BEST BARS IN PETALUMA:
YOUR GUIDE TO THE TOP DRINKING SPOTS
Petaluma, CA, boasts a dynamic and diverse bar scene, particularly concentrated in its historic downtown area. From classic dive bars and cozy speakeasies to lively music venues and modern beer gardens, the city offers a unique blend of old-school charm and contemporary nightlife. Its distinct neighborhoods provide a variety of atmospheres, making it a prime destination for an unforgettable night out.
Top Picks in Petaluma
Mario & John's
A local neighborhood bar known for its great spirits and craft cocktails, offering a super casual and fun vibe with games to play. It has a moody, amber glow atmosphere and is considered to have some of the best and most unique cocktails in town.
Unique cocktails, extensive whisky list.
The Big Easy
A hidden gem in historic downtown Petaluma with a no-nonsense speakeasy vibe, known for its live music scene (blues, soul, jazz, Americana, folk, gypsy jazz, rock n’ roll) and dim, dusky ambiance. It serves Bay Area brews on tap, local wines, and tapas from Speakeasy restaurant.
Ask the bartender for their special.
Andresen’s Tavern
Petaluma’s oldest bar, in business since 1934, offering a time-warp atmosphere with antique pistols, rifles, hunting trophies, rusty signs, and faded photographs. It's a true old-school neighborhood dive.
Ask the bartender for their special.
All Petaluma Bars
The Phoenix Theatre
A venerable venue with a rich history, known for hosting a variety of musical acts. Its walls are lined with graffiti and art, and it features skateboard ramps. It has hosted famous bands like the Ramones and Metallica.
Jamison’s Roaring Donkey
An old-fashioned whiskey bar feel with a separate performance area, "The Blue Room," where Bay Area bands take the stage. There’s also pool and shuffleboard tables, and sports on big screen TVs.
Ernie's Tin Bar
A ramshackle bar in a corrugated tin building, sharing space with a frozen-in-time roadside garage. It's a rural neighborhood hangout with a long narrow bar, a patio, and about 20 brews on tap, including Pliny the Elder. Often features live music on weekends. Known for its strict anti-cell phone policy.
Tiki Bar (Unnamed, from Fodor's)
Features saturated colors, bamboo, rattan, and intricate wood carvings. Offers updated takes on classic tiki cocktails like Trader Vic's mai tai and Don the Beachcomber's Zombie, along with newer, equally vibrant cocktails. Serves Asian-influenced bar fare.
Buffalo Billiards
Located in one of Sonoma County's oldest brick buildings (1860s). Rustic building, custom-made furnishings from recycled pool and shuffleboard tables. Offers night pool shooting, jukebox tunes, pub grub, and pints. Featured in Billiards Digest as one of the top 10 pool halls worldwide.
La Dolce Vita Wine Lounge
Sahar Gharai's downtown wine bar highlights boutique producers worldwide. Offers wine by the glass or themed flights (e.g., Italian wines, Sauvignon Blancs from France, New Zealand, and Mendocino). Serves small bites, pizzas, soups, sandwiches, and desserts.
The Block
A vibrant food truck market and beer garden in downtown Petaluma, offering craft beer, cocktails, and a constant rotation of cuisines from top food trucks. It's a dog-friendly spot with a lively community atmosphere and often features live music.
Bar Districts & Neighborhoods
Downtown Petaluma
The historic heart of Petaluma, offering a dense concentration of diverse bars, from classic speakeasies to lively music venues.
Best for: Bar hopping, live music, diverse crowds
Suggested Bar Crawl Route
A curated walking order through Petaluma's top bars — start early, end late.
Mario & John's
Downtown Petaluma
Mon-Sun 4:00 PM - 2:00 AM (based on reviews and general bar hours)
The Big Easy
Downtown Petaluma
Varies, check local listings
Andresen’s Tavern
Downtown Petaluma
Varies, check local listings
The Phoenix Theatre
Downtown Petaluma
Varies, check local listings
Jamison’s Roaring Donkey
Downtown Petaluma
Varies, check local listings
Ernie's Tin Bar
Downtown Petaluma
Varies, check local listings
Pro tip: Start around 7–8 PM at stop #1 and allow 45–60 minutes per venue. Use rideshare between stops that are more than 10 minutes apart.
Local Tips for Bar Hopping in Petaluma
- 1Explore American Alley for some of Petaluma's most unique and hidden bar experiences.
- 2Parking can be challenging in downtown Petaluma, consider ride-sharing or public transport, especially on weekends.
Frequently Asked Questions
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