Channel Your Inner Drink Master at 5 Jax Craft Cocktail Bars

Grape & Grain Exchange. Photo from grapeandgrainexchange.com.

We’re obsessed with Netflix’s new cocktail competition show “Drink Masters,” so we thought we’d put a list of five of our favorite craft cocktail spots in the Jacksonville area. From hidden speakeasies that evoke the prohibition era to decadent tiki bars full of flavorful concoctions, there’s plenty to love.

The Volstead

This speakeasy-style lounge serves up fresh, modernized takes on classic cocktails, like the spicy Tex Mex Martini, a PB&J-inspired cocktail called That’s My Jam, and the fresh, fruity Don’t Kill My Vibe. The Volstead has gained plenty of regulars, drawn to the swanky, prohibition-era decor, shockingly solid daily happy hour specials, and monthly swing dance events. It’s an intimate, jazzy spot that will transport you to another place and time. Monday – Thursday 4 p.m. – 12 a.m., Friday + Saturday 4 p.m. – 2 a.m., Sunday 7 p.m. – 12 a.m. 115 W Adams St. Jacksonville, FL; thevolsteadjax.com // @thevolsteadjax

Flask and Cannon

A bright, inviting space full of lush greenery and string lights, this Jacksonville Beach spot is a must for Northeast Florida cocktail lovers. Their menu is split between original creations from the mind of their knowledgeable bar staff and traditional tiki preparations, plus a deep rum list for those looking for a more pure expression of island craft liquor bliss. Sunday – Wednesday 1 p.m. – 12 a.m., Thursday – Saturday 1 p.m.- 2 a.m. 528 1st St. N Jacksonville Beach, FL; @flaskandcannon

Dos Gatos

A favorite for cocktail lovers and those looking to kill a few hours before a show at the nearby Florida Theatre, Dos Gatos has pleasantly divey vibes and a constantly rotating list of interesting cocktails. As the night goes on, the vibe shifts and the dancing begins, making it a favorite no-bullshit nightlife spot in downtown Jacksonville. 5 p.m. – 2 a.m.; 123 E Forsyth St. Jacksonville, FL; dosgatosjax.com // @dosgatoslounge

Grape & Grain Exchange//The Parlour

Celebrating ten years this month, this hybrid cocktail bar, upscale liquor store, and live music venue is a cornerstone of San Marco Square. Grape & Grain Exchange is a bright, clean space lined with countless bottles of fancy booze. Those in the mood for something a bit livelier should look behind a suspiciously placed bookshelf in back corner of the room to reveal a hidden entrance to The Parlour, their speakeasy-style lounge which frequently features live music and entertainers. Sunday, Tuesday – Thursday 12 p.m. – 12 a.m., Monday 4 p.m. – 12 a.m., Friday – Saturday  12 p.m. – 2 a.m. 2000 San Marco Blvd. Jacksonville, FL; grapeandgrainexchange.com // @grapeandgrainexchange

Secret Tiki Temple

Located inside the Pagoda Restaurant, this hidden gem is a kitschy, intimate space serving up tiki classics like Mai Tais, Painkillers, and Fogcutters. Drinks are served in whimsical glassware with the sort of over-the-top garnishes one would expect from a tiki joint. Those looking for a bite to eat can choose from select items from the Pagoda menu on their “secret” food menu. Sunday, Tuesday – Thursday 4-10 p.m, Friday +  Saturday 4-11 p.m. 8617 Baymeadows Rd. Jacksonville, FL; secrettikitemple.com // @secret_tiki_temple

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