Peter MokoenaThere are Bars, and there are Bars. The top bars in America earn their stripes from their unique flavors and tastes, and also from the culture and creativity they imbibe. A great bar should make a patron feel relaxed, and soothed – that gives the drinks an extra kick.
These 50 standout spots aren’t just places to grab a drink—they’re immersive experiences, each with its own story, signature cocktail, and loyal following. Whether you’re chasing mixology magic in Manhattan or sipping mezcal in L.A., this list is your passport to the most unforgettable watering holes across the country.
Top 50 Bars in the U.S. – Places That Raise The Bar
1. Superbueno – New York, NY
A vibrant East Village gem, Superbueno fuses Mexican flavors with New York edge. The cocktails are playful yet precise—think tamarind margaritas and mole-infused negronis. The décor is colorful and modern, with a laid-back vibe that invites lingering. It’s a celebration of Latinx culture, community, and creativity, all poured into a glass. Whether you’re here for the tacos or the tequila, Superbueno delivers a full sensory experience.
2. Overstory – New York, NY
High above Manhattan’s Financial District, Overstory offers sweeping skyline views and world-class cocktails. The wraparound terrace and sleek Art Deco interior set the tone for refined indulgence. Each drink is a masterclass in technique, often featuring rare ingredients and seasonal twists. It’s the kind of place where the city’s energy meets quiet sophistication—perfect for date nights, power meetings, or solo sipping with style.
3. Jewel of the South – New Orleans, LA
This French Quarter hideaway revives classic Southern cocktails with elegance and flair. Led by legendary bartender Chris Hannah, Jewel of the South blends 19th-century recipes with modern precision. The Brandy Crusta is iconic, the courtyard is lush, and the ambiance is pure New Orleans charm. It’s a bar that honors tradition while pushing the boundaries of what Southern hospitality can taste like.
4. Double Chicken Please – New York, NY
A Lower East Side standout, Double Chicken Please turns food into cocktails—literally. Drinks are inspired by dishes like cold pizza or Japanese noodles, crafted with culinary precision. The space is split between a casual front bar and a sleek back room where the real magic happens. It’s inventive, irreverent, and unforgettable—a must-visit for cocktail nerds and curious newcomers alike.
5. Service Bar – Washington, D.C.
Tucked into the U Street corridor, Service Bar is a neighborhood favorite with serious cocktail chops. The menu is playful and bold, featuring drinks like the “Fried Chicken Martini” and “Banana Bread Old Fashioned.” It’s unpretentious yet polished, with a vibe that’s equal parts party and precision. The bartenders are warm, the music is lively, and the drinks are consistently surprising.
6. Thunderbolt – Los Angeles, CA
Located in Historic Filipinotown, Thunderbolt blends Southern ingredients with West Coast cool. The cocktails are inventive—think boiled peanut-infused whiskey or peach-forward spritzes. The space is cozy and welcoming, with a focus on hospitality and community. It’s the kind of bar where locals linger and visitors feel instantly at home. Southern soul meets L.A. swagger in every sip.
7. Best Intentions – Chicago, IL
A retro dive with a heart of gold, Best Intentions is equal parts kitsch and craft. The cocktails are surprisingly refined, served alongside vintage arcade games and neon signs. It’s a bar that doesn’t take itself too seriously—but still delivers serious flavor. Whether you’re sipping a frozen daiquiri or a house-made amaro, you’ll find joy in the unexpected.
8. Clemente Bar – New York, NY
Floating above Eleven Madison Park, Clemente Bar is a sleek newcomer with Michelin-level pedigree. The cocktails are minimalist and elegant, often featuring rare spirits and subtle infusions. The space is intimate, with soft lighting and impeccable service. It’s a quiet powerhouse in the heart of Manhattan—perfect for contemplative sipping or high-end rendezvous.
9. Martiny’s – New York, NY
A Japanese-inspired cocktail bar in Gramercy, Martiny’s is all about precision and poise. The drinks are delicate and balanced, often served in custom glassware with hand-carved ice. The space is serene, with warm wood tones and minimalist design. It’s a masterclass in restraint and refinement, where every detail is intentional and every sip is sublime.
