One of the new basement bars in Tucson, Barbata brings a European flair to the craft cocktail scene, providing a secret sanctuary to drink, eat, and be merry. To find it, head to BATA, downtown, then go down. You can’t miss it… or, at least, you shouldn’t!

If you’re ever in Downtown, make sure to check out Batch Whiskey & Donuts. It’s one of the standout bars in Tucson. It pairs an impressive selection of nearly one thousand unique bottles of whiskey with delectable, fresh made donuts on the weekends. Although there’s plenty to explore, there’s little doubt that the “House Old Fashioned” is the best in town.

Adjacent to the famous Congress Hotel, Century Room mixes local mezcal and live music in perfect proportions. Snack on some small plates, sip on the sparkling & spicy “Spirit of the Southwest,” and soak up the sultry sounds of that smooth, sexy saxophone.

If you’re looking for that genuine desert magic, look no further than Bar Crisol. Agave art, majestic maps, and tons of typewriters adorn the walls of one of the best bars in Tucson. Make a date night of one of their Agave Tastings on Thursdays, and stick around to marvel at their mesmerizing mezcal mixology.

Located right next to the historic Rialto Theatre, Good Oak Bar combines a cozy atmosphere with a focus on whiskey and agave, as well as local foods, beers, & wines. The “Desert Highball” is a hot-weather hit that adds prickly pear pizzazz to an already refreshing vodka, soda, lime combo.

Known for its sultry atmosphere and late-night entertainment, the Jackrabbit Lounge is a truly unique Tucson cocktail bar experience. Standout among their creations is the “Jessica Rabbit,” blending vanilla vodka, orgeat, lemon, and grapefruit, for the perfect blend of sweet, creamy, and tangy.

Downtown Tucson just got a gin bar. Located in the same spot where Iron John’s Brewing Co. used to reside, Juniper boasts a full wall of different kinds of gin, which are used to create an entire array of large and aromatic gin & tonics, magnificent martinis, novel negronis and a range of other carefully crafted classic cocktails.

Definitely try “The Botanist” and “The Moonlight Cocktail”! Surely, Juniper will land on your list of best bars in downtown Tucson in no time.

Near the corner of Broadway Boulevard and Swan Road rests an indoor tropical paradise consisting of cocktails that come in big goblets, Luau Platters, a dimly lit dining room, and a vibe that sometimes makes you forget you’re in the desert. The cocktail menu at Kon Tiki has its flagship cocktails but is also everchanging and inspiring to other tiki bars around the country.

Step through the unassuming wooden front door of Nightjar into an Old World speakeasy with classy and elegant vibes. Enjoy the low, ambient lighting, hand-painted artwork, and classy wooden bar top from which you can purchase any number of craftily mixed libations. Don’t know where to start? Check out the “La Boheme” — delightfully refreshing!

Nestled in a historic building, Owl’s Club boasts a sophisticated ambiance with a touch of vintage charm. Known for its exceptional craft cocktails, one standout is the “Gila River,” a delightful twist on a whiskey sour, featuring lemon, chocolate, ancho chile, and Xocolatl Mole Bitters  — delicious!

If you can find it, Prohibición is a must-visit in downtown Tucson! It’s a somewhat “hidden” speakeasy underneath Sonora Moonshine Co. Not sure what to order? Master mixologist Kelly Lemons has your back! Just let him know what you prefer and he’ll make you a one-of-a-kind concoction.

 

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Step through the former brick warehouse doors and discover a mid-century masterpiece known as the Royal Room. Sip their “Riptide” — rye, pineapple amaro, lemon, orgeat, and pineapple — while you soak up the stained glass windows, colorful tiled floors, and laid back vibes.

With its bright red aesthetic and open-air design, R Bar is a direct subsidiary of the Rialto Theatre. That means that the profits made from that “Rialtaur” you just ordered (ginger-cardamom vodka, salted lime cordial, and ginger beer, oh my!), go directly to the operation, upkeep, and programming of the renowned Tucson venue.

To say the least, Rialto Theatre just gifted one of the best bars in downtown Tucson. And we aren’t complaining!

Stepping foot inside The Shelter Bar is like traveling back in time. Since 1961, this Tucson staple has provided a cool and cozy hideout, filled with JFK decor, Cold War memorabilia, pinball machines , pool tables, magnificent martinis, and memorable movies.

A stylish, sun-soaked lounge with both indoor and outdoor seating, Sidecar transports guests to a bygone era with its retro decor and old school drinks. There’s no better place to start than their “Prohibition” sidecar, an aptly named spin on their classic cocktail namesake.

That new Tucson speakeasy your friend told you about, Snake & Barrel is the secret, subterranean sister of Batch, with a wider selection of unique liquor varieties and a cocktail-forward menu. Try the “Living After Midnight” for a sweet & smoky treat while you sink into comfortable couches and compelling conversations with your closest companions. This place serves some of the most hot and sexy drinks in Tucson.

Behind a wall at Vero Amore hides another secret speakeasy in Tucson. After you finish your delectable Italian meal, sneak behind the scenes to sample any number of old school or newfound concoctions. Our favorite is the “Violet Femme,” an absinthe and raspberry liquor delight!

Hidden beneath Reilley’s Pizza, Tough Luck Club provides a secretive and intimate setting for cocktail enthusiasts. The drink menu is extensive, with a long list of both classic and contemporary beverages. The “Arizona Plains” blends whiskey and bacanora with sage honey and lemon. Tasty!