Every vibrant college town boasts a nucleus of nightlife, a place where students and locals converge for food, drinks, and after-dark entertainment. In Tempe, Arizona, that pulsating heart is Mill Avenue, adjacent to Arizona State University’s main campus. This iconic street is synonymous with Tempe’s social scene, teeming with an eclectic mix of bars, clubs, and restaurants that cater to every taste and mood.
Navigating the sheer volume of choices along Mill Avenue can be overwhelming. From long-standing institutions to trendy newcomers, the options are plentiful. The landscape of Mill Avenue nightlife has also evolved, with some beloved spots closing their doors in recent times. However, the spirit of Mill remains vibrant, and the selection of bars is as diverse as ever.
To simplify your exploration, we’ve embarked on a comprehensive tour of every single bar on Mill Avenue, creating this definitive guide to Tempe’s nightlife. Whether you’re seeking a lively night out with dancing, a relaxed evening with craft beers, or a perfect patio for drinks under the Arizona sky, this guide will help you pinpoint the ideal Mill Avenue bar to match your perfect night.
This is your curated guide to all the bars and nightlife destinations on Mill Avenue, stretching from the scenic Tempe Town Lake to the academic heart of University Drive.
Alt text: The entrance of Mill Cue Club, a long-standing bar on Mill Avenue Tempe, inviting patrons for pool and drinks.
Mill Avenue Mainstay Bars: The Classic Tempe Experiences
Mill Cue Club
A true veteran of the Mill Avenue scene, Mill Cue Club has been serving Tempe for over 25 years. This enduring popularity speaks volumes. If you’re after a laid-back night centered around pool, generously sized blue cocktails, and their famous Long Island iced tea, Mill Cue Club is a must-visit. It’s practically a rite of passage for any ASU student and a solid choice for anyone seeking a classic Tempe bar experience.
Details: 607 S. Mill Ave. 480-966-0068, millcueclub.com.
Zuma
By day, Zuma operates as a relaxed bar, but as night descends, it transforms into a vibrant club. Zuma is the place to head to if your priority is dancing. A live DJ sets the atmosphere, spinning tunes late into the night, making it a popular destination for those looking to dance away their evening on Mill Avenue.
Details: 605 S. Mill Ave. 480-829-6775, facebook.com/ZumaMillAve.
Fat Tuesday
Embrace the spirit of Mardi Gras any day of the week at Fat Tuesday. This New Orleans-themed bar injects a festive vibe into Mill Avenue with its constant rotation of music and signature daiquiris. With a dizzying array of flavors, from the citrusy Orange Banshee to the electrifying Electric Lemonade, it’s easy to indulge in a “yard” (a slightly misleading 14-inch pour) of your favorite concoction, or mix and match for endless flavor combinations. Beyond drinks, Fat Tuesday also offers a daytime food menu, featuring tempting loaded fries in several varieties.
Details: 680 S. Mill Ave. 480-967-3917, fattuesdayaz.com.
Rodeo Ranch
For those seeking a high-energy, Western-themed nightlife experience, Rodeo Ranch is the spot. Mechanical bulls are the centerpiece of this nightclub, complemented by Western décor and leather accents that establish the theme. A spacious dance floor and arcade games in the back add to the entertainment options. Rodeo Ranch transitions throughout the day, opening with a happy hour at 3 p.m. and evolving into a full-fledged club as the night progresses, staying open until 2 a.m. Don’t miss “Slice Gang Tuesdays” which feature EDM music and complimentary pizza after 10 p.m.
Details: 501 S. Mill Ave. 480-534-8620, therodeoranch.com.
Aura
If a true nightclub experience is what you’re after, Aura delivers. This expansive 5,000-square-foot venue boasts all the hallmarks of a premier club: a large dance floor, a prominent DJ booth, a stage for performances, and dynamic LED screens and lighting. Aura frequently hosts events with both local and international DJs; check their website for upcoming schedules. For a more exclusive experience, VIP tables and bottle service are also available at Aura.
Details: 411 S. Mill Ave. 480-210-2872, auratempe.com.
Alt text: The outdoor patio of Handlebar Tempe, a Mill Avenue bar known for its craft beers and relaxed atmosphere.
Relaxed and Low-Key Mill Avenue Bars
Handlebar
Step through the wide wooden doors of Handlebar and enter a bar with a distinct bicycle theme. During the day, it functions as a restaurant, transitioning into a live music venue and bar in the evenings. Handlebar excels as a relaxed spot to unwind and sample from their impressive selection of 24 craft beers on tap. It’s a great place to have a conversation and enjoy quality drinks in a comfortable setting on Mill Avenue.
Details: 680 S. Mill Ave. 480-474-4888, handlebaraz.com.
Snakes & Lattes
For a uniquely chill bar experience that still offers drinks, Snakes & Lattes is a fantastic choice. This board game café boasts a library of over 600 board games available for play with a $5 pass purchase. Alongside the games, they offer a full menu of coffee options, a complete bar, and food, making it perfect for a relaxed evening of drinks and friendly competition.
