Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Downtown

Cool bars

A bar that manages to be genuinely cool without trying so hard that it becomes exhausting.

Based on 567 Opinions
+564
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Gay bar

Upscale lounge with Miami-style atmosphere and state-of-the-art renovation creates a vibrant, welcoming vibe. Spotlights on drag shows and live DJs keep energy lively, drawing a mixed crowd for dancing and socializing. Design features include warm, trendy interiors with art and lighting that enhance the experience.

An upscale cocktail bar with a classy vibe caters to the LGBTQ+ community and allies. It stands out with a high-end old school feel, offering a more refined alternative to typical dive bars.

A narrow, long dancefloor with seating along the walls and bars creates a spacious layout. The decor shows a cool industrial Brooklyn DUMBO vibe with stiff cocktails served by friendly bartenders.

People are saying

"This gay bar makes you feel accepted and safe."

"The bartenders here make top-notch craft cocktails."

"The atmosphere here is so cool and chill."

Good to know

1

Happy hour cocktails are available on Wednesday afternoons.

2

Drag shows happen every Friday night at Hardwicks.

3

Karaoke takes place every Tuesday night with local hosts.

02
The Greenhouse Bar image 1

Space blends lush plants with stylish, cozy design creating a peaceful urban oasis. Atmosphere stays calm and relaxing, inviting reading, working, or quiet socializing. Plant shop and bar elements add unique charm and variety.

A quiet, comfortable spot with many plants and cozy nooks creates a peaceful vibe. It serves both delicious coffee and alcoholic drinks, making it great for chatting or relaxing alone.

Funky interior and nice plants create a cool vibe. The crew adds to the relaxed, interesting atmosphere.

People are saying

"This place's coffee has such a chill, lush atmosphere."

"This bar's lush, plant-filled atmosphere feels like a peaceful urban oasis."

"The vibe here is so cool with all the plants."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky, but validation is available for nearby garages.

2

The small space makes finding a seat difficult during busy hours.

3

Expect a wait of over 20 minutes for drinks during peak times.

03
THAT BAR AT THE ARENA image 1

Sports bar combines indoor and outdoor spaces with two patios featuring bars. Atmosphere stays lively yet comfortable, with numerous TV screens and a festive vibe that draws energetic crowds before and after events.

Offers both indoor and outdoor spaces with a lively vibe for pre and post event gatherings. Staff are friendly and professional, providing attentive service and quick communication. Prices stay reasonable, making it a solid spot for happy hour or pregaming near stadiums.

Atmosphere feels laid-back and inviting with a cool design inside. People there add to the vibe, making it a great spot to hang out before and after events.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is amazing and hustling."

"I loved the outdoor seating and the festive vibe."

"It's a cool little spot to hang out before and after games."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is a great time to visit for discounted drinks.

2

Parking is available but can be crowded on game days.

3

Food ordering can be slow due to no designated seating area.

04
Ruby Beach Brewing image 1

Spacious brewery with large outdoor patio, lawn games, and a beer garden creates a relaxed, safe vibe. Regular food trucks complement the excellent selection of craft beers, including notable sours. Indoor and outdoor seating areas offer a cool atmosphere with brick walls and string lights.

Clean bar and nice brick walls create a classic brewery vibe. Staff delivers some of the best service around, and a full liquor bar offers options beyond beer. An in-bar cat adds a unique touch.

Space blends industrial and laid-back styles creating a cool vibe. Atmosphere feels relaxed yet stylish.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the large tap list with rotating and seasonal beer options."

"I loved their excellent tap list with so many craft beers."

"I loved the beers here; there were so many exciting options."

Good to know

1

Parking is free on the street after 6pm.

2

Ruby Beach Brewing does not have table service and does not offer food on its menu.

3

The brewery is dog friendly both inside and outside.

05
Dos Gatos image 1

Bar and lounge with an eclectic, dark interior creates a chill yet lively atmosphere. Music ranges from live bands to energetic karaoke DJs, drawing a younger crowd especially on dance nights. Drinks focus on excellent cocktails alongside affordable beer options.

A hip downtown bar with friendly and knowledgeable bartenders crafts excellent drinks. The lively vibe peaks on Fridays and Saturdays, welcoming both solo visitors and groups.

A bar and lounge with a lively atmosphere and a cool vibe. The interior features a cool design that makes it a great spot to hang out with friends and have drinks.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are friendly and knowledgeable."

"I was pleasantly surprised by the great cocktails here."

"The vibe here is really cool and lively."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens every Monday, attracting a lively crowd.

2

Fridays and Saturdays are the busiest nights, so expect a lively atmosphere.

3

Free blackjack games are offered on Wednesday nights with Black Jack On The Rocks.

06
Pour Taproom - Jacksonville image 1

Self-pour taps with over 80 beer options create an interactive drinking experience. The space combines retro arcade games, multiple seating levels, and a wine wall, blending a dive bar feel with a modern twist. Live music and multiple screens support a lively atmosphere suited for games and socializing.

