When asking yourself about something to do near me in Phoenix with a group of friends or family, consider
Horse & Hyde
Why Horse & Hyde is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Horse & Hyde is a unique upscale country bar and eatery with locations in Phoenix's Arcadia and Uptown neighborhoods, offering a fresh take on the classic country bar experience. The atmosphere is designed to transport guests to an upscale Nashville-style setting, featuring exposed old-world brick walls, tufted booths, candlelight, fireplaces, and distinctive decor like a mirrored mosaic longhorn and denim-colored feature walls. The bar offers signature cocktails such as the Cowboy Carajillo with fresh espresso, barrel-aged bourbon cocktails like the City Slicker, and the Lavender French 75, complemented by a menu featuring smoked meats crafted through a new commissary for an authentic saloon vibe. Horse & Hyde emphasizes a welcoming 'neighborhood hitching post' ambiance where friends can gather and enjoy live local country music every night. The venue's daily happy hour from 2 to 6 p.m. adds to its appeal as a go-to spot for socializing. Founder Aaron Lopo's passion for culinary creativity and community shines through in the detailed design and ambiance that foster a family-like atmosphere, making Horse & Hyde an ideal meeting place for friends seeking authentic country flavors and music within an upscale and comfortable environment.
Here's what people think of Horse & Hyde
As of recent, Horse & Hyde holds a 4.4-star rating based on 59 reviews.
User reviews for Horse & Hyde generally reflect a positive reception, with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 59 reviews. Many reviewers appreciate the authentic Nashville-inspired atmosphere that sets it apart from traditional country bars, highlighting the upscale yet inviting design elements like cozy booths and tasteful decor. Positive reviews often mention the quality and creativity of the signature cocktails, particularly praising the Cowboy Carajillo and barrel-aged bourbon options. Guests also enjoy the live local country music, which contributes significantly to the venue's lively and enjoyable ambiance. Additionally, the upgraded food offerings, especially the smoked meats, receive compliments for their flavor and quality, enhancing the saloon experience. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to occasional service inconsistencies, such as slow drink or food preparation times during peak hours. A few patrons have noted that the music might be too loud for casual conversation at times, and parking or accessibility in the Uptown or Arcadia locations can be challenging. Despite minor criticisms, the overall consensus is that Horse & Hyde provides a memorable and fresh alternative to the typical country bar scene. In conclusion, the blend of upscale atmosphere, quality drinks and food, and live music makes Horse & Hyde a popular social destination with mostly favorable customer satisfaction.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Todd Malone
Say less. Great service, tasty treats, live country music, with crafted cocktails or simply bottled beer you can quench your thirst or find bartenders that will make thirstier than the IG trap that you accidentally liked. Just past DillyDally east bound on North side of Indian School.. you can find a lil Oasis where you can expect country, BBQ, and a smile along with a tasty beverage. Love this spot, LOVE love music, but love, Love, LOVE the freeway happy hour specials. Don't trust the internet? I get it... go find for yourself... just not on a Monday..... they're closed on that day. I do recommend the Espresso Martini made by Andrea (really anything she makes) or maybe Franny she's cool.. but Andrea might just ruin your feelings about your local bartenders. Quesadillers and nachos fug... don't nuance me.. I'm here for sliders or a taco salad just try something, you are gonna see guy fieri taking you to flavor town.... hell, maybe Ty Pennington biltong a house of rising fun..... filled flavor idk.... don't be so suburban.... go get rural and try a new a pot that aint a club but you'll still LOVE. No, I don't work there lol.
Jason Mejia
Absolutely love horse and Hyde! I have a couple of bones to pick though. Service and atmosphere is absolutely phenomenal. I will say they have the most expensive drinks in the valley. Nobody should be paying $25 for a single bourbon. Also, the food is very average. my local spot is an uptown Plaza, Central and Camelback. Been going here since they open. Will still go even though they’re raping the wallet. Lol.
