locals Only Whiskey Flight
Char Grilled Chicken Wings
Burger and Fries
Seafood Cioppino
Salmon and Miso
Spanish Octopus
Bread Pudding
Wine Flights

“I love this place! Lived in Greece 60 years and it’s hands down my favorite restaurant-bar on the west side. Classy and small, amazing selection of whiskeys, cozy, beautifully lit, astonishingly good food- Flight West has it all. Except one thing. If you’re going to offer so much beautiful scotch, you’ve got to get Drambuie. Nothing beats a Rusty Nail as an after dinner drink. I’d like to give it a 4.9 stars. Try the bao bao buns! Last night had the Kung Pau calamari - fabulous. Wasn’t a huge fan of the octopus. Surprisingly good charcuterie. I’m rooting for them to become a permanent part of the town.“

4.5 Superb62 Reviews
Cristo's Wood Fired Pizza & Pasta Italian • $$
1308 Buffalo Rd, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Parmesan
Margarita Pizza
Chicken Marsala
Rustica Pizza
Pizza Spezial
Bruschetta
Antipasto
Calamari
Cannoli

“Went for Valentine's Day and had a great time. the restaurant itself is quaint, with a nice relaxing vibe. The homemade pasta( I had the vodka sauce) was really tasty. the stuffed chicken special with the red pepper sauce was on another level. The hostess and our server were extremely friendly. We will be back for sure. oh and the piano man was crushing it that night, rebook that man!“

4.4 Superb166 Reviews
Black Button Distilling Distilleries •
1344 University Ave, Rocheste

“Excited to have visited the new location! I had previously only been when they were down by the farmers market. Friendly staff and a tasting gets you $5 off a bottle. Highly recommend the old fashioned no maple syrup (not much of a sweet drink person).“

4.5 Superb45 Reviews

10
Lento

Lento Seafood • $$$
274 N Goodman St, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Lento Classic Fried Calamari
Sweet Corn Crème Brûlée
Chocolate Pot Du Crema
Caesar Salad and Fries
Grilled Duck Breast
Duck Fat Fries
Octopus Salad
Oyster Bar
Fish Fry
Poutine

“We were in town for the Eclipse and hadn’t made dinner plans. We popped in to Lentos and they were very accommodating for our large group.The food was excellent and with the service to match. It was an unexpected gem and would definitely return next time I come to Rochester.“

4.5 Superb44 Reviews

11
Lila's

Lila's Cocktail Bar • $$
101 S Union St, Rochester

“Asked them to accommodate a party of 20 people in a week and they did! Convenient location. Plentiful parking. Venue itself is lovely. More importantly the food is delicious and the service was phenomenal! I definitely recommend and will be back! I wish I could remember our servers' names because they were awesome. Get the Brussels sprouts dish! So yummy!“

4.6 Superb27 Reviews
Adelita's Mexican Cocina & Tequila Mexican • $$
3349 Monroe Ave, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Shrimp Fajitas Dine in: Yes
Trios Enchiladas and Queso
Guacamole Molcajete
Chicken Quesadilla
Margarita Flight
Chicken Fajitas
Fajitas for Two
Adelitas Fajitas
Trio Enchiladas
Chicken Flautas

“The birria is killer. The pastor burrito is killer. Great variety of margaritas. Suspiciously fast service. If someone asked me to recommend a Mexican restaurant that reminds them of grandma’s cooking, this would be it. Highly recommend 10/10.“

4.4 Superb101 Reviews
Hattie's Cocktails Cocktail Bar • $$
550 East Ave, Rochester

“My husband and I stopped into Hatties after dinner at Char Steak and Lounge. It is a very nice cocktail bar, and the views of the city are amazing from the outside balcony. It was a cool night, so we didn't go outside on the balcony. However, I did get a picture of the fire pit just outside of Hatties entrance. The decor is really nice and kind of has shades of a fancy speakeasy.The bartenders were very friendly and told us about event options that Hatties offers. We will definitely come back for cocktails with family or friends.“

4.7 Superb16 Reviews
Studio Lounge Bar •
7 Lawrence St, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Breakfast Tacos with Chorizo
Seasonal Frittata
The Big Breakfast
Burger and Fries
Brunch Board

