The Yummiest Cocktail Bars in Fresno

The Local - Old Town Clovis

★★★★☆ 3.9 (395) • $$

"I am giving 4 stars based on the service and my husband's Chimichurri Steak. We were a large party so the waitress did well with keeping up on us. They were out of a bunch of beers so that was disappointing but we got over it because we aren't picky and like trying new things. I ordered the Balsamic Chicken. The portion was huge and filling but the chicken was pretty dry. The potatoes and veggies it came with were good. The steak was VERY good! My husband orders his at med-rare and I usually don't like that but I could have eaten the whole thing. I'm getting that next time :)"

Mariscos Costa Azul

★★★☆☆ 3 (88) • $$

"This is my 3rd time visiting the restaurant and truly, it's amazing how highly Fresnian's talk about this place? 1st things 1st, the servers do take care of you. Period! At least mine do, maybe it's my dimples lol. However, the food and beverages are a different story. Last Friday was the Blake Shelton concert (3.3.2017) so i decided to take the family and I to a nice seafood dinner.... and drinks :)The server immediately issued us a seat and took our beverage order. I ordered a Caguama Familar and the wife ordered a Tecate Caguama with the seafood fixings on and around it. She brought my beer within 2 minutes and my wife's seafood/Beer within several minutes after. My beer was Luke warm (gross). My wife's beer, was just as warm but we didn't want to complain. Knowing I wanted to enjoy all 32oz of Corona, I asked her for a bucket of ice (Picture 10) to at least get it chilled under 80 degrees. My shrimp cocktail came out and it was also warm. Really? I will say, it was loaded, I mean loaded with shrimp! I lost count of the prawn count. However, warm shrimp cocktail is not my cup of tea. The oysters on my wife platter were so gross and filled with the shell, I felt as I was eating plaster off the wall. The total damage for the evening was just over $60. Meh, me think not! The other two times I visited this place (One Sunday after) and Father's Day 2016 ; it was so hot in there it was disgusting. I only visit this place for Seafood and seize the day, both times the food seafood was mediocre and beers warm. The men's bathroom was worsen since last June (Father's day) so expect to see 2 missing Urinals and spray paint graffiti on the East wall??? WTH? Way too pricey for my expectations. Sorry to be so harsh, strictly my opinion."

The Mad Duck

★★★★☆ 3.8 (498) • $$

"Excellent beer and food. We loved everything on the taster flight, almond brown was extra good and unique. I wish we could have taken a can home.Garlic fries and veggie burger were delicious too."

The Elderberry House

★★★★★ 4.5 (322) • $$$$

"I can't stop recommending this place to my friends!I made the reservation and stated it is for hubby's birthday, and they customized the menu with his name on top wishing him a happy birthday. When we arrived, they sat us down by the fireplace. It was so perfect and romantic.We chose the 3-course set, but they provided an appetizer from the culinary team before the first course, and a homemade bread in between the first and second course. The bread was a little crispy outside and fluffy inside. I couldn't stop eating.Every course was just flavorful and creative. They claim their style is French-Californian, but I suspect that they add a little Japanese style in their cuisine as well. Just subtle and beautiful.I especially like their warm hospitality. They surprised us with two chocolate tarts and a candle to celebrate hubby's birthday. We feel welcomed and cared for. We will definitely come back. It was a very special and memorable experience."

Las Casuelas

★★★★☆ 4.2 (17)

"We went there in a family gathering. First of all, the free chips and salsa are AMAZING. The chips are warm and freshly cooked. I will go again there just for the chips.Coming to the food, I ordered burrito loco which is like a Cali burrito. It comes with fries, guacamole, chicken, rice and bean inside. It tastes good expect I feel the Chicken should be more seasoned, mine tastes very chicken. I normally don't enjoy the boil meat flavor (I am Indian duhh)I took off one star because of the chicken.The service is excellent, the server gave two refills of the chips, mostly consumed by me. And we didn't ask for it, she asked if we want refill. Also we waited 10-15 mins for part of the family to arrive, and the server didn't ask once if we are ready to order, no rushing of any kind.A must visit Mexican place. I will definitely go again there."

