Whether you're looking for a classy place for a date, to relax, or to grab a bite to eat before heading out for the night, Idaho’s cocktail bars won't disappoint. Selections run the gamut from a homier atmosphere with big TVs and impressive food menus to modern, chic spots where you should dress to impress. Without further ado, check out our top 6 choices for cocktail bars in Idaho.
Craft Lounge “aims to cultivate a drinking culture in the small town of Nampa, Idaho.” The cocktails are reasonably priced and include classics as well as home-made concoctions. Our favorite? The Tongue and Cheek, made with Smith and Cross rum, lime, dry curacao, orgeat and Campari.
The White Water Saloon in Meridian, Idaho is the real deal. Open from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. every day, White Water is a cocktail bar/entertainment power house. They have monthly events as well as regular bingo and karaoke.
The Clydesdale Bar and Lounge is “committed to satisfying our guests with great food, fun, and service.” Stop in for happy hour every day from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.. Clydesdale offers beers on tap, cocktails, food, and lots of entertainment. Check their website for an updated event list.
The Duchin Lounge, inside of the Sun Valley Mall, is the perfect respite from the busy shopping area. The lounge has a wonderful, comfortable atmosphere and serves beer, wine, and cocktails. Hungry and don’t want to brave the food court? Choose from a variety of menu options, too.
Nectar has been serving up delicious cocktails and food for over a decade. Unlike other cocktail bars, Nectar is a spot to come in and enjoy before going out for the rest of the party. They’re open Monday through Saturday from 4 p.m. until 10 p.m. All cocktails are seasonal.
Up North Distillery is a “craft distillery and cocktail bar situated in the beautiful Post falls / Coeur d’Alene area.” Their craft cocktails have won multiple awards, including from the 2018 American Distilling Institute Competition, American Craft Spirits Association Competition, and 2017 Denver International Spirits Competition. Can’t choose? Try the Twisted Old Fashioned: made with aged honey spirits, sugar cube, bitters, lime, cherry, orange, and club.