Some top places to grab a craft cocktail in downtown Phoenix
Whether you’re living in or visiting downtown Phoenix, there’s always so much to do. From great restaurants to amazing entertainment and sporting events, there’s never a dull moment in the heart of Phoenix. When the sun sets, Phoenix is home to some of the best nightlife you’ll find, and one of the things we love about the downtown Phoenix experience are the fun, laid-back lounges, some of them you may have not even heard of. The next time you find yourself downtown and looking for a fun, relaxed atmosphere to enjoy a late-night cocktail, check out one or a few of our favorite lounges.
Melinda's Alley
You won’t find any signs pointing to this underground lounge, only a red light in an alley just north of Adams street. And the red light is only lit from 9pm-1am on Fridays and Saturdays. Those who enter Melinda’s Alley are treated to a red-lit, speakeasy-themed lounge, complete with antique-style sofas and chairs. The vibe is always relaxed, with an amazing sound system playing 70s classics most of the evening, and the drinks are phenomenal. Don’t be off-put by the selection of drinks; although there are only five to choose from, each drink is made with the finest ingredients by two knowledgeable bartenders, so you’ll have no problem finding a favorite cocktail. The Renaissance Hotel has operated Melinda’s Alley for over two years, and you can be sure to see a line at the door for the last two hours every Friday and Saturday.
Valley Bar
Less than a block away from Melinda’s Alley, you’ll find another favorite of ours: Valley Bar. Opened in 2015, there is so much to love about this cocktail lounge. An underground bar featuring a wide variety of delicious food, great cocktails along with a fantastic selection of wine and beer, and a chill vibe to make this one of the coolest places you can visit downtown. For those who enjoy games, they have more than your average lounge: two billiards tables, shuffleboard, skee-ball, darts, and others! Valley Bar is also a great place to catch an incredible show in a smaller, more intimate venue. The Music Hall has a capacity of 250 and showcases everything from concerts and films to spoken word and stand-up comedy. Most importantly, the staff is incredibly knowledgeable and helpful, making this lounge one of the best in downtown Phoenix.
Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour
The irony that one of the finest cocktail lounges in the Valley is located in the same building that was once the Arizona Prohibition Headquarters. The Luhrs Building on Central and Jefferson is one of the few remaining original Phoenix skyscrapers and its sensibilities of craftsmanship are carried on inside the hip and stylish Bitter & Twisted. It’s one of the most exclusive cocktail lounges you’ll find anywhere; while reservations are taken during the week, the weekends are on a space-available basis. However, if you’re able to experience this amazing lounge, we highly suggest you take advantage. Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour features an award-winning list of cocktails prepared by the best mixologists in the city coupled with some of the best food you’ll find in a lounge make this an incredible nightlife experience.
Any others?
Comment below with your favorite places to grab a cocktail in downtown Phoenix!