Riverside, Jacksonville boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, with a diverse range of bars catering to every taste. From cozy pubs to lively cocktail lounges, this guide explores the top 15 bars in Riverside, ensuring you find the perfect spot for your next night out. We'll cover everything from ambiance and drinks to food options and overall vibe, helping you navigate the best Riverside has to offer.
Dive into Riverside's Best: A Deep Dive into 15 Exceptional Bars
This isn't just a list; it's a curated experience designed to help you discover your new favorite Riverside watering hole. We've considered factors like atmosphere, drink selection, food quality (where applicable), and overall customer experience to bring you this comprehensive guide.
Cozy & Casual: Perfect for Relaxed Evenings
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The Bold Bean Coffee Roasters: While technically a coffee shop, their evening atmosphere transforms into a relaxed bar with craft beers and wine, making it a great option for a quieter evening. They often feature live music, adding to the charm.
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The Bearded Iris Brewery: A local brewery offering a rotating selection of craft beers. Their laid-back atmosphere and outdoor seating area make it ideal for enjoying a casual drink with friends. They often host trivia nights and other events.
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Paws & Claws: This pet-friendly patio bar offers a relaxed vibe with a wide selection of beers on tap and a fun, casual environment. It's perfect for bringing your furry friend along for a drink.
Upscale & Chic: For a More Refined Experience
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The District Brunch Cafe: Known for its excellent brunch, The District also offers a sophisticated evening atmosphere with a carefully curated cocktail menu and elegant ambiance.
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The Flask: This stylish cocktail bar offers expertly crafted cocktails in a sophisticated setting. Their knowledgeable bartenders can create custom drinks based on your preferences.
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River & Post: This upscale bar and restaurant offers a stunning view of the St. Johns River. Their sophisticated cocktail menu and delicious food make it a perfect choice for a special occasion.
Lively & Energetic: Perfect for a Night Out with Friends
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The Underbelly: A popular spot known for its lively atmosphere and wide selection of beers. They frequently host live music, DJs, and other events, creating a vibrant and energetic environment.
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Yellow Dog Eats: While primarily a restaurant, Yellow Dog Eats also has a lively bar scene, particularly on weekends. Their outdoor patio is perfect for people-watching.
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Mojo Kitchen & Bar: Offering a combination of delicious food and a lively bar atmosphere, Mojo is a popular choice for those looking for a place to enjoy both great food and drinks. They have a strong focus on live music and entertainment.
Unique & Quirky: Experience Something Different
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Southern Grounds & Co.: This coffee shop turns into a cool hangout in the evenings with a unique selection of beers and cocktails. Their bohemian atmosphere adds to their appeal.
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1904 Music Hall: Though primarily a music venue, 1904 also features a full bar serving a variety of drinks. This is the place to be for catching a live show.
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Burro Bar: Burro Bar offers a unique atmosphere blending Mexican cuisine with a lively bar scene. Their margaritas are especially popular.
Hidden Gems: Discover Riverside's Best-Kept Secrets
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O'Leary's: A long-standing local favorite, O'Leary's offers a classic pub atmosphere with a friendly crowd and a strong sense of community.
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The Chamblin Station: This unique venue, housed in a historic train station, offers a blend of history and modern nightlife with a variety of cocktails and a lively atmosphere.
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King Street Pub: A classic neighborhood pub offering a relaxed atmosphere and a good selection of beers. It's a great place to catch up with friends.
Finding Your Perfect Riverside Bar
This list offers a diverse range of options. To help you choose, consider:
- Your desired atmosphere: Relaxed and casual, upscale and chic, or lively and energetic?
- Your preferred drinks: Craft beer, cocktails, wine, or something else?
- Food options: Do you want a place with a full menu, or just appetizers and snacks?
- Events and entertainment: Are you looking for live music, DJs, or trivia nights?
Exploring Riverside's bars is a fun adventure. This guide provides a strong foundation for planning your next night out. Happy exploring!