Details: 20 W. Sixth St. 480-361-6644, snakesandlattes.com.
Mellow Mushroom Pizza
Mellow Mushroom Pizza on Mill Avenue is more than just a pizza place; it’s a relaxed spot for food and drinks throughout the day and night. Offering pizza, calzones, hoagies, wings, pretzel bites, and more, it’s ideal for lunch, dinner, or a late-night snack. Complementing the food is a substantial drink menu featuring 48 beers on tap, cocktails, and wine, all available at half price during happy hour (3 p.m. to 6 p.m.) and reverse happy hour (10 p.m. to close) Monday through Friday, and every day for reverse happy hour. Vegan and gluten-free options are also available.
Details: 740 S. Mill Ave., Suite D100. 480-967-6355, mellowmushroom.com.
Slangin’ Birdz
If you crave Nashville hot fried chicken, Slangin’ Birdz is your Mill Avenue destination. Offering a heat spectrum from no spice (Walk of Shame) to extremely hot (Game Over), there’s a level for every spice tolerance. Beyond the chicken, you can also enjoy wings, waffles, and a selection of beers on tap. It’s a casual spot to grab some flavorful food and drinks.
Details: 414 S. Mill Ave. #101. 480-805-2021, slanginbirdz.com.
Tacos Calafia
For those late-night cravings, especially around 3 a.m. on weekends, Tacos Calafia is a go-to spot on Mill Avenue. Specializing in Tijuana-style tacos and burritos, served on handmade tortillas with fresh salsa and guacamole prepared daily, Tacos Calafia is known for its authentic flavors. Take advantage of their happy hour specials, including two-for-one margaritas and $3 beers.
Details: 414 S. Mill Ave. Unit 115. tacoscalafia.com.
Alt text: Outdoor seating at Casa Tempe, a Mill Avenue bar famous for its patio and bucket drinks, perfect for enjoying the Tempe weather.
Mill Avenue Bars with Perfect Patios for Outdoor Drinks
Casa Tempe
Casa Tempe is synonymous with outdoor drinking on Mill Avenue. With daytime seating exclusively outdoors, this bar keeps patrons cool with its signature 32-ounce buckets of cocktails. The menu features modern Mexican cuisine, including a unique mac and cheese-filled burrito. In the evenings and weekends, DJs provide entertainment indoors, and during the week, enjoy half-off draft specials. Casa Tempe is a prime spot to soak in the Mill Avenue atmosphere while enjoying drinks outside.
Details: 5 E. Sixth St. 480-557-8226, casatempe.com.
Pedal Haus Brewery
Break away from typical college party drinks at Pedal Haus Brewery, Mill Avenue’s only brewery. This spot features a large patio and a spacious interior with views of the brewing tanks, offering a unique brewery experience right on Mill. The menu includes classic pub fare alongside vegan and gluten-free options to accompany their handcrafted beers. Pedal Haus is ideal for beer enthusiasts and those seeking a more refined patio drinking experience.
Details: 730 S. Mill Ave. 480-314-2337, pedalhausbrewery.com.
Alt text: The stylish bar at Anoche Cantina on Mill Avenue Tempe, offering a modern cantina experience with elevated food and club vibes.
Live Music and DJ Bars on Mill Avenue
Anoche Cantina
For a blend of elevated dining and vibrant club vibes, Anoche Cantina is a newer addition to Mill Avenue that’s quickly making a mark. Promising a “sexy by day, party by night” atmosphere, this 5,000-square-foot modern cantina offers both “classico” and “loco” Latin-inspired dishes. A highlight is their make-your-own margarita bar. As evening arrives, Anoche transforms into a lively party scene with DJs playing house and top 40 music, along with bottle service options.
Details: 640 S. Mill Ave. B110. 813-995-7159, anochecantina.com.
Darkstar
Darkstar is Mill Avenue’s go-to venue for live music. They announce their musical guests on Instagram and their website, featuring a range of genres and artists. Concert ticket prices typically range from $18 to $25. With plans to expand into an adjacent space to include a cocktail lounge and kitchen, Darkstar is set to become an even more comprehensive nightlife destination on Mill Avenue.
Details: 526 S. Mill Ave., #201, Tempe. 480-408-5010, darkstartempe.com.
The Lone Beast
Metal music enthusiasts will find their haven at The Lone Beast. Open since March 2022, this bar offers both indoor and outdoor seating and includes vegan options on its menu. The Lone Beast brings a unique, rock-centric vibe to the Mill Avenue bar scene.
Details: 425 S Mill Ave., Suite 111, Tempe. 480.284.5442, Instagram @thelonebeastmillave
GLOW Shots & Cocktails
Located above Tacos Calafia, GLOW Shots & Cocktails is a high-energy spot hosting live DJ nights throughout the weekend. A dark dance floor illuminated by a rainbow of spotlights creates a vibrant atmosphere. The drink menu focuses on shots and bottle service, making it a destination for those seeking a lively, dance-focused night out.