“My wife and I were here for the weekend and had drinks and hors d’oeuvres at the Studio Lounge. Espresso martinis, cocktails, and all of the small plates were absolutely amazing! Hale, the bartender was awesome and explained all the drinks to us and provided great service! Would highly recommend studio lounge for anyone looking for a great restaurant and bar in Rochester, New York!“

4.4 Superb65 Reviews
The Daily Refresher Bar • $$
293 Alexander St, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Garlic Parsley Fries
Charcuterie Board
Deluxe Hamburger
Cuban Sandwich
Chic-N-Waffle
Amuse Bouche
Pizza

“I love the Daily Refresher. The cocktails are always excellent and the service is great. The charcuterie board is huge and is the best in the city. I do wish they had more food options/larger plates, but everything I have had there has been really good.“

4.4 Superb53 Reviews
Rancho Viejo Gates Cocktail Bar • $
2336 Lyell Ave, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Rice and Refried Beans
Rancho Viejo Burrito
Guacamole Azteca
Chips and Salsa
Fried Ice Cream
Gorditas Deluxe
Chicken Flautas
Beans and Rice
Burrito Deluxe
Rice and Beans

“I'm so very picky when it comes to Mexican. It's by far my favorite food and this food is delicious! I got 3 beef enchiladas and rice/beans. It has an addicting taste! Food prep & Delivery was smooth and quick! I'm so happy I decided to try this place!“

4.3 Superb86 Reviews
Marge's Lakeside Inn Cocktail Bar • $
4909 Culver Rd, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Rum Runner Slushie

“Marge’s Lakeside Inn is a magical place that has the vibes of a tropical paradise and a bar named Cheers! Francine, Fran, Ron & Marge, together built this fun, relaxing & memorable haven that has become engrained in our hearts and memories. ❤️“

4.3 Superb63 Reviews
The Classic Kitchen & Cocktails New American • $$
263 Park Ave, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Thomemade Butterm Gnocchi
Mama's Lasagna Bolognese
Classic Pot Roast
Charcuterie Board
Risotto

“A wonderful experience from start to finish. Fantastic service, top notch cocktails, and everything that came out of the kitchen was wonderful. The pot roast was out of this world. Thanks to Drew and everyone at The Classic for a great evening. We will definitely be back!“

4.3 Superb61 Reviews
Swan Dive Pizza • $$
289 Alexander St, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Ribeye Steak Sandwich
Pepperoni Pizza Slice
Mozzarella Sticks
Chicken Nuggets
Pizza Pomodoro
Swan's Burger
Wu-Tang Pizza
Chicken Wings
Lou Pizza
Salad

“Never thought I would be saying this, but…I’m darn near speechless. What a heavenly experience I had at Swan Dive!Pizza was the best I’ve ever had! EVER! It only took 45 minutes to come out, too! You’d think pizza of that quality would take DAYS to make!!!Give these mfs their doggone roses!!!!!!!!“

4.3 Superb59 Reviews
The Spirit Room Cocktail Bar • $$
139 State St, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Hell's Chicken Sandwich
Zapps Potato Chips
Shrimp and Grits
Shrimp & Grits
Shrimp Tacos
Pork Tacos
Mocktails
Spirit

“Aesthetically, probably the coolest bar in Rochester. Plus the employees are great. And sometimes if you’re lucky you’ll see this one older guy there who plays the piano, he’s really impressive.I love their drink the Hydesville Haunt. The shrimp & grits is always very good too. ?“

4.3 Superb49 Reviews
The Vesper Gastropubs • $$
1 Capron St, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Raw Oysters on the Half Shell
Scallops and Pork Belly
Truffle Parmesan Fries
Grilled Cheese Bites
Ceviche De Camaron
Medium Rare Burger
Braised Short Rib
The Vesper Burger
Charcuterie Board
Chicken Wings

“My husband and I went last night and had a wonderful experience; the food was incredible and inspired me to write this review. The beef on weck, the vesper burger and the Moscow mule were absolute stars. I plan to tell everyone I know to stop by.“

