Jay's Cocktail Lounge

Searching for Phoenix’s best little dive west of Interstate 17? Follow the red neon arrow next to the front door of this comfortably shabby watering hole on Indian School Road near 31st Avenue that’s been serving since 1955, moving to its current spot in 1977. Inside its teal-painted brick walls, low-key locals hang out at vinyl-edged tables or belly up to the S-shaped bar where wrought-iron scrollwork weaves its way from the ceiling overhead as the smiling staff supply inexpensive drinks from the standard-issue stash of beer and liquor. Amenities are sparse – there are pool tables, a jukebox, and a large turtle tank (complete with “beware of attack turtles” sign) – but popular. Jay’s bartenders will even sell you bottled beers to go, if you want to keep the party going at home. Just remember to bring cash since they don’t take plastic.