The best bars & nightlife in Abingdon

Whether you're posting up for the game or just craving a solid dinner, JJ's Restaurant & Sports Bar nails that locals-only comfort. Think the JJ’s Special Burger, Catfish Dinner, legit weekend specials, vegetarian options galore, and a full bar with 21 rotating beers on tap.

From the Abingdon newsletter, October 15, 2026

Squabble State Hard Cider & Spirits turns a rugged 68-acre farm just outside downtown into a proper hangout, pouring hard ciders made from real Virginia apples like Pink Lady, Gala, Granny Smith, and Ginger Gold. Flavor-first, locally rooted, and with plans for aging spirits on deck, it’s a Bristol win.

From the Bristol newsletter, September 23, 2026

Family-friendly chain serving classic Tex-Mex & American fare in a Southwestern-style setting.

Family owned and making small-batch gin, rum, Tennessee whiskey, and canned cocktails right in downtown Bristol, Lost State Distilling pours thoughtful tastings and runs behind-the-scenes tours.

From the Tri Cities newsletter, October 18, 2026

Tennessee Hills Distillery | Bristol is a working Brewstillery where you can walk the production floor, hear the folks who built it tell the story, and sample the goods. Expect whiskey, vodka, gin, rum, cream liqueurs, canned cocktails, plus beer, food, and regular live music and trivia.

From the Tri Cities newsletter, October 27, 2026

Dragonfly Book Bar is the cozy spot where used and new books share shelves with pours of wine, plus bites for the inevitable mid-chapter hunger. It doubles as a low-key community hangout with social events, so you can sip, browse, and actually finish a chapter with neighbors.

From the Tri Cities newsletter, October 8, 2026

Just across the line in Bristol, Virginia, The Tasting Room at Nicewonder Vineyards pours wines made onsite, from vine to bottle, from crisp Viognier to rich Petit Verdot, with wood-fired pizzas and mountain views that basically do the pairing for you. Saturday live music seals the deal.

From the Abingdon newsletter, October 31, 2026

The Bristol Hotel is an easy pick when you want to stay local but feel a little fancy, with Lumac Rooftop Bar pouring small-batch brews and cocktails against Appalachian Mountain views, and Vivian's Table serving scratch-made regional fare that actually earns the second round.

From the Bristol newsletter, September 29, 2026

Bristol’s first rooftop bar brings 360-degree looks at the Appalachian Mountains plus small-batch brews, barrel-aged whiskeys, and live music that actually pairs with the sunset.

From the Bristol newsletter, September 8, 2026

The Corner keeps 12 taps frosty and the menu interesting thanks to Chef Drew Winnie, who clearly has no patience for boring bar food. It also feels like your bar... ask for your favorite beer, wine, or cocktail and they’ll try to make it happen.

From the Tri Cities newsletter, October 20, 2026

Some days call for vines and vibes. Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards pours award-winning, from vine to bottle wines in a relaxed tasting room with live music every Saturday, and Hickory serves elevated Appalachian plates alongside sweeping vineyard views that make everyday life feel pleasantly slower.

From the Abingdon newsletter, October 27, 2026

Venue presenting stand-up comedy shows and workshops, plus a bar for drinks.

Mountain Cheers Grill Haus is the low-key spot for mouth-watering hamburgers, legit Philly cheesesteaks, and nachos piled high... plus sleeper hits like pastrami or roast beef sandwiches, a ribeye wedge salad, and a solid vegan burger. Easy place for family dinners or group hangs when Boone cravings strike.

From the Boone newsletter, August 18, 2026

Tumbling Creek Cider Company - Taproom keeps it simple and good with Virginia-apple ciders pressed and fermented on site, a steady stream of nano and experimental batches, and yes, pizza and beer for the non-cider crowd... a laid-back hang you can make your regular.

From the Abingdon newsletter, October 22, 2026