How it has taken me this long to make it to Valley Bar I do not know, but I'm glad I finally did. This is more about Valley Bar as a music venue instead of a bar, but we had a good experience. As others have mentioned, parking can be tricky so be prepared. There are a few meters on the surrounding streets but don't count on them. There is also a garage on Adams if you drive. The entrance is in the alleyway behind Cornish Pasty Co. and our IDs were checked immediately upon entrance. We headed down a flight of stairs and got our will call tickets and wristbands. The music hall is on the smaller size but we still had a decent amount of room to move around. This show had a separate section for those who are underage. I don't think the show was sold out but I didn't feel packed in like sardines which was nice. There is a bar in the music hall and they have a jug of water on the side which was nice. Then next door is another room with a bar and space to hang out. For being a basement bar I thought the sound quality was pretty solid. It was a fun show and a seamless experience getting in and out. I would definitely return for another show! read more

Valley Bar - Music Venues Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Post-Quarantine review: 9/20/21 It's great to be back Valley bar! This has been one of my beloved spots for an old fashioned Manhattan for almost over 10 years. I love the speakeasy vibe and the culture here. As well as the general atmosphere and the inclusiveness. But it is fun and easily accessible. In downtown Phoenix right off of Van Buren and central. Changes are inevitable but it's best to embrace! People come and go but I love the atmosphere as I stated earlier. Drinks are delicious! Support Local AZ! Wondering if you should stop by? Yes definitely do!! Weekends are the best (even a Sunday night) but a weekday drink after work never hurt anyone! (Please don't drink and drive!) read more

So off the beaten path we almost couldn't find it. Luckily we followed a group of people who looked like they were ready to have a good time into an alley, where we found the entrance to valley bar. The space was tight and the drinks were flowing. I loved how there was a big underground dance floor where you could let loose without feeling judged. 10/10 would come back again any night. read more

There was a line at the bar, but it moved pretty quickly. Fun vibe with good music. Really enjoyed all the game options. They could likely hire someone to pick up cups and clean up spills, but it is a bar so.... Parking isn't great- uber to this one. Next time we are going to enjoy a band here. read more

Valley Bar - Music Venues Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

I have been quite a few times in the last few years. Went again a couple weeks ago for an advertised event and it was dead. Every time I've gone it is felt weird and unsafe. And it has nothing to do with going through an alley. I quite enjoy that part. Idk vibes have been off every time I've gone but don't let that stop you if you on guard. read more

The ambiance was giving, and the music was exactly the vibe we were looking for. Everyone in the bar was minding their own business and having a good time. I don't know if there was food at this place, but we wanted drinks since we didn't have time to pre-game. Trying to order felt like an eternity. My friend and I were standing right at the bar, literally hip to the counter, clearly visible. The bartender saw us but skipped over us multiple times to serve other people who came in after us. We waited about ten minutes, and at first, we tried to be patient, thinking maybe it was just busy. But after a while, it started to feel intentional and that completely killed the vibe. There was another person of color next to us, and it really started to feel like the bartender was giving colorist and discriminatory vibes. Maybe even homophobic. It was such a weird and uncomfortable experience. We ended up leaving and finding local spots that were actually welcoming and worth giving our money to. read more

Love valley bar !! Truly a piece of PhX you don't want to miss when in the area. I think their staff and overall vibe is pretty great ! I will definitely be back !! read more

Always one of my favorite relaxing lounges when I'm downtown. No music on tap the night I came but Monday's is pretty laid back and it's Game Night... aka all the games are free. 2 pool tables, 2 skeeball machines that allow you to challenge one another, darts, a variety of board games and when working (wasn't that night) a multi-vintage video game machine. And yes, it has the classics so I'm probably dating myself, but still cool!! When I'm out, it's all about the vibe. This place has a chilled vibe everytime I come and lends itself to some great "basement bands". It's what I'm looking for when I'm with local friends or entertaining those visiting from out of town. The bar has some good drinks and the bartenders are friendly when it's not slammed by making conversation and keeping "my cup full". I've been when bands have performed and holding conversations can be a bit challenging, but at that point, no one really cares. If you're bringing a small group of friends, try to snatch up one of the couches or a booth but also feel free to just mingle with people as that's how we should all go about meeting new friends. read more