10. Pacific Cocktail Haven – San Francisco, CA
Known as “PCH,” this bar blends Asian flavors with California cool. The cocktails are bold and flavorful—lychee, shiso, Thai basil, and more. The vibe is relaxed yet stylish, with low lighting and a welcoming staff. It’s a haven for adventurous palates and laid-back nights, right in the heart of San Francisco’s bar scene.
11. Mírate – Los Angeles, CA
Mírate is a mezcal-forward marvel nestled in Hollywood, blending Mexican heritage with L.A. glam. The cocktails are bold and expressive, often featuring rare agave spirits and house infusions. The space is vibrant and architectural, with lush greenery and dramatic lighting. It’s not just a bar—it’s a sensory journey through modern Mexican mixology. Whether you’re sipping a smoky negroni or a hibiscus spritz, Mírate delivers flavor with flair.
12. Café La Trova – Miami, FL
A Little Havana institution, Café La Trova is where Cuban soul meets cocktail mastery. Helmed by Julio Cabrera, the bar channels 1950s Havana with live music, vintage décor, and daiquiris that dance on the palate. The bartenders are dressed to impress, and the energy is electric. It’s a celebration of Cuban culture, hospitality, and rhythm—one sip and you’re transported.
13. Trick Dog – San Francisco, CA
Trick Dog is a Mission District icon known for its wildly creative cocktail menus—often themed like Pantone swatches, zodiac signs, or political manifestos. The drinks are bold, balanced, and always surprising. The space is industrial-chic with a playful edge, and the staff brings serious skill with zero pretension. It’s a bar that thrives on reinvention, making every visit feel like a new chapter in cocktail storytelling.
14. Pacific Cocktail Haven – San Francisco, CA
Known as “PCH,” this bar is a beacon of bold flavors and laid-back vibes. Asian ingredients like shiso, lychee, and Thai basil find their way into inventive cocktails that surprise and delight. The space is cozy and stylish, with a welcoming staff and a soundtrack that grooves. It’s a haven for adventurous drinkers and lovers of flavor-forward mixology.
15. True Laurel – San Francisco, CA
A cocktail bar with a culinary soul, True Laurel draws inspiration from California’s bounty. The drinks are seasonal and inventive, often incorporating house-made tinctures and local produce. The space is modern and moody, with a focus on sustainability and storytelling. It’s where farm-to-glass meets high design—perfect for those who appreciate nuance and narrative in their cocktails.
16. Employees Only – New York, NY
A West Village legend, Employees Only is the original speakeasy that sparked a global movement. The vibe is sultry and energetic, with tarot readings in the front and world-class cocktails in the back. The bartenders are pros, the crowd is eclectic, and the drinks—like the EO Manhattan—are timeless. It’s a bar that’s both historic and alive, where every night feels like a celebration.
17. Double Chicken Please – New York, NY
Yes, it’s back—and it deserves the spotlight. This Lower East Side marvel continues to push boundaries with food-inspired cocktails like “Cold Pizza” and “Japanese Cold Noodle.” The dual-space concept—casual front, experimental back—offers two distinct experiences. It’s a playground for the curious and a temple for the cocktail-obsessed. DCP isn’t just a bar—it’s a movement.
18. Service Bar – Washington, D.C.
A U Street favorite, Service Bar combines neighborhood charm with high-concept cocktails. The menu is cheeky and bold—think “Fried Chicken Martini” and “Banana Bread Old Fashioned.” The vibe is lively, the staff is welcoming, and the drinks are consistently inventive. It’s a place where fun meets finesse, and every visit feels like a party with purpose.
19. Thunderbolt – Los Angeles, CA
Southern soul meets L.A. cool at Thunderbolt, a cozy bar in Historic Filipinotown. The cocktails are rooted in Southern flavors—boiled peanuts, peaches, pecans—reimagined with modern technique. The space is intimate and stylish, with a focus on hospitality and community. It’s a bar that feels like home, even if you’re just passing through.
