Best bars in America 2026: See the top 38 picks from USA TODAY

America’s Premier Drinking Establishments: 2026 Edition

Cybersecarmor.com – From inventive creations to time-honored classics, the beverages and experiences that define American bar culture have been celebrated once again. Our culinary journalists spanning every region selected establishments that capture something special—whether it’s a bourbon infused with burger flavors, a cucumber-limoncello combination offering herbal notes with subtle sweetness, or hand-poured cask ales following centuries-old brewing methods.

These venues transcend mere drink service. They provide gathering spaces where locals and travelers connect over conversation, atmosphere, and authentic neighborhood character. Some offer energetic environments for dancing with mixed drinks featuring orange vodka alongside club soda and cranberry juice. Others present quieter settings for enjoying aperitivos in hi-fi listening lounges.

The Complete List of Honorees

The following establishments earned recognition as USA TODAY’s Bars of the Year for 2026, representing diverse styles from casual dive spots to sophisticated cocktail destinations:

Leroy (Alabama) • Sunny’s Lounge (Arizona) • Yucca Tap Room (Arizona) • The Reef (California) • Social (Colorado) • Bottle & Cork (Delaware) • Good Night John Boy (Florida) • Dolly’s Wine Bar (Florida) • The Sandbar at Capt Hiram’s Resort (Florida) • The Lone Wolf Lounge (Georgia) • The 33 Room (Illinois) • The Ball and Biscuit (Indiana) • El Bait Shop (Iowa) • Hell or High Water (Kentucky) • Green Room (Louisiana) • Fatty Arbuckle’s Pub (Louisiana) • The Wig Shop (Massachusetts) • Shipwrecked (Massachusetts) • Femme Bar (Massachusetts) • Father Forgive Me (Michigan) • D’Jais (New Jersey) • Cloverleaf Tavern (New Jersey) • The Riverside Inn (New Jersey) • The Ambleside Pub (New York) • Goodnight Kenny (New York) • Jack’s Extra Fancy (New York) • Potential New Boyfriend (North Carolina) • The Fortunate Glass (North Carolina) • Sully’s Speakeasy (Ohio) • Northside Yacht Club (Ohio) • Land-Grant Brewing Co. (Ohio) • Skinny Slim’s (Oklahoma) • Neshaminy Creek Brewing Company (Pennsylvania) • The Smoking Mule (South Dakota) • Fly by Night (Tennessee) • Fox Bar and Cocktail Club (Tennessee) • Accordia Natural Wine Bar & Eatery (Virginia) • The Mothership (Wisconsin)

Featured Establishments

Leroy – Montgomery, Alabama

2752 Boultier Ave.; 334-356-7127, leroylounge.com

Nestled within a tight-knit artistic neighborhood in Montgomery, Leroy maintains its charm as a destination worth seeking out. Since welcoming patrons in 2012, this establishment sits quietly behind a community theater, offering an escape from busier streets. The venue features eighteen craft beers on tap alongside an extensive wine collection, though signature cocktails remain the primary draw for regular visitors.

Entertainment extends beyond beverages, with music performances, comedy shows, and various community activities keeping the atmosphere lively. Visitors should inquire about the legendary tale involving a kidnapped champion racehorse—a story bartenders happily recount alongside your order.

Sunny’s Lounge – Phoenix, Arizona

2701 E. Indian School Road; 602-316-1117, drinkmoresayless.com

This neighborhood favorite operates as a sophisticated cocktail destination disguised as a casual dive bar. Guests can position themselves at the bar to observe the scene or claim one of the red leather booths. The cocktail program ranges from approachable favorites to creative experiments, including a distinctive smashburger cocktail combining burger-infused bourbon with Corazon anejo tequila, celery bitters, brioche, and dill pickle, accompanied by a mini malt.

For those preferring alternatives, a secret menu provides additional options. Food offerings remain straightforward, featuring bar mix and gourmet hot dogs served either traditionally or as a rotating “fancy pants glizzy” designed to complement the drinks. The combination of cozy atmosphere and inventive beverages ensures visitors remain engaged throughout their visit.

Yucca Tap Room – Arizona

29 W. Southern Ave.; 480-967-4777, yuccatap.com

During the early 1990s, Arizona’s music scene briefly captured national attention as “the next Seattle,” generating excitement that attracted major record labels. Yucca Tap Room emerged as the enduring survivor from that vibrant period. The venue hosted Roger Clyne and the Refreshments during their career-launching Sunday night residency, establishing connections that endure today.

Continuing its role as a cornerstone of local music culture, the establishment has expanded its offerings in recent years. A pinball arcade and a satellite location in northern Arizona demonstrate the bar’s commitment to serving the community while honoring its heritage.