So I was at a bar last night with the wife,one of our usual spots and I was thinking of ordering another round but then I remember some obscure video I saw on TikTok telling me about this "semi-secret" bar in the area and I decided to book on out and head out to check out this spot from the video-I went out to Frank Cocktail Bar located on 16th and R in the Ice Blocks area. I remember from the video they said this was considered a "bartenders bar",the kind of spot that that bartenders and workers in the industry would hangout after their shifts-I liked the sound of that. Walking up to where I thought the bar was located,it was kinda funny because it was just an innocent looking blue door with the words "Cocktail" along the side-doesn't look like much at all,I'd imagine I've walked by this place many times without thinking of ever going in-that was changing this time. When I walked in I 100% knew I was stumbling upon something special-it was a tiny place but it was overflowing with energy,not many booths in this bar and it may be the smallest bar I've ever been to but it felt special.Looking at the clientele I felt like I was with my people,it was so cool in there.This is the kind of place I would take my wife and any of my friends before a special night out and be it a dinner or a concert or a production at Safe Performing Arts Center and feel like it would set the right vibe for the night. Looking over the menu,they had some very interesting looking drinks,the wife went with a French 75($12.00)and I went with a Pecan Brown Sugar Old Fashioned($16.00)The bartenders are very friendly and super personable and really took their time and took pride in their drinks-I had never had an Old Fashioned quite like that one,but it went down super smooth-I loved i-I look forward to going there again asap. A coupe of things about this bar-they do only have 1 unisex bathroom,it was very clean.Also this place is so old school that they are a "Cash-Only " bar.They do have an atm in the bar in case you forget your cash.They have a big fish tank behind the bar that really put the room together nicely-I liked it a lot. In closing,if you ever find yourself in the Ice Blocks part of midtown and want to experience an awesome bar that feels very unique-head on down to Frank and have a drink or two-you won't regret it-I think I may have found my new favorite bar in all of Sacramento. PS-I loved talking to the bartender telling me how they don't carry Don Julio but have many varieties of Fortaleza instead-a true IYKYK moment if there ever was one-this place rocks. read more

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Awesome ambiance, lousy bartender. Interaction ruined the experience. We go in and are seated. 4 of us. We ask about the menu--we get met with rude sarcasm WITHOUT the humor. The menu out front (which drew us in) was NOT posted anywhere inside. So naturally, we ask about the pricing and what was applicable. That's when bartender's eyes roll and she dishes out snarky responses that insult our intelligence. Yes, lady--we can read, and I hope your boss can too, because you were an embarrassment to the establishment! We didn't ask for the teenage insecurity and projection...we only wanted a drink. Well we got the drink and the flavor was meh. We didn't even tip. Big tab...0 dollar tip. Most likely won't be back. If you're a bartender...be courteous and stay off your fxkin laptop/phone. Understand that customers don't deserve to be the punching bag read more

Looking for a speakeasy? You're at the right place. This bar hides in plain sight amidst the R Street Corridor with an entrance that blends in with the painted walls. Inside lies an upbeat but still intimate ambiance, even at 1 in the afternoon! I dropped by with a date during their holiday theme and had a blast. Sleigh All Day: typical way-too-strong holiday themed drink. 80% alcohol, 10% hot cocoa/cream. It's a shame, because the latter actually tasted quite nice. 2/5 Jingle Juice: this drink saved the review. Fruity taste that balanced the alcohol component well. 5/5 Cash only. There's an ATM in the back if you need it. I would love to come back sometime to try the regular menu. read more

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Really dark place. That was what I loved . I will be honest the bartender was not friendly and of coarse only one or 2 people were there. We were recommended to try their new pistacho drink. Not good enough to stop in. There were 5 of us and we felt unwelcomed so we left. We will not be back read more

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I can't believe I haven't done a review on Frank as many times as I've been here, so this will be my final review for 2025 *sad face* This is cash only! They do have a ATM inside just in case. The service has always been good. It does get busy so be patient. All the drinks I've ever ordered have been creative and delicious. The prices are decent as well. The inside is an old fashion bar feel.With black and white TV's by the bar. If you have been to Frank put it on your to do list. They won't disappoint. Have a Happy New Year!! See you in 2026 :) read more

