When asking yourself about something to do near me in Phoenix with a group of friends or family, consider
Don Woods' Say When
Why Don Woods' Say When is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Don Woods' Say When stands out as a premier rooftop bar and lounge nestled atop the Rise Uptown Hotel in Phoenix, Arizona. This venue offers an intimate yet spacious setting characterized by its retro design inspired by the late 1960s and early 1970s, creating a nostalgic ambiance that invites guests to relax and socialize. The rooftop features cozy seating areas, fire pits, and expansive terraces with stunning views of the Phoenix skyline and Camelback Mountain, offering an inviting atmosphere perfect for any time before or after dinner or during sunset. The lounge focuses on a curated cocktail experience featuring a rotating menu of supercharged highballs, quenchable spritzes, classic cocktails, and era-inspired modern renditions crafted to complement the theme. Though the food menu is light and designed mainly for sharing, it includes snacks like chips and dip, gin-soaked olives, marinated anchovies, and cheese platters, which enhance the social experience without overshadowing the drinks. Open from Thursday to Sunday, Don Woods' Say When requires reservations to maintain an exclusive and comfortable atmosphere. The bar’s dedication to quality drinks, retro vibe, and striking views makes it an ideal meeting spot for friends looking to unwind and enjoy a stylish evening in Phoenix.
Here's what people think of Don Woods' Say When
As of recent, Don Woods' Say When holds a 4.3-star rating based on 206 reviews.
User reviews of Don Woods' Say When reflect a generally positive reception, with many guests praising the venue's ambiance and unique rooftop setting. Positive feedback often highlights the retro décor and comfortable seating areas, noting the beautiful panoramic views of Phoenix and Camelback Mountain that enhance the social experience. Reviewers also appreciate the cocktail menu, mentioning that the carefully crafted drinks and rotating selection of classic and modern cocktails offer a memorable tasting experience. The intimate lounge atmosphere combined with fire pits and cozy seating has made it a favored spot for relaxed gatherings, particularly around sunset. On the other hand, negative reviews touch on shortcomings in the food and drink offerings, with some customers finding the cocktails and small food menu disappointing or not meeting expectations given the venue's ambience and price point. Additionally, a few visitors have mentioned service inconsistencies and noted that the space can feel restrictive without reservations. Overall, while some criticisms exist, the majority of patrons value Don Woods' Say When for its unique concept, scenic rooftop environment, and quality cocktail craftsmanship. The bar has established itself as a stylish destination for socializing with friends in a laid-back yet chic setting.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Nimrit Sidhu
We recently had the pleasure of visiting this rooftop bar in Phoenix, and Luis and Daniel made the experience truly exceptional. From the moment we arrived, his friendly and welcoming demeanor set the tone for a wonderful evening. The beautiful views of the city paired perfectly with Luis’s outstanding hospitality. Can’t wait to come back again! Highly recommend asking for Luis if you visit! Thanks for taking this pic for us!
Timothy McCloud
Very poor service- particularly the waitress was not nice. We ordered 1 glass of wine and 1 cocktail it took over 30 minutes and I found our drinks just sitting on the server ledge in which I had to walk up and get our drinks myself to bring to our table. The wine and cocktail was very bad disgusting. Also, for some reason, they decided to turn off the air water misters and it was apparent that more people were coming to the patio area. This was not our first time going to Say When. However, this was the first time we experienced such horrible service. I really felt bad that I left the waitress a tip because she did nothing to serve us! I don’t know her name but she seemed to be very moody and unapologetic. My check# 35 dated 7/26/25 at 10:24p. This place is usually at the top of our list when deciding where to go out and have a drink….this place has now been removed from our list altogether!! Get your….together Say When we were very shocked and appalled!
