If you're in search of a good drink in Scottsdale, the options are endless. You've probably heard of the staples, like Second Story Liquor Bar and Citizen Public House. But those aren't the only places you should wander to. Here's my list of places to grab a cocktail in Old Town if you want to mix things up and avoid the overcrowded Entertainment District.
The Beverly
Cocktails at The Beverly range from simple and classic to bachelorette party weekend in Vegas. What I personally like is the ambience --old red bricked walls, a hidden speakeasy for private parties, plenty of seating, plus late-night snacks and a live DJ spinning on weekends. If you like to have a bite after drinking, The Beverly is your best bet in Old Town with a great late-night menu (something hard to come by in Scottsdale, trust me). Plus, their happy hour menu lasts until 7pm with lots of snack options and cocktail savings you won't want to miss.
AZ88
Some might consider AZ88 as one of Scottsdale's iconic bars, yet it's tucked away in the Scottsdale Mall area, easily forgotten by many cocktail-seekers. AZ88 is a trendy dinner spot, but also a great option for seriously chic patio seating and 32 different cocktails and martinis. Find it behind the Saguaro Hotel past Old Town Tavern. If you love espresso martinis, theirs is the best in town.
Hula's Modern Tiki
Tiki. Cocktails. Need I say more? Hula's is an adorable Polynesian restaurant with killer specials and even better drinks. My personal favorite is the Dr. Funk, served in a tall tiki cup. All day happy hour on Sundays mean this spot is a favorite of mine for brunch, too. If you're in the mood for some rum-heavy tropical cocktails, stop by Hula's. Their mai-tai is a must.
Never been to Cuba? Me neither, but I hope it’s something like The Canal Club, which is inside The Scott Resort, just across from Fashion Square Mall on Scottsdale Rd. The Scott Resort is a dreamy hotel that is seriously Instagram-worthy, spacious and perfect for groups or date night. The Canal Club is 1930’s Havana themed with hints of Arizona and New Orleans, and their food menu is pretty spectacular as well.
Update: Counter Intuitive and Pig & Pickle were on this list, but sadly both are now closed. I don’t have any more cocktail bar suggestions in Old Town other than Citizen Public House and Second Story Liquor Bar. If you’ve visited all these places already, I recommend venturing to places like Undertow in Arcadia (reservations recommended), So Far So Good at The Churchill or Bitter & Twisted, all in Downtown Phoenix.
Featured photo by Jakub Dziubak on Unsplash