I've been to Idle Hands twice, about a year apart, and there's a lot to like. The most recent was on a Thursday night around 10:30 p.m. This speakeasy is located on Mill Ave., the center of Tempe's party scene. Because of its location, parking isn't easy. If you're looking for free parking, you're going to have a long walk. Outside of that, you'll have to pay for parking in a garage or metered street parking. Ambiance (4/5): Hint hint. Idle Hands is located inside Devil's Hideaway. A true speakeasy shouldn't have signage outside indicating its location. Unfortunately, there's a sign for Idle Hands outside of Devil's Hideaway which takes away the sense of mystery and intrigue that a true speakeasy provides. Outside of this hiccup, it's a cool speakeasy. It's intimate, with 10 or so seats at the bar and about 10 seats in booths facing the bar. There's a projector screen behind the bar that had mystical motion graphics the first time I stopped by (thinking wizards) and Halloween motion graphics the second time (with it being a day before the holiday). There were some other Halloween decorations up. The only area of improvement? The music often doesn't match the vibe. A lot of the music they were playing on my last visit was Irish music that would be fitting for a pub. Service (4/5): I had the same bartender each time. He knows how to make a good drink and is pretty efficient. When you close out, he only gives you the merchant copy. Which is a pet peeve of mine. Let me get that customer copy too. But overall, a good experience. Especially at a college bar. Food (N/A): I've only had drinks both times. Idle Hands actually doesn't have food, but Devil's Hideaway does. And you're allowed to bring food from there into the speakeasy. Drinks (4.5/5): It's pretty surprising to see a speakeasy on a college campus. I was impressed with the creativity of the menu, both in terms of the ingredients used and the fusion of flavors. I've had a different cocktail each time, and they've all been great. My favorite was one served in a box filled with smoke. Talk about a cool presentation! The hallmarks of a solid speakeasy are elevated cocktails, nice ambiance (dimly lit), an intimate space, and mystery/intrigue. While the intrigue is lacking at Idle Hands, and the music can be improved, they hit it out of the park in the other areas. One of my favorite speakeasies I've been to in Phoenix (and surrounding areas). I am, after all, the self-appointed king of speakeasies. The king gives his stamp of approval. read more

Idle Hands - Halloween themed for the holiday. - Speakeasies Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

Idle Hands is a cool bar tucked away in the back of Devil's Hideaway off Mill Ave, replacing the former Rula Bula. It's a hidden speakeasy-style craft cocktail bar accessible through a hallway near the kitchen. Both places are relatively new. Opening in the Spring 2024. The vibe is dark, candlelit, and Victorian-like. I really like the lighting and relaxed environment. The cocktails there are incredible and we had a great time. I had an amazing tiki cocktail, the #180, with tasting notes of "boozy, tiki, donuts". My perfect combo :) I also loved the clarified punch I ordered, #69 "tropical, salty, and sweet". It was SO yummy. And we tried a Cocoa Butter Kisses shot- a very nice Amaro. The bartender was great-- attentive service and helpful recommendations. I definitely look forward to going back and trying other drinks. read more

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After grabbing a couple of drinks at Devil's Hideaway on Mill, we headed next door to Idle Hands! It's a speakeasy inside of Devils Hideaway. We had a reservation, so we got seated right away. The vibe was really cool. It felt like you were in a giant greenhouse. It's really pretty. Our server came over quickly and took our drink orders. Everyone really enjoyed their drinks, except for one from the spring menu. I don't remember the name other than it had a few pistachios on top. It wasn't the best, but the staff was super cool about it and took it off the bill. We also ordered the hummus. It was tasty. If you into speakeasies, you should definitely check this place out! read more

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Devil's Hideaway is a really cool spot on Mill Ave, and there's a hideaway within the hideaway! We have some really cool speakeasies in the Valley and Idle Hands is certainly among them. I went for the Miami Vice theme and love what they did with it. It's not a huge space and reservations are recommended (it's a $25 deposit that later gets taken off your check). Tried 3 different cocktails, all were excellent. Good presentation, good service. Also had the poutine, which I would definitely order again - it was tasty, and $8 with plenty enough food for two. Cocktails were about $16 each. Cool vibes, and the music is not so loud that you can't have a conversation. They rotate about 5 different themes per year. Before this one, they had a greenhouse/floral theme. It's Tempe so you likely won't find free parking, but there's a paid parking lot right next to the bar, with lots of spots for $3 per hour. read more

