Top 10 Cocktail Bars in Long Beach You Can Trust

Long Beach, California, is more than just a coastal escape—it’s a vibrant hub of culinary creativity, where mixology has evolved into an art form. From hidden speakeasies tucked behind unmarked doors to sleek rooftop lounges with panoramic ocean views, the city’s cocktail scene offers something for every palate. But with so many options, how do you know which bars truly deliver on quality, consistency, and experience? In a town where trends come and go, trust becomes the most valuable currency. This guide highlights the Top 10 Cocktail Bars in Long Beach you can trust—bars that have earned their reputation through exceptional ingredients, skilled bartenders, timeless ambiance, and unwavering dedication to the craft. Whether you’re a local seeking your new favorite spot or a visitor exploring the city’s hidden gems, these ten establishments stand above the rest.

Why Trust Matters

In an era where anyone can open a bar and call themselves a “mixologist,” trust is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. A trustworthy cocktail bar doesn’t just serve drinks; it delivers an experience rooted in authenticity, expertise, and integrity. Trust is built over time through consistent quality, transparent sourcing, and a commitment to the customer’s enjoyment above fleeting trends.

When you walk into a trusted cocktail bar, you expect more than a well-shaken drink. You expect the bartender to know the history of the spirit in your glass, to understand how citrus acidity balances with botanicals, and to tailor a recommendation based on your preferences—not just push the most expensive bottle on the shelf. Trust means the ice is freshly made, the garnishes are hand-cut, and the syrups are house-made from seasonal produce. It means the lighting, music, and seating aren’t afterthoughts—they’re intentional elements designed to elevate the moment.

Long Beach’s cocktail scene has grown rapidly over the past decade. While many establishments chase viral aesthetics or Instagrammable gimmicks, the bars on this list have remained focused on substance over spectacle. They’ve survived shifting consumer tastes, economic fluctuations, and post-pandemic challenges—not by luck, but by earning the loyalty of repeat patrons who return not just for the drinks, but for the reliability of the experience.

Trust also means ethical practices: supporting local distilleries, minimizing waste, and treating staff with respect. The best cocktail bars in Long Beach understand that sustainability isn’t a marketing buzzword—it’s a responsibility. They use compostable straws, source organic citrus, and train their teams to treat every guest like a guest in their own home.

This guide isn’t about popularity contests or influencer endorsements. These selections are based on years of customer feedback, industry recognition, consistent reviews across platforms, and the personal experiences of long-time locals who know what separates a good bar from a great one. If you’re looking for a place where the drinks are crafted with care and the atmosphere feels genuinely welcoming, you’ve come to the right place.

Top 10 Cocktail Bars in Long Beach

1. The Blind Pig

Nestled in the heart of downtown Long Beach, The Blind Pig is a modern speakeasy that pays homage to Prohibition-era elegance while embracing contemporary mixology. Accessed through a discreet door behind a bookshelf, this intimate venue offers a curated menu of classic cocktails reimagined with local ingredients. Their signature “Long Beach Mule,” made with house-infused ginger syrup and a local craft vodka, has become a cult favorite. The bartenders here are trained in the traditions of the craft, often studying the history of each spirit they use. With dim lighting, velvet booths, and a rotating selection of rare aged spirits, The Blind Pig offers an immersive experience that feels both nostalgic and fresh. It’s no surprise that this bar consistently ranks among the city’s best for both atmosphere and execution.

2. The Wharf Bar & Grill

Perched on the Long Beach Pier, The Wharf Bar & Grill blends the laid-back energy of a seaside dive with the precision of a high-end cocktail lounge. While it’s known for its fresh seafood and casual vibe, its cocktail program is anything but ordinary. The bar team sources ingredients from local farmers’ markets and crafts seasonal menus that reflect the ocean’s bounty—think kelp-infused gin, sea salt caramel old fashioneds, and smoked citrus margaritas. Their “Pier 26 Old Fashioned,” made with a proprietary bourbon blend and a charred orange twist, is a masterclass in balance. The outdoor patio offers stunning views of the harbor, making it the ideal spot for sunset sipping. What sets The Wharf apart is its ability to remain unpretentious while delivering bar-quality drinks that rival those in Los Angeles.

3. The Varnish at The Pike

Though it shares a name with its iconic Los Angeles counterpart, The Varnish at The Pike is a distinct Long Beach institution. Located inside the historic Pike Outlets, this elegant lounge channels 1920s glamour with crystal chandeliers, marble tabletops, and a live jazz trio on weekends. The cocktail menu is a love letter to vintage recipes, with meticulous attention to detail—each drink is served with a hand-carved ice cube and a bespoke garnish. Their “Espresso Martini” is widely regarded as the best in the region, made with cold-brewed coffee from a local roaster and a touch of vanilla bean syrup. The staff undergoes rigorous training in flavor profiling and cocktail theory, ensuring every pour is intentional. Whether you’re here for a date night or a quiet evening after dinner, The Varnish delivers sophistication without pretension.