4.2 Good71 Reviews

22
Roux

Roux French • $$$
688 Park Ave, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Smoked Salmon Platter
Duck Leg Confit
Chicken Cutlet
Croque Madame
Pommes Frites
Cheese Plate
Duck Confit
Steak Frites
Onion Soup
Crab Toast

“Perfect meals, perfect service wonderful atmosphere! Had the burger, the cutlet, french onion, the simple salad, the gnocchi, the seared cod, and the cheesecake! And lots of cocktails. All were superb! Can’t wait to go back! What a gem!“

4.2 Good76 Reviews
Pane Vino on the Avenue Italian • $$
3400 Monroe Ave, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Cavatelli with Broccoli and Sausage
Chicken Parmesan
Pizza Margherita
Lobster Gnocchi
Prime Rib Dish
Lobster Bisque
Lamb Lollipops
Clams Steamed
Homemade Bread
Caesar Salad

“My husband and I had a wonderful dinner at Pane Vino on the Avenue last night. All the staff were attentive, starting with the gracious hostess, the knowledgeable waiter, Nico, and the bus staff who filled our water, gave us more delicious bread and packed our leftovers to go. The food came out hot, fresh and delicious! The waiter made wonderful menu recommendations and always checked in to see if we needed anything. Start to finish it was top notch! Thank you!“

4.2 Good87 Reviews
Nerdvana Rochester Cocktail Bar •
50 Adventure Pl, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Strongforks Parmethea Sandwich
Ultimate Beef Stroganoff
Braised Beef Short Rib
Hidden Gem Cheesecake
gsq Short Rib Poutine
High Steaks Sandwich
Philly Cheese Steak
Brisket Quesadilla
Chocolate Brownie
Brussels Sprouts

“We were referred by a friend who was recently there & loved it! Our friend has kids as well, so he told us to check it out & we did! We thought we'd surprise our kids there for dinner & games, totally cool right?! We really enjoyed our meals! I got salmon & hubby got short ribs, & I was eating off his plate! The portions were big! The kids enjoyed their meals & it was really different & fun! Atmosphere was quiet on a Tuesday night but we were busy playing games to notice. We all played games & had a fun night! I'de go back!!!“

4.2 Good102 Reviews
Tavos Antojitos y Tequila Mexican • $$
425 Merchants Rd, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Mole Enchiladas and Mole Enchiladas Verdes
Chocolate Tres Leches Cake Flan
Corazon Del Desierto Margarita
Chaloupa and Burrito
Chips and Guacamole
Enchiladas de Mole
Smoked Pineapple
Mango Habanero
Tacos De Nada
Guacamole Dip

“First time there - the food is AMAZING! Some of the best food I’ve ever had. So reminiscent of El Ricon, but yet different. Huge and intriguing menu. The quesadillas are so delicious as are the sopes, & chile rellenos..the flan is creamy & caramel and the chocolate dulce de leche is sinful. If you haven’t been - GO… does not disappoint! I’ll be back for sure.“

4.2 Good172 Reviews

26
Recreo

Recreo Bar • $
350 East Ave, Rochester

“Love this bar! The drinks are amazing, great music, love the atmosphere and the fun variety of games add extra entertainment making it the perfect bar to hang out at. Staff are wonderful and extremely attentive. I would highly recommend checking it out!“

4.1 Good29 Reviews

27
Martine

Martine Cocktail Bar • $$
647 South Ave, Rochester

“Had a great time tonight! Kocktails were delicious, food was great, service was solid. A bunch of my friends got together and we loved the ambiance and vibe upstairs. The only tricky part is the parking. Do NOT park in the lot behind it - you *will* get towed.“

4.1 Good34 Reviews
Branca Midtown Italian • $$
280 E Broad St #100, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Baguette with Fresh Ricotta
Charred Broccolini Salad
Gnocchi Bolognese
Chicken Milanese
Pepperoni Pizza
Margherita Pizza
Gnocchi Al Ragu
Antipasti Board
Chocolate Cake
Green Salad

