Touted as “the undisputed cocktail king of Greater Phoenix”, the owner of the award-winning Bitter & Twisted and Little Rituals, Ross Simon has opened his latest cocktail bar in the Melrose District.
Don Woods’ Say When takes customers back in time and into the era of the ’60s and 70s. The bar is named after Don Woods who was a prominent real estate figure in Phoenix in the late 1950s.
Located on the roof of the Rise Uptown Hotel, the bar features a lounge decorated with wood furnishings, burgundy faux-leather booths, and a red carpet that lines the walk areas.
The views that the large outside patio features are can’t miss. The outdoor area provides a comfy seating space with plenty of misters and shade (much needed during Phoenix summers). At sunset, pink and orange skies hover over Camelback Mountain and make for an amazing Instagrammable backdrop.
The drink menu offers classic cocktails, “Remixes” (spiced-up versions of classic drinks), as well as highballs and spritzes. A highlight of the menu is The Grand Nacional. A modern take on the classic Moscow Mule, The Grand Nacional is made with Mezcal, bitters, passionfruit puree, and ginger beer. It’s accompanied by a scoop of gelato that slowly smells into the drink. A perfect drink to try when you’re chilling on the rooftop.
Don Woods’ also offers a small selection of appetizers if you’re looking for something to snack on while sipping on your drink. The cheese platters are served with bread, tomato marmalade, mustard, grapes, and almonds. The must-try app is the heavenly garlic and herb dip that comes accompanied by house-made potato chips.
Reservations are required and can be made online at SayWhenPHX.com
Don Woods’ Say When at the Rise Uptown Hotel
400 W. Camelback Road, Phoenix.