Best Sober Space
Zero Proof Lounge
As the sober-curious movement gains momentum, booze-free spaces are popping up across the country, including this women-owned, speakeasy-style bar specializing in botanical mocktails and kava. It’s also a welcoming third space for like-minded guests to gather over mindful drinks and spirited (but spirits-free) community events like open mics and game nights. 5150 W. Olive Ave., Glendale, 602-935-4471, zeroproofloungeaz.com
Best Sneak-Up-On-You Cocktail
The Painkiller at Tropic Thunder
At first blush, it looks as girlie and innocent as its sister bevvie, the piña colada, but don’t kid yourself. Despite the froth, fruitiness and grandma-like nutmeg, this delectable tropical cocktail, made with dark, complex Pusser’s rum, is capable of serious ass-whupping – which is why the bar limits patrons to two. 1014 N. Second St., Phoenix, 480-239-7114, @tropicthunderphx
Best Downtown Speakeasy
Rough Rider
Descend via hidden elevator to sip Victorian-era craft cocktails in a moody, stylish space with a nod to Teddy Roosevelt and the Rough Riders. Try a “punch” made with various spirits and local tea over crushed ice; or a “cobbler,” alcohol mixed with a fruity element and house-made jam. The vibe and the drinks? Intoxicating. 1001 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, 602-675-0439, roughrideraz.com
Coziest Wine Bar
Mixela
Visit Mixela in Midtown and you’ll be transported to a cozy foreign tavern where the music rocks, the wine flows, and tapas and crudos abound. Chef/owner Gian Franco Brugaletta has put together a divine selection of small plates and a sturdy wine list. This might be your new favorite wine bar. 3410 N. 24th St., Phoenix, 602-795-4299, mixelaphx.com
Best Surprise Beer Options
Dynamite Beer Co.
You wanna get nuts? Go to one of these Valley-based taprooms and order a No. 8 from the blackboard menu, aka the “Shit Beer of the Moment.” Brother, it could be anything. Sometimes it’s not terrible – we’ve caught drafts of Modelo and PBR. Other days it’s a pint of Keystone Light. Just as crazy: $4 grab bags containing a random beer cooler selection. Be a decent human being to your server and they might be able to control what lands in the bag. Multiple locations in the Valley, dynamitebeer.com
Best Brewery Cocktails
Peoria Artisan Brewing
If the crispy pig ears with aioli, grilled oysters with lardon and grilled watermelon salad with feta don’t set this West Valley craft hideout apart from the brewpub norm, then the speakeasy in the back with the killer display kitchen surely will. Enjoy a lemony, bacanora-based El Hefe Grande or Ivory Coast martini made with Arizona’s own Suncliffe gin, and save the Double IPA for next time. 10144 W. Lake Pleasant Pkwy., Peoria, 623-572-2816, peoriaartisanbrewing.com
Dining and Cooking