What a fun place to catch a concert Staff is great Safe place to party, or just chill with friends! read more

i came here for the first time tonight, it's kinda hard to find, then you go down some stairs and you walk into a cute chill underground bar, the lights are dim and it's a bit intimate if you bring a significant other, the customer service was lovely from the 3 workers i interacted with, my first bar didn't disappoint , the music choice was perfect read more

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Staff randomly kicked me out. Trying to level ratio of male to female patrons. Security guard Fabian tried to physically intimidate me and threatened me. If this happens again I will document and press charges read more

Phoenix speakeasy that you can access through an alleyway. Nice decor. Billiards and shuffleboard were available read more

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Cool underground happening place to mix, mingle hang out and be seen. Yes, the alley entrance is not so fragrant but once you descend the long stairs down you enter a great venue! Lots of places try for the correct balance of decor music and vibe, but the Valley Bar just gets it right in one! Great mix of people, different ages and the best music mix going. Depeche Mode, Pet Shop Boys and David Bowie were enticing me to the dance area. I liked the correct amount of seedy and rave feel mixed with the pumping music, video screen and dancing crowds. I felt like I was back in my university days in the best possible way. read more

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Rude server. Second person to sit at bar once they opened and yet it still took her 20 minutes to even address us. Then she had the nerve to be annoyed when I asked for a certain type of whiskey. Who makes old fashioneds with crushed ice anyway? I didn't ask for a slushee. The ambiance is dead in there as well. I wonder why .... This place USED to be cool. read more

Fine, but Pre-Covid patrons should know the vibe is very different now. Used to be hip, funky, & upscale place to meet interesting, eccentric people. It's more of a true dive bar now. Library blocked by a DJ table. Lots of unironically saggy, ripped jeans and threadbare screen print tees. Dropped by with a friend tonight. Stayed for about 5 minutes. I'm guessing Valley Bar's former patrons have migrated over to the Vault at Wren & Wolf. read more

Super happening place with a chill yet HIP atmosphere. I like the the feeling of being underground in a secret cavern being served by super attentive staff. I wish we had a place like this in Las Vegas. They're not putting basements in Vegas...none. read more

Valley Bar - Valley bar door. - Music Venues Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

This is like my favorite place in The entire world. Great music Great shows I. The other section And no mercy fir those who don't get it. Scary entrance. Ask. read more

Valley Bar - Music Venues Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Came here a few weeks ago and was not feeling it at all. The music was decent, but it smelled so badly of BO inside and there was drinks all over the floor. I ended up leaving after about 10 minutes because I was not enjoying the atmosphere. read more

Walking through Valley Bar I felt like I was in a 90's movie, but in a good way! Cool dive/speakeasy/basement vibe. I especially liked the diorama shadows projected above the bar. It's a great element that you don't see often read more

Hi had a really good time here. The atmosphere was cool, the drinks were good and the food was just enough. After a few wrong turns and asking a few people for directions, we made it to this hidden basement bar... that's the point. It's a hidden bar. After you descend a flight of stairs, you walk into a bar reminiscent of a 1920's speakeasy (I imagine). At 8PM on a Friday night, there was plenty of seating. The waitress was extremely attentive and we never had to work hard to get her attention. Dimly lit, there are high tops, booths, and bar seating. All choices were available. Walk further into the back and there are video games, ski ball, and assorted board games. If you want to grab a group of friends or just a date, there is no shortage of things to do. This night, the music featured nothing but hiphop and R&B, something difficult to find here in Phoenix. The menu was basic Mexican style bar food, so it's not really primed for dinner. You may want to eat ahead of time if you're looking for a balanced meal. I really enjoyed my time here and looking forward to visiting many times in the future. read more

Great small venue to see bands with loyal followers. Good food service, was pretty fast and reasonable price. Beers are not over the top on pricing. Only issue is it's a little chilly in the theater area, I have to remember to bring a sweater (or buy merch which does support the band!) read more

