Phoenix's Coolest Cocktail Bars

Admittedly, Phoenix locals have bucket lists for Phoenix, too! As a cocktail connoisseur, there were two hotspots I’d heard great things about, and with my birthday around the corner felt it was finally time to check them off my bucket list. I was finally able to visit Under Tow, an underground tiki bar, and Platform 18, a classic cocktail bar within a Presidential Pullman-inspired train car, and can confidently report that these two spots are Phoenix’s Coolest Cocktail Bars.

Under Tow - ride a ship without getting seasick

When you step into Under Tow, you’re automatically transported into a pirate’s ship. The waves are crashing at the windows while you’re tucked away at a cozy table. You’re given a book - a literal book - of cocktails to choose from, complete with a cocktail glossary in case you need to look up any terms. I decided to channel my inner rebel and go with rum. After ordering a delicious Mai Tai, I ordered a Clarified Pina Colada. Clarified cocktails are quite special; they maintain a clear appearance and smooth texture and are free of any extra particles that would make the cocktail ‘unclear’. It was probably the smoothest Pina Colada I have ever had.

Platform 18 - ride a pullman- inspired train car and take in all the sights and sounds

Elegant train cars are from a time almost forgotten. With luscious vintage decor, and bartenders dressed as if from another era, you feel as if you have stepped back in time as soon as you enter Platform 18. On the menu, there are whole sections dedicated to desserts, sorbet, and ice cream– so I dived right in! This time I ordered the Crackle & Shift – blueberry infused vodka with fermented blueberries, basil, tarragon, kefir yogurt, and lemon juice. It tasted divine. To finish up the night, I ordered the Winchester Riffle, coconut ice cream infused with bourbon, topped with basil, coconut, and dark chocolate. Can every dessert taste as good as this one did?

Conclusion- go visit under tow and platform 18

Each cocktail bar deserves a visit, because Under Tow and Platform 18 truly are special spots. Whether you are going for a birthday celebration, or taking friends out of town, or are simply a local looking to check off your bucket list, these two spots truly are Phoenix’s Coolest Cocktail Bars.