While you may visit Statesboro to watch the Eagles play, check out our outdoor recreation or explore our coveted foodie spots, something else that should be on your radar is our exceptional cocktail scene. From Irish-style pubs and breweries to refined lounges, the world of craft cocktails and brews is waiting for you! 

First on the list of must-visit spots is Eagle Creek Brewing Company, located in the heart of downtown Statesboro. Eagle Creek opened its doors in 2013 as Statesboro’s first brewery after CEO Franklin Dismuke dreamed of bringing craft beer to his community. Its name invokes Statesboro’s love for legendary Georgia Southern coach Erk Russell, who would take a jug of water from “Eagle Creek” to sprinkle on opposing teams’ fields when the Eagles would play long-distance games. By bringing a piece of Statesboro with him, he hoped to help his players feel at home, and this beloved act quickly became an honored tradition. When you visit Eagle Creek today, you’ll find tasty craft brews on tap, specialty mixed drinks, lively trivia nights and delicious dishes including their prize-winning shrimp and grits. 

Next up is Pour House Pub, a newly opened Irish-style pub that offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere where friends and family can kick back for a fun, laid-back evening. Founded by co-owners Tori Zellner and Danielle Dudley, the pub is located in a beautifully restored 125-year-old building downtown, bringing a historical piece of Statesboro back to life. At this easy-going establishment, patrons enjoy delicious pub fare, craft drinks, live music, trivia nights and great vibes. 

Another exceptional and recent addition to Statesboro’s cocktail scene is Oak 45, where co-owners Daniel Long, Will Daley and Kyle Hadden have thoughtfully designed every aspect to create a unique drinking experience. 

“Statesboro lacked a refined establishment designed for the older and more local crowd,” Long said. “The vision was to create an inviting atmosphere centered around fine whiskeys, exceptional cocktails, and a meticulously curated ambiance where every sensory detail and element of décor complements the experience." 

Part of this ambiance was handcrafted by Daley, who did all of the build-out space for the lounge. Daley is also the owner of Heritage Homes, a local custom home building company. 

“Oak was born one night around a bonfire with friends,” he said. “It was that experience that we wanted to recreate and give to Statesboro: good friends and great drinks in a warm, elevated setting that still feels like home."

As you walk inside, you’ll discover this signature ambiance through the dim lighting and old-world charm. If you’re feeling peckish, their tapas menu offers delightful plates, like the pesto burrata served with warm rosemary focaccia bread. The drink menu features a wide selection of liquors and original cocktails, including the What's Up, Doc? which mixologist Aaron Phillips describes as “a combination of gin, acid-adjusted carrot juice, maple syrup and ginger, topped with a light and airy pumpkin spice foam.”

At our next sipping spot, embark on a culinary journey. Tandoor and Tap offers the perfect mix of “rice, spice, and everything nice.” Their dining menu is full of authentic Indian flavor, perfect for enjoying with one of their craft drinks. Bold beverages are among their specialties, like the Professor Plum, a bourbon-based drink featuring lemon juice, plum-infused simple syrup, and a red wine float.

For patrons in search of local musical talent, Gators & Gypsies is the place for you. Listen to local bands, or take the stage yourself on one of their karaoke nights. 

Looking for a more intimate atmosphere? Vino 1910 is the perfect place for date night or meeting a friend after work. Vino is a premier wine bar offering a wide selection of sparkling, white, red and rosé. They also offer on-tap craft beer and specialty cocktails that pair well with their handcrafted charcuterie boards. 

If you're feeling playful, check out Boro the Hatchet for drinks and throws. And no matter what you're in the mood for, Bull and Barrel is always a solid choice, with an extensive signature cocktail menu to match their fine dining dishes.

Plus, when you head downtown for a drink, you can now elevate your experience by checking out the open container exemption area. Simply put, if you visit a participating establishment and stay within the boundaries, feel free to take your drink to go! This gives you the ability to walk around and enjoy the atmosphere downtown while you take your time sipping your craft drink. All of the incredible establishments we’ve mentioned are within the exemption area. (Read the full guidelines here.)

Statesboro’s cocktail scene truly has a pour for every palate, featuring an array of pubs, breweries, bars and lounges, each with something unique to offer. Whether you’re in the mood for a craft cocktail, a glass of wine or a refreshing brew, our community has something for everyone.