John Gates
This place is a complete joke. Me and my family were visiting Phoenix and we were looking for a place with good music and some good bbq! Horse and Hyde popped up so we figured we would try it out and boy oh boy were we let down. It was a Friday night so the place had a good amount of people there! Once you walk in the music is so loud if you plan on having any conversation make sure to have it via text. The cocktail menu was very amateur:/ they have nothing that will make you want to come back drink wise. Once I fought my way through the crowd to the bathroom It was disheartening to see food being made in the microwave and panini press. Watched the worker take what looked like mystery meat out of sand which bag put bbq on it and call it brisket. We were at a total loss of words. We just finished our drinks and decided to go somewhere else. They promote this place as if it’s a restaurant and it’s not even close, if you’re looking for a quick over priced drink this is the stop for you! I will say the gentleman behind the bar was awesome so that’s something to build from I guess🤷🏾♂️
Avk602
4 stars for now.... I didn't have the foodie moment I was looking for, it's a limited menu, I had the chicken green chili quesadilla, it's safe, best description I can do. The atmosphere is spot on, the drink menu is the size of the place; Small but impactful. Buckin' bronco is made with legit espresso, I'd definitely recommend giving it a few drinks and a chance to win you over. The cowboy hat wearing bartenders are exactly what this neighborhood needs. A nice change of pace. Cheers! Or Yee Haw, to us country folk at heart.
Christina Provencio
Our bartender Francesca took really great care of us. Explained the menu & told us some of the regulars favorite cocktails. We enjoyed their old fashion & the Smokin’ Joe. For food we ordered the turkey brie quesadillas - delicious! Great for a first date or just meeting friends. Looking forward to coming back.
How to reach Horse & Hyde
None
Website: None
Why Horse & Hyde may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Horse & Hyde with your friends?
Horse & Hyde Barroom Saloon offers a unique and inviting atmosphere that makes it the perfect spot to gather with friends or family for a memorable outing. Its chic, Nashville-style country bar vibe immediately sets it apart from typical nightspots, providing a sense of warmth and escapism that encourages relaxation and enjoyment. Unlike large, impersonal venues, Horse & Hyde’s intimate space—just about 1,200 square feet—creates a cozy environment where groups can truly connect. The venue artfully balances a lively scene with comfort, featuring a full bar, dining area, a small stage, and a dance floor that invite patrons to immerse themselves in music and conversation without overwhelming crowds. Its décor blends rustic charm with well-thought-out design elements that reflect a passion for creating spaces where customers want to return regularly. With live music five days a week, including open mic nights and a high-quality sound system, Horse & Hyde fosters a dynamic ambiance that keeps every visit fresh and exciting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to unwind with good food and drinks in great company, this barroom saloon is a standout choice for your next get-together.
What activities does Horse & Hyde offer for a group meetup?
Groups visiting Horse & Hyde can enjoy a variety of activities that cater to different tastes and interests, making it a versatile meetup location. First, the live music scene is a core attraction: the venue hosts live performances five days a week, presenting local talent and open mic nights that allow patrons to experience authentic country and Americana tunes. This creates an engaging backdrop where your group can relax and even dance if the mood strikes. The modest size of the venue and its designed layout ensure that everyone can hear and see the performers clearly, enhancing the shared social experience. Beyond music, Horse & Hyde features a full bar stocked with cocktails that carry a country kick, crafted with care to complement the rustic yet refined atmosphere. Their cocktail offerings add a flavorful and festive dimension to any meetup, making it easy to toast good times. For those interested in food, the menu focuses on simple yet upscale Sonoran cowboy fare that is perfect for sharing. Items like the Braised Beef Panini, Hermosillo Dog, and Wild West Potato Nachos offer satisfying, crowd-pleasing tastes without complication, ideal for communal dining. Moreover, the outdoor patio provides an airy, casual space for groups who prefer to enjoy a more open environment with fresh air alongside their drinks and meals. Together, these activities combine to make Horse & Hyde a well-rounded social hub suitable for groups seeking entertainment, quality food and drinks, and a welcoming ambiance all in one place.
What makes Horse & Hyde an ideal place for friends or family gatherings?
The intimate yet lively atmosphere of Horse & Hyde is one of the primary reasons it shines as a gathering spot for groups. Its layout includes a dance floor and stage without feeling crowded, which means your group can enjoy a night of music and dancing together comfortably. The sense of community cultivated through open mic nights and curated live music means that visitors often feel like part of a shared experience rather than just spectators. This welcoming vibe is amplified by the attentive and friendly staff, who are noted for making patrons feel at home and well cared for. Additionally, the food and drink program is designed to please a variety of tastes while encouraging sharing, which is key for group dynamics. The menu’s Sonoran cowboy comfort food, paired with cocktails that carry both finesse and a country twist, ensures that everyone can find something they love. Equally important is the venue’s location in the Arcadia area of Phoenix, which is known for its vibrant culinary scene and ease of access, making it a convenient choice for friends or family to convene without hassle. The combination of good music, food, drink, and ambiance makes Horse & Hyde more than just a bar—it becomes a lively social living room where memorable moments are born.
