On the Rocks: Highlighting Atlanta’s Most Impressive Cocktail Bars

Explore Atlanta’s most impressive cocktail bars with our curated guide to the city’s most impressive bars. With elegant, vibrant, or moody atmospheres, each venue offers a unique ambiance and expertly crafted drinks. From the simple charm of some to the intimate allure of others, every sip is complemented by their distinctive surroundings and unique aesthetic. On the rocks or straight up, discover the best of Atlanta’s libations.

Pata Negra

Monday: Closed

Tuesday – Friday: 11 am – 4 pm

Tuesday – Thursday: 4 pm – 10 pm

Sunday: 4 pm – 9 pm

Saturday – Sunday: 11 am – 4 pm

Situated in the Brookwood neighborhood of Atlanta, Pata Negra presents guests with a unique experience of natural agave flavor. The combined textures of smooth stones, metal harvest tools, and black brick walls, create a guest experience that is both mysterious and unique. Skilled bartenders fuse citrusy lemon and lime flavors with the delicate butterfly pea flower or chamomile to create an exquisitely balanced drink. Beyond the cocktail menu, guests can also look forward to enjoying authentic cuisine originating from different regions of Mexico. From the Land of Tequila to the heart of Atlanta, their Instagram displays the stunning spirits they have to offer: @patanegraatl

Bar Margot

Monday – Thursday: 11 am – 11 pm

Friday – Saturday: 11 am – 12 am

Sunday: 3 pm – 11 pm

Located in the Four Seasons Hotel in Midtown, Bar Margot offers an elegant atmosphere that blends swanky and cinematic with its orb-like light fixtures and red velvet couches. Named after Margot Tenenbaum from the 2001 Wes Anderson film- The Royal Tenenbaums- this bar will tempt your tastebuds with flavors ranging from lavender honey to banana-oat-vanilla. Since the Fall of 2015, Bar Margot has emphasized their expertly crafted cocktails made with premium spirits and topped with house-made garnishes. Their Instagram shows off picture-perfect cocktails that will leave you savoring every last sip: @barmargotatl

12 Cocktail Bar

Monday – Thursday: 5 pm – until the last reservation taken at 10:00 pm.

Friday – Saturday: 5 pm – until the last reservation taken at 11:00 pm.

Sunday: Closed

12 Cocktail Bar, nestled atop the Roof at Ponce City Market in Atlanta’s Old Fourth Ward fashions an eclectic ambiance of colorful couches and mood lighting, making it the perfect place for after-dinner drinks on cozy date nights. Whether you’re craving a classic Negroni or an Old Fashioned, the carefully curated cocktails are sure to suit your tastes. 12 offers a unique experience for guests- without a beverage menu, their skilled bartenders can either handcraft any classic or an entirely new drink based on your tastes. With a stunning view of Atlanta’s skyline, their Instagram highlights the lively location: @poncecityroof

St. Julep

Monday – Thursday: 5 pm -11 pm

Friday – Saturday: 5 pm -12 am

Sunday: 5 pm – 10 pm

Positioned North of Midtown in the Buckhead Village atop the Kimpton Sylvan Hotel, St. Julep offers a dynamic and vibrant atmosphere with panoramic views of the Buckhead skyline. Guests can expect fresh aperitifs and breezy cocktails which you can enjoy aside your choice of flavorful truffle fries or a classic shrimp cocktail. When paired with weekend DJ sets, St. Julep becomes the ideal destination for your next night out. St. Julep offers guests a laid-back experience with both indoor and outdoor spaces to best suit your needs. Their Instagram displays their cheeky and fun drinks: @stjulep

The James Room

(Bar Hours)    

Monday: Closed

Tuesday: 5 pm – 12 am

Wednesday & Thursday: 5 pm – 1 am

Friday & Saturday 5 pm – 2 am

Sunday: 5 pm – 10 pm

Located in the Krog Street District on the Eastside Beltline trail, this cocktail lounge offers an intimate and moody atmosphere that sets the stage for indulging in new flavors and sounds. Doubling as a café all week from 8 am to 5 pm, this versatile space elevates any occasion. Guests can look forward to carefully crafted cocktails, outdoor seating, and live performances that immerse them in the engaging ambiance of The Room. The beverage menu boasts robust flavors that are worth talking about. Their Instagram showcases the tasty libations they have to offer: @thejamesroom

Atlanta’s top cocktail bars offer a blend of unique atmospheres and impressive drinks. Each of these distinct destinations will leave you ordering another round. Immerse yourself into the sonic seasoning of the music, savor the visual appeal, and toast to the fun that awaits you.