A throwback to the 1920s, this warm and friendly bar with a speakeasy vibe specializes in small plates made with eclectic and exotic ingredients and a drink menu that is equally as exciting. The bartenders lend their personal creativity to each drink, like adding bacon to a Bloody Mary, and they are always willing to throw a new twist on an old cocktail. Bar Pilar is a great place to unwind with a group of friends and start the weekend off right.

Notable bartender: Adam Bernback

Jack Rose has the the classics down. Try a cocktail based on its namesake (Laird’s Bonded Apple Brandy, grenadine, and lime) because you know they do that right. And not everyone does. While it’s named for a classic, this is Not Your Mother’s Scotch Bonnet (Bushmill’s Irish Whiskey, Combier, Dubonnet, scotch bonnet pepper syrup, and grapefruit). Check out the rooftop patio and tiki drinks to boot, and, if you’re still at a loss, maybe one of the 1,400 bottles of hand-selected Scotches, bourbons, and spirits will do the trick. Leave it up to the professionals: Rachel Sergi, Dawn Webster and the rest of the crew will guide you on your way.

Notable bartenders: Rachel Sergi, Dawn Webster

Known for their whimsical cocktails and creative concoctions, Eve’s drink menu showcases careful pairings of fresh, and often homemade ingredients. Their adventurous house cocktails may challenge your imagination but will surely please your taste buds and complement the rustic fare from the Bistro. You’ll find yourself returning again and again to further explore the menus and bask in the warmth of their hospitality.

Notable bartender: Todd Thrasher

Just your normal, no-attitude dive bar owned and run by Wall Street Journal’s “Master of Mixological Science.” Ok, so maybe WE WISH it was a more common thing. Derek Brown heads up a staff of welcoming and gracious bartenders in a laid-back “saloon” environment. And these cocktails are arguably as good as it gets. Every day, loads of time and care is spent preparing the hyper-fresh and seasonal ingredients for the nightly festivities. Well-balanced classics and comfortable conversations make this place a neighborhood favorite. There is not a drink that we wouldn’t recommend. Let the Master do his work.

Notable bartender: Derek Brown