Best Hotel Bar (2018)

Named after the world's first mixed drink (according to some), The Sazerac Bar has been quenching New Orleans's thirst for decades. Located within The Roosevelt New Orleans, this classic space features an African walnut bar and murals by Paul Ninas; it was once a popular haunt of politician Huey P. Long.
Photo courtesy of (c) 2018 Waldorf Astoria

You’ll feel like you’re in a tropical paradise when you enter the Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar at the Fairmont San Francisco. This classic tiki bar specializes in Polynesian-fusion fare and tropical cocktails, including one of the city’s best Mai Tais. “Surprise” thunder and lightening storms keep things lively.
Photo courtesy of Fairmont San Francisco

The Lobby Bar at Austin’s South Congress Hotel was designed to serve as “a gathering place for travelers and neighbors alike.” Grab a cup of coffee made how you like it by day (free wifi makes it an excellent work space) or a handcrafted cocktail from the full bar by night. Select appetizers are discounted during weeknight Happy Hour.
Photo courtesy of South Congress Hotel / Facebook

Adjacent to Kimpton's Hotel Palomar Chicago in a quiet, darker setting sits Sable Kitchen & Bar. Sable is a gastro-lounge that pairs seasonally-inspired New American small plates presented by Executive Chef Amber Lancaster, with an artfully designed cocktail, spirits and wine program presented by talented Head Bartender Mike Jones.
Photo courtesy of Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants / Colin Beckett

Located on the 17th floor rooftop of the Four Seasons Orlando, Capa Bar gives guests a swanty and sophisticated place to take in the views while sipping signature cocktails to the sounds of live music. The bar menu also includes Spanish wines and tapas.
Photo courtesy of Don Riddle / Four Seasons Resort Orlando

Caricatures of past presidents and political figures adorn the cherry red walls of this classic DC bar inside The Hay-Adams. The scotch list shines alongside wine and cocktails in this space where well heeled (or at least well dressed) tourists mingle with locals, lobbyists and politicians.
Photo courtesy of The Hay-Adams

Situated on the seventh floor of Park Hyatt Chicago, NoMI Lounge offers creative cocktails and light gastro fare, all with views over the Magnificent Mile.
Photo courtesy of Park Hyatt Chicago

The Carousel Bar is an infamous stopping point in the revered Monteleone Hotel on Royal Street in the French Quarter. Built in 1949 and renovated in 2011, the 25 seat bar gently spins its patrons around as they sip a drink from the endless cocktail menu. Non revolving seating is available for those drinkers who'd rather stay stationary when they take down libations. The Carousel Bar has a vintage feel, taking its guests back to a more formal time.
Photo courtesy of Hotel Monteleone

The Torali Bar at The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago specializes in authentic Italian spirits, like limoncello. Guests can order from a menu of creative cocktails, beer and wine at the stylish bar.
Photo courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago / Facebook

The Driskill is one of Austin's most iconic hotels, and inside sits The Driskill Bar, a Texas watering hole through and through. Overstuffed leather sofas create multiple nooks and seating areas, while mounted cattle heads and paintings of the American West hang from the walls. The Driskill hosts live music nearly every night.
Photo courtesy of The Driskill