Are you sure you’ve found Salina’s best bar-restaurant hybrid? In this Kansas town, where craft cocktails meet hearty plates, we’ve scoured every corner to separate the truly exceptional from the merely adequate. Let’s dive into the 10 spots that are actually worth your time.
Chili’s Grill & Bar
$ | (785) 820-8300 | WEBSITE
Chili’s Grill & Bar looks like a sports bar that’s been converted to a family-friendly grill, where they serve classic American comfort food. The food is hot and served quickly, with plenty of familiar favorites and even some solid appetizers like the skillet queso and chips and salsa. Few items cost more than twenty dollars, and it’s just off the highway, where you can swing by afterwards and order two margaritas (and whatever your group wants).
Chuck’s Bar
$ | (785) 404-3225 | WEBSITE
Look deep into our eyes, and tell us that you don’t want to sit at a bar in Salina and eat a meat-loaded something called the Leroy Brown sandwich. We don’t believe you. How about some Brisket queso and a Southwestern Egg Roll? That sounds like a celebration. Even better, it’s affordable. Go to Chuck’s already. If you’re lucky, you’ll make it out in time for the game at the sports bar down the street.
Paramount Bar
$ | (785) 827-0992 | WEBSITE
The bourbon selection at this cozy Salina bar is impressive and encourages lingering. Claim two bar stools and order the hot wings extra spicy as a display of your boldness. Start with milder bites first for a gradual heat build. Split your attention between the friendly bartender and the accommodating locals, and good times will follow.
Big Booty Trudy’s Speakeasy and Cigar Bar
$ | (785) 833-2022 | WEBSITE
Big Booty Trudy’s feels like it should be more exclusive. Actually, on second thought, other bars feel like they should be less exclusive. Big Booty Trudy’s is great. The cocktails are amazing and a little adventurous, and most of the drinks cost less than fifteen dollars. The atmosphere is perfect, so it feels more like a speakeasy than a cigar bar, but if they’re pushing for that whole vintage vibe just go with it.
Speakeasy
$ | (785) 823-7687 | WEBSITE
If you do the math (cozy bar plus Salina), Speakeasy should be louder and more crowded than it is. What’s keeping it welcoming is a relaxed pace and their lack of interest in being anything but a neighborhood spot. They make good, straightforward food in a good, straightforward setting; and if you want to linger over drinks, by all means do. That’s half the charm. Also, if you snag a patio table before your friends arrive, your evening will improve.
Bishop Street Tavern
$ | (785) 404-6093 | WEBSITE
Bishop Street Tavern isn’t fancy or overpriced, so you won’t feel forced into having fun. That happens naturally here. The welcoming atmosphere will help, and so will the friendly staff who genuinely care. Order a well-crafted drink from the bar, and resist the urge to check your phone constantly. Because that isn’t what good conversation is about.
Spicoli’s Toasted Subs
$ | (785) 833-7688 | WEBSITE
Maybe there’s something unrefined about digging into a massive, messy sub with both hands while sharing a basket of fries with someone you’re hoping to impress. Maybe, but we just don’t see it. Go to Spicoli’s for generous, quality sandwiches in a cozy, nostalgic setting. Have a unique mixed drink like the screwball, and, afterwards, unwind at the large bar with its relaxed vibe.
Library Sports Bar & Grill
$ | (785) 833-2110 | WEBSITE
Think of it like this: finding a parking spot at Library Sports Bar & Grill is the tricky part; having a mediocre meal, once inside, is what’s impossible. Sure, you might have to circle the lot a few times when it’s busy, but it’s guaranteed to be worth it. Last we checked, a burger and fries ran about $14, so just park down the street and walk over. Order the delightful burger, and spring for those outdoor seats at sunset.
Look your friend in the eyes and tell them they deserve those beautiful colors on the building.
Big Nose Kate’s
$ | (785) 820-8872 | WEBSITE
Big Nose Kate’s has been the talk of Salina for a while now. It’s always buzzing and for good reason. If you want some affordable drinks in a fun, lively atmosphere (and you don’t mind a little noise), check it out. It can get a little crowded, but the beers are all six dollars, and three rounds are usually good for two. Also, everyone seems to be here for a good time, so if your pool game doesn’t work out, maybe the next one’s starting a few feet to your right.
The Hideaway
$ | (785) 502-5200 | WEBSITE
Say you’re looking for a spot to unwind after a long week. Perfect. Head to The Hideaway in Salina. Because there’s always something happening, from the Wednesday dart tournaments to the Saturday karaoke shows, and if they don’t enjoy a lively crowd or friendly service… it’s probably not their scene. We’re joking. But honestly, if they can’t appreciate a fun bartender and good company… maybe skip it.