MOST MANA-FUL BAR AWARDS

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Most Mana-Ful Bar Winners

Time Outers shared 700 bars and restaurants across the United States, and their stories and comments about each spot made it easy for us to imagine how welcome we would be if we stopped in for a tequila cocktail right now. 
 
We loved seeing how these businesses are actively strengthening their communities. It’s clear that there’s BIG Mana-ful energy out there from coast to coast!
 
It wasn't easy, but our talented crew of judges narrowed the field to these twenty winners. Congrats to all!
 
To all who submitted, thanks for coming on this feel-good, drink-good journey with us. And the next time you travel make sure to stop in at these Mana-ful bars and tell ’em Teremana and Time Out sent you. 

  • The unconventional layout of this bar, which is island-style, with no front or back, creates an intimate and interactive atmosphere that lets the bartenders really get to know their guests. Many of their drinks are named for iconic songs, including Tequila! made with Teremana Reposado Tequila, tomato, peppers, pineapple, corn, lime and crispy pork jerky.

    CHINATO
    108 STANTON ST
    NEW YORK, NY

    This bar lives in two of the oldest houses in Los Feliz—a Spanish duplex built in 1916 and a Craftsman cottage built in 1897—where thousands of folks have gathered through the generations. From private homes to offices and schools, these walls have been part of the community for over a hundred years.

    BIG BAR
    1927 HILLHURST AVE
    LOS ANGELES, CA

    This bar takes its commitment to community seriously. Along with karaoke and shows featuring local comedians, they host a Christmas toy drive to donate new toys to Chi-town kids in need. Show your support by grabbing a margarita, which they make with Teremana Tequila.

    SOCIAL JUNKIE
    3848 N HARLEM AVE
    CHICAGO, IL

  • Our Bar finds and partners with Atlanta’s young talent, offering them opportunities to show their stuff with rotating “Talent-to-Table” chef pop-ups and residencies. They also host a yearly “Hug the Block” event, offering hot showers, haircuts, clean clothes and toiletries to unhoused and displaced neighors.

    OUR BAR ATL
    339 EDGEWOOD AVE SE
    ATLANTA, GA

    Romeo’s recently hosted a fundraiser for the Lower East Side Girls Club, an initiative that seeks to create healthy and successful futures for young women of color and LGBTQ+ youth. Join the block in supporting their community with a spicy avocado margarita made with Teremana Blanco tequila, lime and avocado cordial.

    ROMEO'S
    118 ST MARK’S PLACE
    NEW YORK, NY

    Grab brunch every day of the week at this cozy, classic New England spot. Take a seat in front of the fireplace and settle in for a leisurely morning among the locals who like to linger over coffee.

    WAVERLY
    231 BUNKER HILL ST
    CHARLESTOWN, MA

  • Locals and rafters on the Delaware River break bread together at this restaurant dedicated to serving the local community. It's a general store, too, which encourages people to stop by for supplies and a chat with their neighbors.

    THE OUTPOST
    2378 NY 97
    POND EDDY, NY

    After the owners moved from South Africa to Georgia, they were a world away from their family. Opening a bar helped them create a new, extended family, where they were welcomed in by locals with open arms. Take a seat and join the family when you order a Ranch Water made with Teremana, club soda and lime.

    1920 TAVERN
    948 CANTON ST
    ROSWELL, GA

    For all its awards and high-end fixtures, this “Best of Philly”-winning cocktail bar stays true to its mission as a “cocktail bar for the neighborhood.” Sit with your neighbors and sip the fan-favorite Paloma Milk Punch, made with Teremana Blanco Tequila, grapefruit, poblano, five spice, coconut milk, Thai basil and lime.

    R&D COCKTAIL BAR
    1206 FRANKFORD AVE
    PHILADELPHIA, PA

  • The unconventional layout of this bar, which is island-style, with no front or back, creates an intimate and interactive atmosphere that lets the bartenders really get to know their guests. Many of their drinks are named for iconic songs, including Tequila! made with Teremana Reposado Tequila, tomato, peppers, pineapple, corn, lime and crispy pork jerky.

    CHINATO
    108 STANTON ST
    NEW YORK, NY

  • This bar lives in two of the oldest houses in Los Feliz—a Spanish duplex built in 1916 and a Craftsman cottage built in 1897—where thousands of folks have gathered through the generations. From private homes to offices and schools, these walls have been part of the community for over a hundred years.

