The best bars & nightlife in Phoenix

“O. Old Fashioneds, espresso martinis, and riffable classics show off 21st century flavors without the attitude. Grab a friend, test your palate, and let the bartenders customize something you’ll actually crave.”

From the East Valley newsletter, August 8, 2026

“Postino Highland is the neighborhood wine bar locals brag about, with a borderline addictive lineup of bruschetta boards, paninis, salads, and shareable snacks. Set in a former Valley National Bank and designed by a Frank Lloyd Wright apprentice, it nails that cool factor while you work through a glass or a bottle.”

From the Fountain Hills newsletter, August 3, 2026

“Grand Avenue Brewing Co. nails the buddy’s-garage vibe in a vintage 40s warehouse in Phoenix’s Lower Grand Avenue Arts district, pouring small-batch, unfiltered beers alongside scratch-made eats like house-smoked pork belly tacos and loaded baked potatoes.”

From the Phoenix newsletter, August 7, 2026

“When you want loud guitars, a proper sports fix, and maybe a rooftop hang, Rockbar delivers live rock shows, Eagles West Fan Club energy, and even space to host that birthday or work thing. Rally the crew this week and let the good noise happen.”

From the Fountain Hills newsletter, August 8, 2026

“Need a quick reset that feels bigger than a night out on Bell? Desert Diamond Casino brings jackpot vibes with a massive mix of slots and live table games, plus legit dining from Nineteen 86 Steakhouse to Winners Sports Bar and cocktails at Edge and Rock Bar.”

From the West Valley newsletter, September 5, 2026

“If your week could use pints that actually taste like something and pub grub made with fresh ingredients, The Kettle Black Kitchen & Pub delivers the cozy, low-light tavern feel with an excellent lineup of drafts, bottled drinks, and craft cocktails. Grab a seat with a friend and make it your midweek reset.”

From the Phoenix newsletter, August 5, 2026

“Arizona’s first and largest craft cidery, Cider Corps, pours cocktail-inspired ciders built from fermented apple blends layered with fruit and botanicals for complex, easy-drinking flavors.”

From the East Valley newsletter, August 6, 2026

“Old Town Tavern keeps Old Town humming with live music every afternoon and night, strong pours, and scratch-made bites that pair perfectly with patio people-watching. The new, larger space means a bigger stage and the same friendly, local spirit... ideal for a low-key weeknight or a spontaneous Saturday.”

From the Fountain Hills newsletter, August 13, 2026

“Wayward is Old Town’s chef-driven hideaway where handmade corn tortillas, binchotan-kissed proteins, and reimagined cocktails make dinner feel like a tiny adventure. Pull a seat, swap stories, and embrace their “fun dining” vibe that’s rooted in tradition but not afraid to color outside the lines.”

From the Scottsdale newsletter, August 15, 2026

“Whether you’re catching the game or a live set under the Scottsdale sky, Pour Decisions nails the sweet spot between patio hangout and rooftop scene. Big stage, plenty of screens, and a bar-and-grill menu that doesn’t phone it in...”

From the Fountain Hills newsletter, September 8, 2026

“Part sports hangout, part gentlemen’s club, The Candy Store mixes pool tables, big 75-inch game-day screens and a VIP room with specialty cocktails plus a premium whiskey and tequila bar. It’s the spot when your crew wants bachelor-party energy or just a lively late-night with a little extra sparkle.”

From the San Tan Valley newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Slate by Nik Fields pairs a Food Network chef and certified sommelier with a program of South African standouts, signature flights, and shareable wood-oven plates tuned to the pour. Live music through the week makes it a slick date night or group catchup spot.”

From the Phoenix newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Beer Barn is the kind of spot where neighbors become regulars, regulars become friends. Expect a deep lineup of local and out-of-state craft beers, plus wine, mead, cider, and seltzer on draft or grabbed from the cooler to take home... perfect for an easy weeknight hang this week.”

From the East Valley newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Scale & Feather Meadery turns ancient honey wine into something fresh, crafting traditional meads and adventurous flavors with over ten years of experience. Check the 'Currently On Tap' lineup this week, find a new favorite, then casually tell friends you’re into mead now.”

From the West Valley newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Historic saloon offering live country music, peanut shells underfoot & a Tex-Mex & American menu.”

“When beer fatigue hits, Six Byrd Cider Taproom & Kitchen pours rotating flights of crisp, clean craft ciders (10 on draft), plus flatbreads and panini that actually pull their weight. Bonus points for cider slushies, floats, and seasonal hot mulled pours, and they’ll even host or cater your next shindig.”

