If you’re looking for nightlife, you’ll find no shortage of bars in Dayton to meet your mood. From trendy downtown spots to local neighborhood joints, you can take your pick of places to stop for a few cold ones or enjoy a quiet meal and cocktail.
It wasn’t easy to choose, but we’ve listed 9 of our favorite top-rated bars we think you should try!
Yellow Cab Tavern
Where to Find It: 700 E 4th St, Dayton, OH 45402
The Atmosphere: Yellow Cab Tavern has a cool, unique vibe. It’s located in a building previously used by a taxi company, and it’s held onto the theme. Consistently rated one of Dayton’s best spots for live music, Yellow Cab is a great place to stop any time but especially during one of its many special events, which include food truck rallies, art shows, comedy nights and more.
What Patrons Say: “The venue was busy but the bartending staff was totally on top of it. They had a food truck called The Pizza Bandit which was stellar and the band was prime. Really nice place to hear good music and have a cold beer.” – From Google Reviews
South Park Tavern & Pizza
Where to Find It: 1301 Wayne Ave, Dayton, OH 45410
The Atmosphere: Locals and visitors alike rave about the pizza (the selection has something for pizza traditionalists and adventurers alike). It’s also a great place to stop by for a few cold beers. The atmosphere is decidedly “neighborhood bar” — local bar vibes with destination bar quality. It’s a must-try if you’re in the Dayton area and especially if you live there!
What Patrons Say: “Don’t be intimidated by the homey, low key appearance. This little local spot delivers exactly what you came here for. Good service, great pizza and a surprisingly deep beer list to give you enough options to make everyone happy.” –From Google Reviews
The Barrel House
Where to Find It: 417 E 3rd St, Dayton, OH 45402
The Atmosphere: The Barrel House is one of Dayton’s hippest spots. The inside has a definite artsy feel — paintings adorn the walls and colorful craft beer cans make it bright and energetic. The craft beer selection is extensive and regulars love their theme nights!
What Patrons Say: “This is such a great place! First, the drink selection is amazing whether you love interesting beer, enjoy wine, or want to try a cider. Second, everyone who works here is kind and knowledgeable. Third, their theme days are a blast!” –From Yelp
Tank’s Bar and Grill
Where to Find It: 2033 Wayne Ave, Dayton, OH 45410
The Atmosphere: Tank’s serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner and is definitely equal parts restaurant and bar. Regulars love the all-day breakfast! It’s a local spot with a laid-back atmosphere, but visitors will feel welcome at Tank’s, too.
What Patrons Say: “Great food, great service, solid jukebox. I always have a good time here!” –From Facebook Reviews
Warped Wing Brewing Co.
Where to Find It: 26 Wyandot St, Dayton, OH 45402
The Atmosphere: Warped Wing is a bonafide, real-deal brewery located in the heart of Downtown Ohio. It’s located in an old brass and iron foundry and the building oozes history, adding to the atmosphere. Warped Wing brews and distributes its products to several cities in Ohio, but Dayton residents get to enjoy them right where they’re made. Here you’ll find 20+ beer styles to choose from and craft beer cocktails to boot.
What Patrons Say: “Great brewery located in a cool building. The beer was good and the food was outstanding!” –From Google Reviews
Mack’s Tavern
Where to Find It: 381 Miamisburg Centerville Rd, Washington Township, OH 45459
The Atmosphere: Mack’s is a hometown bar with a very low-key, casual atmosphere. Expect to meet plenty of regulars when you stop by. You won’t find anything fancy at Mack’s but it’s a great place to stop and watch a sports game or play a few rounds of pool with friends.
What Patrons Say: “First visit was today and loved it. A very friendly place. I was treated very nicely and had a delicious pizza! A nice hidden gem in Centerville/Washington Township!” –From Facebook Reviews
The Trolley Stop
Where to Find It: 530 E 5th St, Dayton, OH 45402
The Atmosphere: The Trolley Stop is one of the best locations in Dayton! Located in the Oregon District surrounded by unique retail shops, it enjoys patronage from regulars and tourist foot traffic alike. The courtyard patio is picturesque and inside there’s a classic feel. The Trolley Stop has an extensive beer selection and their food is house-made, making it a great stop for a meal during the day or a few drinks at night. Don’t forget about the pool table upstairs!
What Patrons Say: “LOVE the Trolley! It’s the perfect spot for lunch with salads, sandwiches, and apps that are the perfect mix of bougie and bar. They have a great patio when the weather cooperates. The Trolley is also one of our evening faves for shots and live music.” –From Yelp
Blind Bob’s
Where to Find It: 430 E 5th St, Dayton, OH 45402
The Atmosphere: Also in the Oregon District, Blind Bob’s is a Dayton favorite, with a beer list balanced with classic favorites and adventurous craft beer selections. Patrons rave about the food, too, especially the pickle soup! Blind Bob’s has a hip, urban feel and is another favorite spot for live music in Dayton.
What Patrons Say: “Awesome menu, great relaxed atmosphere . . . I love that they have unique cocktails, very friendly staff. Would definitely go again.” –From Google Reviews
The Dublin Pub
Where to Find It: 300 Wayne Ave, Dayton, OH 45410
The Atmosphere: If every city has one authentic Irish pub, the Dublin Pub is Dayton’s. A scroll through patron reviews will quickly inform you that it’s the best place to grab a Guinness or enjoy a selection of Irish whiskey. The inside has plenty of dark wood, giving it a classic homey Irish pub atmosphere. It’s the destination spot in Dayton on St. Patrick’s Day!
What Patrons Say: “Dub Pub has always been a favorite since we used to live in [The Oregon District]. The food is all delicious . . . best pint of Guinness in Dayton and plenty of Irish whiskeys to choose from.” –From Yelp
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