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 distinctive upscale country bar and eatery with a Nashville-inspired vibe, located in Phoenix, Arizona. Founded by Aaron Lopo, this bar defies the typical honky-tonk stereotype by offering a chic and intimate lounge atmosphere that is both welcoming and stylish. The venue features high-quality design details such as exposed brick walls, tufted booths, candlelight, a cozy fireplace, and a denim-colored feature wall, giving it the warmth and charm reminiscent of a southern country bar. The bar’s layout efficiently accommodates a stage, dance floor, full bar, dining area, and patio within its roughly 1,200 square feet, creating an inviting space perfect for gatherings with friends. Guests can enjoy live local country music performances up to five nights a week, including an open mic night, which fosters a vibrant musical community. Horse & Hyde’s creative bar program includes signature cocktails like the Cowboy Carajillo, barrel-aged bourbon cocktails, and elegant drinks such as the Lavender French 75. Complementing the beverages is a straightforward menu focused on smoked meats and comfort food, designed to satisfy throughout the day and night. The bar also hosts a daily happy hour, enhancing its appeal as a neighborhood hub where visitors can relax, socialize, and immerse themselves in a refined yet comfortable country ambiance.
Here's what people think of Horse & Hyde
As of recent, Horse & Hyde holds a 4.1-star rating based on 76 reviews.
Horse & Hyde enjoys positive recognition from patrons who highlight its unique upscale approach to the classic country bar experience. Many reviewers appreciate the quality of live music and the intimate ambiance the venue fosters, emphasizing how the space feels inviting yet refined, a notable departure from the typical rowdy country bar stereotype. The diverse cocktail menu and thoughtfully prepared comfort food menu receive favorable mentions, especially signature drinks like the Cowboy Carajillo, praised for its fresh espresso. The attentive service and well-curated environment make it a great spot for friends to meet up and enjoy an evening out enriched with community and good vibes. On the other hand, some reviews suggest that the venue’s smaller size can lead to limited seating availability during peak times, which may detract from the experience for those seeking a larger space. A few patrons also wish for a broader food menu or more variety to cater to differing tastes beyond the smoked meats focus. Despite these minor critiques, the majority of feedback remains very positive, emphasizing Horse & Hyde’s success in creating a memorable, high-quality Nashville-style nightspot. Overall, Horse & Hyde is regarded as an excellent destination for those looking to enjoy live country music, specialty cocktails, and an inviting social atmosphere that stands out in the Phoenix nightlife scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Michael Taube
Update: they got rid of their large selection of baked goods, and now offer only a fraction of what they used to. Came in on a Sunday, paid $20 for two coffees and a muffin. Waited 10 minutes for the coffees. Paying these prices I expected better service.. I'll be back but not happy with these changes. Lowered their rating.. 😢 Great ambiance. Nice cozy outdoor patio. Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and alcoholic beverages are some of the many things they offer. Super tasty muffins!
Ayden Acuña
I had been to the other location on Camelback and loved it. However, this location deeply disappointed. A friend and I had come for some drinks and apps before heading to a concert down the street. We ordered drinks and I ordered a loaded twice baked potato. The drinks were good but the food terrible. The baked potato came out and I took the first bite thinking that it was a little tough. when I scooped away the toppings I saw that the potato underneath was raw, so raw that my fork would bounce off of it or stick into it and be able to hold the whole potato up. When showing this to the server all she offered was to "take it off the tab" i thought she would refund me for the twice baked potato that was not even once baked, her idea of taking it off was taking of $3 of a potato that they are already overcharging $16 for. Needless to say I will not be going back.