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Frank is a tucked away, intimate, and dark bar in the ice blocks that is really easy to miss if you're not paying attention. There's a sign letting you know where it's at, but keep an eye out for the beautiful blue door. Inside it is very dark and the ambiance is one that is meant to be relaxed (not a club vibe in any way) but is not a dive bar at all. There's tables and bar seating, not a ton so beware if you plan to come in a group. The bar is cash only but they have a no fee atm inside. The bartenders were nice and attentive. The drink menu isn't super vast, but the drinks are so good! My friend and I got the pistachio martini and the blood orange Mai tai. Both were incredible, definitely recommend the Mai tai! Inside there's a fish tank that's SpongeBob themed which I thought was cute, a tiny vintage tv playing silently, one gender neutral bathroom that was really nice inside. I think this is a great spot to check out if you want a break from your regular spots or are in the area and want a drink after dinner! Perfect for date night or a night out with a couple friends. read more

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Frank is such a cute little spot! It specializes in gin and rum based drinks, so I got a mai tai. It was very balanced and did not taste overly sweet! I went on a Saturday night, so it was a bit crowded, but the bartenders were friendly and helped us quickly. Be warned that it is cash-only, so you should come prepared. They also have an ATM inside, though I am not sure if it has any fees since I did not use it. A highlight for me was the fish tank, which is Spongebob-themed. It really makes it a comfortable and chic place to grab a drink! read more

Frank - Mai Tai - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Sacramento, California

A true little hidden gem. This little tucked away cocktail bar has been on my list of places to try for a while now. Whiskey is the star of the show for majority of the cocktails and they also offer whiskey flights. Small and intimate. This place would be great for an intimate hangout with some old friends or a first date. Despite coming here on a weekday it was pretty packed but people came and went pretty frequently to always have seats available. Cute simple art deco vibe with a bit of vintage touches added in. I loved the tiny tv playing black and white movies. And featured behind the bar is a large SpongeBob themed fish tank that gives the place a little sense of humor. And of course can't forget the cocktails. All well made and superb. I've been needing some good cocktails in my life and I have found my new spot. Girl behind the bar was only worker and she was pumping those drinks out fast and still giving perfected quality drinks. Loveeee that so many options with cream. I'm a milky cocktail kind of girl and the almond joy drink along with the happy camper just hit the damn spot. I also noticed they had an "applecar" which was a sidecar featuring an apple brandy. Cannot wait to try it. Somewhat hope this place doesn't catch on too much that it becomes an impossible overcrowded mess like some cocktail bars. *cough the snug cough*. But this place needs some recognition for how good they are. Also side note YES they are cash only. AND the atm is ACTUALLY FREE. read more

Frank - Happy Camper with torched marshmallows on top. - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Sacramento, California

What a hidden gem! Between certain stores this bar is smacked in the middle with a blue door. This is your classic whiskey and cocktail lounge. Cash only! They do have an atm inside. Our bartender made us many fabulous old fashioned's and queen bees. I enjoyed seeing the vintage black and white tv above the bar. Very intimate.. will be back! read more

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Went on early Saturday night ~ Love this place. Cocktails were perfection. Bartender was friendly and made great suggestions. Drinks came out quick even though it was fairly busy and only one bartender. Such a cool relaxed ambience. Recommend! read more

Frank - Pistachio Martini - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Sacramento, California

I have been here about 5 times altogether and I can say there are much better bars in the area. The ambiance is lacking and the drinks are never very good. The service is touch and go, too. I like a good dark bar, and this place is dark, which I know is the look they are going for, but the lighting doesn't work with the space and, again, the ambience. It just falls flat every time. read more

This was my first time in this Sacramento location. I must admit you do have to look for it as it's located underneath the stairs behind a major retailer. However it was well worth the search. This small intimate boozy restaurant had a great ambiance. On this particular day I tried the caramel apple Sidecar. It was such a treat the bartender did her thing in making this sweet but strong drink. I definitely enjoyed this bar it should be noted it is cash only. And if you forget they do have an ATM nearby. Overall I definitely want to come back for another cocktail. read more

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* This is a CASH ONLY spot but an ATM is available in house. * Look for the blue door and sign and come inside to a beautiful surprise. This place reminded me of New Orleans - its an upscale dive bar that offers a cozy place to grab a drink or two. The bartender we had was nice, provided us with the drinks but nothing extra - she almost felt guarded. She answered questions when asked but didn't engage on anything more. Could be an off day. Will definitely come again and give this place another go. Ohh and take better pictures. read more

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Came to this bar to celebrate our daughter's birthday. Cute little spot. The drinks were so good. It wasn't packed but I'm not sure what was going on but the drinks took forever to get. I believe we waited 20 minutes for the drinks. That's why I'm rating 4 stars. The waitress did apologize for the long wait though. read more

Frank - Almond Joy, Autum Fizz, Tequila Sunrise, and Old Fashioned - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Sacramento, California

