When asking yourself about something to do near me in Phoenix with a group of friends or family, consider
36 Below
Why 36 Below is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
36 Below is a captivating speakeasy-style bar located in Phoenix, Arizona, offering an extraordinary and immersive experience that makes it an exceptional place to meet up with friends. Inspired by the concept of a Walipini—an underground greenhouse—this lounge combines themes of growth, mystery, and transformation, providing patrons with a unique ambiance far from the ordinary. The bar is located below the Sip Coffee & Beer Garage, presenting an intimate underground setting reminiscent of tropical and underwater worlds. Guests often describe the moment of descending into 36 Below as stepping into another realm, with enchanting decor and immersive digital landscapes that transport visitors to multi-sensory environments. The establishment frequently rotates quarterly themes, such as the Polynesian-inspired "Aquatica" or the woodland "Hidden Hollow," enhancing the sense of novelty and adventure during every visit. The bar offers expertly crafted, inventive cocktails with a strong emphasis on creativity and detail, such as the highly praised gin-based Centaurus cocktail. Despite the cocktails being on the pricier side, customers find the experience, atmosphere, and attentive service well worth the cost. With limited seating and a carefully curated ambiance, 36 Below is perfect for memorable evenings spent catching up in a magical setting. Friendly and attentive staff further elevate the experience, making it a preferred destination for groups looking for an extraordinary night out in Phoenix.
Here's what people think of 36 Below
As of recent, 36 Below holds a 4.5-star rating based on 750 reviews.
Reviews for 36 Below are overwhelmingly positive, reflecting the bar's success in delivering a unique and enchanting customer experience. Many patrons appreciate the creativity and precision that goes into each cocktail, highlighting the skilled bartenders and mixologists who craft each drink as a form of art. The ambiance receives frequent praise, with guests describing the bar as a magical, cozy underground escape that transports them away from the city and into thematic worlds—ranging from tropical island vibes to underwater scenes. Several visitors also commend the immersive elements, such as ambient sounds, digital landscapes, and curated aromas that contribute to a multi-sensory experience. The warmth and friendliness of the staff, especially hosting and service teams, also stand out as key positive elements, helping to accommodate walk-ins and create a welcoming environment even during busy times. On the downside, some reviewers mention limited seating as a drawback, making reservations highly recommended. Additionally, a few customers feel the food offerings, such as flatbreads, do not fully meet expectations or justify their price, although updates to the menu are anticipated. Another note is that cocktails can be relatively expensive, which may not appeal to all budgets. Nonetheless, the consensus is that the quality of drinks and the extraordinary ambiance justify the cost. In conclusion, 36 Below’s reviews reflect a nearly unanimous appreciation for its innovative concept, expert mixology, and immersive atmosphere, making it a favored destination for those seeking an elevated night out in Phoenix.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Karamia Victoria
Avery is amazing! We had an amazing experience at 36 Below Speakeasy thanks to our waitress, Avery! It was her very first day, but you would have thought she had been working here for years. She was so knowledgeable, attentive, and confident, it truly impressed us. Avery made our night unforgettable with her great service and positive energy. She’s an absolute star and a huge asset to the team!
Chantyphx
We had a group of 12 and were lucky enough to get seated in a private space. The vibes were so dreamy. It felt like stepping into a secret little world under the city 🧜♀️🌊 The theme that night was mermaids, and the decor and drinks were totally giving under the sea fantasy. The lighting was soft and magical, the projections on the walls made everything feel alive, and every detail was so thought out. The cocktails? So cute. So fun. They came in creative glassware like conch shells and coral reef colors. I had one with glitter and edible pearls and honestly felt like Ariel at happy hour ✨🪸 The service was amazing. Super attentive and helpful even with our big group. Everyone was happy with their drinks and the whole night felt special without being over the top. 36 Below is the perfect spot if you want to impress your guests or just treat yourself to a different kind of night out. It’s intimate, gorgeous, and full of magic. I’ll definitely be back 🥂
Alexa Mouton
Okay I will be honest- coming here will most likely ruin any other cocktail bar because Adam is the most talented bartender we have ever met. The unique combinations of flavors and liquors have my mind blown every time! Summer also provides great service and is very attentive, as well as Blake! Must come if you are in Phoenix and love craft cocktails!
Lillian “Lilli” McCord
36 Below was an amazing experience! The place is full of charm, and they treat you like family. The drinks are incredibly innovative, with every detail thoughtfully crafted to make it special. And the tacos 🌮 — mmm, absolutely delicious! It’s so gratifying to visit a place where you truly feel welcomed. Huge thanks to Adam, Summer, and the rest of the staff for making it such a memorable visit!
Solice White (Aria)
Drinks were strong and totally on point!! 10/10 would recommend, Summer was our server and she was so wonderful!! We had a party of 5 and had a Private room with an Apple TV we could connect our own music to for Karaoke
How to reach 36 Below
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Why 36 Below may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at 36 Below with your friends? Imagine stepping into a hidden gem tucked underneath a cozy coffee shop in Phoenix—36 Below offers an enchanting escape that transforms a night out with friends into a memorable event steeped in atmosphere and creative cocktails. This speakeasy-style bar invites guests down a staircase surrounded by lush greenery into an intimate botanical-themed retreat where every detail—from the dim lighting to the expertly crafted drinks—works together to create an immersive experience that feels worlds away from the everyday. It is the kind of place where friends can gather to catch up in a sophisticated yet welcoming environment with flavors and vibes that spark conversation and discovery. With a rating of 4.5 stars from 750 reviews, 36 Below is clearly a favorite for its unique ambiance, smooth service, and the remarkable energy that flows through its cozy, whimsical setup. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a casual night out, or looking for a new spot to impress your group, 36 Below delivers a vibe that's perfect for rallying your crew and making lasting memories.