20. Best Intentions – Chicago, IL
A retro dive with a twist, Best Intentions is where kitsch meets craft. The cocktails are surprisingly refined, served alongside vintage arcade games and neon nostalgia. It’s unpretentious, joyful, and full of surprises. Whether you’re sipping a frozen daiquiri or a house-made amaro, you’ll find yourself smiling—and maybe staying longer than planned.
21. Maison Premiere – New York, NY
A Brooklyn institution, Maison Premiere channels the elegance of Belle Époque Paris and New Orleans. Known for its absinthe service and oyster bar, the cocktails are classic with a twist—think Sazeracs, cobblers, and juleps served with theatrical flair. The garden patio is lush, the lighting is moody, and the vibe is pure romance. It’s a bar that whispers rather than shouts, inviting you to slow down and savor.
22. Katana Kitten – New York, NY
This West Village hotspot fuses Japanese izakaya culture with American dive bar energy. The drinks are playful yet precise—highballs, sake bombs, and yuzu-infused classics. The décor is eclectic, the music is loud, and the crowd is always buzzing. It’s a place where Tokyo meets New York in a glass, and every night feels like a celebration of cross-cultural cool.
23. Angel’s Share – New York, NY
A speakeasy legend reborn, Angel’s Share is back with its signature elegance and whisper-quiet charm. Hidden behind an unmarked door, the bar offers Japanese-style cocktails crafted with meticulous care. The ambiance is serene, the bartenders are artists, and the drinks—like the “Smoked Plum Negroni”—are unforgettable. It’s a sanctuary for those who appreciate subtlety, balance, and beauty in every pour.
24. Allegory – Washington, D.C.
Tucked inside the Eaton Hotel, Allegory is a cocktail bar wrapped in storytelling. The menu draws inspiration from literary themes, with drinks named after characters and narratives. The space is moody and immersive, featuring murals of Alice in Wonderland reimagined through civil rights symbolism. It’s a bar that challenges convention while delivering exceptional cocktails and thought-provoking ambiance.
25. Dante – New York, NY
A Greenwich Village classic, Dante is where Italian aperitivo culture meets New York sophistication. The Negroni variations are legendary, the martinis are crisp, and the hospitality is warm. With its sidewalk seating and timeless charm, Dante is both a neighborhood hangout and a global icon. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like a regular—even on your first visit.
26. Silver Lyan – Washington, D.C.
Located in the basement of the Riggs Hotel, Silver Lyan is a subterranean wonderland of global flavors and sleek design. The cocktails are inspired by cultural exchange—think Japanese whisky with American apple or Caribbean rum with British tea. The space is intimate and futuristic, with glowing accents and curated playlists. It’s a bar that feels like a secret, shared only with those in the know.
27. Cure – New Orleans, LA
Cure helped redefine New Orleans drinking culture when it opened in a former firehouse on Freret Street. The cocktails are thoughtful and balanced, often featuring house-made syrups and bitters. The vibe is relaxed yet refined, with exposed brick and candlelight setting the tone. It’s a bar that honors the city’s spirit while carving its own path—equal parts tradition and innovation.
28. Meadowlark – Chicago, IL
A hidden gem in Logan Square, Meadowlark is a cocktail bar for the curious. The menu is poetic and seasonal, with drinks named after emotions, colors, and abstract ideas. The space is cozy and cerebral, with bookshelves, vintage glassware, and a soundtrack that soothes. It’s a bar that invites introspection and conversation—perfect for quiet nights and deep thoughts.
29. Bisous – Chicago, IL
Bisous is French for “kisses,” and this River North bar delivers plenty of charm. The cocktails are elegant and expressive, often featuring floral notes, sparkling wines, and delicate garnishes. The décor is chic and romantic, with velvet seating and soft lighting. It’s a bar that feels like a love letter to Paris, written in the language of mixology.
30. Yacht Club – Denver, CO
Don’t let the name fool you—Yacht Club is more punk rock than preppy. This Denver dive bar serves up serious cocktails with irreverent flair. The drinks are bold and flavorful, the staff is welcoming, and the vibe is pure Colorado cool. It’s a place where you can sip a perfectly made daiquiri while listening to metal and munching on bar snacks. Unpretentious, unforgettable, and unapologetically fun.