Casa Maestros

★★★☆☆ 2.8 (126) • $$

"Well decided to stop here after haircut, been wanting to check it out. Well what else can I say. I did t think my food needed it also. Well stayed and ordered food. The dish turned out to be ok.Ordered drinks, sticker shock for sure. I get drinks half their price at other Mexican restaurants. Most likely stick to water next time."

Rosa Linda's

★★★☆☆ 3.3 (126) • $$

"I eat here on average of every ten days. I find it to be very good food. Servings are the right size. Service is good and energetic. Ambience is good. It's my favorite Mexican restaurant."

KuniSama

★★★★☆ 3.6 (858) • $$

"The staff is amazing! The new menu and food is spectacular. They have karaoke on Thursday nights at 7:30-11:30pm. The vibe is chill during the day. They have a bar with a plethora of beers and liquors. Thursday Thursday Karaoke Night with $5 Draft and Wells, $8 Patron, Tito's, Captain and Jameson.Brunch every Sunday.This is my go to place on Thursday night or whenever I'm stopping by the nearby smoke shops and/or medical clinics."

Rice Bowl

★★★☆☆ 3 (83) • $

"Let me tell you, folks, I've had a lot of Chinese food in my life, all over the place, but nothing--nothing--compares to this. The Rice Bowl? Absolutely incredible. The Lo Mein? Perfect. Nobody does Lo Mein like this, believe me.Now, let me share a story. A friend of mine, great guy, he says, "Let's go grab some food," just a regular outing, right? We stop here, and let me tell you, it turned into the greatest day ever. We're sitting there, the food comes out, and it's like a celebration. We're talking about deals, about life, and everything just clicks. All because of this food. It's that good--it turns an ordinary day into something legendary. You won't believe how amazing it is until you try it yourself. Trust me."

Black Sheep Kitchen & Cocktails

★★★★☆ 4 (76) • $$

"Stopped by for a quick Lunch. Not super busy and friendly staff. Food was great and beer was cold. I got the French dip, but the garlic fries were what made it for me they have a separate brunch menu I'll be coming back to try"

Braised Kitchen And Catering

★★★★☆ 4.2 (112) • $$$

"Braised was absolutely delicious and the service was phenomenal. When you walk in you are greeted by a beautiful ambiance. We decided to celebrate our anniversary dinner here and it was a wonderful experience. Our server was very attentive and genuinely friendly. The food was well made and thoughtfully prepared. The flavor that each dish offered was exquisite, with a perfect balance of seasoning and freshness. From the appetizers to the dessert, everything was executed with care and precision. The portions were just right, and the presentation was elegant.It's clear that the staff and chefs take pride in what they do, and it truly elevated our anniversary celebration. We left feeling satisfied, cherished, and eager to return. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience!"

The Red Room

★★★★☆ 4.4 (30)

"The bestie and I came here the day before thanksgiving. We got there right when it opened and had the choice to sit anywhere. We decided to grab a booth area right by the fireplace. This place has a very upscale chill vibe. A lot of the seats and walls are red and done beautifully. My bestie and I loved the dim lighting too. They had live music playing that night. Which was great to hear while having some drinks. Both people who waited on us were kind and very patient. We decided to get their special which comes with 2 drinks of choice and a charcuterie board or sandwich for only 35 bucks. Very cheap in my opinion. We both chose to get a festive drink that was there for thanksgiving. I don't remember the name but mine was amazing and bestie loved his too. We tried the charcuterie board and 2 sandwiches. Everything was yummy and so filling. All their foods pair well with their drinks too. They make mocktails as well. I do like that they don't give you a time limit at your table. We were able to hang out for awhile and have a few drinks. They also let us bring food from next door at annex. If you're in the area and looking for a nice place to have a cocktail give this place a try it will not disappoint."

La Piazza Ristorante Italiano

★★★★☆ 4 (293) • $$$

"Everything was delicious! Not pictured was the calamari, which I wish we had ordered more of. Cozy atmosphere and our server was great. While the food took a bit of time, it was worth the wait!"

