Classy, intimate bar serving a selection of seasonal, handcrafted cocktails, plus wine & beer.
Renata Cayton
Not sure why this didn’t pop up on our radar until now! Went in before going to a show at GLC Monroe and had a delightful experience. Quaint atmosphere tucked across the hall from Big O’s Pizza, which we have walked by soooo many times- but never stopped in- now that we know this place exists- game changer. The bartender was very knowledgeable- few drinks on the menu, and few off the menu. Loved how the drinks on the menu were curated to pair different flavors and techniques to give the mouth best experience. Highly recommend!
… moreKevin Torres
Stopped by for a quick drink and was not disappointed. Their menu was diverse and as a bourbon lover, was very satisfied with their one up. It was a great balance of base and flavor that added a unique cocktail to my list. The service was great, the location is small and because they have no reservations you may have to wait a bit to get a seat. I hope they add reservations to bypass this little bump, but overall a great spot to go for a date night. It is a bit loud as the space is small so just take that into consideration if you are looking for a more intimate, cozy setting you may have to go elsewhere. If you are looking for an adventurous, warm spot for drinks this is your place!
… moreSammi V
What a beautiful place to sit down and take a drink it is small but in a cozy way and the drinks are amazing and well thought out as well as the service is incredible we were taken care of almost immediately and checked in on frequently. I would absolutely recommend coming here for a sophisticated drink and relax area.
… moreJason Ray Pascua
Absolutely loved our experience at SidebarGR — hands down the best speakeasy in Grand Rapids! From the moment you step in, you’re transported to a cozy, classy hideaway that feels both exclusive and inviting.
What really stood out was the bartending — not just the skill, but the passion. After hearing the bartender’s take on the Old Fashioned, I let him make it his way — and it might be one of the best I’ve had. Balanced, bold, and beautifully smooth.
Two of my friends described what they were in the mood for, and the bartender crafted custom cocktails for each of them — both drinks were spot on and had them raving the rest of the night.
If you’re in Grand Rapids and want a cocktail experience that goes beyond the ordinary, SidebarGR is a must. Expert mixology, great atmosphere, and personalized service that makes you feel like a regular — even on your first visit.
… moreTJ Travels
The best cocktail bar in GR !
The folks know their game and can make any drink you ask.
Recently expanded their seating capacity which is great
Everyone is very passionate and makes great drinks !
… moreDJ Devlin
We had some time to kill so we went here before a show at the Van Andel. Really liked the speakeasy, friendly ambiance, and custom cocktails..
If you want to try custom cocktails, I would highly recommend this place. Everything is handcrafted to order and they have just about every combination you could think of.
It is tiny, probably less than 20 people fit in there. And I wouldn’t go there if you were in a rush because, as I said, it’s handcrafted to order. If you just want an inexpensive drink before a show, this is probably not the place for you.
… moreSamantha Linkowski
I rated this a bar a 5/5, I’d leave 10/10 if I could! The cocktails were so phenomenal, I couldt wrap my mind around it! I can be formally picky, but every single cocktail the bartenders made were phenomenal! They listened to my picky preferences, recommended drinks, and they were exactly what I could’ve never thought to ask for! Amazing bartenders! Thanks again for making experience better than I could’ve imagined here!
Don’t be afraid to tell them any “picky” preferences! These bartenders know their stuff and can find something for anyone!
… moreSamarth Jadav
Their drinks are top notch! Plenty of options in the menu for your taste and the drinks are wonderfully crafted and served. It’s a very cozy place and ideal speakeasy bar vibe. Only cons it’s a very small space so if you have a big party it’s going to be tricky and also not enough privacy for a date but otherwise everything about the place is
… moreDave McCall
True mixologist behind the bar. Cool atmosphere. Tasty cocktails!
Noah and Joe did a great job behind the bar mixing up really good drinks.
… moreNathan Ver Beek
Really enjoyed our visit to Sidebar! This is an excellent place for a cocktail. The bartenders/mixologists are great. Everything we tried was very good and unique, and gave us a big city cocktail feel.
The bar is very small, with seating for less than 20 people, so come prepared to wait. We were very lucky to get right in, but most after us had to wait for an open seat. This only adds to the exclusivity of the place though, and was a welcome change of pace from the usual sports bar type feel.
Update 2023: Everything about SIDEBAR from my original review still applies. I wanted to make a special shout out to the mixologist Drew who was there for both our visits. He was nice enough to make us special custom smoked drinks of his own design, which were excellent!
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