1. The Golden West

A true step back in time, The Golden West Saloon stands as Fort Bragg’s oldest bar – dating back to the late 1800’s, and perhaps is the oldest surviving business in town. It’s the last one standing of the many bars that served thirsty loggers in the early days of the town and also took care of other needs in the brothel upstairs. Located now as then in the center of the historic downtown, it’s original and beautifully carved wooden bar, pool tables, shuffleboard, jukebox and laid-back atmosphere make it a favorite hangout among locals and visitors. Local Tip: On Sundays you can craft your own Bloody Mary.

2. The Glen Blair Bar

A unique experience to Fort Bragg, the Glen Blair Bar is nestled in the redwood forest above Fort Bragg and is only accessible by the historic Skunk Train. Guests ride through the forest to a clearing with a twinkling bar oasis with fire pits, lawn games, live music and cozy heated seating areas. Hands down one of the best bars you'll ever encounter on the North Coast and in general! Local Tip: Bring your own picnic to spread and enjoy during your visit.

3. Milano

A locals favorite, Milano is a high energy spot where people gather to have some fun. It's a great place to experience the nightlife of Mendocino County with its authentic Fort Bragg vibe. There is a great happy hour/after work local crowd on weekdays (out-of-towners may be asked where you are from, but don’t worry, they are a friendly group.)  With a pool table, corn hole and a fire pit, here's lots to do besides sit on a barstool. Local Tip: If you are a martini fan, they make one of the best on the coast.

4. Noyo River Grill

Set above the Noyo River overlooking the harbor, this serene spot run by the Medina Brothers features an excellent full bar spanning one end of the restaurant, where you can sip a cocktail and watch boats come and go from the wall of windows out to the harbor. There’s a rotating list of specialty cocktails on offer, friendly service, and great bar food too. Local Tip: Fresh seafood delights like coconut prawns and ahi tartar make for great cocktail accompaniments.

5. The Wharf

Located toward the end of the wharf, this harbor-side bar and restaurant might have one of the best views in town. Located on the second floor and over the water, you’ll watch boats head in and out of the harbor and watch sea lions frolic in the river below. Come for the view, but stay for the cocktails, hand-crafted to suit any specification that feels right at the time. Local Tip: Eat your meal at the bar for some local color and conversation.

6. Los Gallitos

Margaritas, anyone? The festive bar at Los Gallitos sits right in the middle of this downtown popular restaurant so you get to feel part of the action. This family-owned gem blends Latin flavors with fresh seafood - a staple of Fort Bragg food culture, and a favorite of the locals (which says volumes!). Local Tip: Order whatever specialty margarita they have on offer at the time! You won’t be sorry.

7. Welcome Inn

Belly up to the bar at the Welcome Inn and get the dive bar experience at its best. If well priced well drinks fit the bill of the day, then this is your spot. They’ve got lots of beer on tap if its more of a brew mood. Pool, shuffleboard, jukebox, check. Local Tip: They open early. Very early.

8. Piaci

Another local favorite, Piaci serves a great selection of wine and beer to accompany their popular wood-fired pizzas. Here you’ll find the restaurant packed most nights with friends and families alike. Local Tip: Get there early to get a seat at the bar.

9. Sip

For the vintage oriented, Sip offers a collection of local wines and more. There is a self serve dispenser option which is actually a novel and fun experience. Or you can get a pour at the bar as well. The décor is chardonnay chic with rustic touches of local artist flair, which gives the perfect vibe for the wine drinking experience. Local Tip: They have a cold case of wine to go along with picnic supplies like charcuterie and cheese, so you can take your Sip experience to go.

10. Breweries

Looking for the best brew pubs on the North Coast? Fort Bragg has all three: North Coast Brewing Company, Tall Guy Brewing, and Overtime Brewing. You can’t go wrong with any of them so you should really do a pub crawl and try them all. They all offer live music (check their respective calendars) along with their signature hand-crafted brews. And, good news: you can walk this pub crawl as all three are in the downtown general area. Local Tip: Dogs are welcome at all three locations.