    BIG BAR
    1927 HILLHURST AVE
    LOS ANGELES, CA

  • This bar takes its commitment to community seriously. Along with karaoke and shows featuring local comedians, they host a Christmas toy drive to donate new toys to Chi-town kids in need. Show your support by grabbing a margarita, which they make with Teremana Tequila.

    SOCIAL JUNKIE
    3848 N HARLEM AVE
    CHICAGO, IL

  • Our Bar finds and partners with Atlanta’s young talent, offering them opportunities to show their stuff with rotating “Talent-to-Table” chef pop-ups and residencies. They also host a yearly “Hug the Block” event, offering hot showers, haircuts, clean clothes and toiletries to unhoused and displaced neighors.

    OUR BAR ATL
    339 EDGEWOOD AVE SE
    ATLANTA, GA

  • Our Bar finds and partners with Atlanta’s young talent, offering them opportunities to show their stuff with rotating “Talent-to-Table” chef pop-ups and residencies. They also host a yearly “Hug the Block” event, offering hot showers, haircuts, clean clothes and toiletries to unhoused and displaced neighors.

    OUR BAR ATL
    339 EDGEWOOD AVE SE
    ATLANTA, GA

  • Grab brunch every day of the week at this cozy, classic New England spot. Take a seat in front of the fireplace and settle in for a leisurely morning among the locals who like to linger over coffee.

    WAVERLY
    231 BUNKER HILL ST
    CHARLESTOWN, MA

  • Locals and rafters on the Delaware River break bread together at this restaurant dedicated to serving the local community. It's a general store, too, which encourages people to stop by for supplies and a chat with their neighbors.

    THE OUTPOST
    2378 NY 97
    POND EDDY, NY

  • After the owners moved from South Africa to Georgia, they were a world away from their family. Opening a bar helped them create a new, extended family, where they were welcomed in by locals with open arms. Take a seat and join the family when you order a Ranch Water made with Teremana, club soda and lime.

    1920 TAVERN
    948 CANTON ST
    ROSWELL, GA

  • For all its awards and high-end fixtures, this “Best of Philly”-winning cocktail bar stays true to its mission as a “cocktail bar for the neighborhood.” Sit with your neighbors and sip the fan-favorite Paloma Milk Punch, made with Teremana Blanco Tequila, grapefruit, poblano, five spice, coconut milk, Thai basil and lime.

    R&D COCKTAIL BAR
    1206 FRANKFORD AVE
    PHILADELPHIA, PA

Yesterday's

Morrilton, Arkansas

What fans are saying: Sure, this dive and live music joint might not have the fanciest lights or a greatest stage, but what it lacks in beauty it sure makes up for in spirit! Yesterday's is the kind of place where you feel totally accepted as you can go dressed up or down. Plus, you’ll always hear great sounds while enjoying great drinks from behind the bar that are always delivered with a smile.

Big Bar

Los Angeles, California

What fans are saying: This bar is a real neighborhood gem with an intimate but unique layout that attracts a good crowd. The spot also hosts some amazing theme nights which really bring out the community. These events feel more like parties at someone's house where your drinking and dancing among friends.

Rose & Crown

Palo Alto, California

What fans are saying: The most Mana-ful bar in the country may not be the trendiest or the flashiest, but it’s the kind of spot that always makes you feel welcome. It’s the kind of place that invites you to stay, radiating warmth and friendliness. The rock-solid staff sprinkles every interaction with positivity and genuine smiles, making sure no one ever feels out of place. And the best part? This place genuinely cares about being an active part of the community, not for the applause, but because it’s simply the right thing to do.

St. Felix

Hollywood, California

What fans are saying: St. Felix is an L.A. institution that has been serving award-winning drinks for over a decade.

The Fishery

Pacific Beach, California

What fans are saying: At its core, this neighborhood restaurant and bar has big mana-ful energy for its ability to welcome others. The bar believes in bringing people together over food and drink to create a family atmosphere. As for the spot’s values? No matter how busy or stressful it gets, the staff constantly reminds each other to “always do the right thing.”

Tony's Bar

Colorado Springs, Colorado

What fans are saying: Tony’s is my favorite hometown spot away from home. Truly, the staff feels like an extension of my own family. The great food, drinks and friendly, laid-back atmosphere doesn’t hurt either.

