Explore Some of the Best Bars in Reno Tahoe

A hipster, a sports fan and a craft beer connoisseur walk into a Reno bar; the bartender brings them all delicious drinks and they all have a wonderful time. That’s no joke. Reno bars are actually like that. We have bars to accommodate every taste and personality. Whatever bar scene you’re into, Reno has it. Looking to enjoy a casual drink while playing some pool, shuffleboard or board games? There’s a bar for that. Out of town but can’t miss the big game? Reno’s got a sports bar with your name on it. Craving a top-shelf, hand-crafted cocktail that borders on mixological art? There’s a friendly bartender homemaking specialized bitters as we speak.

The Biggest Little City really does have a unique bar scene, but if you don’t know your way around, it can be difficult to find your spot. That’s why we’ve done our best to break down some of the best bars in Reno to help guide your decision.

Local Favorite Bars in Reno and Sparks

If you’re looking for solid, straightforward bars and lounges, these are some favorites among the locals.

Great Basin Brewing Company

Great Basin Brewing Company is a must-visit Northern Nevada staple. This brewery/pub is home to the Icky IPA, which is named after Nevada’s state fossil — the Ichthyosaur – and is anything but icky. Since opening in 1993, Great Basin’s beers have earned a tasty reputation across the west coast, and their food is equally as amazing. Great Basin has two locations, one in Reno and one Sparks.

Sierra Tap House

Sierra Tap House is located on the Truckee River in downtown Reno. They’re best known for offering a variety of Sierra Nevada Brewery beers on draft, and their outside seating offers a great view of the river. Inside, there’s pool, shuffleboard and a couple of arcade games.

Pignic Pub & Patio

Pignic Pub & Patio feels more like a backyard BBQ than it does a bar. This unique bar serves up beer and cocktails while also featuring a comprehensive, outdoor grill section where patrons can cook up their own food. Didn’t bring any food? Don’t worry, they offer locally sourced, grillable food onsite. Head upstairs to Revision Brewing Company’s tasting room where you can try a sampling of award-winning craft beers from this Sparks based brewery.

Piñon Bottle Co

Piñon Bottle Co is for the beer fanatics. With tons of options to choose from, both tap and bottled, you’ll be hard-pressed to not find a beer you love. They have three locations across Reno and Sparks.

Z Bar

Known as a landmark in Reno’s MidTown District, Z Bar is a local classic favorite. Z Bar is a premier craft cocktail bar and lounge, featuring a relaxing atmosphere and large patio area with fire pits. The bartenders and mixologist experts at Z Bar offer a unique twist on its libations.

Ceol Irish Pub

Ceol Irish Pub has that classic pub vibe. This is the type of bar where you can sit with friends in a casual setting while enjoying a few drinks. They have a variety of Irish whiskeys available, and Guinness is available on tap. If you’re familiar with the Guinness perfect pour, Ceol is the place for you. Stop by on a Friday or Saturday and enjoy live music.

The Eddy

Both bar and hangout, The Eddy is a community space made out of repurposed shipping containers. It’s located right in downtown’s Riverwalk District, making it a great place to check out if you’re bar hopping. The Eddy has rotating tap handles and a full cocktail bar, and all of this can be enjoyed while playing yard games like corn hole and super-sized Jenga.

Cocktail Bars in Reno

Looking to dive into a serious cocktail? These are some of best bars in Reno for mixology lovers.

Death & Taxes

Death and Taxes, a MidTown cocktail lounge, specializes in fresh, artisanal cocktails made with seasonal ingredients, house-made syrups and infusions. When you need a handcrafted drink that’ll knock your socks off, this place has your back.

Rum Sugar Lime

Rum Sugar Lime is Reno’s favorite tropical bar located in the MidTown District. Known for their signature rum and seasonal creations, their vibrant atmosphere and handcrafted cocktails transport you straight to the tropics. Order one of the classics, like a Painkiller or a Saturn, and experience the taste of a tropical destination.

