Top Bars in Almaty – Most Viewed (2025)

Elevated above the bustle of Almaty, Sky Lounge & Bar occupies the 30th floor of the prestigious The Ritz‑Carlton, Almaty (located in the Esentai Tower on Al-Farabi Avenue) and invites guests into a refined world of sweeping vistas, upscale drinks and subtle luxury. From your vantage point you’ll savour sprawling views of Almaty’s cityscape and the snow-capped peaks of the Tien Shan mountains beyond. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the scene, while the interior’s palette of light tones, high-class furnishings and calm atmosphere defines “lounge” at its most elevated. The drink programme reflects the setting: signature cocktails, premium spirits (including whiskies, cognacs and fine wines), and light-meal accompanies such as Mediterranean starters and steak cuts. Whether you're arriving early for a sundowner or lingering after dark with the city lights below, the space transitions gently from relaxed lounge to a more vibrant destination. Dress code leans smart-casual, appropriate for a venue aligned with five-star standards. With large windows, elevated seating and attentive service, the feeling is more upscale evening out than typical bar-hang. The lounge atmosphere is ideal for both an intimate drink and a stylish group get-together. As one reviewer put it: “Honestly, this is the only true 5-star lounge/bar in Almaty. Incredible views… comfortable, classy … worth the price.” Reservations for window-seats or evening slots are wise – especially at sunset when the views transform. Because of its location inside a hotel, access is convenient but parking or valet can be busy during peak hours. If you want elevated views, cocktails with a premium feel and a setting that draws in dress-up and destination mentality, Sky Lounge & Bar hits the mark.

Nestled beneath the streets of Almaty at Baiseitova 32, LOT. Americano Bar invites you into a clandestine world of soft lighting, vintage charm and expertly crafted drinks. This basement-speakeasy style venue channels the glamour of the 1920s with a modern twist — marble counters, exposed brick, atmospheric lighting and jazz tunes adding to the mood. As you descend the stairs, the hum of the city fades and a world of whispered conversations, craft cocktails and live music opens up. The beverage programme is curated to delight: thought-provoking riffs on classic cocktails, premium spirits, and bartenders who welcome you to engage and ask for something off-menu. The vibe shifts subtly as the night progresses: early in the evening it’s languid, perfect for a drink with a partner or catching up with friends; later, live bands and DJs take over and the space becomes more kinetic, ideal for those who want to lose themselves in an elevated nightlife experience. The crowd is stylish yet unpretentious — locals who know the scene, visitors seeking something special, and anyone who appreciates a bar where the concept and the execution both shine. It’s not just about drinking; it’s about being in a place that feels curated and a little secret. If you’re in Almaty and want a night out that goes beyond the ordinary, LOT. Americano Bar is the kind of place to make memories.

Barmaglot is one of Almaty’s true destination bars – the kind of place where you don’t just grab a drink, you sink into an atmosphere. Hidden inside the Colibri shopping center at the corner of Satpayeva and Valikhanov, it opens into a moody, theatrical space with low, warm lighting, brick and concrete textures, and bold wall art that riffs on Alice in Wonderland. Cages, clocks and playful details appear throughout the room, giving the feeling that you’ve stepped into a slightly twisted fairy tale after dark. The bar is built around serious cocktail craft. The team focuses on signature drinks that blend classic techniques with local and unexpected ingredients – think house infusions, clarified highballs, and riffs that incorporate regional elements like fermented dairy or local herbs. Presentation is a big part of the show: many cocktails arrive in unusual glassware, with smoke, color contrasts or elaborate garnishes that make them as photogenic as they are drinkable. The menu is refreshed regularly, so even repeat guests will usually find something new to explore. Despite the experimental edge, Barmaglot doesn’t feel intimidating. Staff are known for being engaged and approachable, happy to walk you through the menu or build something off-menu based on what you like. On busy nights, the bar takes on a high-energy, party feel with DJs, a dressed-up crowd and a lot of movement between the bar, tables and outdoor terrace. During the week, it’s easier to find a seat, talk to the bartenders and treat it like a cocktail “laboratory” where you can really taste your way through the list. Food plays a supporting but important role. The kitchen serves polished bar dishes and European-leaning plates designed to share – snacks, sliders, tacos and other comforting bites that work well alongside bitter, sour or spirit-forward drinks. Portions and pricing sit in the mid range by Almaty standards, making it a good choice both for a full evening and as a sophisticated stop on a longer night out. Over the years, Barmaglot has become a benchmark for the city’s cocktail scene, appearing in international bar round-ups and consistently ranking among Almaty’s most talked-about spots. It attracts a mixed crowd of locals, expats and visitors who appreciate strong drinks, carefully curated music and design-driven interiors. If you’re looking to see what modern Kazakh nightlife looks like at its most creative, this is one of the first bars to put on your list.