First & Main

★★★★☆ 4.1 (238) • $$

"We went here for a family birthday and had a wonderful time! It was our first time most of us had been there. The service was great as our server was delightful, cheerful and on point! Atmosphere was very nice great for a date of some sort! The food was excellent as they have a diverse menu from ramen to steaks and even sushi! We enjoyed great cocktails, beer, and wine! You may not want to bring the family as it a little pricey! I definitely will be back to enjoy First and Main again!"

Loza Kitchen & Bar

★★★☆☆ 3.2 (236) • $$

"Fantastic food and beverages! I had the chicken and avocado crepe plus the lavender Lamarca cocktail. The crepe comes with a blue cheese sauce which sounds odd paired with chicken and avocado but I can promise that together it all works somehow, if you like blue cheese already. Loved it and my cocktail! My friend had the avocado toast with balsamic glaze added and it also looked delicious. Service from our waitress was excellent as well."

Los Dos Potrillos Bar & Grill

★★★☆☆ 3.2 (40)

"My family and I tried this place a year ago when we first moved to Los Banos. It was after a long day of hauling out stuff to our new home that we came and had Dinner here. We had a great time talking about the difference in our new home and how we want our rooms to look whole enjoying amazing food. Now after a year of living here I've come to enjoy their Taco Tuesdays. The staff is always friendly and kind and we chat it up while I wait for my order. I brought all this up because it brings back wonderful memories and that's my experience."

Cafe California

★★★★☆ 3.5 (58) • $$

"inside the Wyndham Hotel, across from Plaza Park, we found a great place to have dinner after the Renaissance Faire. There isn't a HUGE variety of items on the menu, but plenty enough for everyone to find something interesting. Kat had seared scallops, served over assorted veggies, with a creamy sauce. She loved it. I stole one of the scallops, a big old guy, and I can say it was perfectly cooked, as were the vegetables, and the sauce was tasty, but mild. No really strong flavors jumping out at you. I had a burger with Bleu cheese and sauteed mushrooms. Very tasty. Melted cheese flowing down the side of the burger, fresh lettuce, fresh tomatoes, and a good stack of perfectly done onion rings. The best part of this place though, every time, is Rick. Rick knows his job, and is super friendly. Keeps the water and iced tea coming, which is very important after a day at Faire. Rick rocks, and when The Rocking Horse Guy says that, it means something."

The Woodward American Grill

★★★☆☆ 3.4 (224) • $$

"A group of us ladies had brunch here last weekend and had an absolute blast. We did have a reservation so we were seated soon after arrival. The food is a bit on the pricier side but the quality was great and the portions were large. Our server, Gwen, was the sweetest. She was attentive, helpful, and friendly the whole time we were there. We arrived at 11 and didn't realize we closed the place down and were still there at 4! No one seemed bothered by it but we apologized since we were so enthralled in our own conversation, we didn't notice the place was empty except for us and the few employees taking care of the closing duties (sorry guys!). Guess that's a sign of a great time!"

The Armory

★★★★☆ 4.2 (225) • $$

"Oop! Thought I rated last month!Overall 4.5 out of 5We had such a great time that we came back twice during our visit.Great foodGreat brewsGreat vibes.Refer to the pictures. But man, I recommend.Service was nice and friendly too!"

Mochuelo

★★★★☆ 4.4 (492) • $$

"Love this place! I'm from out of town but I've been here a couple times. Super fun cocktail menu and delicious tapas! And we have had great service while there! Highly recommended!"

Del Rio's Bar and Grill

★★★★☆ 3.9 (40)

"came here for the first time the food was amazing and customer service was top notch 5starsss"

Cora at Roseburg Square

★★★★☆ 4 (88) • $$

"Yesterday, twelve of us arrived at Cora for their new brunch menu.I had the foresight to call ahead as 12-people is quite a bit.When we arrived our table was set and we were off. A round of the delicious spicy bloody Mary's served with candied, jalapeno bacon as well as their in house made pumpkin butter coffee was a great start!As far as the group, I cannot recall what was ordered. I, however, ordered "who you calling chicken." George's (Chef, owner) spin on chicken fried steak.Oh my! Melt in your mouth although crispy and light! The gravy, is like honey to a bee... cannot get enough! I also order a short stack. The cakes had a crispy edge and the perfect pillow texture throughout!I order both knowing I could not complete them at the time, and what a great dinner it made later.Food, drinks, service, spot on! No rush, no nonsense and down to earth cooking from the heart.I especially like that both owners, chefs, (George and Alicia) find time to visit with their guest!You looking for your next go to spot and for any meal or just smooth tasting alcohol while watching a game, this is it!Do like I, enjoy brunch... order two plates, eat all day!"