How does Horse & Hyde’s live music enhance the meetup experience?
Live music is the heartbeat of Horse & Hyde, and it significantly enriches any group gathering there. The venue hosts live performances five nights a week, with a diverse lineup that includes open mic nights, allowing both seasoned and emerging musicians to perform. This consistent live entertainment injects energy into the space and provides a vibrant soundtrack to your group’s time together. The high-quality sound system and thoughtfully designed stage area create a listening experience that is both immersive and intimate, making it feel like the music is part of your circle rather than something distant or detached. This setup encourages dancing, singing along, and sharing the joy of live performance, all of which foster deeper connections among friends or family members. Moreover, the country and Americana focus of the music matches the bar’s Nashville-inspired theme, offering an authentic and unique cultural touch that is rarely found in typical city bars. Whether your group comes for a lively dance night or a more relaxed evening of acoustic tunes, the live music at Horse & Hyde brings an added layer of excitement and communal enjoyment to your meetup.
What food and drink options make Horse & Hyde stand out for group outings?
Horse & Hyde’s menu is designed to complement its country bar atmosphere with straightforward but upscale dishes that are perfect for sharing within a group. The focus is on Sonoran cowboy-inspired food that offers bold yet approachable flavors. Signature dishes such as the Braised Beef Panini, featuring smoked gouda and caramelized onions, or the Hermosillo Dog with locally sourced chorizo and ranch-style beans, provide hearty options that satisfy a range of appetites. The Wild West Potato Nachos are especially popular for groups, piled high with BBQ pulled pork or chicken, cheeses, and accompaniments, making them a perfect communal snack to enjoy over drinks. The pricing is reasonable for the quality, allowing groups to sample various items without breaking the bank. On the drink side, the bar features cocktails with a distinctive country twist that marry classic techniques with spirited flavors, enhancing the overall experience. This curated drink menu ensures that every guest can find their preferred refreshment, from craft cocktails to local brews. The combination of delicious food, expertly made drinks, and generous portions makes Horse & Hyde an excellent choice for groups seeking a shared culinary adventure in a relaxed and convivial setting.
Why is the location and design of Horse & Hyde ideal for social gatherings?
Situated in the Arcadia Lite neighborhood along Indian School Road, Horse & Hyde benefits from a location that is both accessible and embedded in a vibrant dining corridor. This makes it easy for groups from across the Phoenix area to come together without logistical challenges. The neighborhood atmosphere is trendy yet laid-back, mirroring the bar’s own charm. The interior design of Horse & Hyde complements its Nashville country bar inspiration with rustic elements, warm lighting, and a carefully planned layout that maximizes comfort without sacrificing fun. The space includes a dance floor, a stage for live performers, a full-service bar, a dining area, and an inviting patio—providing multiple environments for groups to spread out, relax, and interact in ways that suit their mood. This versatility is key for social gatherings where some may want to eat and chat quietly while others prefer to soak up the music or dance. The intimate 1,200 square feet manage to deliver a big experience through smart design choices and attention to detail, from sound quality to furniture selection. Overall, the location and design synergize to offer a welcoming, dynamic venue that caters perfectly to the needs of groups looking to rally and make the most of their time together.
What does the overall experience at Horse & Hyde look like for a group?
Visiting Horse & Hyde as a group combines all the elements of a classic night out but with an added layer of intimacy and personality. Upon arrival, you’re greeted by a warm and inviting ambiance that sets the tone for the evening. The friendly staff quickly make you feel welcome, directing you to comfortable seating areas or the dance floor depending on your group’s preference. As live music starts to fill the room, the energy in the bar rises, providing a continuously engaging backdrop for your conversations and celebrations. Throughout your visit, the combination of delicious Sonoran-style cowboy food and expertly crafted cocktails ensures that your group is well fueled and refreshed. Whether your group decides to settle on the patio for enjoying some fresh air or gather inside near the band for a more interactive experience, Horse & Hyde’s versatile environment supports a wide range of social dynamics. The bar’s manageable size prevents it from feeling overwhelming, while the diverse offerings and regular live music keep things vibrant and fun. In short, a meetup at Horse & Hyde feels like a thoughtfully curated event where every detail is designed to maximize enjoyment and connection among friends or family.