Encore: Cleveland Cocktail Bar Guide

Encore is a great choice for some thoughtfully crafted cocktails all within a warm and intimate environment. This place is definitely a must visit, especially if you’re wondering what happened to Society Lounge on East 4th St (if you were lucky enough to go before it re-opened under new ownership).

10/10 would recommend this place! We had such a great time and loved everything we ordered. The cocktails are super creative, delicious, and clearly well thought out. The welcome pour was a really nice touch. Definitely don’t skip the food—we had the duck and the dessert cigar, and both were a must. The vibe is amazing, from the décor to the super friendly staff. We’ll definitely be back next time we’re in town!! 😊

We had the wonderful opportunity to enjoy a couple hours in the new Encore Cocktail Bar and wow!! what a gem this new place is! It’s elegant yet comfy; inviting and warm. The cocktails and small plates we had (a good few) were delicious and so creatively plated and served. The Cigar dessert is a must to try!!! Congratulations on a very special place in the heart of downtown and I know we’ll be back and we’ll spread the word to all our friends!!

Encore is, without a doubt, the gold standard for upscale cocktail bars. The ambiance is immediately striking, sophisticated, beautifully designed, and perfectly lit, creating a refined atmosphere ideal for intimate dates or quiet conversation. It truly elevates the entire evening. Beyond the setting, the cocktails are simply amazing. Each drink is a masterpiece of balance and complexity, clearly crafted by experts in their field. These are not just drinks; they are an experience. Finally, the "bites" menu is equally exceptional. Forget standard bar snacks; the small plates we sampled were gourmet, flavorful, and are meant to complement the beverage selection flawlessly. This is a five-star establishment that delivers perfection across all categories. Highly recommended.

I loved the decor! It’s very chic, and downtown Cleveland really needs more elevated bars like this. Encore absolutely delivers on ambiance. It works well for both date nights and group outings. While much of the seating is designed for groups, the lounge-style couches and intimate lighting create a relaxed, upscale atmosphere that’s still comfortable for conversation. They executed their concept very well as a social space where people can enjoy a drink after a show at Playhouse Square, without it feeling crowded or chaotic. It’s clear there’s a lot of intention behind what they’re doing. From the cocktails to the small bites, everything feels thoughtfully crafted. Combined with their impressive alcohol selection, I have no doubt they’d execute any custom request exceptionally well. I’ll definitely be back!