4. Bar 360

Bar 360 lives up to its name with a 360-degree view of the Long Beach skyline and the Pacific Ocean. Located on the top floor of the Hyatt Regency, this rooftop bar combines urban chic with coastal serenity. Their cocktail program is led by a James Beard-nominated mixologist who focuses on regional flavors—think lavender honey from Orange County, blood orange from the Central Valley, and smoked sea salt harvested from the Pacific coast. The “Skyline Sour,” featuring aquafaba foam and a touch of black tea tincture, is a standout. What makes Bar 360 trustworthy is its consistency: whether you visit on a weekday afternoon or a Friday night, the quality never wavers. The bar also offers a “Flight of the Coast” tasting menu, guiding guests through four signature cocktails that represent Long Beach’s diverse cultural influences—from Mexican aguas frescas to Thai-inspired herbal infusions.

5. The Rustic Bottle

Located in the charming Naples neighborhood, The Rustic Bottle is a neighborhood gem that feels like a well-loved secret. With exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and a back patio lined with string lights, the ambiance is cozy and inviting. But it’s the drinks that keep patrons coming back. The bar specializes in small-batch spirits and uses zero artificial flavors—everything is made from scratch. Their “Naples Negroni,” made with a house-fermented grapefruit liqueur and a local gin, has won regional awards. The staff takes pride in educating guests about each ingredient, often sharing stories about the distillers they partner with. The Rustic Bottle also hosts monthly “Behind the Bar” nights, where patrons can watch bartenders craft cocktails in real time and ask questions. This transparency and passion for education are rare—and deeply trusted.

6. The Library Lounge

True to its name, The Library Lounge is designed like an upscale private study, complete with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, leather armchairs, and vintage lamps. The cocktail menu is organized like a scholarly catalog, with each drink categorized by its “literary inspiration”—think “The Great Gatsby Martini” or “Hemingway’s Dark & Stormy.” Ingredients are sourced with the same care as rare first editions: bourbon aged in California oak, bitters made from foraged California bay laurel, and vermouths imported from small producers in Italy. The bartenders here are not just servers—they’re curators, selecting each component to tell a story. The lounge is quiet, intimate, and perfect for contemplative sipping. Many patrons return monthly to explore a new “chapter” on the menu. Its commitment to storytelling through flavor has earned it a loyal following and critical acclaim.

7. The Greenhouse

At The Greenhouse, cocktails are grown, not just mixed. This plant-filled, biophilic bar in the East Village district is a pioneer in sustainable mixology. Nearly every herb, flower, and fruit used in their drinks is harvested from their own rooftop garden or sourced from urban farms within a 50-mile radius. Their “Garden Spritz” features house-made elderflower cordial, cucumber-infused gin, and edible marigold petals. They even compost all organic waste and use reusable glassware exclusively. The bar’s minimalist design—white walls, hanging ivy, and natural wood—creates a calming environment that enhances the sensory experience of each drink. The Greenhouse also offers a “Plant-to-Glass” tour every Saturday, where guests learn how to identify and use botanicals in cocktails. This dedication to environmental responsibility and ingredient integrity makes it one of the most trusted bars in the city.

8. The Copper Room

With its gleaming copper bar top and industrial-chic decor, The Copper Room exudes warmth and craftsmanship. Located in the revitalized Belmont Shore district, this bar focuses on technique-driven cocktails with a modern twist. Their signature “Copper Mule” uses a custom copper mug chilled to exact temperature and filled with a ginger syrup made from locally grown ginger root. The bar’s team has trained under internationally renowned mixologists and brings a scientific approach to their craft—measuring pH levels of citrus, testing infusion times, and even experimenting with nitrogen freezing for texture. Their “Smoke & Mirrors” cocktail, featuring smoked applewood and activated charcoal, is a visual and olfactory masterpiece. What sets The Copper Room apart is its consistency across all service hours. Whether you arrive at 5 p.m. or 11 p.m., the precision and care remain the same.

9. The Salt & Smoke

Combining the bold flavors of coastal cuisine with the artistry of mixology, The Salt & Smoke is a unique fusion of bar and kitchen. Their cocktails are designed to complement their smoked meats and seafood dishes, creating a harmonious dining and drinking experience. The “Smoked Sea Salt Old Fashioned” uses a proprietary salt blend harvested from the Pacific and aged with mesquite wood. Their “Coastal Paloma” features grapefruit juice from nearby orchards and a smoked agave syrup that lingers on the palate. The bar’s open kitchen allows guests to watch their drinks being paired with food, reinforcing the connection between flavor profiles. The staff is trained in both culinary and cocktail arts, making them uniquely qualified to guide pairings. This bar doesn’t just serve drinks—it crafts flavor journeys.

