In Scottsdale, finding a good cocktail is as easy as finding a gorgeous sunset. Whether you’re after exclusive local spirits, fresh ingredients, or eye-popping Instagrammable experiences, these cocktail bars in Scottsdale have just what you’re looking for. So, cheers to the six best cocktails in Scottsdale — and don’t be shy about telling your bartender you’re definitely down for another round.
Spicy Margarita at Jade Bar
From the temps to the tacos and even down to the salt-rimmed margaritas, some things are just downright hotter in Arizona. Enter the Spicy Margarita at Jade Bar. This stylish cocktail lounge with panoramic views of Paradise Valley at Sanctuary at Camelback Mountain has a glitzy reputation and is credited for introducing mixology to the Valley. The Spicy Margarita is expertly crafted with refreshing cucumber, fiery jalapeno, zesty lime, and hints of citrus and agave thanks to a healthy splash of Casamigos Blanco. This mind-meltingly spicy margarita earns top honors as one of the best cocktails in Scottsdale among the bold imbibers who take pleasure in its hot, hot heat.
Elder Empress at Gertrude’s
Fans of botanicals and booze can raise a glass to both at Gertrude's, the charming bar and restaurant tucked inside the scenic Desert Botanical Garden. Sip on the Elder Empress, a vivid pink cocktail that beautifully balances notes of hibiscus, pineapple and lime with herbaly Strega liqueur, Empress Elderflower Gin and Gertrude’s own Founders Citrus Rose Gin. The private label gin is a collaboration between DBG and the Arizona-based distillery SanTan Spirits. Ultimately, the label pays tribute to the garden’s original founders, philanthropist Gertrude Divine Webster and Swedish botanist Gustaf Starck. Visitors can find the exclusive gin label stocked in garden gift shop.
Tequila Espresso Martini at Cala
The globe-spanning menu at Cala at Senna House may draw inspiration from the Mediterranean, but there's one universal language everyone understands here: espresso. From breakfast and brunch to happy hours and after hours, the Cala crowd is undeniably fluent in Espresso Martini. Cala’s take on this classic caffeinated sipper swaps vodka for a sapid spirit that’s more suited to Scottsdale’s desert climes: Patron Reposado. The agave elixir layers perfectly with Licor 43, Borghetti Coffee Liqueur and espresso, naturally. Whether you’re kicking off your weekend with brunch or winding it all down at a dimly-lit dinner, Cala's Tequila Espresso Martini is one language you’ll want to keep speaking.
Hops to the Mix at Tell Your Friends
For some, it’s not the destination, but the journey. When it comes to Tell Your Friends, the destination and the journey are equally impressive. Hidden below The Americano, this secret speakeasy requires a bit of an odyssey to uncover — but that’s part of the fun. Inside, jazzy soundtracks play against a posh, prohibition-inspired atmosphere where a lineup of libations, like the Hops to the Mix, flow under shimmery disco balls. The subterranean spot is certainly a respite from the Scottsdale heat, but this cocktail will undoubtedly ignite your palate with its combination of tequila, citra hops, pineapple, lime and serrano — a hot pepper that packs a punch three times spicier than the jalapeno.
Strawberry Negroni at Beginner’s Luck
Make your own luck at Beginner’s Luck in Old Town Scottsdale where you can feast on brunchy eats and dinner staples from day-to-night. Alongside the fantastic fare, Beginner’s Luck offers up a taste of ingredient-driven drinks, including the sweet and herby Strawberry Negroni. This unique riff on the classic Italian cocktail marries strawberry fruit-infused gin with herbaceous sweet vermouth and the iconic red Italian bitter, Campari liqueur. It’s a sweet take on the traditional tipple that’s sure to tempt your tastebuds.
Landing Strip at The Goose
Looking to wet your beak? Look no further than The Goose, an avian-inspired speakeasy hiding out in Scottsdale’s McCormick Ranch neighborhood. A gaggle of classic and contemporary drinks are on the cocktail list here, including the fire-kissed Landing Strip. The tropical-inspired cocktail is constructed with Rhum J.M. 100, Lopez Real Mezcal, chinola passion fruit liqueur, cream of coconut, lime juice, and rich, real mango. For the grand finale, the Landing Strip is sprinkled with fragrant cinnamon and set ablaze for a fully immersive experience that tickles all the senses.
