Looking to try the best dive bars in town? Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the top dive bars in Phoenix, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of the best spots to achieve your dreams.
1. The Rooster Tavern
Topping the list is The Rooster Tavern. Located at 14202 N. Scottsdale Road in Paradise Valley, the pub and New American spot is the highest rated dive bar in Phoenix, boasting 4.5 stars out of 189 reviews on Yelp.
This place touts itself as a luxury dive bar with a wide variety of food and drink options. Sit down, then sip on a pint of beer or your favorite signature cocktail while perusing the menu. The spot is open daily for brunch, lunch, dinner and late night dining. Check out burgers wings, tacos, small bites and shareable food items. (Here's the menu.)
Stevie N., who reviewed it on Nov. 17, wrote, "This is the kind of neighborhood bar atmosphere with great food that you just can't hardly find anymore. A real best kept secret and I don't mind sharing it. ... A great place to start or end a night out, with good drinks and even better food."
2. The Bar
Next up is Camelback East's The Bar, situated at 3174 E. Indian School Road. With 4.5 stars out of 93 reviews on Yelp, the dive bar, cocktail bar and traditional American spot has proven to be a local favorite.
Signature cocktails include the ginny Unusual Times, complete with cucumber vodka, lime, simple sugar and soda; the Dudebro with vodka, St. George coffee and Irish cream; and the Too Much Fun Club with tequila, agave, lime and grapefruit. Hungry? Grab some wings, onion rings, potato skins or a grilled cheese sandwich.
Jeff S., who reviewed it on Dec. 16, said, "Love this local bar. Great bartender. Great beer and food. If you're looking for a place to hang and watch football on Sunday, check this local place out."
3. Bikini Lounge
Bikini Lounge, a dive bar, lounge and pub in Central City, is another go-to, with four stars out of 206 Yelp reviews. Head over to 1502 Grand Ave. to see for yourself.
Hawaiian decor lines this spot's interior, which includes a full bar and light snacks. Play some billiards and sip on a signature cocktail or craft beer. Pizza and other fare are on offer.
Mary D. said, "This place is a hidden gem in Phoenix. One of my favorite low key spots where you can drink and dance or just hang out and play pool. You see a huge range of people and it's such a great hide out after a long day. Not your typical dive bar and it has great music."
4. Swizzle Inn
Over in Camelback East, check out Swizzle Inn, which has earned four stars out of 137 reviews on Yelp. You can find the dive bar at 5835 N. 16th St., Suite A.
This spot is decorated lively for the holidays, features gambling machines and dart boards, and its bartenders can craft you any beverage you would like. Grab a cocktail and take a seat at one of the tables to watch the game or socialize with your buddies.
Autumn F. wrote, "This bar is the best dive bar ever. It feels like a small town bar and the bartenders are always nice."
5. Rum Runner's
Last but not least, there's Rum Runner's, a North Mountain favorite with 4.5 stars out of 36 reviews. Stop by 8355 N. Seventh St. to hit up the next time the urge strikes.
Beer, beer and more beer. This place has draft beer, canned beer, beer in bottles and beer in aluminum. Over 30 types of beer are available. Rum Runner's also serves snacks like jalapeño poppers, hot dogs and bags of chips. Visit the spot's menu for a full list of offerings and for more information.
Janessa G., who reviewed it on Nov. 6, wrote, "Always a good time. The bartender is always pleasant and they have games! This is an awesome bar to grab a drink, play adult Jenga or shuffleboard and chill."