A LITERAL HIDDEN GEM!! MY FAV BAR! This bar is hidden, so look at your google maps folks. My hubby found this spot on IG and just looked too good. We came here for a date night and since then it has been my favorite bar. It is very small yet intimate and inviting. Great for first date, friend catch up, date night, etc. Service: Incredible, they give great cocktail choices even if they do not have it on the menu. I sometimes drink and sometimes dont. They were kind enough to make me a zero-proof cocktail and o boy did it taste incredible. My hubby loved their drinks. not too watery, spot on. I kind of secretly hope that not everyone ends up finding this place LOL, cause it's definitely a spot to be. Just don't want this place overcrowded. I understand its great for business. last but not least, DO NOT, i repeat, DO NOT walk in there without cash. this is a CASH ONLY bar. They do have an ATM, but I know someone there had a hard time getting money. so do not walk in this bar without cash. read more

Nestled down one of the side walkways in the Ice Blocks. Is hidden a nice small bar establishment that I never new existed until this weekend. Apparently is one of my buddies favorite places to check out when in tow, so we grabbed a couple drinks after here after lunch. CASH ONLY is what he mentioned as we walked in, so be aware begore making your way here. There is an ATM available inside near the end of the bar by the bathrooms, but you're best off bring cash to avoid any ATM fees. Because of size, Frank's is better suited for individuals to small groups. There's a couple tables along the wall facing the bar area. And maybe half a dozen or more seats at the bar itself. Frank is dimly sit with near lighting at the bar area, and a nicely lit fish tank. Drinks: New Orleans Buck Cadillac Margarita My buddy and I each had a Cadillac Margarita first. After I said I hadn't had one before, and laster we each had the New Orleans Buck. Based on the recommendation of the bartender. Both drinks were really good. Overall: Definitely a lesser known chill spot to enjoy a drink and socialize. Drinks were good and so was the environment. Just bring cash and you're good to go! read more

Frank - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Sacramento, California

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I had a lovely cocktail here on a hot day- the lovely blond bartender was friendly and helped a girl out by sharing her hand fan. She gave me drink recommendations and I watched her pull out her cocktail book to help two gentlemen discover something new to try, I love that! There is old TV shows and black and white movies playing and the ambiance is reminiscent of what I imagine to be old Hollywood/Vegas, romantic, dark, and heaps of the cool factor. It is cash only so be prepared and tuck away into a booth or chat at the bar. It was clean, classy, and charming. Would love to go back with friends, especially if we were inspired and dressed to match the theme. How fun! read more

Such a dope speakeasy, definitely my vibe, very cozy inside, luckily we were able to get a table seat, music was cool and drinks were well made. Service was also on point, put this on your radar if you haven't been already read more

We found this bar a couple months ago. We thought what a great place. My test of a good bartender at a specialty bar is can they make "the last word." She did so magnificently. I was vey impressed. Okay now today we returned at about 1:30 on a Saturday afternoon. We were in the mood for tropical drinks today. Yelp suggested Frank. Boy what a disappointment. We arrived and waited about 20 minutes to be acknowledged by the bartender. It was not a busy afternoon. I ordered a MaiTai. The bartender had a deer in the headlights expression. We quickly modified our orders to their advertised Basil Hayden old fashions. Even these cocktails, although they contained all the correct ingredients were not blended well. Room temperature whiskey with large ice cubes. I'm sorry, we had such high hopes. We ambled down the street to Shipwreck. Great drinks and fun atmosphere. read more

Quick tips: - Bring cash - Bring a light jacket - Review the menu and make a decision before starting the deep conversations. Came in on a weekday around 7:30p. A little quiet, but that changed within 20 mins. It's self seating, small space, interesting decor and themed menus (drinks listed online were not on the menu). Standard-ish pricing (about $16 for an old fashion). Staff were cool, was only one bartender working when we were there. They came to the table to take our order, which was pretty nice. All in all, it was fine. Standard cocktail bar. They do crank up the A/C, to keep the air circulating, which isnt bad per se. read more

Frank - Old Fashion - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Sacramento, California

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Awesome speakeasy. Super gifted mixologists. Classic cocktails, bourbon forward but that's not all. I'm definitely going back!