From the Phoenix newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Wine Girl keeps things bright and easygoing with rotating wines on tap, plus appetizers, beer and cocktails that make midweek meetups feel like a mini celebration. Perfect for girls' nights, birthdays, or when you just want a solid pour without any fuss.”

From the Scottsdale newsletter, September 11, 2026

“For locals who'd rather skip the chaos, High Street is a breezy urban strip with top-rated restaurants, stylish bars, and one-of-a-kind salons and boutiques. Stroll, snack, catch events like Cars & Coffee or the farmers market, then linger because it somehow feels lively yet laid back.”

From the Phoenix newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Comedians generate laughs in this dinner theater setting with a full menu, bar service & a VIP area.”

“Established in 1988, AZ88 is a contemporary Old Town Scottsdale bar known for martinis, crafted cocktails, and consistent cuisine, plus ever-changing art that keeps the vibe fresh. If you need an easy date night upgrade this week, Fountain Hills folks can make the short hop for crisp drinks and conversation.”

From the Fountain Hills newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Poura hand-crafts and bottles its wines on site in Chandler, so a guided tasting here feels like drinking straight from the source. Bookmark an event, join the wine club, or order your favorites for pickup... your midweek unwind just found a new home.”

From the East Valley newsletter, August 17, 2026

“Desert Rock Winery & Distillery in north Scottsdale pours award-winning wines and handcrafted Arizona-made vodkas, whiskeys, and rum in a laid-back tasting room with live music. Swing by this week to sample a flight that runs from bold reds to crisp whites, then linger with a spirit pour that hits the spot.”

From the Scottsdale newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Hair of the Dog is that cozy neighborhood hangout for when you crave a quality pour and some low-key vibes. Think local craft beers, easy-sipping wines, and legit coffee, plus dog-friendly patios, live music, and rotating local bites... perfect for post-park hangs or midweek unwinds.”

“Since 1959, Coach House has been Old Town’s go-to for drink specials, open-air hangs, and a vibe that stays charmingly unpretentious. When you want zero fuss and maximum neighborhood character, Scottsdale’s oldest tavern gets it done.”

From the Scottsdale newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Mother Tucker's Tavern is the sweet spot for Old Town Scottsdale regulars. Forty HDTVs, real-deal tavern food built for sharing, and late-night DJs mean your game watch can snowball into a story. Planning something bigger?”

“Copper Still Moonshine Grill keeps it simple in the best way with American staples from juicy burgers to hearty pasta, a full bar that does the job without the fuss, and a heated patio for those crisp desert nights. Easy weeknight go-to.”

From the Queen Creek newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Rewined Beer and Wine Bar is the low-key hangout where your crew can sink into board games and old-school Nintendo battles while sipping something you actually want to drink, from easygoing pours to interesting finds, all in a lively space that feels like your friend's cooler living room.”

“Old Town’s Boondocks Patio & Grill Scottsdale is that easygoing hang where indoor and outdoor bars meet one of the largest climate controlled patios, plus pool tables, arcade hoops, live music, local beers and plenty of TVs for the match. Round up the crew this week and actually hang out.”

From the Fountain Hills newsletter, August 19, 2026

“Stylish, art-lined bar & bottle shop featuring self-serve wines to pair with cheeses & small plates.”

“JP’s Comedy Club is a cozy, headliner-first room with genuinely warm service and the kind of tight space where laughter rolls. Curious about trying stand-up yourself? Their on-site classes teach writing, stage presence, and how to actually book gigs when you’re ready.”

From the East Valley newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Family-friendly winery offering wines, food, and a laid-back atmosphere.”

“Desert Ridge Improv keeps the calendar stacked with national comics, themed drag brunches, and even a stand-up comedy class if you want stage time. Grab a seat, order from the kitchen and bar, then let the pros handle your midweek reset.”

From the Casa Grande newsletter, September 1, 2026

“Round up the crew for live country, line dancing, and VIP bottle service at Dierks Bentley's Whiskey Row Gilbert, where you skip the line, snag a prime table, and get table-side pours while soaking up that Downtown Gilbert energy. Hit Thursdays for big line-dance vibes and lessons.”

From the East Valley newsletter, August 22, 2026

“SanTan Gardens - Brewery & Distillery Tours gives you Arizona’s largest combined brewery and distillery tour with 10 stops, tastings along the way, and a look at sustainable brewing that saves serious water. See how MoonJuice, Devil’s Ale, and Jacob Waltz whiskey are made, then hang at the tasting bar.”