Dawg House

Meriden, Connecticut

What fans are saying: This sports bar, run by a hardworking woman, brings in the best bands and even better people! Best part? They serve Teremana.

BBC Tavern & Grill

Greenville, Delaware

What fans are saying: Great food and drinks, friendly staff—what more could you want from a bar? A cool, feel-good perk is they open up the bar for fundraising during their “guest bartending” weekly events.

Thick as Thieves

Boise, Idaho

What fans are saying: It has a super cool, fantastic atmosphere and wonderful service. It's a speakeasy, so the experience is fun, but the drinks and the staff are what make it so great.

Virtue

Chicago, Illinois

What fans are saying: Not only is Virtue known for its great food and bar menu, it's truly—by all accounts—all about the Mana-ful life. Laid back, cool and stylish, it also has the best happy hour bar menu in the neighborhood!

Sips & Stones

St. John, Indiana

What fans are saying: Love the atmosphere, drinks and food. The music is always set at a perfect volume to hold a conversation without shouting. It's owned and operated by women, too!

The Monarch

Wichita, Kansas

What fans are saying: The Monarch is a great spot to catch up with friends and make new ones. All are welcome here. It even has a pet-friendly patio! Beyond the incredible craft cocktails, pleasant ambience and top-tier service, I love to pay my patronage here because the owner exudes Mana and is very active in the community. They started a coalition to build a Habitat For Humanity house with other local restaurants!

Rustica

Moorhead, Minnesota

What fans are saying: Rustica is right in the center of downtown Moorhead, my hometown. Every meal and drink is crafted with love and great attention to detail. it is a small bar and restaurant but is always packed full of the best people in town—especially at happy hour. Their wood-fired pizzas are to die for! With it being such a small intimate bar/restaurant in a small town many people do know each other and it has a Cheers feel to it. My 91-year-old grandma lives just three blocks away, so I often am there with her when we want to treat ourselves.

Uno Mas

Oxford, Mississippi

What fans are saying: This bar is the coolest spot, from the food to the drinks to just the vibe, plus its open late! Bonus, they have Teremana!

Allendale Bar & Grill

Allendale, New Jersey

What fans are saying: This place is truly the cheers of north Jersey. Five generations have owned it, and it's been a staple and home for people for over 60 years. Family, friendships, love, mana, loss and happiness have been here for years and makes us all one big family!!! This place legit has been a safe haven for many over the years and continues to be the place to be.

Apotheke

New York, New York

What fans are saying: Great cocktails! I found it unexpectedly when I was in Chinatown. The bar’s entrance compelled me to try it out. I was surprised by the great ambiance inside. There was an amazing band performing chill songs. They have unique drinks and I get to spend the night on a luxurious sofa. It was a very memorable experience.

Old Town Bar

New York, New York

What fans are saying: None better! There's no pretense, just a welcoming atmosphere with a community feel.

Romeo's

New York, New York

What fans are saying: Just because! They have the BEST drinks, vibes and bartenders in the city hands down. Since its opening, they keep listening to the guests about what they can do better and then go for it to see if it works. Also, the staff is just amazing.

Tillie's Lounge

Cincinnati, Ohio

What fans are saying: Tillie's consistently gives back and makes room for the tight-knit community of Northside. The owner is welcoming, generous and dedicated to creating a warm, colorful and vibrant queer space that appeals to all. This spot is all about community, and while it's focused on the LGBTQ+ community, it's a welcoming place for any who enter. I’ve spent so much time here, whether it’s while watching sports, chatting about great reads over book club or singing show tunes with the crew. This place is a home for many who don't have them and for anyone who wants one.

Paddy's Pub

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

What fans are saying: It's got the best decor I've ever seen in a bar! The clientele is almost entirely regulars and the couple who run it is exactly the right amount of friendly. Best of all, my wife and I got married there!

MANA-FUL CELEBRATIONS

Want to experience the Mana firsthand? Join Teremana at these amazing upcoming events where you’ll enjoy cocktails, conversations and community. RSVP soon, though, as spaces are limited.

Thursday 5/2
Sweet Liberty
Miami, FL, 4-7pm

RSVP for this event

Friday 5/3
Dad’s ATL
Atlanta, GA, 5-8pm

RSVP for this event

What Is Mana?