Stumbled across this place by accident, and wasn't upset. Saw the sign right outside door, advertising drink deals, so I must. Instantly, it's giving speakeasy vibes. If you're claustrophobic, it may not be the best place but if you like cozy, den vibes - walk in and grab a seat. The pistachio martini was calling me, and I answered, and it was delicious! I could've had 3. Waitstaff was friendly. Energy was chill, but then again it was midday on a weekday! read more

Frank - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Sacramento, California

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They let you know cash only establishment but a no fee machine you can use- makes it no issue. Hard to find at first, off to the side of the building. Once inside..it's dark and moody, perfect for forgetting the time of day and any sorrows outside. Cozy and Clean, nice restroom. Hubby and I loved the service. Andrea was very knowledgeable and made it fun trying drinks that fall under our likes and interests with flavor profiles. Four drinks came out to $53. We liked them all. Also the blood orange Mai tai was a fun twist on a classic that was on the menu. Deff not a dive bar. Overall We'd go back! read more

I visited The Frank and had a great experience. This bar has a really chill, intimate vibe that's perfect for unwinding with friends. I ordered two drinks -- a whiskey sour and a sidecar. Both were excellent, strong, and definitely worth the slightly higher price tag. You can tell they don't skimp on the alcohol. Highly recommend if you're looking for a cozy low key spot with quality cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere. Service was great but let me not forget to mention it is a Cash Only bar with an ATM machine inside. read more

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Very cute bar, solid drinks. Cash only. Is it a must go? Nah. But super fun and cute place definately worth a visit. read more

Walk beyond the blue door to discover a bounty of craft drinks and a cozy drinking hole- hidden in plain sight. I always recommend this speakeasy to out-of-town friends, although it IS less of a speakeasy these days with their understandable desire to attract foot traffic from Ice Blocks guests with a sandwich board out front. They have a rotating drink menu, and feature fun pop ups every now and then, such as their Fast and Furious cocktail competition- so fun! It's a cash-only bar, but Frank has a free-atm, making for easy sipping. I like that they have a mocktail list as well, featuring non-alcoholic "spirits". Their playlists are also always a vibe, perfect for the weekend (or any night!). read more

Frank - Irish whisky cold brew cocktail- amazing - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Sacramento, California

Wow! This bar was hard to find for us, but worth it. Dropped by for the first time and had a great experience. It was a Saturday night, so it was busy as excepted. Charming Christmas decor. Make sure to bring something warm because it is chilly inside. Cash only, but they have an ATM in case you need it. As soon as I sat down, the bartender (I think her name was Sheila) came over and was very friendly. My girlfriend gets intimidated by cocktails, but Sheila did a great job recommending cocktails and putting her at ease. Drinks themselves were great too! She got a pistachio martini and I got a whiskey sour. This tall bartender would also occasionally check up on us, so we were well cared for at Frank! Definitely recommend and would come here again. read more

small, intimate, dark, but great for date night or a small outing with some friends! they take cash only but have a fee-free atm. we got the blood orange mai tai, pistachio martini, and the palomita mocktail. would come again! read more

Frank - blood orange mai tai, pistachio martini, and the palomita mocktail - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Sacramento, California

*This bar is cash only. They also have non-alcoholic drinks Frank is an upscale dive bar with a speakeasy feel. It's small, intimate, and hidden. It reminds me of a dive bar but they don't carry PBR so to me that means it's upscale. Frank is located in the Ice Blocks on R Street, it's in the corridor that leads to Device Brewing. The blue door is the entrance, there is a sign so it's easy to find. There's bar seating and a few tables to choose from. I love that they have non-alcoholic drinks available. I've had a few non-alcoholic drinks and they were really good. They don't take cards, only cash. I always have cash when I go, but they supposedly have a fee-free ATM. The staff are always very friendly and nice. There is a single stall all gender bathroom. Parking here is a nightmare. You have to pay for parking on R Street. Be careful parking, the street is super narrow. Overall a great spot to grab a drink, and if you get hungry there's a few spots on R Street to choose from. read more

Super cute bar on R street. Drinks are always super fun! Cash only but they have an ATM onsite. read more

Frank - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Sacramento, California

CASH ONLY, not so secret speakeasy. We popped in on Halloween and it was pretty busy. But we were able to snag a table. Inside the bar is small and intimate. The drinks were on theme and very tasty. Made for a fun night out. read more

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Frank is one of those hidden gems that never misses. Tucked away in an alley across from Device Brewing, this spot might be easy to miss if you don't know to look for the blue door--but it's absolutely worth seeking out. The cocktails are consistently top-notch, balancing creativity with classic precision. The staff are not only friendly but also quick to offer suggestions or guide you to a drink that suits your mood whether that's something familiar or something new for you. It's a cash-only bar, but no worries if you forget as they have an ATM inside. Overall, Frank has that perfect mix of laid-back vibe and serious cocktail craft that keeps me coming back. Can't recommend it enough if you're in the area or just looking for a strong cocktail spot! read more