Yolked Kitchen

★★★★☆ 4.2 (136) • $$

"Stopped by to check this out and wow!! The atmosphere is sophisticated but comfortable, the service was impeccable (thank you, Ashley B!), and the food.... I didn't know breakfast food could be so divine! We tried the breakfast tacos (Cen Cal and Little Papa) and were floored by how good they were.This restaurant is a gem that we are lucky to have in the Fresno/Clovis area!"

The Sawmill

★★★★☆ 4 (41)

"Great beer selection and friendly service. Love all the Barrelhouse Beers and Hope Wines. The brisket plate was super tasty and so was the chili."

Quail State

★★★★☆ 3.8 (333) • $$$

"No food?! All good at least the cocktails were delicious! Located on the 2nd floor of the Pacific Southwest Building, Quail State is a sleek cocktail bar that has great aesthetics, both indoor and out. It was empty when we arrived, but it was a Monday around 6pm. We sat on their outdoor patio, which holds about 30 people? No more food served here, but you can bring food in with you. The cocktail menu here is long and there's literally something for type of booze lover. I went with a light bourbon cocktail, I forgot the name, but it was surprisingly refreshing for brown liquor based drink. A great place to start the night before heading out and exploring the Tower or DT Fresno."

13 Prime Steak

★★★★☆ 4.3 (589) • $$$$

"My husband and I went last weekend on a date night, we loved the atmosphere and how trendy it looked, our waiter was so friendly and extremely helpful, he suggested the special of the night which was a beef fillet with veggies and mash, it was delicious but let me tell you what blew us away, the Mac n cheese as a side and the coffee rubbed rib eye were out if this world, one if the best steaks I've had, perfectly seasoned and extremely tender. Those were the stars of the night. We can't wait to go back."

Elderwood

★★★★☆ 4 (490) • $$

"Came from Fresno to come here to celebrate two of our Yelp friend's birthday. Elderwood is located at the very top of The Darling Hotel. The outside of this building is gorgeous. It really stands out with the white and black. The lobby once you walk to the second floor is very cute as well. It's giving an old lux feel. We got seated in a semi rounded booth and were greeted by our waiter soon after. I got the South Fork Mimosa that was so good. I was recommended by the waiter to try the Eggs Benedict Crab Cake and I am so happy he did. Loved a good Benedict. My egg was nice and oozy, the crab cake was yummy, and the side of asparagus was delicious. The presentation of it all was beautiful as well, so vibrant in color. I couldn't wait to dig in. It was quite filling, I was stuffed after. I got to try my friend's espresso martini and it was soooOO so good! She said it was one of the best one she ever tried. I totally recommend trying this if you like coffee! They have a beautiful outdoor patio that you access both side on the roof. Plenty of seating outdoors and it's nicely shaded! The view is quite amazing as well! Thank you Robert who took the group photo of us and being a good sport! He was so nice.I had a great experience and would definitely come back."

Fredrick’s of Savourys

★★★★☆ 4.2 (510) • $$$

"I hadn't eaten here in almost a decade. They have changed owners since my last time here and I am glad to see report that it was still a lovely experience.I love the antique bar and hostess station they have added to give the space a more "western" or "gold rush town" feel.The hostess, Patience, was soooo sweet and welcoming. She was a delight to talk to.Our server was fine - not overly friendly or enthusiastic, but not a total dud either. She perhaps could have used a bit more personality for my taste, being in a hospitality role.The meal was wonderful. My butternut squash soup (soup of the day) was flavorful and hot.I got the duck, and while the menu said raspberry onion jam for the sauce - it was more like sweet pickled onions. They were still very good.My mom had the salmon. Soooo moist and flavorful.Chocolate torte for my birthday dessert. We will be back."

