This article is part of our Exploring Atlanta series, where we cover the best of what to see, eat, and do in the ATL. Follow this series to stay up to date on the hottest spots our city has to offer. In this article, we cover the best bars in Atlanta.
Whether you’re a self-proclaimed foodie, or a dancer at heart ready for a night on the town, this southern city offers something for everyone. And, the bar scene is no exception. You’ll always find a spot to visit after a day of shopping, a walk around one of our numerous parks, or whichever activity you choose to indulge in (of which, there are plenty).
Atlanta, affectionately nicknamed for its summer heat and lush greenery, also deserves recognition for its breadth of bevy options. Looking for a chill pub night or a fancy drink lounge? We’ve got the best bar options around!
Our team of locals compiled their favorite spots to grab a drink. Find where to enjoy the most delicious cocktails in Atlanta.
If you’re looking to live within walking distance of one of these watering holes, reach out to AptAmigo. With helpful locals, innovative technology, and access to the best deals in Atlanta, apartment hunting is easier than ever.
Related: Atlanta’s Best Distilleries
Top 5 Bars in Atlanta
Jojo’s Beloved Cocktail Lounge
Location: 1197 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
Go here if: Your taste buds are ready for an adventure. While the vibe screams intimate date night, we also love it for a girls’ night out. Play up the disco vibes and come ready in your best sequins. The menu also boasts wine and beer, but no food, so grab a bite to eat after drinks from one (or more!) of Politan Row’s vendors.
Newcomer to the scene, Jojo’s Beloved, can be found in the newly opened Politan Row at Colony Square in the heart of Midtown. Tucked away in the back and hidden from sight at first glance, Jojo’s quickly rose as a mecca for cocktail and disco enthusiasts. The glam, velvet interior is reminiscent of a different era. And, the cocktail list became a surefire hit in its first few months.
Our favorite drink: The Set Up 75, otherwise known as an out-of-this-world French 75. It includes a bottle of house champagne and a premixed solution of cognac, lemon, and sugar, so you can make your own French 75 cocktails right at your table with a few friends.
Buteco
Location: 1039 Grant St SE Suite C-10, Atlanta, GA 30315
Serving as an anchor in Grant Park’s, The Beacon, Buteco is a gem. They serve Brazilian street food, drinks, and coffee with both indoor and outdoor dining options. After opening in 2018, Buteco quickly made a name for itself as a mainstay. The Caipirinhas transport you right to Brazil, and if you’re lucky, you’ll land there on a night with live music on their patio.
Go here if: You’re looking for a fun date night spot with live music and top-notch cuisine.
Our favorite drink: The traditional Caipirinha is stellar and a local favorite. If you want something a little sweeter, try one of the fruit-filled versions, like the strawberry cucumber. And, definitely order the coxinha and tapioca tots!
S.O.S. Tiki Bar
Location: 340 Church St, Decatur, GA 30030
The S.O.S. Tiki Bar is exactly what it sounds like, a delectably unique tiki bar in the heart of Decatur. From classic tiki sips, to “unsinkable spirits,” S.O.S. masters the tiki concept. The bar’s vibe meets at the intersection of cozy and tropical and feels like an escape from the everyday.
Go here if: You want a date night that feels like you took a plane to get there.
Our favorite drink: Go classic with the Painkilla. The coconut cream and pineapple? A match made in heaven.
12 Cocktail Bar
Location: 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
Perched atop Ponce City Market’s RFD Social, 12 Cocktail Bar is a suave bar serving up rare spirits and handcrafted cocktails curated for your tastes. They don’t offer a formal cocktail menu, so come ready to let the bartenders impress you as they shake, stir, and serve up delightful drinks based on your cravings.
Go here if: You’re looking for a sophisticated evening high atop Ponce City Market.
Our favorite drink: Depends on the day! And, what you like. We always love a good gin or mezcal cocktail.
Parlor
Location: 249-A Peters Street Southwest, Atlanta, GA 30313
Found in Castleberry Hill, Parlor is a plush lounge with elegant seating in rich gem tones. It boasts a small menu with bar snacks and desserts, including a trendy CBD dessert! They serve up cocktails, bottled cocktails, beer, wine, and plenty of non-alcoholic drinks.
Go here if: You’re looking for a relaxed, yet elevated date night.
Our favorite drink: The Flossy! Perfect for cool weather months with its fresh brewed coffee and RumChata combo.
Find Your Next Apartment Near the Best Bars in Atlanta
Now that you know where to grab a drink, find your dream apartment nearby! Whether you’re a longtime resident or just moving to Atlanta, we have all the tools to make finding your next apartment a breeze. Our apartment experts know each building like the back of their hand, and can help you find the apartment that checks all of your boxes. Even better, your dedicated agent will be able to access all the rent deals being offered, so an apartment that was previously out of your budget might just be affordable when you calculate 2 months free rent. So sit back, relax, and let the apartment experts do all the searching for you. Oh, and did we mention it’s free?
Gabriella LePage is a photographer, writer, and mentor to entrepreneurial women. She currently calls Atlanta home. Learn more at www.bygabriella.co.