Details: 414 S. Mill Ave. #215. 480-329-4090, instagram.com/glowshotsandcocktails.
Low Key Piano Bar
For live entertainment with a twist, Low Key Piano Bar offers dueling piano battles right on Mill Avenue, one of the few dueling piano bars in Tempe. Despite the piano bar concept, Low Key maintains a fun and unpretentious atmosphere, offering options like jello-shot syringes and fishbowls alongside the musical entertainment, ensuring a lively and engaging night.
Details: 501 S. Mill Ave. 480-355-1705, lowkeypianobar.com.
414 Pub & Pizza
If you’re feeling bold and want to showcase your singing skills, 414 Pub & Pizza hosts karaoke nights. Fuel your performance with their menu of pizza, calzones, wings, beer, and cocktails. And after your moment in the spotlight, you can reward yourself with dessert. 414 Pub & Pizza combines food, drinks, and entertainment in a casual setting.
Detail: 414 S. Mill Ave #118. 480-829-3536, tempe.414pizza.com.
Alt text: The outdoor patio of Illegal Pete’s Tempe, a popular Mill Avenue bar and restaurant known for its quick bites and lively atmosphere.
Mill Avenue Bars with Food That’s Actually Worth Eating
Illegal Pete’s
Illegal Pete’s, a Colorado-based chain, has become a student favorite on Mill Avenue since opening in 2018. Offering quick and tasty options like tacos and nachos, along with margaritas and live music, Illegal Pete’s caters to various needs. It’s perfect for a quick bite on the go or settling in to enjoy the patio and live bands, making it a versatile choice for food and entertainment.
Details: 525 S. Mill Ave. 623-233-4311, illegalpetes.com.
Loco Patron
Located at the northern end of Mill Avenue, close to the light rail, Loco Patron is a casual spot known for its tacos, tequila, and multiple daily happy hours. Their menu includes seven margarita flavors, and they host live music on Friday nights. Loco Patron is a convenient and lively option for Mexican food and drinks on Mill Avenue.
Details: 222 S. Mill Ave. 480-699-0922, locopatron.com.
Fuzzy’s Taco Shop
Fuzzy’s Taco Shop offers a casual, counter-service experience with a focus on Baja-style tacos and burritos, available for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Don’t miss their $1.99 taco Tuesdays and their signature FuzzyRita, a frozen margarita enhanced with a Corona or Dos Equis. Fuzzy’s is a great spot for affordable and tasty tacos and drinks on Mill Avenue.
Details: 350 S. Mill Ave., Suite 101, Tempe. 480-968-8226, fuzzystacoshop.com.
Taco Bell Cantina
While opinions on Taco Bell Cantina’s food quality might vary, its appeal increases as the night progresses. Open late, it’s a reliable option for late-night cravings, especially when you need a chalupa at 1 a.m. For a unique experience, try one of their vodka-spiked slushies for a “living más” moment on Mill Avenue.
Details: 423 S. Mill Ave. 602-675-8380, locations.tacobell.com/az/tempe.
Alt text: Interior of Zipps Sports Grill Tempe, a Mill Avenue sports bar with many TVs and sports-themed murals, ideal for watching games.
Mill Avenue Sports Bars: Catch the Game Here
Detroit Coney Grill
Detroit Coney Grill offers a diverse menu from Detroit Coneys to burgers, hand-cut fries, and Michigan beers. Recognized by the Travel Channel for having one of the top burgers in America, it’s a great place to enjoy food and drinks while watching sports on their numerous TVs. A patio is also available for cooler days. Detroit Coney Grill is a solid choice for sports fans looking for quality food and a game-day atmosphere.
Details: 699 S. Mill Ave, Suite 119. 480-350-7707, detroitconeygrill.com.
Zipps Sports Grill
Zipps Sports Grill is a popular Valley sports bar chain, and its Mill Avenue location is a haven for Sun Devil fans. With TVs throughout the bar and sports-themed décor, it’s the perfect place to watch the big game if you’re not attending in person. They offer classic sports bar fare, rotating taps, and bar games, creating a lively sports-watching environment.
Details: 690 S. Mill Ave. 480-404-7255, zippssportsgrills.com.
Varsity Tavern
Varsity Tavern is a multi-level sports bar where you can eat, drink, and dance. A key feature is its second-story patio, perfect for people-watching along Mill Avenue. Varsity Tavern provides a high-energy sports bar experience with food, drinks, and a prime location for observing the Mill Avenue scene.
Details: 501 S. Mill Ave. 480-534-8620, varsitytavern.com/tempe.
Mill Avenue in Tempe is a dynamic and ever-evolving destination for nightlife. From classic bars to trendy new spots, there’s a Mill Avenue bar to suit every mood and occasion. Whether you’re a student, a local, or a visitor, exploring the bars of Mill Avenue is an essential Tempe experience. Use this guide to discover your new favorite spot and dive into the vibrant nightlife that Mill Avenue has to offer.