Underground speakeasy bar. Follow the red light in the alley across from Seamus Mcaffery's and you'll find it. Head down a set of steep stairs and you're in. I come here to have drinks, mingle, people watch - and I've also come here to see concerts. The venue is nice and sound system is decent if you're seeing a show. The drinks are good, all employees are very friendly. I love the vintage clown themed portraits on the wall and the odd items here and there around the bar. Overall, it's fun cool place to get drinks, bring friends to, and see shows at. I'll be back. read more

friend was kicked out at 11:58pm on new years. i'm more drunk than him, he was literally just dancing. feels homophobic. spent $60 each to be here for this lame party. went across the street and they agreed he wasn't too intoxicated. felt like a power trip by the lame bouncer. ruined our new years, putting a curse on his whole bloodline mf. watch out. read more

I have a great memory from a few years back when I went with a buddy. It was the right mix of busy but not crowded, I'm pretty sure we didn't pay a cover, and we had a good time. So I'm back in AZ for Thanksgiving and decided to stop by on a Friday night. Sadly, there was a cover and the sign said hip hop night. Didn't look like my kind of crowd, so I bailed. I'm not sure if Valley Bar has changed or if it's as fun as I remember, but I'm giving them 4* for my visit years ago. Hopefully I can return sometime and see if it's still a good bar. read more

Been to Valley bar for years and it was always a good destination, I would bring people there, friends and family visiting the valley.. not no more. The security people there absolutely sucks, I was having a great time, dancing .. This bald guy from the security crew approached me and said I had to go, I asked him why, didn't gave me an explanation, took my beer and walked me out forceful.. You cant dance at a bar? What a fucking joke. Do not visit this place if you want to have a good time.. read more

WEAK DRINKS. RUDE STAFF. That once ambient basement atmosphere with the cool diorama over the bar no longer feels chill and relaxed, and that is because their delicious and expensive drinks no longer have full/authentic shots of booze. My partner had two of his regular mixed drinks with call liquor. At home, he measures precisely, but he still feels it. After two at Valley Bar, he felt nothing at all. And the same for me. I had a vodka shot immediately followed by a vodka soda (also with call liquor), and roughly 30 minutes later, I repeated that because I felt nothing and thought I was nuts. But the second round also felt like nothing. We watched the bartenders pour, and they used flared shot glasses for a measured pour. My husband noticed immediately the bartender under-poured the shot, and if this place is marrying rail bottles with call bottles that could amount to a half or three quarters shot of 60 or 70 proof, depending on how cheap they're being. Anyway...long rant about some petty sh**, but we used to love kicking back at Valley Bar, and one or two cocktails were perfect. You won't feel that nice relaxing atmosphere, and you definitely won't get your money's worth if you go there. This is a legitimate complaint. Most people go to bars to drink. read more

As a speakeasy kind of bar, it was fun to find and visit. Service was great! Drinks were good and food not bad for a bar. It didn't break the bank, which was nice. We went early (7ish) on a Friday night so it wasn't crowded. Overall, recommend checking it out. read more

I went to see The Ocean Blue at this venue, and bought a VIP ticket on Eventbrite website. I arrived at the Valley Bar at 6:45 pm and wondered why I never received an email from the venue about the meet & greet time. The only email I received was from Eventbrite stating that my ticket will be on will call. When I got there, the staff told me the VIP time was at 5:00 pm, and it was already too late. I was so disappointed and very sad, but then the girl in the merch booth told me not to be upset. She saw Bobby Mittan, the bass player of the Ocean Blue, and told him what had happened. Hands down, Bobby was one of the kindest people on the planet. He approached me and signed my CD. Even though I was a little bummed that I didn't get to meet the whole band at first, I was determined to enjoy the show. Then all of a sudden, I saw Bobby and told me to go backstage with him. I finally met the band! I was so grateful! David Schelzel, Oed Ronne, Peter Anderson, and Steve Leo were such great guys. They offered me a beer, and signed my merch. They told me that I will be a VIP guest at the Philly show. I am so thankful. Thank you Ocean Blue. It was an amazing show, and can't wait to see the one in Philly on Aug. 23! As far as the Valley Bar or Event Brite, I'm not sure if they are dependable when it comes to sending out emails. I almost missed the opportunity to meet the band. If it weren't for the girl working the merch booth, and Ocean Blue. They saved the day! I love the Ocean Blue. read more