Sean Griffiths
🌇 Don Woods’ Say When – A Rooftop Gem with Room to Grow Perched atop the Rise Hotel in Uptown Phoenix, Don Woods’ Say When is a visual love letter to the city skyline. The view alone is worth the visit—an expansive, cinematic sweep of Phoenix that feels both intimate and grand. It’s the kind of backdrop that makes you linger longer, sip slower, and savor the moment. 🍸 Drinks That Dazzle The cocktail program is inventive and well-executed. The Whiskey Tart, in particular, is a standout—bold, balanced, and just the right amount of unexpected. Their mixology leans into retro flair with modern precision, and it’s clear the bar team knows how to craft a memorable drink. 🍽️ Food & Service – A Work in Progress While the food shows promise, the overall experience is held back by inconsistencies in service and operations. Wait times, attentiveness, and coordination could use refinement. There’s a sense that the kitchen and floor staff aren’t always in sync, which detracts from what could be a seamless rooftop experience. 🌟 A Pillar of Uptown Phoenix Despite the hiccups, Don Woods’ Say When is more than just a bar—it’s part of the community fabric. It brings energy, style, and a sense of place to Uptown. With a stronger focus on outcomes and consistency, it has the potential to become a true destination, not just a detour. If they tighten up the execution, they’ll be unstoppable. For now, go for the view, stay for the drinks, and keep your fingers crossed for smoother service next time.
L C
First Time Here and I Loved It… Great views and pleasant staff. Highly recommended
Don Cornio
Very nice little retro throwback bar that feels like you were transplanted back into your grandmas living room in the 60’s (in a good way). Tasty cocktails and a very comfortable vibe. We sat at the bar but would love to try the booths next time. Terrible name for a Bar but names aren’t everything. Very neat spot that we will come back to in the future.
How to reach Don Woods' Say When
None
Website: None
Why Don Woods' Say When may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Don Woods' Say When with your friends? Because this rooftop bar offers the perfect blend of nostalgic ambiance, breathtaking city views, and expertly crafted drinks—all set within a stylish and intimate lounge designed to bring people together. Located atop the Rise Uptown Hotel in Phoenix, Don Woods' Say When is more than just a bar; it’s a social experience. With its retro 1960s-1970s vibe, the space immediately transports guests to an era of cool sophistication, making it ideal for a memorable meetup with friends or family. Whether you’re looking to unwind before dinner, celebrate a special occasion, or simply soak in a beautiful sunset over the Phoenix skyline and Camelback Mountain, this lounge provides the perfect backdrop. Its welcoming atmosphere encourages conversation and relaxation by cozy fire pits and plush seating on the rooftop terrace. Tailored with a small food menu of shareable snacks and a rotating cocktail list featuring forgotten classics, Don Woods' Say When ensures that every gathering feels personalized and exciting. For groups craving a mix of style, comfort, and engaging ambiance in a scenic rooftop setting, this venue stands out as a prime choice.
What activities are available at Don Woods' Say When and why is it perfect for a group meetup?
Don Woods' Say When excels as a space designed for socializing and quality time rather than traditional dining or high-energy events. The primary draw is its 60s-inspired bar combined with a stylish rooftop terrace that boasts expansive views of Phoenix’s urban landscape and natural landmarks. The terrace features cozy seating arrangements and fire pits, creating a warm and inviting communal atmosphere, especially as the desert sun sets. Groups can reserve either the intimate indoor bar area, the outdoor terrace, or both for larger gatherings, making it versatile for different party sizes and vibes. Engaging with friends here means enjoying conversations over expertly crafted highballs and cocktails that highlight classic but forgotten recipes, perfect for cocktail enthusiasts seeking something unique. The place promotes a relaxed environment where guests can gather, share small bites such as chips and dip, gin-soaked olives, marinated anchovies, and cheese platters, keeping things light and sociable. This setup makes it ideal for groups who want to focus on connection and ambiance rather than a full meal experience.
How does Don Woods' Say When create a unique and nostalgic atmosphere?
The entire penthouse bar and lounge area is inspired by the late 1960s and early 1970s, offering guests a unique trip back in time through its design and concept. The décor is carefully curated to reflect the retro aesthetics of that era, from furniture choices to lighting and color schemes, which evoke a warm, vintage charm. This nostalgia not only enhances the overall experience but also sets the mood for an intimate and stylish night out. Rather than positioning itself as just another modern bar, Don Woods’ Say When pays homage to the past—both in atmosphere and name, honoring Don Woods, a real estate investor historically connected to the building’s original structure. This thoughtful approach gives the venue a story and personality that resonates with patrons looking for something authentic and different. The retro sophistication invites groups to enjoy a blend of social elegance and casual fun, elevating the experience beyond just drinks and snacks.
What makes the rooftop location and views so special for hosting events or meetups?