“Server Meghan set the tone of our evening with her friendly, prompt, and diligent attention to detail and excellent service! Branca is a beautiful space in an awesome location. The food is Italian cuisine and it is done so very well. Fresh ingredients prepared with elegance and style. Highly recommend Branca Midtown. And Meghan“

4.1 Good72 Reviews
Bitter Honey Mexican • $$
127 Railroad St #110, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Barbacoa and Carne Asada Tacos
Drunken Shrimp and Tortillas
El Jefe and Al Pastor Taco
House Tortilla Chips
Loaded Queso Fries
Chips and Salsa
Chicken Nachos
Tortilla Soup
Shrimp Tacos
Taco Platter

“Nice place. Amaizing food. As a Mexican food offer, not to much selection of food, but the ones were very tasty. Alcohol was a varierity of coctels some good and others not so good. Atmosphere: place is pretty in the inside but music was not so good.“

4.1 Good73 Reviews
La Casa Restaurant Mexican • $$
93 Alexander St, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Taco Tuesday Special
Tres Puercos Tacos
Chips and Salsa
Rice and Beans
Tacos Al Pastor
Brisket Tacos
Chicken Tacos
Chorizo Tacos
Dinner Nachos
Shrimp Tacos

“Went with a group during a lunch break right at opening. Very cold inside, but probably because they had just opened. Service was quick after we told them that we only had an hour break until our next meetings. Food was wonderful. We all got different things, brisket, carnitas, vegetarian, tacos, enchiladas, nachos. Margaritas were so strong.“

4.1 Good80 Reviews
Side Bar Cocktail Bar • $$
242 South Ave, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Beef Short Ribs with Baked Macaroni and Cheese Box
Jerk Chicken with Baked Macaroni and Cheese Box
Whiting Fish with Baked Macaroni and Cheese Box
Beef Short Ribs with Mac Salad Box
Jerk Chicken French Fries
Jerk Chicken Salad Box
Fried Mac and Cheese
Jerk Chicken Wrap
Loaded Jerk Fries
Jerk Chicken Fries

“Delicious food! Order it on grubhub all the time, and decided to try dining in...Think I'll stick to grub-hubbing it.The one bartender made great drinks but was miserable looking the whole time. Not a single smile, didn't ask how anything was, barely spoke to us... kinda just glared and made us feel uncomfortable, total vibe killer.Compliments to the chefs, tho, cause that food is delicious!“

4 Good34 Reviews
Mi Rancho Alegre Mexican • $$
300 Center Pl Dr, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Refried Beans Chips and Salsa
Tamales Empanadas Burrito
Salsa Beans and Chips
MI Rancho Quesadilla
Steak a La Mexicana
Steak Tampiqueña
Potato Skin Nachos
Fried Ice Cream
Nachos Your Way
Rice and Beans

“Love all the colors and Mexican style decor. Went here for lunch with a friend. The service was kinda slow but the poor girl was working 2 roles, Hostess and waitress. We felt bad for her. Anyways the food was outstanding. They put on the table chips, salsa, refried beans with pico and Mexican cheese. It was really good. This place is the only place that does this. Usually it's just chips and salsa. I got the fajita chicken quesadilla and added pico inside it. It was amazing. This quesadilla was huge. The chicken was so flavorful, it came with peppers and onions. There was flavor throughout it. It was so big, I had ended for 2 meals. I got a strawberry margarita with coconut rum. The flavor was good but it was all ice“

4.1 Good110 Reviews
DINE MORE BAR&GRILL Italian • $$
120 Pixley Rd, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Artichoke French Appetizer
Spaghetti with Meatballs
Chicken French Sandwich
Fettucine Alfredo
Calamari Fritti
16 Oz Delmonico
Chicken Milanese
White Wine Clams
Fried Calamari
Delmonico Steak

“My wife and I started out with the Calamari and had the Chicken Parm and Chicken French as our main entrees. The waitress attentive, the food came out quickly and the portions were large and tasty. The restaurant has improved quite a bit since they first opened. I'll be back again to try another dish.“

4.1 Good114 Reviews
Benucci's Italian • $$
3349 Monroe Ave, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Warm Bread and Garlic Butter
Angel Hair Pasta Bolognese
Chicken Caesar Salad
Linguine & Meatball
Lasagna Bolognese
White Clam Sauce
Peanut Butter Pie
Calamari Fritta
Penne Alla Vodka
Pollo Formaggio