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Really great venue, appetizers and cocktails! We had to go through a back door and loved the vibe. They have a hanging mobile projected on the wall. Amazing venue. read more

Valley Bar - Music Venues Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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There was a super gr8 live band "The Darts". I'm a fan now. An expansive basement club that was actually temp cool and had chill patrons. The bathroom of course is 4 stalls, as most clubs are, but the line was moving. The following DJ played the safe alternative 80's music with his pal jumping around on the stage. About 10 beer taps and an array of alcohols. Bartenders okay. Liked how it was tucked away in a back alley. Gotta walk down stairs. Beware if you like high heels. Fun time. read more

Valley Bar - Music Venues Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Love the atmosphere here! Been to the Valley Bar a few times now and have enjoyed myself each time. The entrance is located off an alley along Central Ave in the heart of downtown Phoenix, so it's a little hard to find but manageable (follow the pin on the map). Most nights, there's no cover but there are some exceptions (e.g. $3 cover for donation for LGBTQ+ orgs in Phoenix). Also, it is an underground bar with stairs going down & up, so just a heads up. There are multiple areas once you get downstairs. There's two bars, an area for live music/DJ & dancing, a couple of areas with bar tables for lounging, and an area with games (pool tables, board games, etc). The vibe here is more hipster-like, and I like how you can be dancing in one room, then take a break and play games on the other side. The happy hour here is pretty decent, and I've had nothing but good experiences with the bartenders. Servers also round the tables to take orders, which is always nice. There's not really designated parking, so I'd suggest finding street parking (most meters around here stop enforcing after 10pm), find other paid parking in the area, or use uber/lyft. read more

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Valley bar is my go-to place downtown. The first time I went, I couldn't find it, but we asked the nice security guard at the front desk of the fancy glass building right next to it, and he was able to point it out for us. It's located down a flight of stairs, although I did hear the bouncer tell this guy who had crutches that there was an elevator down somewhere. This place just has great vibes all around. Above the bar, there's like a slowly rotating fan that has little statues/trinkets hanging off of it that are then blown up into shadow form onto this canvas-like thing... it's hard to describe and I didn't take a picture, but it's mesmerizing. The service is nice, the drinks are reasonably priced, and the food pretends to be fancy, but the fries were the best thing off the menu. I've come here the most for Seinfeld Trivia. For the longest time, they weren't updating their Facebook event, but they always have it on their website, or if you call them, they'll let you know when to show up. The place always gets packed on Seinfeld nights, but the crowd is super fun, and there are awesome prizes if you win (Junior mints, anyone?) Parking can be a bit tough; you will likely have to find street parking and walk a few blocks, or use a rideshare app like Lyft or Uber. read more

Valley Bar - First time sitting in the game area--can still hear trivia questions from here aaand play skee ball! - Music Venues Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Went here for the first time Friday night about 7:00 PM. Wasn't sure what to expect & to our surprise it was loads of fun! We'd gotten a gift of two tickets to see Shawn James play. Two bands played prior and were great. One local band called Shawn Skinner and the Men Of Reason & The Blood Feud Family Singers BOTH were great! Shawn Skinner and the Men Of Reason is a local band we'd enjoy seeing again. The mixed drinks were good, but pricey! Way to much ice in a small 6oz plastic cup. Atmosphere was pretty neat-they've got games like pool & darts; so it's like you can choose between going to the bar and the club. LOL We'll be back for sure! read more

We found this place by accident - thankfully the "smoking man" out front told us the place was in the alleyway. You might have to hold your nose as you make your way through the very "ripe" smell from homeless and/or drunk dumpster urine deposits and your eyes will need to adjust so you can safely descend into this dark cool sanctuary but it is totally worth it. The bartenders are attentive and make great drinks. Good beer options. Great music. And a really really unusual visual display over the bar. It's an art installation that's a rotating shadow show of sorts and quite intriguing. There's a real nice mix of customers and some cool artwork on the walls. Not sure what the cover charge is for shows - we just had one quick drink at the bar - but the musician we heard warming up at the piano in the hall sounded incredible. read more

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Super cool hidden gem, the decor is cool and the music was good. service was awful the bartenders were being so rude but the bouncers were really nice. The drinks were awful. I've never ordered a $16 cocktail and then it comes in a plastic cup! Like a clear plastic cup that you would see at water stations lol. I was so disappointed and not sure if I'll give this place another shot read more

