5 Best Cocktail Bars in Pasadena

We're releasing our guide to Pasadena's best cocktail bar guide just in time for "Sip-tember" 2019 where Pasadena's local restaurants and lounges compete to create the best cocktails – from innovative mixed drink, to perfecting classic cocktails.

Can't make it during the competition? No worries. The bars are always here and these are some of our favorites for grabbing a drink, competition or not.

Foothill

Located near the East Pasadena district, Foothill is a Yelp favorite. Enjoy the casual dining atmosphere with a hipster vibe. Known for its sweet drinks, this is the perfect place to stop for a cocktail on date night or to gather for a girl's night out. In addition to their full menu of American style eats, their drink menu is filled with specialty, one-of-a-kind cocktails. Many of the drinks are shout outs to local destinations. Try the "Heart breaker" or the locally named, "Rose Bowl" or "Huntington."

Granville

Granville is a popular modern-casual restaurant that many Southern California locals frequent. The Pasadena location is the only one with a gorgeous rooftop bar and patio that wraps around the entire building, making it the perfect spot to break for a drink, especially when cocktails are only $7 during happy hour. Snack on small plates and small talk while getting the best view of the San Gabriel Mountains as the sun sets. Try the Picante Pineapple Margarita. It's perfect for a sunny day.

Magnolia House

Searching for a summer classic? Try the Magnolia House's tropical tiki cocktail. The restaurant was designed in a converted 100-year-old craftsman house, giving it a "home-away-from-home" sort of comfort. Grab a quick bite on the patio or check out the boutique wine bar inside.

The Otis Bar

Hop right off the train at Del Mar Station and into The Otis Bar. The station is right by two restaurants located within the same building. There, you can order as many drinks as your heart desires, without having to worry about a "designated driver." Thanks to Pasadena's public transportation system, the train can take you wherever you need to go. Enjoy a signature cocktail like the Goodnight Emilie or go the traditional route with an Old Fashioned. Not to mention, there's happy hour every weekday.