List of Top Bars and Pubs in the USA. A bar, also known as a saloon, a tavern or tippling house, or sometimes as a pub or club, is an establishment retail business that serves alcoholic beverages, such as beer, wine, liquor, cocktails, and other beverages such as mineral water and soft drinks. Bars often also sell snack foods, such as crisps or peanuts, for consumption on their premises. Some types of bars, such as pubs, may also serve food from a restaurant menu. The term “bar” refers to the countertop where drinks are prepared and served, and by extension to the overall premises.
The term derives from the metal or wooden bar (barrier) that is often located along the length of the “bar”. Over many years, heights of bars were lowered, and high stools added, and the brass bar remains today.
Here’s a list of some of the top bars and pubs in the USA, with a brief overview, location, contact information, and website links.
List of Top Bars and Pubs in the USA
1. The Dead Rabbit Grocery and Grog
- Location: New York, NY
- Contact: +1 646-422-7906
- Website: The Dead Rabbit
- Overview: Located in the Financial District of Manhattan, The Dead Rabbit is a world-renowned Irish bar known for its exceptional cocktails and historic ambiance. It’s been awarded as the best bar in the world multiple times.
2. Smuggler’s Cove
- Location: San Francisco, CA
- Contact: +1 415-869-1900
- Website: Smuggler’s Cove
- Overview: A tiki-themed bar in San Francisco, Smuggler’s Cove is famous for its extensive rum collection and immersive tropical atmosphere. It’s a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts.
3. The Aviary
- Location: Chicago, IL
- Contact: +1 312-226-0868
- Website: The Aviary
- Overview: The Aviary is a high-end cocktail lounge offering a unique experience with innovative and artistic drinks. Located in Chicago’s West Loop, it’s known for its experimental approach to mixology.
4. Employees Only
- Location: New York, NY
- Contact: +1 212-242-3021
- Website: Employees Only
- Overview: A speakeasy-style bar located in Manhattan’s West Village, Employees Only combines a classic cocktail bar atmosphere with modern mixology. It’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
5. The Broken Shaker
- Location: Miami, FL
- Contact: +1 305-531-2727
- Website: The Broken Shaker
- Overview: The Broken Shaker is a tropical-themed bar located within the Freehand Miami hotel. It’s celebrated for its creative cocktails, vibrant outdoor setting, and laid-back vibe.
6. Tørst
- Location: Brooklyn, NY
- Contact: +1 718-389-6034
- Website: Tørst
- Overview: Tørst is a craft beer bar in Brooklyn’s Greenpoint neighborhood, known for its curated selection of rare and unique beers. It’s a go-to spot for beer enthusiasts looking to explore new flavors.
7. Canon
- Location: Seattle, WA
- Contact: +1 206-552-9755
- Website: Canon
- Overview: Canon is a cocktail bar in Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood, boasting one of the largest spirit collections in the world. It’s known for its meticulously crafted cocktails and intimate setting.
8. Anvil Bar & Refuge
- Location: Houston, TX
- Contact: +1 713-523-1622
- Website: Anvil Bar & Refuge
- Overview: Anvil Bar & Refuge is a pioneer in the craft cocktail movement in Houston. It offers a diverse menu of expertly made cocktails in a casual, welcoming environment.
9. The Green Mill
- Location: Chicago, IL
- Contact: +1 773-878-5552
- Website: The Green Mill
- Overview: The Green Mill is a historic jazz club and cocktail lounge in Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood. It’s famous for its live jazz performances and vintage 1940s ambiance.
10. Attaboy
- Location: New York, NY
- Contact: +1 646-882-7257
- Website: Attaboy
- Overview: Attaboy is a reservation-only speakeasy on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, known for its bespoke cocktails crafted to suit individual tastes. It’s an intimate space where the experience is tailored to each guest.
Conclusion
These bars and pubs represent some of the best places in the USA to enjoy a drink, whether you’re looking for expertly crafted cocktails, a laid-back atmosphere, or a vibrant social scene. Each offers a unique experience that reflects the diverse drinking culture across the country.