From the East Valley newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Turquoise Wine Bar is a laid-back local hang where West Valley folks can sample tasting flights, discover organic finds, and nibble light snacks without the fuss. Big selection, friendly vibe, and a Wine Club with limited-production gems and member events make it a repeat-worthy stop.”

From the West Valley newsletter, September 12, 2026

“When you want energy without the downtown hassle, Westgate Entertainment District lines up big-name sips and bites, live music on weekends, and easy pregame vibes for Cardinals and Rattlers fans. Grab a round at Yard House or Bar Louie, then wander to The Lola or Fat Tuesday.”

From the Surprise newsletter, September 8, 2026

“Upmarket eatery serving upscale American grub (wine-paired options, plus a tasting room), wine club, and wine store.”

“The White Rabbit is your East Valley shortcut to 1920s speakeasy vibes, with dialed-in cocktails and a hidden entrance that makes going out feel like an adventure. Bonus points: their Whiskey Club and Bottle Shop help you level up your sipping game.”

From the East Valley newsletter, August 29, 2026

“LDV Winery turns grapes from the high-altitude Chiricahua Mountain foothills into award-winning Arizona bottles, poured by the glass or in tastings with light bites and outdoor seating. It’s a comfy spot to nerd out on local terroir, join a club, or just unwind without leaving Scottsdale.”

From the Scottsdale newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Steak, seafood & a large bourbon selection offered in a contemporary, industrial-chic setting.”

“From poke bowls like Salmon, Tuna, or Fire Tuna to sushi and sashimi that taste like someone actually cares, Gosan Poke&Roll is the fresh-fish fix you need this week. Go classic with a Salmon Bowl, or mix it up with octopus, tofu, and the Spicy Shaggy Dog Roll.”

From the East Valley newsletter, August 11, 2026

“Craving a low-key spot to unwind, nibble, and discover new pours? The Greedy Hamster nails the neighborhood vibe with a deep wine list, craft beer, bruschetta, pizza, and charcuterie, plus a Wine & Beer Club if you like surprises. Slide by this week and toast to good taste.”

From the Phoenix newsletter, August 24, 2026

“Cozy bar featuring karaoke, music, beer, cocktails and pool tables, plus a dartboard.”

“Wine store stocking local Arizona varietals, plus charcuterie and wine tastings.”

“Estate grown and Arizona born, Carlson Creek Vineyard, Scottsdale Tasting Room pours award winning, high elevation wines from their family’s vineyards at 4,300 feet. Stop in to sample award winning wines, catch exclusive events, or even host your own party, then join the Wine Society for limited releases.”

From the Fountain Hills newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Whether you’re rolling in pregame or just need a neighborhood spot with big screens and legit energy, The V Spot Sports Grill Inc. is Glendale’s go-to near State Farm Stadium and Westgate. Think packed Suns and Cardinals watch parties, solid game-day grub, and occasional live music that keeps weekends interesting.”

From the West Valley newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Bright, casual hangout with burgers, beers & plenty of widescreen TVs for sports viewing.”

“The Green Woodpecker is your excuse to clock out early this week, with tacos and burritos that actually slap, plus a lineup of beers and cocktails that keep the conversation rolling. Bring a friend, claim a corner, and let the vibes do the rest.”

From the Phoenix newsletter, August 10, 2026

“JesterZ Improv Comedy in Gilbert spins your audience suggestions into clean, all-ages hilarity this week, zero scripts and maximum fun.”

From the East Valley newsletter, August 26, 2026

“Tap Dragon Craft Beer & Wine Bar pours from 28 rotating independent taps alongside mead, cider, and premium wines, then backs it up with a weekly lineup of trivia, karaoke, poker, and live acoustic sets, making it a legit neighborhood lair for Gilbert and Mesa folks.”

From the East Valley newsletter, September 8, 2026

“If your week needs a pick-me-up, OHSO Brewery + Distillery keeps it fun with house-brewed beers, house-distilled spirits, and a menu that actually delivers, from burgers to weekend brunch. The Gilbert location also rotates Test Kitchen specials and even has dedicated gluten-free and vegan menus.”

From the East Valley newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Mic Drop Comedy keeps it local with family-friendly improv for kids and adults, plus classes if you’re itching to hop on stage. Expect stand-up shows, quirky Chandler history and ghost tours, and a solid dinner or brunch menu to make it a full night.”

“MT Barrel Tasting Room lets you set the vibe with a luxury, self-guided lineup of 24 rotating pours, including 20 wines from around the world and 4 local craft beers. Pair a DIY flight or mocktail with shareable bites like tostones and empanadas, then bookmark it for your next West Valley get-together or private party.”