A wide selection of beers and cocktails fills the full bar, supported by solid service. The space mixes pub-friendly vibes with a small stage for live music and retro arcade games, creating a unique atmosphere.

Self-serve taps let you pour your own beer, cocktails, and wine, creating a cool concept. Upstairs seating offers a cozy vibe while the overall design and atmosphere feel super cool.

People are saying

"It's a cool concept to pour your own beer after a learning curve."

"The bar's pour-it-yourself option made tracking my spending easy."

"The atmosphere and vibe here are really cool."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Self-service ordering is required; download the app to place your order.

3

Parking is available in a nearby garage, making access convenient.

07
Indulgence Southern Bistro image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

Petite space with neat decor and an exclusive feel creates a homey atmosphere. Old school R&B music plays at a comfortable volume, supporting easy conversation. The vibe reflects black excellence with attentive service and a relaxed energy.

Plenty of drink specials keep the bar lively. The bar area is nice and draws people back regularly.

Cozy vibes create a chill atmosphere that feels relaxed and inviting. The spot carries a cool energy that makes hanging out easy.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the salmon croquettes and grits, is perfection."

"The bar's atmosphere is cozy and welcoming."

"The vibes here are so cool and chill."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

2

Expect a wait time of 2-3 hours during peak hours.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and food.

08
Cowford Chophouse image 1

Old bank building with original style and safe deposit boxes creates a unique setting. Rooftop bar offers skyline views and a relaxing atmosphere with patio heaters and valet parking. Quiet, private rooms support intimate gatherings and clear conversation.

Rooftop bar offers skyline views over the river and city. Drinks are decent and the setting invites arriving early.

A rooftop bar offers cool views of the city along with good drinks. The setting provides a relaxed vibe with a focus on the scenery.

People are saying

"The food here is pretty good to the best pork chop I ever had."

"The rooftop bar has beautiful views of downtown."

"The rooftop bar has cool skyline views."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great deals on appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended to avoid long waits during peak hours.

3

The rooftop bar offers a unique happy hour experience with stunning views.

09
Burlock and Barrel Distillery image 1

Distillery space combines rustic charm with high-class atmosphere and earthy tones. Energy feels welcoming and safe, attracting both whiskey enthusiasts and casual visitors. Tours and live music add to a community-focused vibe that encourages conversation and learning.

Owner presence creates a welcoming vibe as they hang out with customers. Friendly bartenders keep the atmosphere relaxed while you catch a game on Sunday.

Cool vibe fills the distillery with sick music setting the tone. The bartenders are cool, sharing stories about whiskey history while working the bar.

People are saying

"The whiskey makers here are so handsome and friendly."

"The bar staff here are super friendly and make you feel like you're at Cheers."

"The vibe and atmosphere here are really cool."

Good to know

1

Live music, trivia nights, comedy, and burlesque events happen regularly.

2

The distillery offers a tasting option of 5 shots for $25.

3

Tours of the facility are available for visitors.

10
Underbelly image 1
Live music venue

Small venue offers intimate live music with great sound quality and phenomenal BBQ. Crowd is diverse and lively, creating an amazing atmosphere close to the bands. Setup ensures no bad views and includes thoughtful touches like a water cooler near the soundboard.

A full bar serves a variety of drinks with professional staff managing large crowds smoothly. The bar area is accessible and even features a second bar to handle busy times.

Music fills the space with a cool vibe that stands out. Staff like bartenders and door guys add to the laid-back atmosphere.

People are saying

"You've got to try their smoked turkey; it's moist and full of smoky flavor."

"The bar here is full and the bartenders are accommodating."

"I thought the vibe here was really cool."

Good to know

1

Tickets cost $30 when purchased in advance and $48 at the door.

2

Parking is available nearby, but it can be challenging during events.

3

The venue serves a full bar and hot BBQ made to order.

11
Bay Street Sports Grill image 1

Rustic decor and multiple TVs create a fun, relaxed vibe with a small town feel in a big city. Pool tables, skee ball, and darts add interactive entertainment alongside good music and occasional live DJs. The atmosphere suits casual gatherings with affordable drinks and food.

A solid bar with a nice selection of draft beers and a full liquor bar. Staff handle busy times well, with bartenders managing food and drinks efficiently even when working solo.

Laid back vibe sets the tone with cool music playing in the background. Comedy shows add a fun element but can get loud for kids.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, hot, and tasty."

"The bartenders here are awesome and really attentive."

"The DJ was jamming and the music was cool."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the street or in the public parking building in front of the Hyatt hotel.

2

Drinks are reasonably priced, and food portions are good for the price.

3

The prices for liquor are on the high end.

12
Ocean Street Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor patio connects to an arcade game room, creating a quaint and lively space with giant Jenga and Connect 4. Colorful murals and Mexican music set a festive vibe, while pet-friendly seating and umbrellas offer comfort. A DJ and live music stage add to the energetic atmosphere.

Walk-up orders get served in less than 2 minutes and meals arrive under 10 minutes. Bar staff offer perfect pairings and introduce tequila-based drinks with a friendly atmosphere and great service.

Live music on a small stage creates a cool hangout vibe. The back garden offers a chill atmosphere with friendly, cool staff.

