“Stay independent and drink local” is the tagline at Independent Distillery, a newer but already well-respected, small-scale distiller in Tucson. Independent Distillery produces its own gin, vodka and other locally made spirits, made with craft and care. But it’s also a great downtown bar, situated in a historic red brick building that’s full of character, including exposed beams, concrete floors, and a wooden bar crafted out of re-purposed Douglas fir. Of course, the main attraction is the enticing drink menu, which highlights cocktails made using local, boutique and pre-prohibition spirits. Drinks often highlight local growers and ingredients, and everything is prepped in house daily.

Recommended for Bars because: Come here to get a taste of high-quality, locally made spirits, which are frequently featured in cocktails.

Patricia’s expert tip: With an extensive handcrafted cocktail list, it’s hard to go wrong. The strawberry smash is excellent, as are the punchbowls.