31. Attaboy – New York, NY
A Lower East Side legend, Attaboy is the birthplace of the modern speakeasy revival. There’s no menu—just a conversation with the bartender, who crafts a bespoke cocktail based on your preferences. The vibe is intimate and unpretentious, with exposed brick and candlelight setting the mood. It’s a bar that trusts its guests and its bartenders equally, delivering personalized perfection in every glass.
32. Bar Goto – New York, NY
Bar Goto blends Japanese elegance with New York edge. The cocktails are delicate and layered—think sake-tinis, yuzu spritzes, and miso-infused old fashioneds. The space is sleek and minimalist, with warm wood tones and soft lighting. It’s a quiet powerhouse in the Lower East Side, perfect for contemplative sipping and subtle sophistication. Don’t miss the house okonomiyaki—it’s the perfect pairing.
33. Death & Co – Denver, CO
An offshoot of the iconic NYC bar, Death & Co Denver brings high-concept cocktails to the Rockies. The menu is divided by flavor profiles—bright, boozy, and everything in between. The space is moody and modern, with velvet booths and dramatic lighting. It’s a destination for serious drinkers and design lovers alike, where every cocktail feels like a revelation.
34. The Roosevelt Room – Austin, TX
Located in the heart of downtown Austin, The Roosevelt Room is a cocktail lover’s dream. The menu is organized by era—from pre-Prohibition classics to modern innovations—making it both educational and delicious. The bartenders are true professionals, crafting drinks with precision and flair. The space is sleek and moody, perfect for date nights or solo sipping. Whether you’re into old fashioneds or experimental infusions, this bar delivers history and hospitality in every glass.
35. Lost Lake – Chicago, IL
A tropical oasis in Logan Square, Lost Lake was a tiki bar with a conscience. Though it closed in 2022, its legacy lives on in the cocktail world. Known for its sustainable practices and inclusive ethos, the drinks were vibrant and the décor was lush. It was a place where escapism met ethics, and every rum-soaked sip told a story.
36. The Aviary – Chicago, IL
A cocktail lab disguised as a lounge, The Aviary is Grant Achatz’s high-tech temple to mixology. Drinks arrive in glass spheres, smoke-filled bags, or edible vessels. It’s theatrical, cerebral, and utterly unique. Located in the West Loop, The Aviary redefines what a bar can be—more tasting menu than happy hour. It’s a must-visit for anyone who loves innovation and spectacle.
37. Leyenda – Brooklyn, NY
A celebration of Latin American spirits, Leyenda is the sister bar to Clover Club and a powerhouse in its own right. The cocktails feature mezcal, cachaça, and pisco, often paired with bold spices and tropical fruits. The space is cozy and colorful, with a warm, welcoming vibe. It’s a bar that honors heritage while embracing modern mixology.
38. Bar Leather Apron – Honolulu, HI
Tucked inside a downtown office building, Bar Leather Apron is Hawaii’s best-kept secret. The cocktails are meticulous—Japanese whisky, rare rums, and house infusions abound. The service is impeccable, and the ambiance is intimate. It’s a bar that values craftsmanship above all, offering a quiet escape from the island’s bustle. A true gem for connoisseurs.
39. Clover Club – Brooklyn, NY
Named after a pre-Prohibition cocktail, Clover Club is a love letter to classic mixology. The menu features timeless drinks—martinis, flips, cobblers—executed with precision. The space is elegant yet inviting, with vintage décor and plush seating. It’s a bar that respects tradition while staying fresh, perfect for date nights or solo sipping with style.
40. Pouring Ribbons – New York, NY
A hidden gem in the East Village, Pouring Ribbons is known for its flavor matrix—a grid that helps guests choose cocktails based on intensity and sweetness. The drinks are inventive and balanced, the staff is knowledgeable, and the space is sleek but approachable. It’s a bar that turns education into enjoyment, making every visit a learning experience in liquid form.
