Paul Kushner
Explore the vibrant nightlife of Fresno, California, as we unveil the city’s top-notch watering holes in this guide to the best bars. From trendy cocktail lounges to laid-back pubs, Fresno offers a diverse array of establishments catering to every palate. Discover hidden gems where mixologists craft inventive concoctions or unwind in classic neighborhood joints with a warm atmosphere. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast, wine connoisseur, or cocktail aficionado, Fresno’s bar scene has something for everyone. Join us on a journey through the city’s eclectic nightlife, where each establishment tells a unique story and contributes to the rich tapestry of Fresno’s social landscape. Cheers to unforgettable nights in the heart of Central California.
Lucy’s Lounge
733 E Olive Ave, Fresno, CA 93728
(559) 293-3108
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Lucy’s Lounge is in the Tower District, near North Linden and E Olive Avenue. It’s a relaxing lounge that has stylish decor and live music performances. You’ll have your choice of red and white wine on tap and a wide variety of drinks. I particularly enjoyed the build-your-own Old-Fashioned option, which lets you choose your bourbon, syrup, bitters, and citrus. Fun experience!
Spokeasy Public House
1472 N Van Ness Ave, Fresno, CA 93728
(559) 492-7765
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Spokeasy Public House is about fifteen minutes from Fresno City College and is an excellent hangout for college students and visitors alike. Brews are their specialty, and the “beertenders” are especially friendly. They have excellent paninis and other tasty bar food, unique bottles, draft pours, and the best tap selection in town.
Cracked Pepper Bistro
6737 N Palm Ave, Fresno, CA 93704
(559) 222-9119
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The Cracked Pepper Bistro is in the North Point Center, a Fresno shopping mall. It’s one of the better places to go out when you want an exceptional meal to accompany your drinks. This typical Californian-style eatery has a decent beer list, serves wine by the bottle and the glass, and a sophisticated cocktail list featuring classics like an aged Old-Fashioned.
Goldstein’s Mortuary & Delicatessen
1279 N Wishon Ave, Fresno, CA 93728
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Goldstein’s Mortuary & Delicatessen is across the street from the Fresno Music Academy & Arts. The industrial setting pairs well with the edgy vibes and the fun crowd. They have 45 beers available on tap, as well as CBD-infused drink offerings. Grab a bite to eat and head out to the patio to enjoy a beer with friends for reasonable prices.
The Library at Detention
750 E Olive Ave, Fresno, CA 93728
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The Library at Detention is a speakeasy in Tower District, next door to the pool hall. You’ll need a reservation to get access to this quiet, quaint bar that reminds you of the 1920s Prohibition era. You can get customized cocktails, high-quality beers, and more. The staff is very friendly and makes suggestions based on your flavor preferences. I recommend the Mango Mojito.
Cosmopolitan | Tavern & Italian Grill
625 O St, Fresno, CA 93706
(559) 266-8662
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The Cosmopolitan | Tavern & Italian Grill is just down the street from the Selland Arena. When you have a craving for some incredible food and drinks, this Italian Grill has everything you need. The bartender here does an excellent Long Island, and the draft beer is always cold. However, you’d be remiss if you didn’t get one of their many exquisite meals with the drinks.
Kocky’s Bar & Grill
1231 Van Ness Ave, Fresno, CA 93721
(559) 266-5500
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You can find Kocky’s Bar & Grill directly across the street from Wells Fargo Bank. This modest establishment boasts a variety of nicely plated cuisine and yummy novelty cocktails, such as the Black Superman. The vibes here are incredible. Kocky’s Bar & Grill has all of the components to experience a night that you won’t soon forget.
Red Wave Inn
2375 E Shaw Ave, Fresno, CA 93710
(559) 228-8446
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You can find the Red Wave Inn across from California State University. The atmosphere is like a sports bar with TVs here and there, and the down-to-earth atmosphere allows you to feel right at home. I recommend trying the tasty red beer on for size if you’re a first-timer—it’s popular among the locals. And if you’re hungry, they serve an assortment of delicious Mexican cuisine.
The Standard
9455 N Fort Washington Rd, Fresno, CA 93730
(559) 434-3638
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The Standard passes all of the vibe checks—it’s a fantastic bar serving delectable American fare. It’s right next to the Sakanaya Japanese Restaurant. The elegant decor makes for an experience in and of itself. You’ll get skilled bartenders to make you some incredible drinks and cocktails. They have excellent wine selections as well.
Bog House Pub
7089 N Marks Ave UNIT 109, Fresno, CA 93711
(559) 261-4994
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The Big House Pub is right across from the Country Club Estates. This bar features a vast selection of beers, making it the ideal place for beer connoisseurs. The wine selection here is just as impressive as the beers. The atmosphere is modest, rustic, and inviting. It’s one of the fun places to get drinks at an affordable price.
Modernist Craft Cocktail Bar
719 Fulton St, Fresno, CA 93721
(559) 492-3585
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You can find the Modernist Craft Cocktail Bar right around the corner from the Emerald Thrift Store. This cozy establishment exudes a calming vibe alongside its modern and elegant design. The personable bartenders make going out for drinks an even more enjoyable experience. Try the Whiskey sour or the Candied Ginger—two of my favorites!
Why should you trust us?
We use our own local experience and contacts in the city to know which places to include in our lists. We also researched the web and read 6 reputable blogs and websites, including tripadvisor.com, theculturetrip.com, visitfresnocounty.org, thevendry.com, mealtours.com and myrecipechecklist.com. So that you can be sure you’re receiving the best of the best. We compiled all the results in one spot and ranked them according to how frequently they were referenced.
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