Your Next Night on the Town: Top Phoenix Speakeasies
There’s something thrilling about a bar that’s hidden to the outside world and requires being in the know to access — it’s mysterious, exclusive and just plain cool. Lucky for you, we’re pulling back the metaphorical curtain to share a few of the Valley’s top speakeasies for your next night on the town.
Honor Amongst Thieves
Central Phoenix
This upscale, 1950s-themed speakeasy can only be accessed by going up a staircase behind the bar’s sisters restaurant, Stock and Stable. Its glamorous atmosphere and an impressive lineup of craft cocktails make it a must-visit spot, even if there is a two-hour stay limit (which makes it all that much more exclusive if you ask us!). Our top cocktail picks include the Fit For a King with Copper n’ Kings Brandy, C n’ K orange curacao, lemon and sugar as well as the Toasty Burro with Compo Azul Tequila, Ancho Reyes Rojo, orgeat syrup, lime, ginger, and mint.
Valley Bar
Downtown Phoenix
This is one of Phoenix’s best-known speakeasies, so the element of exclusivity is admittedly dulled, but its popularity is well-deserved thanks to its impressive lineup of events, game room complete with shuffleboard and skeeball, affordable drinks ($3 Hamm’s anyone?) and laidback, hipster atmosphere. Aside from its underground location, one of its more unusual elements is its “secret” library room which is a great place to catch up with friends and enjoy a drink in a quieter environment.
The Ostrich
Chandler
Outside of downtown Gilbert, it can be difficult to find a great bar in the East Valley, but The Ostrich certainly delivers. Hidden underneath Crust Pizzeria, the vintage cocktail lounge offers nearly two dozen craft cocktails, beer, wine, and customizable Collins. Our top picks include the Rainbow Room Cosmo compete with Ketel One Citroen, lime juice, and cranberry as well as the Irish Banana Hammock with Power’s Irish Whiskey, cream sherry, Montenegro Amaro, Sibona Amaro, Giffard Banane du Bresil and AZ Bitter Lab’s figgy pudding.
Kazimierz Wine and Whiskey Bar
Old Town Scottsdale
The beloved speakeasy-style wine bar reopened earlier this year with a newfound focus on whiskey and entertainment, boasting live music every day of the week. Plus, unlike many other cocktail bars, it boasts an impressive menu with charcuterie boards, bruschetta and even flatbreads crafted with locally produced ingredients in addition to its lineup of wine, craft cocktails and of course, whiskey.
Show us your favorite Phx bars using #FrayLife and #PhxFray!
Need some more food and drink advice? Check out our top restaurant picks!