When asking yourself about something to do near me in Phoenix with a group of friends or family, consider
Smith’s on 7th
Why Smith’s on 7th is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Smith’s on 7th is a welcoming bar and cocktail lounge located in the heart of Phoenix’s Melrose District, renowned for its relaxed atmosphere and neighborhood vibe. Housed in the historic building that once hosted the legendary Char's Has the Blues, Smith’s on 7th offers a refreshed experience that appeals to locals and visitors alike. The venue features a tasteful remodel including a clean and inviting new patio with fresh furniture, retiled parquet flooring, and multiple televisions for entertainment. Rather than focusing on live music, the owners have shifted the concept towards a social bar experience with fun amenities like three dartboards—including one replacing the old stage area—and plans for a private karaoke room in the side lounge. Smith’s on 7th operates seven nights a week until 2 a.m., offering an ideal spot to stop for drinks before or after dinner at any of the nearby Melrose restaurants, as the bar itself does not serve food. The bar’s focus on creating a comfortable, unpretentious ambiance makes it an excellent meeting place for friends seeking a chill night out. Its location at the bustling intersection of 7th Avenue and Coolidge Street provides easy accessibility and visibility. Overall, Smith’s on 7th blends historic charm with modern updates to serve as a cozy neighborhood hub centered around good drinks and casual fun.
Here's what people think of Smith’s on 7th
As of recent, Smith’s on 7th holds a 4.9-star rating based on 92 reviews.
Smith’s on 7th enjoys an excellent reputation among its patrons, with a high average rating of 4.9 based on 92 reviews, indicating widespread customer satisfaction. Positive reviews frequently highlight the venue's transformation from a famous blues club into a fresh and comfortable neighborhood bar that feels welcoming and laid-back. Customers appreciate the revamped space, particularly the patio area and the addition of dartboards, which add to the engaging and social atmosphere. Reviewers also commend the attentive and friendly staff, as well as the quality and variety of drinks served. The bar's late hours are noted as convenient for those looking to extend their evenings after dining nearby. There is strong appreciation for the community-focused concept and the fact that Smith’s does not try to compete with local restaurants but instead complements the neighborhood’s dining scene by offering a great spot just for drinks and casual gathering. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to the absence of food service, which a few patrons found inconvenient, especially those used to a full-service bar and grill experience. A few also mention that the removal of the stage and live music might disappoint fans of the former venue's concert-centric vibe. However, these critiques are relatively minor considering the overall positive sentiment. In summary, Smith’s on 7th is highly regarded for its pleasant ambiance, friendly service, and its role as a comfortable, no-frills neighborhood bar. The concept’s success is reflected in glowing customer reviews, establishing it as a favored destination for casual nightlife in Phoenix.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Katalina
Recently tried this bar for the first time and had a great time. We showed up on a Wednesday when they were about to start trivia and joined. It was very fun and they also offer daily specials on drinks. The cocktails are delicious, priced well, and the service is impecable. I also liked the space as it includes bar seating, tables, and comfortable couches. They also have a pool table available for use. I enjoyed my visit and will be returning. We thought our bartender was so nice and friendly and he made awesome drinks. I especially enjoyed the lemonade stand.
Beata
The bartender was awesome—super friendly and made us feel welcome right away. Drinks were absolutely delicious and priced really well, which is a rare combo these days. Definitely a solid spot if you’re looking for good vibes and great cocktails without breaking the bank. We'll be back for sure!
Leed
I come here every time I’m in town. Great staff, atmosphere, and cocktails. 10/10 I highly recommend.
Brandon Smith
Ooooooooowwwwwwwweeeeee. What a dope ass bar! Bartenders were cool as hell. Really good drink specials during the week and looks like they have a lot going on for them, in a good way! They even had fresh made pizzas out front for sale.
malia paulino
My girlfriend and I go here all the time since we live down the road. The owner is so nice and Drew and the bald guy are awesome! Their michelada is my favorite in AZ I completely recommend!
How to reach Smith’s on 7th
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Why Smith’s on 7th may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Smith’s on 7th with your friends?
Smith’s on 7th stands out as the perfect spot to gather your friends or family for an unforgettable meetup because it strikes a rare balance between cozy neighborhood charm and dynamic entertainment. The ambiance is welcoming, with a retro vibe and a touch of dive bar secrecy that makes it inviting and unique. Here, everyone feels at home the moment they walk in. The bartenders are central to the experience, skillfully crafting tasty cocktails that keep the good times flowing. Whether you're a regular or a first-timer, Smith’s on 7th quickly earns your loyalty through its friendly, professional service. It’s a place where you can relax and genuinely enjoy the company of those around you without distractions from overcrowded spaces or pretentious vibes. The establishment’s open-door policy on bringing outside food also shows its commitment to creating a comfortable, laid-back atmosphere. This flexibility adds a personal touch — you can combine your favorite snacks or meals with their expertly poured drinks. For family or friend groups looking for a lively, inclusive, and stress-free meetup place in Phoenix, Smith’s on 7th checks all the boxes without trying to be anything it’s not, retaining the true heart of a local bar.
What kind of atmosphere and vibe does Smith’s on 7th offer for groups?
Smith’s on 7th offers an atmosphere that is equal parts relaxed and exciting, making it ideal for group meetups. The decor nods to classic bar aesthetics with a retro feel that appeals to a broad crowd, from longtime locals to newcomers. The space was thoughtfully remodeled to retain warmth while maximizing comfort — with features like a clean, fresh new patio with updated furniture that encourages lingering conversations outdoors. Inside, the parquet dance floor was updated with tile, creating a versatile space for socializing rather than just dancing. This focus on comfort over club-like chaos means your group can talk, laugh, and enjoy quality time without shouting over blaring music. Televisions are installed around for casual entertainment but don’t overpower the social scene, so groups can still engage directly. Overall, the vibe at Smith’s combines the best of a neighborhood bar with subtle touches that make it feel special, encouraging groups to hang out for hours in a space that feels like a second home yet always exciting enough for a night out.