41. Sip & Guzzle – New York, NY
A newcomer with swagger, Sip & Guzzle is tucked inside the swanky Le Jardinier restaurant. The cocktails are minimalist yet expressive, often featuring clarified juices and rare botanicals. The space is sleek and intimate, with marble accents and low lighting. It’s a bar that whispers luxury without shouting, perfect for quiet indulgence and high-end sipping. A rising star in Manhattan’s cocktail constellation.
42. Kumiko – Chicago, IL
Kumiko is a Japanese-inspired bar and dining experience led by mixology icon Julia Momose. The drinks are elegant and restrained, often featuring sake, shochu, and seasonal infusions. The space is serene and minimalist, with warm wood tones and impeccable service. It’s a bar that honors Japanese hospitality while pushing the boundaries of cocktail artistry. Every sip feels like a meditation.
43. Clemente Bar – New York, NY
Floating above Eleven Madison Park, Clemente Bar is a sleek, high-concept lounge with Michelin-level pedigree. The cocktails are refined and architectural, often featuring rare spirits and subtle infusions. The ambiance is hushed and luxurious, with soft lighting and curated playlists. It’s a bar for connoisseurs and romantics alike—where every drink feels like a quiet triumph.
44. Bar Leather Apron – Honolulu, HI
Hidden in downtown Honolulu, Bar Leather Apron is a temple of precision. The cocktails are meticulous, often featuring Japanese whisky, rare rums, and house-made tinctures. The space is intimate and understated, with a focus on craftsmanship and hospitality. It’s a bar that values quiet excellence, offering a refined escape from the island’s bustle. A must-visit for serious drinkers.
45. Bijou – San Francisco, CA
Bijou is a jewel box of a bar located in the Tenderloin. The cocktails are theatrical and layered, often featuring house-made vermouths and unexpected pairings. The décor is moody and romantic, with velvet seating and vintage accents. It’s a bar that feels like a secret rendezvous—perfect for late-night whispers and slow sips. A hidden gem in the city’s cocktail crown.
46. Dante – New York, NY
A Greenwich Village icon, Dante is beloved for its Negroni variations and aperitivo culture. The cocktails are crisp, balanced, and timeless. The space is charming and sunlit, with sidewalk seating and warm service. It’s a bar that feels like home, whether you’re sipping a spritz at brunch or a martini at midnight. A classic that never goes out of style.
47. Silver Lyan – Washington, D.C.
Located in the basement of the Riggs Hotel, Silver Lyan is a subterranean sanctuary of global flavors. The cocktails are inspired by cultural exchange—Japanese whisky meets American apple, Caribbean rum meets British tea. The space is sleek and futuristic, with glowing accents and curated playlists. It’s a bar that feels like a secret society of taste.
48. Cure – New Orleans, LA
Housed in a former firehouse, Cure helped redefine New Orleans cocktail culture. The drinks are thoughtful and balanced, often featuring house-made syrups and bitters. The vibe is relaxed yet refined, with exposed brick and candlelight setting the tone. It’s a bar that honors tradition while embracing innovation—perfect for both locals and cocktail pilgrims.
49. Meadowlark – Chicago, IL
A poetic hideaway in Logan Square, Meadowlark crafts cocktails inspired by emotions, colors, and abstract ideas. The menu reads like a diary, and the drinks are layered with meaning. The space is cozy and cerebral, with bookshelves, vintage glassware, and a soundtrack that soothes. It’s a bar for thinkers, dreamers, and quiet rebels.
50. Bisous – Chicago, IL
French for “kisses,” Bisous is a romantic escape in River North. The cocktails are elegant and expressive, often featuring floral notes, sparkling wines, and delicate garnishes. The décor is chic and intimate, with velvet seating and soft lighting. It’s a bar that feels like a love letter to Paris, written in the language of mixology.
Closing
These 50 bars aren’t just places to drink—they’re cultural landmarks, creative labs, and community anchors. From coast to coast, they redefine what it means to gather, celebrate, and savor. Whether you’re chasing rare spirits or simply soaking up the vibe, each bar on this list proves that great hospitality is an art form. So raise your glass to the tastemakers, risk-takers, and storytellers behind the bar—because in America, the cocktail renaissance is alive and thriving