10. The Quiet Hour

True to its name, The Quiet Hour is a sanctuary for those seeking calm in a bustling city. Located in a converted 1930s bungalow in the Los Altos neighborhood, this bar operates with a strict no-loud-music policy and encourages quiet conversation. The cocktail menu is small but meticulously curated, with only seven offerings—each designed to be sipped slowly and savored. Their “Midnight Honey,” made with wildflower honey from the Santa Ana Mountains and a single-origin mezcal, is a revelation. The bartenders here take their time with each pour, often engaging in thoughtful dialogue with guests about flavor, memory, and mood. The bar uses no artificial sweeteners, no preservatives, and no shortcuts. It’s a place where time slows down, and every sip feels intentional. For those who value mindfulness over noise, The Quiet Hour is the most trusted bar in Long Beach.

Comparison Table

FAQs

What makes a cocktail bar trustworthy in Long Beach?

A trustworthy cocktail bar prioritizes quality over trends. This means using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, making syrups and infusions in-house, training staff in cocktail history and technique, and maintaining consistent flavor and presentation. Trust is also earned through transparency—knowing where your spirits come from, how garnishes are prepared, and whether the bar supports sustainable practices.

Are these bars expensive?

Prices vary, but all ten bars offer value relative to quality. Most cocktails range from $14 to $22, with premium or rare spirit options available at higher price points. What sets these bars apart is that you’re paying for craftsmanship, not just alcohol. You’re paying for the time, knowledge, and care that goes into every drink.

Do I need a reservation?

Reservations are recommended at The Blind Pig, The Varnish at The Pike, Bar 360, and The Library Lounge, especially on weekends. The rest are walk-in friendly, though some may have wait times during peak hours. The Quiet Hour operates on a first-come, first-served basis with limited seating to preserve its tranquil atmosphere.

Are there non-alcoholic options?

Yes. All ten bars offer thoughtful non-alcoholic cocktails, often labeled as “Zero Proof” or “Spirit-Free” on their menus. These drinks are not afterthoughts—they’re crafted with the same attention to balance and flavor as their alcoholic counterparts, using ingredients like shrubs, herbal teas, and fermented botanicals.

Which bar is best for first-time visitors?

For first-timers seeking a well-rounded Long Beach experience, The Wharf Bar & Grill offers the perfect blend of atmosphere, accessibility, and quality. Its waterfront location, diverse menu, and welcoming vibe make it an ideal introduction to the city’s cocktail culture.

Do these bars host events or tastings?

Yes. Several, including The Rustic Bottle, The Greenhouse, and The Library Lounge, regularly host cocktail workshops, spirit tastings, and seasonal menu launches. These events are often announced on their social media pages or newsletters and are highly recommended for enthusiasts looking to deepen their knowledge.

Can I bring a group?

Most of these bars accommodate groups, though The Quiet Hour and The Library Lounge are best suited for smaller parties due to their intimate settings. The Wharf, Bar 360, and The Copper Room have private booth areas or can arrange group tastings with advance notice.

Do they use organic or sustainable ingredients?

Yes. Bars like The Greenhouse and The Rustic Bottle go beyond sustainability—they make it central to their mission. Others, like The Salt & Smoke and The Varnish, use organic citrus and ethically sourced spirits. While not all bars are certified organic, all ten prioritize minimizing waste and supporting responsible producers.

Is there a dress code?

Most bars have a smart-casual dress code—no flip-flops or athletic wear. The Varnish and Bar 360 lean slightly more formal, while The Wharf and The Rustic Bottle are relaxed. When in doubt, when in doubt, opt for neat, comfortable attire.

What’s the best time to visit for the quietest experience?

Weekday evenings between 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. are typically the quietest across all ten bars. The Quiet Hour and The Library Lounge are peaceful even on weekends. Avoid Saturday nights if you prefer a calm environment.

Conclusion

Long Beach’s cocktail scene is a reflection of the city itself: diverse, resilient, and deeply connected to its surroundings. The ten bars featured here have earned their place not through flashy marketing or celebrity endorsements, but through unwavering commitment to quality, creativity, and care. Each one offers something unique—a hidden speakeasy, a rooftop sanctuary, a plant-filled haven, or a quiet refuge from the noise of everyday life. But they all share one common thread: trust.

Trust is what brings you back. It’s the consistency of the drink, the warmth of the bartender’s smile, the knowledge that your glass was made with intention, not just ingredients. In a world where experiences are fleeting and trends are fleeting, these bars stand as anchors of authenticity.

Whether you’re sipping a smoky old fashioned under the stars at Bar 360, uncovering a forgotten recipe at The Library Lounge, or enjoying a quiet honeyed mezcal at The Quiet Hour, you’re not just drinking—you’re participating in a tradition of craftsmanship that Long Beach has proudly cultivated.

So the next time you’re looking for a drink that means more than alcohol, choose one of these ten. They’ve earned your trust—not with a slogan, but with every perfectly balanced pour, every hand-cut garnish, every thoughtful conversation. And that’s the kind of experience no algorithm, no influencer, and no trend can replicate.