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Super disappointing, I don't usually leave bad reviews like this but I can't believe how bad my experience here was. Mostly the service, the bartender was very unprofessional from the way he dressed to how he treated customers, barely spoke a word to us, it took us a while to figure out he would not be coming over to take our order after telling us to sit anywhere we'd like. He was chatting with his friends the whole time, and blasting heavy metal? Not the vibe. I don't think I've experienced worse service at a speakeasy or anywhere really, he made us super uncomfortable and unfortunately will not be coming back because of this. Not only was the service bad but the drinks we had were also not well balanced. I have been a bartender myself for a couple of years, it tasted like he dumped whatever liquid had spilled on the bar mat that night into our drinks. Overall very disappointed as I was looking forward to this spot. read more

The service was incredible. The bartender was extremely helpful and obviously very passionate about making something or recommending something I'd enjoy. The ambiance was really pretty and it was a great contrast to Devils Hideaway. read more

We had no reservations prior to arrival but when we checked in with host, she let us know it would only be about an hour wait. The hour turned to be more like 35 minutes and we received a text when our table was ready. The hostess was friendly and she walked us to the bar. We sat down and looked over the menu and decided on the following drinks: #4 - cognac, apricot, grapefruit oleo, butter, thyme - $15 #17 - citrus vodka, lemongrass, sauv blanc, thai basil quinine soda - $14 #401 - Agricole rum, Jamaican rum, quince, grapefruit lime, allspice, clove brasil nut - $14 The bartender was friendly and he whipped the drinks up pretty quickly. People came in and went but it was never chaotic nor super busy. The crowd seemed manageable and there were several empty tables. I ordered the #17 and it was very refreshing. The #4 wasn't too bad and it was definitely better tasting then #401 (in my opinion).. We didn't like the #401. The inside was super coool and the vibes were alll there. The screens were one color the whole time we were there though so it wasn't impressive. I overheard the couple next to us say the same thing as they also wondered why the screens were just one solid color and no picture was displayed. Overall, might be back. read more

Idle Hands - Speakeasies Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

We visited while on vacation. Such a cool vibe although half of the screens were not on. Pricey drinks but so yummy. Would recommend for a night cap or pre dinner drink. Server was very friendly and helped us choose a dinner spot read more

Idle Hands - Inside the bar - Speakeasies Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

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Tyler hooked us up with the best drinks. We wanted something "smoked" so even though we ordered drinks that weren't technically smoked on the menu, he still smoked our drinks for us Absolutely LOVE this place for the experience. Bring your friends, your in-laws, or a date. Eat before you come so you can enjoy all of the divine spirits and your experience read more

Get the #5! My fiance' and I decided to check out Idle Hands after shooting some pool at Devil's Hideaway. We didn't have a reservation, but they accommodated us at 5pm when they opened their doors. You can find Idle Hands in the back of Devil's Hideway. The speakeasy is definitely date night approved. We loved the ambient lighting and decor. The speakeasy offers light bites and delicious cocktails. Our favorite cocktail of the night was the #5. The cocktail smelled incredible. The chai & chamomile was delightful. Our mixologist gave us a little cocktail lesson on how to create clarified milk punch. We also enjoyed the #4's finish. The apricot gave off a "fruit rollup" aftertaste. Prices are on the affordable side, which we love. This bar is a nice addition to Mill Ave! read more

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My friends and I put our name down for Idle Hands. We were told it would be a 10-15 min wait so they got one more round at Devil's Hideaway. 30 mins went by and still no text so we checked again with the hostess. She was able to seat us at the bar. It's a small place, like a lot of speakeasies. Looks cool inside though. I felt like I wasn't in AZ for the moment! There is a time limit of 90 mins per party. We were only there for an hour since we only had 1 drink It took a while to get our drink order in. My friend and I both ordered #4 and my other friend ordered #22. I really liked my drink, minus the wilted looking thyme. Honestly, I can't remember if it tasted like buttery baked goods like the description says but I do remember it being very refreshing. The #22 was definitely too boozy for me though. I would come back again and probably try the #401 next time! read more

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Great ambiance. Great, interesting cocktails, friendly service. Will definately return