Johanna Nikoletos
Very disappointing! Cute decor but food and drinks were not what you’d expect for the prices. I would not recommend to anyone. Sandwiches are pre-made and lightly heated up. The bacon was microwave ready bacon, Kraft singles on the breakfast sandwich, grocery store plain bagel when the menu says “New York style bagel”. Deceptive menu and food is way overpriced for what it is. I specifically asked the server if the “American cheese” was a Kraft single style slice and she said no, but it was a Kraft single. I also asked for the bacon for my sandwich on the side, so they added a couple pieces of bacon on the side, but my sandwich still had the bacon in it as well. We will not be back. If you look at the business owner’s response on some of the other negative reviews it tells you all you need to know. Rather than striving for good food and drinks and satisfying their customers, they are very defensive saying their food is pre-assembled “just like a Starbucks”. Difference is that Starbucks’ food is actually good even if it does come pre-assembled. And the price point here is a lot higher than Starbucks. Edited to add a photo after the business replied. We got our order to go and I took this after I ate a bite - I was giving it the benefit of the doubt until I tasted it. Anyone can clearly see this is not a New York style bagel. $12 for this plus $3 for avocado…
Rachel Ewell
Very nice little coffee spot in uptown plaza. I thought the aesthetic was very fun and the customer service was excellent. I ordered a cold caramel macchiato and it was absolutely delicious. I will definitely be back!
Stephanie Hall
Dapper & Stout? More like Dapper & Mouthwatering! My taste buds embarked on a glorious quest for cheesy nirvana with their legendary quesadilla, and let me tell you, it was a quest triumphantly achieved. The gooey, golden cheese cascaded like a waterfall of pure deliciousness, stretching as I reached for each heavenly bite. Each cheesy strand held the memory of perfectly melted goodness, a testament to the quality ingredients and culinary magic at work. The chai tea so good, it should be bottled and sold under the title "Liquid Happiness."
How to reach Horse & Hyde
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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 in Phoenix’s Arcadia neighborhood offers an inviting blend of a chic, Nashville-style country bar atmosphere perfect for gathering with friends or family. With its reputation for great live music, crafted cocktails, and an intimate lounge setting, this venue stands out as a lively escape where you can socialize, relax, and make lasting memories. The design and vibe encourage guests to linger, and its owner’s dedication to creating a space that challenges the traditional country bar stereotype results in a unique environment warm enough for close-knit meetups but vibrant enough to host festive celebrations. Whether your group is seeking a casual evening with delicious drinks or an energetic night filled with dancing, Horse & Hyde provides the perfect backdrop. Its open yet cozy 1,200-square-foot space includes a stage, dance floor, full bar, dining area, and patio, all beautifully decorated to maximize comfort and enjoyment. This combination makes it an excellent venue to connect, enjoy great music, and savor quality food and drinks together in an engaging setting.
What activities can you expect at Horse & Hyde that are ideal for group meetups? Horse & Hyde Barroom Saloon boasts live music five days a week, with open mic nights on Wednesdays that invite local talent and community involvement, providing lively entertainment and an opportunity for groups to experience diverse performances. The sound system is top-notch, enhancing the experience whether you’re sitting close to the stage or enjoying the patio’s fresh air. Beyond music, the venue offers a simple yet thoughtfully crafted menu focusing on dishes like smoked brisket mac, which pairs wonderfully with their cocktails. Their drinks program features traditional cocktails with a country twist, including well bourbons and highly praised margaritas, making it easy for a group to enjoy varied and quality beverages. The bartenders are known for being helpful and attentive, often guiding guests through the best drink choices. The space also encourages social interaction, with comfortable seating arrangements suitable for both small groups and larger gatherings, facilitating conversation and shared experiences.
Why is Horse & Hyde perfect for hosting a meetup with family or friends? The ambiance at Horse & Hyde strikes a balance between a lively bar and a welcoming community hub, creating an environment conducive to meaningful connections. Its Nashville-inspired style adds a unique flair that differentiates it from typical bars, combining country charm with a modern, chic aesthetic that appeals to a broad audience. Because the venue operates with a focus on escapism and memorable customer experiences, you and your group will likely feel relaxed and uplifted during your visit. The location in the popular Arcadia lite neighborhood ensures easy accessibility without sacrificing a sense of local flavor. Additionally, Horse & Hyde’s operating hours, open from early afternoon on weekends and mid-afternoon on weekdays, give groups flexibility in scheduling casual daytime meetups or exciting night outings. The live music schedule adds a dynamic element that can serve as a central event for your gathering, helping to break the ice and keep energy levels high throughout your time there.