“Whenever my parents come to Rochester to visit, we go here. The meatball is so good like I crave that meatball at times. Chicken Parmesan is pretty good. The penne Al a vodka is a little spicy but it’s Okay. The people are very nice to us the bread is great. Will continue to go to Benucci’s :)“

4 Good96 Reviews
Condado Bar & Grill Seafood • $$
2260 Clifford Ave, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Stuffed Mofongo Rell Carne Frita Pork
Chillo Dona Juana Fried Red Snapper
Surf and Turf Deluxe Lobster Steak
Tostonachos Sliced Plantain Nachos
Pured De Papas Mashed Potatoes
Mofongo De Pollo a La Plancha
Alcapurrias Beef Turnovers
Mofongo De Carne Frita
Double Hennessy vs
Tostones Rellenos

“I am from South America and I have struggled for the longest time about missing local food. Condado does a great job with their Skirt Steak rice and beans! Do yourself a favor and get the tostones and empanadas too. I have always gotten it delivered so not sure on the ambiance but food is awesome!“

3.8 Good39 Reviews
Locals Only Cocktail Bar • $$
311 Alexander St, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Breakfast Burrito
Avocado Toast
Steak & Eggs

“My second time at LOCALS ONLY eatery/restaurant located at East Ave/Alexander St.An unique clean intimate location & welcoming restaurant with an awesome food menu & 'out of this world' cocktail section.The staff are friendly & hospitable.Must make a reservation!Free parking with RSVP!Prices are reasonable.Awesome environment!Vegan friendly.Parking: Parking accessible with reservations only.Wheelchair accessibility: 2-level restaurant; wheel chair access“

3.9 Good86 Reviews

37
Dorado

Dorado Mexican • $$
690 Park Ave, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

House Made Chips
Enchiladas Verde
Chips and Salsa
Enchilada Dinner
Cuban Sandwich
Seared Salmon
Shrimp Tacos
Chimichanga
Quesadilla
Enchiladas

“First visit to Dorado for lunch. My wife had chicken enchiladas, which she loved and I had a tofu chimichanga. Food was delicious all around. Rice and beans were so much better than your typical mexican restaurants, and their homemade hot sauce was quite tasty. Our waiter/bartender was charming and attentive.“

3.8 Good66 Reviews
Revolution Chinese Cocktail Bar • $
382 Jefferson Rd, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Ox Tongue and Tripe Tossed in Wok with Spicy Pepper Sauce 夫妻肺片
Stir-Fried Corn Kernels with Salted Egg Yolk 金沙玉米粒
Szechuan Spicy Noodles
Hot and Spicy Dry Pot
Sesame Chicken
Fried Rice
Dumplings
Hot Pot

“Found Revolution while visiting relatives. Ordered the orange beef and was very happy with it. Good flavor and generous portion. I will definitely be stopping back to try anther dish. Though I didn't eat in, there is a nice setting / eating area inside.“

3.5 Good56 Reviews
Char Steak & Lounge Steak House • $$$
550 East Ave, Rochester

Customers` Favorites

Fillet with Mashed Potatoes and Brussels Sprouts
Oysters on the Half Shell
Flourless Chocolate Torte
Butternut Cashew Risotto
Charcoal Roasted Oysters
Wagyu Beef Tartare
Lemon Curd Cake
Mac and Cheese
Steak Tartare
Steak Sauce

“We came here for a business dinner from out of town. The hostess adjusted her seating chart to allow the 5 of us to sit at a nice round table vs. a booth which we very much appreciated. Sam waited on us and this was nothing short of white glove service. The smiles, laughs and expert advice on the menu and available wine bottles made us feel so well taken care of. The food was perfect from start to finish for all patrons present. A slight mix up at the end of the night with a take away lost for our guest of honor resulted in Sam securing us an extra short rib and mash potatoes of course to close out a perfect evening. Sam is the best! Thank you to the Char team for a wonderful evening!“

3.8 Good205 Reviews
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