Sunbar Tempe is a popular destination in downtown Tempe, Arizona, known for its vibrant atmosphere, great food, and live music. Located at 24 West 5th Street, right on the northeast corner of 5th Street and Maple Avenue just off Mill Avenue, it’s easy to find and close to Arizona State University, making it a favorite spot for students, locals, and visitors alike.
What Makes Sunbar Tempe Special?
Sunbar is a large, multi-level venue that combines a patio bar and grill with a full live music space. The second floor can hold up to 800 people and regularly hosts live music and DJ sets featuring a variety of genres such as house, hip hop, EDM, and IDM. The venue attracts both well-known artists and local talent, creating a lively and diverse music scene that keeps visitors coming back.
The venue’s design offers a relaxed yet energetic vibe. During the day and early evening, the patio is a great place to enjoy drinks and food in a casual setting. Later at night, the music venue upstairs becomes the main attraction, with DJs and live bands providing entertainment until the early hours.
Food and Drink Options
Sunbar Tempe offers a menu that fits its fun and casual atmosphere. You can find a range of American-style dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, bowls, and snacks, with vegan options available as well. The food is designed to be tasty and satisfying, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying before a night of music and dancing.
One of the highlights of Sunbar is its impressive selection of drinks. The bar features 45 different draft beers, including domestic, imported, IPAs, microbrews, and craft beers. They also offer daily drink specials, making it a great place to try new brews or enjoy your favorites at a good price.
Events and Entertainment
Sunbar Tempe is known for hosting a wide range of events. From DJ sets by popular artists like Darude and Bloody Beetroots to special themed parties and after-hours events, there’s always something exciting happening. These events often run late into the night, with music and dancing continuing until 2 a.m. on weekends.
The venue also supports the local music scene by featuring up-and-coming artists and DJs, helping to keep Tempe’s vibrant nightlife culture alive. Whether you’re into electronic music, hip hop, or just want to enjoy a great party, Sunbar has you covered.
Hours of Operation
Sunbar Tempe operates mainly on weekends, catering to the nightlife crowd:
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Friday: 8:00 PM – 2:00 AM
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Saturday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM
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Sunday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
The venue is closed Monday through Thursday, focusing its energy on the busier weekend nights when the live music and crowd are at their peak.
Location and Nearby Attractions
Being located in downtown Tempe near Mill Avenue, Sunbar is surrounded by many other restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. Nearby dining includes Spinelli’s Pizzeria, Desert Roots Kitchen, and Poke2U, all within a short walking distance. For those who want to explore more after a night at Sunbar, there are plenty of places to continue the fun.
Parking options near Sunbar include on-street meters and several parking lots and garages within a few blocks, such as the Maple Avenue Lot and Emerson Garage, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Raising the Bar on Fun in Downtown Tempe – Source: Artem Polezhaev on Unsplash
What Visitors Say
Reviews highlight the friendly and attentive staff, with many praising servers and bartenders for their great service and drink recommendations. The atmosphere is often described as cool and welcoming, perfect for both a night of dancing and a relaxed evening with friends. The Sunday brunch is also a popular feature, with good food and drink deals like champagne with entree purchases.
Sunbar Tempe is a go-to spot in Tempe for anyone looking to enjoy good food, a wide selection of drinks, and live music in a fun and friendly setting. Its prime location near ASU and downtown Tempe makes it easy to access, and its weekend hours cater perfectly to those looking for a lively night out. Whether you want to catch a DJ set, enjoy a casual meal on the patio, or dance until the early morning, Sunbar Tempe offers a great experience for all.
If you’re in Tempe and want a place with a mix of music, food, and drinks in a relaxed yet exciting atmosphere, Sunbar Tempe is definitely worth a visit.
Sources: sunbaraz.com, phoenixnewtimes.com
Header Image Source: Louis Hansel on Unsplash
