MercBar

A word of warning: Getting to MercBar involves a bit of a hunt, as the only signage at the cozy lounge hidden within the Esplanade is a tiny golden plaque by its front door. Once you find it, slip into its darkened interior and reward yourself with a potent craft cocktail from its ever-changing menu or a choice from its lengthy list of spirits. You’ve earned it. Sink into the plush seating, soak up the high-style speakeasy vibes, and help yourself to one of the glasses of Goldfish crackers within easy reach. The clientele is of the well-heeled and power-broker sort (befitting its Camelback Corridor locale), offering unrivaled people-watching prospects. Lurk at the Merc long enough, and you might even see a celebrity or two, as visitors to the Arizona Biltmore resort nearby are known to drop by for a drink.