Richard's Prime Rib and Seafood

★★★★☆ 3.8 (342) • $$$

"We always see Richard's from the 180 freeway and say, "We need to go there." Today was the evening, and let me say our experience was just excellent! The ambiance, the service, and the food were just perfect! Our waitress was so attentive and made our dinner extra special. Towards the end of our meal (Ribeye and Filleminon), we ordered two Old Fashions, and OMG, they were DELICIOUS!!!!!We will be back soon! Thank you, Debi S., for being so attentive and sweet!"

Eureka!

★★★★☆ 4 (157) • $$

"Went with a friend a couple Fridays ago. I understand this is a relatively new location, but it's been open for a hot second, so I would have hoped some of these wrinkles would have been ironed out by now. To start, I waited at the bar while my friend arrived late. The host was gracious and accommodating. We didn't have a reservation, so we were thrilled that they could get us seated on a Friday night at prime dinner hour with no wait. However, the good news stopped there. It seems that there was a lack in communication between the host and the sever, and - ultimately - we were forgotten about/overlooked. It happens sometimes. So after about 20-30 minutes, someone came up to us, apologized to us for being forgotten about, and then proceeded to explain to us why it wasn't his fault that we were forgotten. Throughout the rest of our meal, he kept referencing how he had to "take one for the team" and be our server because someone went on break or whatever...It was just random and unnecessary for him to give us all these details and it made us feel uneasy and almost as if we were some sort of burden to him. Anyway, once we ordered (I got Bison Burger) and the food came out, the fries were cold and the buns were stale. The quality of the beef was good. On the plus side, the patio was beautiful and warm, with plenty of heat lamps on a chilly fall evening. Overall, the server left a pretty bad taste in my mouth and I'd be hesitant to return."

Japanese Kitchen

★★★☆☆ 3.2 (512) • $$

"Exceptionally perfect!! Omg we miss it already, this is one of THE best restaurants...in the world. Grilled right before your very eyes, everything is fresh, flavorful and their sauces are rich, you'll embark on a mission just to obtain extra sauces to go, I promise you. We went crazy...ordered their soup, hot green tea (which there has got to be some secret, it's like butter in a cup, smooth...and flavorful but it's just tea in water so how!?) I hadn't been there in about 10 years and upon returning it was everything I promised my husband it would be. His first time. And we will always keep coming back!!"

Plazuelas Mexican Restaurant & Taqueria

★★★★☆ 4.2 (819) • $$

"Pretty good Mexican place in oak hurst. I enjoyed by veggie burrito. Can easily share the super burrito with 2 pleople portion sizes are big! We also ended the meal with churros which was the highlight. One star deduction for not enough veggie options. A veggie fajita on the menu would be awesome."

Taqueria Santa Fe

★★★★☆ 3.7 (62) • $$

"The BEST Mexican seafood in the Central Valley. Friendly service. Not fancy...you come here for authentic flavors. Treat yourself-you will enjoy your meal."

Reata on 3rd

★★★★☆ 4.2 (23)

"Our first visit since the ownership change. The food was excellent, our server Maddie was polite, very attentive, and seemed genuinely happy to be working with us. Her table assistant, Dom was absolutely spot on! Nice place, great environment, I would highly recommend.."

Bespoke

★★★★★ 4.6 (72)

"This place is just special.So I'm the kind of person that loves to get input from restaurant/bar staff about what I should order and often like to say "surprise me!" so the fact that this place is built around the premise of crafting cocktails that are tailor made to you based on a conversation about what you like/don't like is my ideal! I've been here several times and love to bring friends here from our of town and every time they're blown away by the top tier service and incredible drinks that are unlike any other! Each one is unique, individualized, and beautiful. I even had a friend order pure classics just to see how they'd handle a simple order and he was blown away by the fact that they were the best version of the basics he'd ever had. They also start you off with a, complimentary amuse-bouche so you have something to sip on while your order is, being taken/made. I love that there is no rush and no fighting for seats, and you get to just settle in and get this bespoke experience. The atmosphere is dark and cozy and has plenty of comfortable seating options. The bartenders do a great job of managing several custom drinks, being creative and intuitive based on quick assessments of the customers, and also being engaging with patrons. After coming in several times, I've developed friendships with them which just adds to the experience. It's my favorite cocktail bar by miles!"