Teremana Tequila is named for “terra,” meaning earth, and “Mana,” the Polynesian word loosely translated as spirit. Launched in 2020 by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Teremana embodies positivity and a commitment to community—and so do the most Mana-ful bars.

The most Mana-ful bar in the country may not be the trendiest or the flashiest, but it’s the kind of spot that always makes you feel welcome.

It’s the kind of place that invites you to stay, radiating warmth and friendliness. The rock-solid staff sprinkles every interaction with positivity and genuine smiles, making sure no one ever feels out of place. And the best part? This place genuinely cares about being an active part of the community, not for the applause, but because it’s simply the right thing to do.

Learn more about how Teremana shares the Mana.

 

We stepped inside bars in New York City and Los Angeles to find out what’s Mana-ful there from bartenders and loyal patrons.

Meet Our Judges

Introducing the distinguished panel of judges who will comb through your nominations to name the Most Mana-ful Bars in America.

Jeffy Mai

Time Out Chicago Editor

Born and raised in Chicago, Jeffy has been covering the local food and beverage scene for more than a decade. Before joining Time Out, he worked with Eater Chicago to tell the stories behind the city’s illustrious restaurants, culinary minds and industry personnel. In addition to writing, he enjoys hovering over dishes in order to take an excessive amount of photos and has strong opinions on fried chicken. When he’s not out experiencing everything Chicago has to offer, he loves spending time bonding with his beagle-mix pup.

Charlie Cooper

Content Creator

Charlie Cooper is an entertainment reporter and a NYC-based food and travel content creator, who for over a decade has used her blog—tripsanddip.com—and social media (@CharlieCooperTV) to empower people to eat, travel and explore New York City and beyond. In telling the special stories behind the places, plates and people she's met along the way, she has encouraged so many others to boldly experience the world around them. You can find her traveling often, teaching lazy cooks how to make easy, restaurant style meals and trying some of the best new spots in the city.

Amanda Gunderson

Another Round, Another Rally — CEO, Founder

Amanda co-founded Another Round Another Rally—a nonprofit that provides financial resources and support for hospitality workers—in 2018 alongside partner Travis Nass. Since launching, Another Round Another Rally has given out more than $4 million in aid and helped tens of thousands of hospitality professionals and their families find not only financial assistance, but also scholarship, mentorship and career-advancement opportunities. Amanda’s advocacy efforts have earned her an induction into Tales of the Cocktail’s Dame Hall of Fame, which recognizes industry leaders who make lasting contributions within the food and beverage industry. She was also the 2022 recipient of the Pioneer Award from Tales of the Cocktail, which recognizes an industry alum whose efforts enhance equality and inclusiveness in bars and restaurants with regard to gender identity, race, religion and socioeconomic status. She was on Vinepair’s Industry 50 list in 2023 and Another Round Another Rally has been recognized by Vinepair as their Nonprofit of the Year, and Imbibe Magazine’s Imbibe 75.

Chris Patino

Founder, Simple Serve.
Partner, Raised by Wolves

Chris Patino is co-owner of Raised by Wolves, a highly acclaimed cocktail bar and spirits retail shop by Consortium Holdings that is placing San Diego squarely on the global drinks stage. A 15-year veteran of the spirits and cocktail scene. He is also Founder of Simple Serve, a trade-focused drinks marketing agency, as well as a Founder of Bartender’s Weekend in San Diego, CA. Chris is one of the most recognized and admired faces in the industry, thanks to his years serving as National Brand Ambassador for one of the largest spirits suppliers in the world and having emceed for some of the largest events in the industry. His work has earned accolades, including being featured among Beverage Media’s “2019 Bartenders to Watch” and most recently was awarded “Best Bar Mentor” at the 2023 Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards.

  • Jeffy Mai

    Time Out Chicago Editor

    Born and raised in Chicago, Jeffy has been covering the local food and beverage scene for more than a decade. Before joining Time Out, he worked with Eater Chicago to tell the stories behind the city’s illustrious restaurants, culinary minds and industry personnel. In addition to writing, he enjoys hovering over dishes in order to take an excessive amount of photos and has strong opinions on fried chicken. When he’s not out experiencing everything Chicago has to offer, he loves spending time bonding with his beagle-mix pup.