Whisky Lounge

With over 1,200 whiskys from around the world, signature craft cocktails prepared with homemade ingredients, and a master of all trades behind the bar, Whisky Lounge is the perfect spot in Reno’s MidTown District. If you’re looking for earthy, oaky, sweet or spicy, Whisky Lounge has the perfect spirit for you.

Chapel Tavern

Chapel Tavern takes cocktails with a seriousness that’s like religion. Featuring some of the best cocktails in town, this is one of the must-visit Reno bars for the mixologically obsessed. Not sure what you want? Just name a spirit, and the bartender will mix something up just for you.

The Emerson

Located in MidTown, The Emerson serves up craft cocktails that are as delicious as they are beautiful in a mid-century style lounge. Order a classic cocktail, like a Manhattan or Paloma, or try one of their refreshingly unique house cocktails.

1864 Tavern

Step back in time with this old-timey bar that celebrates Nevada history and culture. Named after the year Nevada joined the Union, 1864 mixes up mean cocktails with locally sourced ingredients. They have great beers to choose from and are also an excellent wine bar.

Sports Bars in Reno Tahoe

Even if you can’t be in the stands cheering on your favorite team, there’s no reason to miss out on the action with Reno’s many sports bars.

Bully’s Sports Bar & Grill

As Northern Nevada’s Best Family Friendly Neighborhood Sports Bar, Bully’s has six locations to choose from in the Reno-Sparks area. They are dedicated to serving fresh, delicious food and beverages in an inviting and family-friendly environment, and are a full-service, sit-down restaurant and sports bar.

Flowing Tide

Another local favorite, Flowing Tide has five locations in Reno and Sparks. It’s one of the area’s favorite places for great drinks, food, gaming, sports and atmosphere. They feature several giant big-screen TVs, pool tables and video gaming.

The Stick

The Stick is located in downtown Reno near the Truckee River. It’s a non-smoking, non-gaming sports lounge with a casual feel. The Stick is your go-to destination for excellent food, local beer and spirits, and all of the sports you can handle.

Little Waldorf Saloon

The Little Waldorf Saloon – or The Wal, as it’s known to locals – is one of the best bars in Reno for Nevada Wolf Pack fans. They’re located on Virginia Street, across the street from the University of Nevada, Reno, and are considered a Wolf Pack headquarters. Visit The Wal before or after a game for good food, a large selection of beer, premium spirits and a good ole’ fashioned good time.

Lake Tahoe Bars

There’s no better way to top off a day of soaking in views of the lake than by grabbing a cold one at one of the many great Lake Tahoe bars.

Brewforia

Located just a few miles away from Sand Harbor in Incline Village, Brewforia has the largest selection of beer in Tahoe along with an extensive food menu. It’s a perfect restaurant and bar for those wanting to finish their day at the lake with some great food and drinks.

Rookie’s Sports Bar and Grill

Rookie’s is the bar for those wanting to enjoy the great outdoors without missing their favorite sports game. Rookie’s has 33 HDTVs, a pool table, and serves up a variety of delicious food and drinks. They’re located close to Tahoe’s north shore beaches in Incline Village.

Alibi Ale Works

Featured on the Reno Tahoe Brewery Map, Alibi Ale Works is somewhat new on the scene, and they are quickly growing into a Northern Nevada favorite. They brew a variety of beer styles, from light blondes to tangy sours and IPAs, and it’s all brewed with 100% Lake Tahoe water. Their taproom and public house are both located in Incline Village just a short drive from Sand Harbor.

Inclined Burgers & Brews

As the name would suggest, Inclined Burgers & Brews is a great spot in Incline Village to enjoy the classic pair up of burgers and beers. They offer three burger options — ¼-pounder, ½-pounder or veggie – and a variety of beers to pair them with. It’s a great spot to kick back after a long day at the beach and if you’re looking to satisfy a sweet tooth, they also offer floats and ice cream.

Visit our food and drink page for a complete listing of breweries and tasting rooms in Reno Tahoe.