“Old Town Scottsdale’s Jamie's Bottle Shop is equal parts wine bar and community hangout, with an in-house sommelier curating tastings, educational events, and a three-tier wine club that keeps your rack interesting. Stop in for thoughtful pours, specialty goods, and events that make midweek feel like a minor holiday.”

“Post up at Arizona Wilderness DTPHX for a laid-back beer garden hang with house-brewed pints and burgers made from locally sourced ingredients. Grab a fresh pour, crush a juicy burger, and let that downtown breeze convince you this absolutely qualifies as self-care.”

From the Casa Grande newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Upscale chophouse offering bone-in cuts, aged steaks, and fresh seafood, plus signature sides.”

“Hand pies, chalkboard beer and wine picks, and a funky, locals-run hangout, Divided Vine Beer & Wine Bar nails the low-key night out. Expect an always-evolving craft lineup, global wines with an Arizona streak, and regular tastings or live music when you want a little buzz of community.”

“Locals will dig Hopsology Taproom and Wine Bar/Brewery for Arizona-heavy taps (26 and growing), occasional house brews, and legit wine and NA options that keep the whole crew happy. Food trucks roll through, the patio’s dog friendly, and you can even brew your own on pro equipment with classes.”

“Sports-bar chain known for its waitresses, serving American comfort food in lodgelike surroundings.”

“Kings Beer & Wine is a bottle shop and taproom flexing 81 rotating taps, 800+ packaged beers, over 150 wines with more than 20 by the glass, plus mead, cider and sake finds. Swing by this week for creative collab brews and weekly events that make an ordinary night feel a little royal.”

From the Maricopa newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Fat Willy's Crismon & Baseline is your family-friendly sports grill when you want great food, cold drinks, and wall-to-wall TVs so you never miss a play. Classic American favorites, lively energy, and community vibes make it an easy call for this week’s hangout.”

From the San Tan Valley newsletter, August 20, 2026

“When you want a laid-back place to explore new bottles and actually talk about them, Turquoise Wine Bar, Roosevelt leans into community with curated pours, Wine Chats, and a wine club that unlocks limited-production finds and fun invite-only events.”

From the San Tan Valley newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Old Town’s intimate, upscale hideout, The Beverly On Main, shakes up playful signatures like Sunny D, Full Brazilian, and Big in PV, all in a speakeasy-leaning vibe with lively beats. When you want polished pours without the pretense, this is your midweek upgrade.”

From the Scottsdale newsletter, August 23, 2026

“Whether you're after clean, family-friendly sets, a spicy late show, or trying your own five minutes at open mic, Stir Crazy Comedy Club keeps the lineup fresh with local and national comics, solid cocktails, cold beers, and pub grub. They also run improv and stand-up classes if you're feeling brave.”

From the West Valley newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Charley's Place is the no-fuss sports bar you hit when you want juicy burgers, tender steaks, and a craft cocktail or ice-cold beer that just gets the job done. Rally the crew this week, eat, play, drink, and let the game-day energy handle the mood.”

From the Glendale newsletter, August 12, 2026

“The Tipsy in Glendale nails that sweet spot between polished and relaxed, pouring handmade cocktails alongside a legit wine and bourbon lineup with shareable small plates to match.”

From the Surprise newsletter, September 2, 2026

“With 22 rotating taps, The Wandering Tortoise is where Phoenix keeps its palate on its toes, from crisp lagers to hazy hop bombs to the occasional wild card. Swing by this week for a lineup that changes fast, because great beer waits for no one.”

From the Phoenix newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Buck & Rider Phoenix flies in pristine seafood seven days a week, so the raw bar, sushi, and king crab taste like a seaside trip, minus I-10 traffic, and their B&R Reserve beef and serious cocktail program keep both surf and turf fans very happy.”

From the Phoenix newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Sports-bar chain known for its waitresses, serving American comfort food in lodgelike surroundings.”

“From touring heavy-hitters to open mics that launch your next favorite comic, Stand Up Live keeps the calendar stacked and the crowd energy high. Watch for special one-offs like drag brunches and live shows, and remember to buy tickets direct so third-party resellers don't ruin the vibe.”

“Award-winning and brewed right here, Desert Monks Brewing keeps the taps fresh with rotating beers, hard seltzers, and house-made soda, plus food trucks, trivia, and live music. Their Monktoberfest lands September 19 with German-inspired bites, games, and plenty of festive pints.”