A buddy and I were seeing a show at Ace of Spades and had some time to kill, so while walking around the area we came across this place. The only thing drawing attention to it is the nondescript blue door and sandwich board outside noting drink specials. We almost didn't go in because it gave me dive/biker bar vibes for some reason. But we did walk in and I'm certainly glad we did. It was 90-something degrees outside and sunny so when we stepped inside to the VERY dim lighting inside I couldn't see a thing. After my eyes adjusted I was immediately greeted with the fish tank just behind the bar. Made the place seem like a Tiki bar. But after sitting down and seeing the bottles on the shelf, I could tell this would be a good spot. As I said, it was extremely dark inside. So dark that I could barely read the menu. I had to use my phone for assistance. But AJ was very friendly and she made us some great drinks. We were there pretty early, (1 or 2pm on a Friday) and were the only people in the place. It did start filling up when we left around 3pm or so. AJ said the place gets nuts on weekend nights. I can imagine as the establishment is not very big. They can probably only accomodate 30 or so people at a time. Also the bar is cash only so make sure to bring some moola. They do have an ATM in the back but I would assume the fees are outrageous as they always seem to be. read more

Frank - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Sacramento, California

I visited this bar this past Sunday around 12:30 with a group of friends who were visiting Sacramento. I was genuinely excited to bring them here and share the experience. When we arrived, we were the only patrons in the bar. Unfortunately, the bartender was extremely unfriendly and gave the impression that we were an inconvenience rather than welcomed guests. We sat at a table and were never approached, so each of us had to go up individually to order drinks. When I asked for the apple cocktail from the holiday menu, the bartender rolled her eyes and asked what it was called. I explained that it was the only apple cocktail listed and that I couldn't recall the exact name. She rolled her eyes again and appeared visibly annoyed. I understand that everyone can have an off day, but the level of dismissiveness and lack of basic hospitality was disappointing--especially when bringing out-of-town guests and when the bar was otherwise empty. read more

This is such a great bar!! The vibe is fun but chill if you're not looking for a crazy night. Shout out to my girl MIKAYLA!!! She was an amazing bartender and just all around great person she makes me want to come back again and again. Her drinks were balanced and delicious. I will definitely make Frank a regular spot. read more

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Easily the most painful cocktail experience I've had in years. Two drinks. One hour. And the place wasn't even busy. I ordered a second drink... and instead of making it, the bartender started taking inventory. She never came back. I literally had to go find her just to pay my bill. Not the vibe. Hopefully they get things dialed in. read more

I frequently come to Frank, but yesterday was an experience like no other. The bartender was extremely rude. We waited for about 30 min before our orders were finally taken. The bartender at 11 told us it was his last call and that was ok. We placed our order and it took 15-20min before our orders were being made. The server heard us talking to one another and interrupted us and yelled " Would you still like your drinks or no" . We never complained about not wanting it but after the continues rude comments we canceled our order. Another person in our group was closing out their order and as he is at the register he begins talking under his breath aggressively and rude. While we were trying to resolve the issue. The bartender continued to make rude remarks until we left. We typically have a great experience when we go to Frank , but today was no like no other experience we have had. read more

Frank - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Sacramento, California

Love this place. We've been a few times and each time have gotten the opportunity to try something new and interesting. It's a cute, tiny bar that has speakeasy vibes-it's tucked away in a little alley in the ice blocks. Service is always pretty quick. One thing to know-it is CASH ONLY. They do have an ATM on site read more

Frank - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Sacramento, California

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Such a cute little hidden bar. My girls and I went during Christmas time and it was decorated so cute! You have to wait a bit to try and snag a table & it's very cozy in there. But we were able to sit pretty quickly. I had the pimms cup, I believe, and it was super refreshing. Can't wait to go back and have a little date night here. Cheers! read more

Frank - Pimm's cup - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Sacramento, California

Blink and you will miss Frank! Located in The Ice Blocks on R Street, this small cozy, intimate, dark bar is quite a gem! On our way to dinner at Mendocino Farms, we decided to stop by Frank for a quick drink. I ordered the special 99 Problems, but a Peach Ain't One and my husband ordered Cameron's Kick - both drinks were tasty, on the pricy side ($25 for 2 drinks), but tasty nonetheless. Frank gives a Speakeasy vibe and you feel like you're inside a secret club once you walk inside - we were able to walk right in and sit at the bar. Not sure if the vibe is different at night. Bartender was friendly and the drinks came out quick, but the place felt kinda impersonal and dry. FYI - place is cash only, but they do have an ATM near the single bathroom. read more

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