What activities can groups enjoy at Smith’s on 7th?
Smith’s on 7th boasts a variety of activities designed to entertain groups of friends or families while fostering a collective spirit. The bar runs trivia nights several times a week, a crowd favorite that promotes friendly competition and plenty of laughs. Trivia is a great icebreaker for groups of all sizes, allowing everyone to join in regardless of knowledge areas or age. For those looking to engage in some playful competition, Smith’s has installed multiple dartboards in spots that used to serve other purposes, like the former green room, creating casual gaming corners perfect for groups to take friendly shots at the board. Unlike many bars, Smith’s is working toward offering a dedicated karaoke room for private parties, which is a fantastic option for groups who want to take the celebration to the next level with a personalized music experience. This mix of games, music, and social events means that your group will always have something to bond over beyond just sitting and chatting. The balance of low-key activities and opportunities for lively participation makes Smith’s adaptable to many moods and group types.
Why is Smith’s on 7th ideal for hosting private or special events with friends?
Smith’s on 7th is an outstanding venue for private events such as birthdays, bachelorette parties, or casual get-togethers because of its flexible space and supportive staff. The addition of a karaoke room offers a private yet lively environment perfect for groups who want to celebrate with music and entertainment but with the intimacy and privacy their event deserves. According to patrons, the service team, especially the management and bartenders, are experienced professionals who make event coordination easy and enjoyable. This reduces the stress typically associated with planning group outings. The venue’s open hour policy—staying open until 2 a.m. seven nights a week—means that your party can last late into the night without worrying about early closing times. Plus, being a bar that doesn’t serve food but warmly permits bringing in outside meals gives hosts the freedom to customize their catering or potluck arrangements to fit their group’s tastes and requirements perfectly. This level of accommodation and flexibility creates a welcoming atmosphere where groups feel prioritized and cared for during their special occasions.
How does the drink and service experience complement group socializing at Smith’s on 7th?
One of the most praised features at Smith’s on 7th is the quality of drinks and attentive service, both critical for a successful group meetup. Skilled bartenders are a highlight here, known for their craft cocktails and friendly, engaging service style that makes patrons feel welcomed and valued. The bartenders don’t just mix drinks; they create an experience that helps groups relax and enjoy conversation naturally. Despite the bar’s busy times, service remains quick and professional, ensuring groups don’t wait long for their orders and can focus on the fun. The choice to focus solely on being a bar concentrates efforts on mastering the drink menu, and patrons report their cocktails as tasty and expertly prepared. This specialization means that anyone looking to enjoy a creative or classic drink with their friends won't be disappointed. The ambiance of a well-run bar with excellent staff enhances group bonding by removing common annoyances like slow service or inattentive bartenders.
What makes Smith’s on 7th a neighborhood gem in the Phoenix community?
Smith’s on 7th has earned its reputation as a neighborhood gem by fully embracing its role as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Its location in Phoenix’s Melrose area means it’s surrounded by many restaurants, but Smith’s carves out its niche by focusing on what it does best—a welcoming bar environment with great drinks and social activities. Unlike many establishments trying to compete on food or high-concept dining, Smith’s understands that its strength is the community feel and social atmosphere. This focus attracts a diverse crowd, making it easy for groups with different interests and ages to find common ground and enjoy the vibe. The bar’s commitment to keeping things fresh and clean, such as upgrading the patio and adding new amenities like dartboards and TVs, shows attentiveness to customer experience that builds loyalty. The option to bring your own food also reinforces Smith’s as a place that prioritizes comfort and inclusiveness over strict rules, further rooting it as a treasured spot for neighborhood meetups.
How accessible and convenient is Smith’s on 7th for group gatherings?
Smith’s on 7th is well-situated in Phoenix, making it easily accessible for groups coming from different parts of the city. Located in the Melrose district, it benefits from good public transit links and ample parking options nearby, which is a significant advantage for groups planning meetups without transport hassles. The bar’s hours—open until 2 a.m. every night—provide great flexibility for scheduling, accommodating everything from early evening social hours to late-night celebrations. Additionally, the staff’s reputation for friendly and quick service enhances the ease of gathering, especially for larger groups that need timely attention and coordination. Its relaxed policy on outside food also lowers logistical barriers; groups can collectively decide whether to bring snacks or order from nearby eateries, expanding the range of convenient dining possibilities. Accessibility combined with smart management and a comfortable atmosphere makes Smith’s on 7th a straightforward and enjoyable place for any gathering.
What kind of crowd and social energy can you expect at Smith’s on 7th?
The social energy at Smith’s on 7th strikes a perfect middle ground that appeals to a wide variety of groups—from laid-back friends looking for a chill hangout to more lively gatherings ready to participate in trivia or karaoke. The crowd is often characterized as friendly and inclusive, fostering a welcoming environment without the pretension found in more upscale venues. The bar’s curated events like trivia nights regularly draw in engaged participants who appreciate the mix of friendly competition and camaraderie. Regulars praise the vibe as down-to-earth and genuine, while newcomers frequently feel immediately at ease. This balanced social energy ensures that group members with different social preferences can all find a way to interact comfortably—whether by joining an organized activity, playing darts, or simply chatting over expertly mixed drinks. The overall atmosphere encourages connection, celebration, and lasting memories among friends and family.
This comprehensive overview underscores why Smith’s on 7th, with its thoughtfully crafted vibe, excellent amenities, and community-focused ethos, stands out as an exceptional choice for hosting your next meetup with friends or family in Phoenix.