What food and drink options make Horse & Hyde a great choice for group outings? The menu at Horse & Hyde is straightforward yet satisfying, with standouts like smoked brisket macaroni and cheese offering hearty comfort food ideal for sharing. While some patrons have noted that certain items come at a higher price point, the quality and flavor often justify the cost, making it a premium experience suitable for special occasions or casual celebrations alike. The drink selection is carefully curated to complement the food, featuring expertly crafted cocktails with a Southern country kick. Favorites include their margaritas and bourbon-based drinks, which pairs beautifully with the bar’s overall theme and vibe. Attentive bartenders provide excellent service, often recommending drinks that suit your tastes and enhancing the overall enjoyment of your meetup. This combination of tasty food and carefully mixed cocktails ensures your group will have plenty of options to keep everyone happy.
How does the venue’s setup and atmosphere enhance the social experience? Horse & Hyde’s layout includes a stage and dance floor, a full bar, and comfortable dining seating, all within a cozy yet open 1,200-square-foot space that encourages a communal feel. The presence of a patio area further expands the venue’s appeal by offering fresh air and a relaxed environment away from the high-energy bar area without losing sight of the action. The design and decor reflect the owner’s passion for country culture and hospitality, balancing rustic charm with modern comfort to create a visually appealing space that invites guests to stay and socialize for hours. The sound system’s quality is another big plus, ensuring live performances are clear and vibrant, which significantly enhances the ambiance on music nights. Whether your group prefers chatting over drinks, dancing to live tunes, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, Horse & Hyde accommodates various social moods well, making it an ideal location for diverse meetups.
What makes the location and community around Horse & Hyde special for visitors? Located in Phoenix’s Arcadia Lite neighborhood, Horse & Hyde benefits from being part of a vibrant and trendy area with a supportive community that appreciates quality dining, live music, and unique local spots. The neighborhood vibe adds to the venue's charm, offering convenient access combined with a laid-back, friendly feel that makes visitors feel connected to the area. Being in a well-frequented locale ensures your meetup has a lively backdrop without feeling overcrowded, especially given the venue’s smart design that maximizes comfort and social flow. The nearby amenities and other neighborhood attractions can complement your visit, allowing for flexible plans like pre- or post-meetup activities. This community-driven atmosphere encourages repeat visits and transforms Horse & Hyde into more than just a night out—it becomes a memorable part of your social routine.
What kind of events and special nights can groups look forward to at Horse & Hyde? Horse & Hyde regularly hosts live music from Wednesday through Sunday, where guests can enjoy everything from country bands to open mic performances that showcase local talent. These events make it a go-to destination for entertainment and a place where your group can experience the best of Phoenix's local music scene in an intimate setting. Open mic night on Wednesdays invites guests and performers to share songs and stories, creating an inclusive and interactive environment perfectly suited to groups wanting a shared cultural experience. Weekend live shows tend to have an energetic vibe, ideal for dancing and group celebration. Special nights are often accompanied by themed cocktails and food specials, further enhancing the festive atmosphere and giving groups even more reasons to return regularly.
How does the staff contribute to making Horse & Hyde a top pick for meetups? The bartenders and servers at Horse & Hyde are noted for their friendliness, attentiveness, and knowledge, often enhancing the customer experience by guiding guests through the menu and drinks selection. This level of care helps foster a welcoming atmosphere where everyone in your group can feel comfortable asking for recommendations or customizing their orders. Attentive staff also means quicker service, less waiting time, and smoother coordination for larger parties. Their enthusiasm for the venue and its vision comes through in their interactions, adding to the overall vibe that Horse & Hyde is not just a bar but a community space. For groups new to the venue, this welcoming approach helps break the ice and sets the tone for a relaxed and enjoyable gathering.
Why should Horse & Hyde be your go-to spot for regular meetups or special occasions? Horse & Hyde blends high-quality live entertainment, excellent cocktails, and a warm, country-themed atmosphere with thoughtful service, making it a versatile venue for a wide range of social gatherings. From casual catch-ups to celebratory nights out, the venue’s mix of charm, music, and quality food and drink options ensures memorable experiences. Its flexible hours and inviting design make it accessible for afternoon meetups as well as late evenings, catering to different group needs. The sense of community and the owner’s passion for creating a unique space that challenges norms means you’re supporting a business invested in long-term customer satisfaction. Choosing Horse & Hyde as your meetup location ensures you’ll enjoy not just a place to drink and dine but an environment that feels like an extension of your social circle, perfect for friends and family looking to connect in style.