Of my 6 months in Arizona, I think I've made the 30-40 min drive to Valley Bar at least 5x, and I can assure you there will be many more times in the next 3.5+ years. Valley Bar is without a doubt one of my fav places for a drink (and a show and appetizers and games) in Phoenix. This hidden speakeasy type bar has such a cool vibe and is so eclectic that each time is a whole new experience. Whether you've come from First Friday at the museum, the symphony, dinner, a show (currently I'm at a Latin jazz tribute to Jobim and Tito Puente), or just because you're in the area - Valley Bar is a place you can count on for a great cocktail/beer/glass of wine, delicious appetizers, and a very laid back night! If you enjoy a good adventure, you really can't go wrong here! read more

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The guac is SO good. There's a super unique citrus flavor in it but you might be surprised as to the source of it. I won't spoil it here - try it for yourself! The jalapeño crema that comes with the papas fritas is really tasty too. The cocktails were not great to me. read more

Alexis was absolutely amazing and accommodating. I hurt my knee this week but I still wanted to come see a show. She helped me around and made sure I was doing well. Another gentlemen, that I didn't get his name, was so kind and even checked in on me making sure I was comfortable (Alexis, if you see this, tell management who was at the door with you please!) One of the bartenders even gave me a washcloth full of ice so I could ice my knee while watching the show. Phil was amazing on our way out. It was a great experience and I will definitely be back! read more

Was there last night for POP Night with Dj Jojo and it was such a vibe! Need a night like this again!!!!

This review is gonna be really long, so the short version is this: There's rad music, groovy games, a kitchen, and a baller cocktail menu. If you're browsing the mobile app and you're nearby, you need to drop in. Like, now. Still with me? OK, here are the details... There is no place in Phoenix I will defend as much as Valley Bar. Seriously, it's my litmus test for whether or not I'm going to like your reviews--give this gem less than five stars, and I'll take everything you write with a grain of salt. It's just that good. It's an eclectic establishment with the quintessential Phoenix vibe--artsy and unassuming, attracting clientele from gruff hipsters looking for indie shows, to the all dolled-up in five inch heels treating this like a club, to businessmen and politicians coming in wearing full suits. I met Congressman Ruben Gallego while drinking a Kate + Ruben. He didn't seem amused when I said "Hey there's a drink named after you amirite?" On another evening, I shook hands with mayor Greg Stanton while drinking a Stanton. Groovy, right? I keep ordering my favorite cocktail--The McCain--but the old 'Maverick' is yet to show up! Bummer, but at least I can revel in the sweet, smoky, spicy goodness of mezcal, citrus, and a mouthwatering bite from an ancho chili liquor. At $8 a pop, these craft cocktails really are a steal, and the Rose Room, the lounge they're served in, is so comfortable and dimly lit you'll feel you've stumbled into a much more expensive environment. If you're hungry, take advantage of the kitchen run by Short Leash hot dogs, and have a seat in one of the booths. Like every other table here, it's illuminated by real candles, lending an intimate feel. We haven't invented a love potion quite yet, but let me tell you right now that having a chat and playing one of their many board games over a glass of wine will certainly suffice. Just down the hall will be a cool game room with pool tables, ski-ball, and a couple of awesome arcade games. It's important to remember that above all, this is a music venue! Emphasis on medium-sized indie shows, but they have stellar DJ sets. My favorite is Blunt Club, the hip hop night that brings the best Thursday night fun I've had in the valley. Some of the local bands are especially great, and tons of fun. This is up there with my favorite spots in Phoenix, but of course there will be some growing pains. This place is just so gosh darn popular, it's near impossible to get in during prime time. I have waited 20 minutes for this, something I won't do for any other establishment. It can get terribly busy on Saturday--I've heard of hour-long lines close to midnight! Be prepared for standing room only! Also, keep in mind some shows/sets that used to be free now carry a charge, and this will be the rare time I hope entry gets more expensive so as to thin down the line a bit. I can easily spend several hours here without getting bored. It's fun, affordable, hip...I just do not have enough good words. GET IN read more