I guess speakeasies are the new thing to do these days. So, when in Rome... Enter through Devil's Hideaway (not Devil's Advocate, as per my first mistake) and make a right turn, go straight and into a dark hallway. Check in with host. I think they said the "experience was 90mins" so not sure if they kick you out after 90min if people were waiting or what. I think we were there for 90mins and people that were there before us were there when we left. The room is an experience in itself. Dark and kind of mysterious. Drinks coming out all garnished, all in different looking glasses. Oh look there goes a drink in a lantern and it is smoking. Oh that one has a whole leaf in it. Bar is standard fare. But the seats were looking cool, like tuffed bench seats with some eerie glow. My picture makes the place look more bright than it really was. Reality was that while we could see people on other side of the bar and what they were generally doing we couldn't really see their faces. Ya know, like a speak easy with dark corners because drinking was illegal. Do not expect to be attended to routinely. This is more about getting a drink or two, enjoying the concoction, and chatting with your date/friend in a dark swanky room. Drinks are exotic and somewhat odd compared to normal bar drinks. Bartender was busy busy. But even so, still making every drink with flare. I went there on Memorial weekend and it was 1 bartender and I think it may be nicer if there were 2 bartenders so you could get the chatty bartender experience along with it (or maybe that is just my expectation that a speak easy would have a bartender spreading stories and lore about the town, townspeople, and the building you were in). But even so, the bartender was good... just busy. The drinks we ordered, the 401 and 817, were pretty good. The 401 was very strong, though, a little stronger than the wife wanted at that time. The 817 was much more smooth and fruity. In either case the drinks coming out were not the type of drinks you just hammer down. It is drinks you sip over conversation. Again, this was an experience. Last but not least by the time we left Devil's Advocate actually had patrons and hit the neons rippin. It too looked cool. It reminded me of a few clubs I went to when I was in Europe that were converted bunkers with the rounded, brick ceilings. read more

Idle Hands - On left there is an animated mural. Picture here makes it look brighter than it actually is - Speakeasies Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

Not much of a secret speakeasy as it was pretty obvious. Nice cozy area for some curated drinks. The light snacks available were definitely on price point and tasty. I would definitely go here as a group of two since it's a small space. The staff were very attentive and were able to fulfill non menu requests. read more

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Newly opened speakeasy within Devils Hideaway! Walking into the room is an amazing experience. The unique lighting and animated screens behind the windows throughout makes it feel like you walked into another world. Really cool place to chill with friends or take a date. The bartender was knowledgeable and attentive to us while we sat back for a couple drinks and took the experience in. Music was playing but not so loud that we couldn't have a quality convo without having to talk super loud. Decent selection with high end drink options...definitely a place to check out! read more

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Incredible! Located right inside of Devils Hideaway, the drinks were delicious! The bartender was awesome and very knowledgeable. Super cool backdrop. Awesome, low key spot. read more

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Idle Hands is a cocktail bar tucked inside Devil's Hideaway on Mill Ave in Tempe. The vibe here is enchanted and mystical, almost like you're sitting in a greenhouse. During our visit, we sat at the bar, where our bartender crafted some very refreshing drinks. The menu had creative options with a playful blend of spices like cinnamon, cardamom, star anise, and lemongrass. My personal favorite, espresso martini, was executed perfectly! Our bartender mentioned that the drink menu here is rotated often to keep things fresh and fun, so we will definitely be back to try more. If you're in Tempe, this place is worth a try! read more

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Me and my partner have tried Idle Hands twice now and both times it has been terrible. The first time we came with another couple and none of us liked our drinks, (they were all very bitter and not well balanced), and we ended up barely drinking them. However the bigger problem was the service, both times we have tried this place the service has been terrible, this last time the bartender rolled his eyes when I ordered an espresso martini and then once he finished making the drinks he did not want to bring them to us so he set them on the bar and told us to come grab them. Not a big deal but did seem a little unprofessional, both times the bartenders were rude and the drinks were terrible so needless to say we won't be coming back but hopefully these things change so other people can enjoy this spot. read more

Really cute little place! Yummy drinks I got a Moscow mule and the ginger was great! read more

Jenna was amazing! Great drinks, fun atmosphere, enjoyable conversation. Appreciated the ambiance and tasty beverages.

I've been to idle hands for years, but recently ive never been blow away by a bartender. Man talk about good service. I will only be comin back if Tyler is bartending! read more

Jenna was our bartender and was amazing! Super personable, drinks tasted amazing, great experience overall!

This place was great and it first opened. It's like a dimly lit enchanted greenhouse inside a magical forest. The vibes are great and the drinks were good. We recently went back though and they had a Miami theme happening with neon lights and an 80s looking sports car on the big screen instead of the forest. the Miami theme mixed with the enchanted greenhouse theme made no sense and I was very disappointed as I had bragged about this place to the people I brought for my birthday . If you're looking for a really encompassing theme bar, I recommend the ones in Scottsdale as this one has an identity crisis. read more

Drinks weren't bad! Not my favorite but still tasty! Food was good. The vibe and energy was phenomenal. I'll definitely be returning. read more

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My husband and I were in town visiting friends and they ended up taking us to this speakeasy. We had a reservation at 10:30 and we were seated right away. When we first walked in, we were in awe of the ambiance and the backdrop that makes you feel like you're in a cabin. Our friends that took us here immediately recommended that we order the #5 which was a mill-clarified drink. The waiter brought out our first round of drinks and my husband and I were amazed to see the presentation of the milk-clarified drink as it looked like a tea drink. When you take the first sip, it was sweet and smooth and will definitely be my go-to drink whenever we are visiting AZ again! read more

