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There’s something quite enchanting about the “speakeasy.” We can all acknowledge that it evokes a feeling of exclusivity and satisfaction knowing one of a city’s secrets — even if these watering holes are not that secret anymore. In fact, these speakeasies happen to be the best that Phoenix has to offer. As a result, people have gotten familiar with them. That doesn’t change the atmosphere, though: it’s all about having a good time in a place that feels like a hideaway. That’s the magic of the speakeasy, and with our help, you can find that magic here in Phoenix.
Melinda’s Alley
50 E Adams St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
By day, the doors to Melinda’s Alley hide in plain sight as a piece of art. By night, this place beneath Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel becomes one of the coolest underground bars — complete with red lights and an ever-changing cocktail menu. They make the most of the atmosphere within the foundation of the old Adams Hotel. If you’re looking for the “speakeasy” feeling of what seems like an illicit hangout, Melinda’s Alley is the place to be.
36 Below
3620 E Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018
Boasting the title of “Arizona’s newest underground lounge,” 36 Below is an underground bar — and an impressive greenhouse — nestled below Sip Coffee & Beer Garage. Its emphasis on adventurous, strange, and elevated experiences is coupled with their skills in mixology and presentation. Each drink on their menu has more intriguing flavors than the last, and they prove equally enchanting for the way they’re delivered to you — be it in a smoking chalice or a bird-shaped glass.
Pigtails Downtown
1 E Washington St #128, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Pigtails sports a large menu full of drinks that fit anyone’s craving: from the “light and citrusy” to the “bold and boozy,” there’s something for everyone here. This spot for Instagram-worthy beverages also features food, including BBQ sliders and taquitos as a daily happy hour that includes raw bar specials like oysters! This craft cocktail bar has a sister location in Desert ridge, too — so even if you’re well outside of Downtown Phoenix for a drink, you can still make it happen there.
UnderTow
3626 E Indian School Rd Suite 100, Phoenix, AZ 85018
Now tucked away beneath Century Grand is a bar that has beforehand already made a name for itself. UnderTow can be accurately described as an adventurous experience, complete with a nautical theme that befits a bygone era. Its drink menu takes you along for an immersive pirate-themed story encounter. With an extensive rum list and incredibly cool names for drinks like “Black Magic” or “Talon of Tenacity,” it’s easy to see why this bar is a favorite for many adventure-seekers and thirsty land-lubbers alike. Their tiki-inspired beverages are only the tip of the UnderTow iceberg — so go below and check it out for yourself!
