Lift Your Spirits – Seven Spots for a Nightcap in Carson City
October in Carson City is an active month for events and includes ghost walks, prison tours and even Nevada Day festivities. However, with so much activity happening, it’s important to make time to relax, have a cocktail and simply take in the spirit of the season…and, we mean literally. Here are seven Carson City locales to enjoy a frighteningly delish nightcap during this hauntingly delightful time of the year.
A must visit for travelers and locals alike. Shoe Tree Brewery was recently crowned the second best brewer in the U.S. The beers here are truly award-winning! Reno resident, Barrie F., had this to say on Yelp, “Best brewery in Carson! This place rocks! Go dip in the hot spring next door and then stop here for a brew. They have super yummy fruity ales/ciders. They change the flavors regularly so if there is something you’re thinking about trying, definitely do! Might not be on tap the next time you stop in…”
The Fox Brewpub is an English-Style restaurant, brewpub and gathering place in the downtown corridor of Carson City. It’s located inside the historic St. Charles Hotel, built in 1862, two years before Nevada became a state (which means there are sure to be a few ghosts here!) Dani R. enjoyed the atmosphere,“…The place is adorable and I would love to explore a bit more of it because it was in such a great location across from the capital. Ordered tomato soup, salad and fish and chips. Both dishes are delicious when paired with apricot ale. I had a wonderful waitress who was nice, super attentive, and really on her game! Great establishment, looking forward to heading back next year on our way up the hill!”
Relaxing and savoring cocktails at European plazas was the owner’s inspiration behind Piazza. Here, sipping nightcaps and simply enjoying one’s company is a great respite after a solid day of viewing fall foliage at Riverview Park.
Jennifer R., from San Francisco, likes how detailed and well-thought out the restaurant is, “Go here! Best menu in town…Lovely bistro-style bar and restaurant in Carson City. Clearly, a lot of thought and attention went into the design of the restaurant and outdoor seating area which was very Parisian styled. The menu has a lot of small plates that are great for sharing. We had the devilish eggs with crab added and they were delicious…Hats off to the owners of this lovely bistro!”
Bank Saloon features handcrafted classic cocktails using premium and local spirits, fresh fruits, herbs and delicious bitters and tonics. The saloon is also a stop on the Kit Carson Trail and was constructed in 1899. Surely, there are ghosts here too! Carson City resident Shelly Y. said, “Fun place! Excellent drink selections too! Came by to see our favorite band. They were inside for now but there is a lovely patio, with a fire pit for those who want the crisp night air with their music. Inside features historical paintings, nodding to the complete remodel this place went through and the history behind it.”
This is a neighborhood-style bar in the heart of downtown Carson City. Westside Pour House is a cozy place to have a nightcap. Remy V. shared the following about Westside Pour House, “I love a place that has cold beer, good food at a great price and plenty of TVs for watching sports. Fish and Chips were good and the patty melt was amazing. Very friendly staff and excellent service. I like the super casual, funky bar vibe. Sat at the bar and watched some basketball. Good spot for a beer and some pub food. Will definitely be returning.”
Great Basin Brewery is an eatery, taphouse and coffee bar that is proud to call Carson City home. Great Basin beers are popular throughout northern Nevada and are even distributed in California, Washington, Utah, and Idaho. Brittney K. from Sacramento sampled and relished several beers here, “Absolute best beers! We did flights and not a single one was disappointed. Choosing a favorite was tough. Joelle and Sophia are the sweetest as well! Definitely recommend the Cerveza Chilebeso if you like a hint of spicy in your beer.”
Last but certainly not least is Sassafras. Sassafras is an “eclectic food joint” that offers guests a diverse selection of food and beverages. Those who seek bold flavors and fusion cuisine should check it out. Sarah J. adores Sassafras, “I Love this place! Took my mom for lunch today (her first visit) and she absolutely loved it. Definitely worth the drive from Reno. And our waiter, Kevin, was an absolute gem. He gave us a run down of all the specials and helped my mom pick out the perfect beer to enjoy with her lunch! We will definitely be returning!”
Okay, so these places aren’t very scary but what is scary is traveling to Carson City and not visiting a single one of them! Make time for a relaxing nightcap and you will add that much needed ingredient to make your trip feel complete!
Special thanks to Yelp for allowing Visit Carson City to include customer reviews in this post.