  • Charlie Cooper

    Content Creator

    Charlie Cooper is an entertainment reporter and a NYC-based food and travel content creator, who for over a decade has used her blog—tripsanddip.com—and social media (@CharlieCooperTV) to empower people to eat, travel and explore New York City and beyond. In telling the special stories behind the places, plates and people she's met along the way, she has encouraged so many others to boldly experience the world around them. You can find her traveling often, teaching lazy cooks how to make easy, restaurant style meals and trying some of the best new spots in the city.

  • Amanda Gunderson

    Another Round, Another Rally — CEO, Founder

    Amanda co-founded Another Round Another Rally—a nonprofit that provides financial resources and support for hospitality workers—in 2018 alongside partner Travis Nass. Since launching, Another Round Another Rally has given out more than $4 million in aid and helped tens of thousands of hospitality professionals and their families find not only financial assistance, but also scholarship, mentorship and career-advancement opportunities. Amanda’s advocacy efforts have earned her an induction into Tales of the Cocktail’s Dame Hall of Fame, which recognizes industry leaders who make lasting contributions within the food and beverage industry. She was also the 2022 recipient of the Pioneer Award from Tales of the Cocktail, which recognizes an industry alum whose efforts enhance equality and inclusiveness in bars and restaurants with regard to gender identity, race, religion and socioeconomic status. She was on Vinepair’s Industry 50 list in 2023 and Another Round Another Rally has been recognized by Vinepair as their Nonprofit of the Year, and Imbibe Magazine’s Imbibe 75.

  • Chris Patino

    Founder, Simple Serve.
    Partner, Raised by Wolves

    Chris Patino is co-owner of Raised by Wolves, a highly acclaimed cocktail bar and spirits retail shop by Consortium Holdings that is placing San Diego squarely on the global drinks stage. A 15-year veteran of the spirits and cocktail scene. He is also Founder of Simple Serve, a trade-focused drinks marketing agency, as well as a Founder of Bartender’s Weekend in San Diego, CA. Chris is one of the most recognized and admired faces in the industry, thanks to his years serving as National Brand Ambassador for one of the largest spirits suppliers in the world and having emceed for some of the largest events in the industry. His work has earned accolades, including being featured among Beverage Media’s “2019 Bartenders to Watch” and most recently was awarded “Best Bar Mentor” at the 2023 Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards.

Mana-ful Stories

We talked to people across the country about the Mana-ful experiences they’ve had in bars, restaurants and more. Check them out to truly understand how Mana can make a difference.

  • “The man asked me if the sliders were good and I insisted he take my last one. He happily obliged. The bartender, who witnessed the whole thing, comped my drink and gave me a discount. It was a kind and human moment that made me realize the power of paying it forward, no matter how big or small and the friendly feel of the restaurant and brewery inspired it.”

    — Morgan, Chicago, Illinois

  • This neighborhood-bolstering haunt is spearheaded by an incredibly kind and compassionate woman, Antonia, who really gets to know her patrons (she even went on vacation with someone she met there!) The night that my partner and I got engaged, we went there to celebrate. Antonia, ecstatic to hear our news, offered us a free round of drinks. Half-joking but half-serious, we said that we should get married there. Without hesitation, she replied “Let’s do it!” 

    — Jen, Astoria, New York

  • Is there a better New Jersey hero than Tony Clause? Back when Ale ‘n’ Wich was the only bar open on Christmas Day, the Tony tradition began. He brings a giant sack of wacky wrapped gag gifts and hands them out to revelers (he’s a generous guy, but the bar now takes donations to support his gift-giving!).

    — Jeff, New Brunswick, New Jersey

READ THE FULL ARTICLE

“I’m glad that we can continue to show support by shining a light on our country’s Most Mana-ful Bars and hospitality spaces. The people behind these incredible, Mana-ful establishments go above and beyond for their guests, creating a space where everyone feels welcome, while supporting their local communities. Let’s get out there and nominate! We need your help to find these places, because they deserve to be celebrated for all that they do.”

Teremana Founder—Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson

Created in a small town in the highlands of Jalisco, our founder Dwayne Johnson worked with a Mexican family-owned distillery to build a unique home on the grounds solely for Teremana—Destilería Teremana de Agave. Here they craft Teremana with a love for great tequila made the right way, in small batches, by hand.

ENJOY RESPONSIBLY | RESPONSIBILITY.ORG Teremana® Small Batch Tequila, 40% Alc./Vol., Imported by Siete Bucks Spirits, White Plains, NY