The drinks the drinks the drinks. They are amazing and you can tell every cocktail on the menu is thought out and the bartenders put so much care into each one. Every time I've gone there's only been one bartender on, and the last time I went, she told me that she created the drink pictured on the right, and it was absolutely amazing. If you're expecting a quick in and out, this is not the place because it does take time to make drinks that are so intricate. Every drink I've tried has such a complex flavor profile. It's a must visit for the best drinks on Mill Ave. read more

Idle Hands - Speakeasies Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

Had 2 amazingly delicious cocktails!! The bartender was an expert in his craft, the music and lighting were on point, setting a perfect mood for the vibrant and boozy and sophisticated experience. read more

Idle Hands - Speakeasies Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

Came here with a group of five friends to celebrate my birthday last night. We had a few drinks, and our favorite was #48, which was a strong and complex whiskey drink. We also had their charcuterie board which was delicious and had good value. The service was fast and friendly as well. We look forward to coming back! read more

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The drink menu is delightful and "not your ordinary cocktails." Jenna is an awesome bartender!

A nice cozy speakeasy in the heart of downtown Tempe located inside devils Hideaway. They offer some of the best drinks in Arizona. It's really small with a very romantic vibe. A place everyone should experience at least once. 5 Stars.... read more

Been here several times and loved the vibe, drinks, atmosphere. I've recommended it to friends but disappointed with the last visit. Waited 15+ minutes on a quiet night and still no one stopped by for an order. Heavy metal music playing, and I get it's around Halloween, but it's not for everyone (most people). Won't be back. Sad such a great speak easy has gone downhill. read more

Came here with a group of 7 on a Wednesday night to celebrate a friend's birthday. We had reservations several days in advance. There was 1 bartender and 1 bar back serving the entire place. The bartender came over after we waited for 15 minutes and took his time lighting the candles on our high tops (3 stars is for the ambiance of the entire place but I would've rather ordered a cocktail than had him slowly light the dang tea light candles), then he left again and came back with menus 5 minutes later, then we sat for another 15 minutes still waiting for our order to be taken. After over 30 minutes of arriving, still no orders taken and we left. The potential is there with the cool room/vibe but not worth waiting 30 minutes for nothing on a slow weekday. read more

I've been here twice! Great spot with friends or a date night! Hidden in Tempe it has an underground feel. The drinks were great! I hope I can go again to try the food. The decor is really cool and overall it was a relaxing vibe! read more

To get it is confusing but the service and drinks are amazing their employees are super nice not so much the guest . My family was talking in Arabic and they would stare just because it wasn't the usual English language. I recommend when it's slower since it does get pretty loud I wish the back ground was wiped and cleaner but other than that amazing read more

Idle Hands - Background - Speakeasies Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

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Was lucky enough to discover this hidden gem on a business trip. The bartender was very knowledgeable and able to talk bourbon, which is my love language! Highly recommend. read more

Had sometime to spare and came across this place. Turned out to be pretty neat and will return. Really great service

Unfortunately, I have been a customer here multiple times and tonight was the worst service I have ever experienced. The "Bouncer" with the glasses at the front door refused service to a completely sober patron and customer of the bar who has also been multiple times. Due to the conversation with the bouncer it almost sounded like she was denied access because of her accent. (She had a Hispanic accent). I don't want to say this is because of racism but it seems very related. I will no longer visit this bar at all until this is resolved. read more

I really enjoyed the ambiance. Think of a moody greenhouse vibe. The service was quick, and the drinks were tasty. I'd recommend it for anyone looking for a chill spot to talk and have a few drinks. It's a bit on the pricey side and gets busy after 10:30. So keep that in mind. read more

We got cocktail #21 it was great-Smokey, spicy. The bruschetta was delicious! I wish I got all three of caprese, it was to die for! The other two we got were the fig and brie was more of a dessert-really good. The third one on the far right was the pork belly-flavor was good but a little too fatty for me read more

Idle Hands - Bruschetta board and #21 cocktail - Speakeasies Near Me - Tempe, Arizona

Wannabe speakeasy. Very small and very loud because some of the patrons definitely don't know how to speak easy at all . Food was absolutely terrible and the tiny $15 and up drinks were a complete rip off . Patty melt was gross and the bread was super hard . Thought maybe I would like the chicken strips instead but they were over cooked . One of the bartenders had an attitude because I had to reject the food. Don't waste you time or money at this place at all . read more