What activities and experiences does 36 Below offer for a group meetup? The primary draw at 36 Below is its curated cocktail experience, wherein mixologists serve up expertly crafted, imaginative drinks that are as much a visual delight as a taste sensation. Guests love the inventive presentations—like an Old Fashioned inspired “Utopia” cocktail served with a smoky glass cloche and table-side toasting of marshmallows, or tropical concoctions featuring totem-pole stems and layered flavors that awaken the palate. These cocktails provide perfect opportunities to bond over shared sensory pleasures or engage in friendly debates about the best drink of the night. The bar itself changes its thematic décor approximately every three months, with past themes ranging from Polynesian escapes to underwater worlds and winter wonderlands. This refreshing transformation ensures that repeat visits always bring something new to discover and talk about, keeping your group engaged and entertained. While the space is intimate—seating is limited—this fosters a cozy, exclusive feel ideal for small to medium-sized gatherings where everyone can interact easily. Plus, the occasional addition of seasonal charcuterie complements the drinking experience and adds a savory note to your meetups.
Why is the ambiance at 36 Below perfect for memorable evenings? The atmosphere at 36 Below transports guests from the heart of Phoenix into a whimsical, almost otherworldly dimension. Descending below street level through a staircase surrounded by greenery is like entering a secret garden or enchanted forest, setting the tone for the evening. Inside, the lighting is low but warm, emphasizing intimate conversations while highlighting the botanical elements that give the bar its distinctive flair. The decor is both sophisticated and playful, balancing a speak-easy mystique with botanical dreams and fantasy-like elements. Reviewers consistently describe feeling as if they’ve touched down in a tropical getaway or underwater paradise, making it ideal for groups looking to escape the ordinary and share an exclusive experience. The bar’s relatively small size encourages mingling and close conversations, turning a simple night into an experience of camaraderie and connection. For groups seeking Instagram-worthy moments, each cocktail and corner of 36 Below provides a picturesque backdrop that enhances the social media shareability of your outing.
What makes 36 Below’s location and accessibility great for groups to gather? Situated at 3620 East Indian School Road inside the Sip Coffee and Beer shop, 36 Below has a cleverly hidden entrance that adds to its speakeasy charm. Guests enter through the middle of the coffee shop and descend stairs to find the magical bar below, which naturally fosters a sense of exclusivity among visitors. Its location in the lively Arcadia Lite neighborhood of Phoenix ensures easy access from many parts of the city, offering ample parking and a bustling atmosphere nearby. Operating from afternoon to late night (4 PM to midnight on weekdays and until 1 AM on weekends), the bar caters well to group meetups after work or for late-night celebrations. The bar’s small size does mean that reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends when demand surges, ensuring your group can be comfortably accommodated without long waits. Being under the same roof as a coffee and beer venue also allows friends to tailor their experience, perhaps starting with casual coffee before moving down to the bar for a more intimate, spirited hangout.
How does the quality of service at 36 Below enhance group gatherings? The staff at 36 Below contribute significantly to the overall positive experience, creating a welcoming environment that keeps guests coming back. Reviews commend the friendly and attentive bartenders and hostesses who greet visitors with warm smiles, assist with reservations when possible, and offer thoughtful cocktail recommendations. This level of service adds a personalized touch that can make group meetups feel special, whether you’re planning a quick stop or an extended evening. The mixologists demonstrate a deep knowledge of the craft, ensuring that each drink not only tastes exceptional but is served with artistry and flair. This attentive, knowledgeable service fosters an atmosphere where groups feel well cared for and free to relax, chat, and indulge in the unique offerings. The staff’s ability to accommodate walk-ins occasionally and their offices at the hostess stand make navigating group logistics smoother, especially for those visiting for the first time.
What future developments and special events might enrich the group experience at 36 Below? According to recent updates, 36 Below is developing an event space called the Rose Garden, targeted to open soon. This private room is designed to host special occasions such as bachelorette parties, baby showers, or any group celebration seeking a more dedicated area within the bar. This development promises to elevate the versatility of 36 Below as a meetup destination by catering to larger groups and various event types. Knowing this expansion is underway encourages regular visitors and new guests alike to consider 36 Below not only for casual nights out but also for milestone gatherings. The bar’s active social media presence and regularly refreshed thematic decor imply a continuous evolution, keeping the venue interesting and providing new experiences for returning groups. This commitment to reinvention and customer engagement makes 36 Below a dynamic venue where every visit can offer something new—a highly attractive feature for groups who want their outings to be anything but routine.
Why is 36 Below a top choice for friends' and family meetups in Phoenix? Combining imaginative cocktails, a transportive and beautiful atmosphere, great location, and attentive service, 36 Below is more than just a bar—it’s an experience designed for connection and enjoyment. Friends can gather in an intimate yet magical setting that simultaneously feels exclusive and welcoming, perfect for catching up, celebrating, or simply indulging in a shared appreciation for quality drinks and aesthetic charm. Its constantly evolving themes provide a fresh reason to return and explore, keeping the venue exciting over time. With a strong reputation and glowing reviews from thousands of patrons, 36 Below stands out as a premier choice in Phoenix’s nightlife scene for anyone looking to host a memorable, fun, and conversation-worthy outing with their close group. Whether you're locals or visitors seeking a unique place to rally, 36 Below offers the perfect backdrop for making new memories together.