People are saying

"The fish and brisket tacos here are delicious and fresh."

"The back patio has a bar and games like giant Jenga."

"I loved the brisket and shrimp tacos; they were fire."

Good to know

1

The lively atmosphere on the back patio occurs on the 2nd Sunday of every month from 12-6pm.

2

This downtown staple offers Taco Tuesday specials and daily specials.

3

Expect prices for tacos to range from $5.50 to $9.00 each.

13
Intuition Ale Works image 1

Brewery space features a gorgeous rooftop beer garden with garage doors that open to fresh air, creating a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere. Crowds gather for live music and games, enjoying well-crafted beer and casual seating. Accessibility and comfortable temperature add to the inviting vibe.

Bar offers attentive service with really nice staff. Food matches the beer theme and comes well seasoned. A security chain blocks off the area behind the bar.

The spot has a cool environment that stands out. It feels like a cool place overall.

People are saying

"It's a great spot to come and enjoy some beers."

"I thought the beer was great and the food was good."

"I found the environment here to be cool."

Good to know

1

Parking is free with concert tickets, but can be a hassle on game days.

2

The brewery only serves beer, with no other drink options available.

3

Last call is at 6:30 PM, and the bar closes at 7:30 PM.

14
Dorothy's Downtown image 1

Space combines modern elegance with a vibrant, inviting atmosphere featuring a covered courtyard and distinct dining and cocktail areas. Energy feels warm and lively, with a stylish mix of old and new decor. Cocktails are eclectic and well-crafted, complementing a menu known for standout dishes and desserts.

Friendly and respectful staff, including bar backs and hostesses, create a welcoming atmosphere. Bartenders Kyle, Mario, and Janelle stand out for their attentive service during a cozy happy hour.

Inside, the atmosphere feels super cool with a nice vibe. The space offers a cool setting that stands out.

People are saying

"The salmon dish was good, and I loved the presentation."

"The short rib and smash burger at this bar were really good."

"The crab cakes and voodoo balls were really good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with food and drink specials.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to avoid long wait times.

3

Parking meters only accept credit cards, so bring one for payment.

15
The Southern Grill image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

Southern restaurant offers a laid back atmosphere with live music and both indoor and outdoor seating. The space includes a spacious patio and multiple large TVs, creating a casual spot for food and games. The vibe is family-owned and community-focused, blending comfort with entertainment.

A full bar offers a wide selection of drinks with a friendly bartender who highlights happy hour specials. The bar features a spacious outdoor area with picnic tables and heaters for cooler weather.

A cool atmosphere sets the tone with a wide variety of food options and cool people to hang out with. The aquarium adds an extra layer of interest to the vibe.

People are saying

"I found the food to be tasty and prepared perfectly."

"The food at this bar was so good and varied."

"It's a cool place to hang out with a great atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 4 to 7 PM.

2

Trivia night occurs every Tuesday with a lively atmosphere.

3

Live music features rotating bands on Friday nights.

16
Myth Nightclub | Element Bistro image 1

A nightclub with state-of-the-art lighting and LED ceiling creates a visually stunning, concert-like atmosphere. The energy stays high with bass-heavy music and top DJs spinning house and hip-hop beats, while an outdoor stage and bar offer a lively alternative space. The venue blends upscale design with a relaxed vibe, attracting a diverse crowd ready to dance all night.

Friendly and attentive bar staff provide good service. Multiple bars exist, including one in the smoking area with a DJ playing great mixes. Events sometimes feature open bar options and favors.

Very cool house music and EDM fill the space. The venue features cool decor and visuals with a great setup and an awesome entryway.

People are saying

"The nightclub's DJ kept the bass-heavy music rocking all night."

"The bar staff were so nice and attentive during my visit."

"The setup and entryway were awesome, and the space felt cool."

Good to know

1

Free cover before 11pm on weekends is available.

2

Expect a steep cover charge for renowned performers.

3

Myth Nightclub hosts electronic Thursdays with big name headliners.

17
Pizza Dynamo image 1
Pizza restaurant

Spacious modern pizza restaurant with stylish indoor-outdoor seating and a nostalgic vibe featuring 1980s decor and arcade games. Atmosphere is lively and laid-back, with sports on big screens and Spanish music playing. Crowd enjoys authentic Italian pizza alongside a full bar and live music in the attached tap room.

Bar service is superb with warm greetings and helpful drink recommendations. It supports the growing nightlife and keeps things thriving.

Old school video game and pinball machines create a retro gaming vibe. Pizza Dynamo offers a cool spot next to the taproom with a social atmosphere that can get noisy and chaotic.

People are saying

"The thin crust pizza has a nice char and is perfectly crispy."

"The pizza here is huge with a bountiful variety of toppings."

"The pizza here is damn good and great."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has cleanliness issues, with unclean tables and fruit flies present.

2

Pizza prices start at $10 for two slices, which some find unsustainable.

3

The establishment does not offer any drinks, including bottled or soft drinks.

Discover more

Downtown, Jacksonville

Area guide
Loading Map...