The rooftop setting of Don Woods' Say When is arguably one of its strongest features, delivering panoramic views of the Phoenix city skyline as well as the iconic Camelback Mountain. This elevated vantage point creates a stunning visual backdrop that is perfect for any celebration or relaxed gathering. Whether it’s watching the sun dip below the horizon or enjoying the city lights that sparkle as night falls, the views add an unforgettable element to the evening. The terrace also features fire pits, which foster a cozy, inviting environment, encouraging guests to linger and enjoy extended conversation or celebration. With a capacity to host more than 100 guests when both indoor and outdoor spaces are reserved, the venue is flexible enough for intimate groups as well as larger events like birthday parties or company gatherings. The setting combines the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape with urban sophistication, making it both visually impressive and emotionally engaging.
Why is Don Woods' Say When ideal for different types of get-togethers?
Whether you’re planning a casual after-work hangout, a milestone birthday, a company party, or a low-key pre-dinner spot, Don Woods’ Say When fits diverse social needs gracefully. Its flexible layout allows groups to tailor the space to their size and vibe. The intimate indoor bar, with seating for around 45, is perfect for conversations close to the action of the bar, while the rooftop terrace can accommodate up to 75 guests with more open seating and socializing around fire pits. For large celebrations, the venue can be fully bought out to comfortably host up to 120 people, offering exclusive use of all its amenities and spaces. The carefully curated drink menu, featuring rotating classic cocktails, appeals to connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike, ensuring everyone can find something delightful to enjoy. The focus on small shareable bites complements the drinking experience without overwhelming guests with heavy food options, allowing the event to remain casual and focused on connection. This combination of ambience, capacity, and quality makes it adaptable for a range of social occasions.
What about reservations and the overall accessibility of Don Woods' Say When?
Due to its popularity and intimate nature, Don Woods' Say When requires reservations, especially on weekends and for larger groups, which is ideal for groups who want a guaranteed spot and well-organized evening. Reservations can be conveniently made online, ensuring minimal hassle when planning your meetup. The location within the Rise Uptown Hotel at 400 W. Camelback Road in Phoenix makes it easy to reach by car or rideshare, with parking options nearby. The rooftop bar operates Thursday through Sunday, from 4 p.m. to midnight, which aligns perfectly with typical social hours—late afternoon through evening—allowing for sunset views and nighttime cityscape enjoyment. Its reputation for stellar hospitality, combined with a smooth reservation process, means groups can focus on having a great time without worrying about logistics or overcrowding. This efficiency and accessibility enhance its appeal as a meetup venue where planning is straightforward and guests feel well taken care of.
How does the small but thoughtful food menu enhance the group experience?
While Don Woods’ Say When is not a full-scale restaurant, the small menu it offers greatly enriches the social experience. Featuring shareable snacks like chips and dip, gin-soaked olives, marinated anchovies, and cheese platters, the food options encourage communal enjoyment and snacking between cocktails rather than large or heavy meals. This approach keeps the focus on conversation and drinking, facilitating a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere where guests can casually nibble and share. These thoughtfully selected small bites pair wonderfully with the cocktail menu, designed to deepen the tasting experience and complement the retro bar vibe. The light food menu further supports the idea of Don Woods’ Say When as a spot for gathering “before dinner, after dinner, during a sunset or just to relax and chill,” emphasizing its role as a versatile social hub rather than a dining destination. This shared food concept naturally brings groups closer and enhances the overall enjoyment of the occasion.
Why do reviews rate Don Woods' Say When highly for group gatherings?
Rated 4.3 out of 5 from over 200 reviews, Don Woods' Say When consistently receives praise for its unique atmosphere, quality drinks, and friendly service. Many reviewers highlight it as an excellent venue for groups because of its spacious terrace and comfortable lounge areas that encourage group interaction without the noise of a typical nightclub environment. Patrons appreciate the retro design and the sense of nostalgia which set it apart from other bars in Phoenix. The scenic rooftop views, especially at sunset, are frequently mentioned as a standout feature that enhances any meetup. Additionally, guests often commend the staff for attentive service and the ease of reservation, which together create a hassle-free experience. Overall, the combination of ambiance, location, drink quality, and service makes Don Woods’ Say When a reliable and appealing choice for anyone seeking a memorable gathering place in Phoenix.