Phoenix bar named best in US after 4 years as a finalist 'Genuinely grateful'

Little Rituals, a bar in downtown Phoenix, earned the title of Best U. S. Hotel Bar at the 2025 Spirited Awards on July 24, overcoming major competitors from cities like New York and Chicago. Co-owner Aaron DeFeo dedicated the award to his team and partner Ross Simon, who both played crucial roles in the bar's success. In his acceptance speech, DeFeo emphasized the values of mentorship and teamwork, stating that the award belongs to everyone who contributed to their journey.

The bar, known for its innovative cocktails, received a Pinnacle Guide Pin in May 2024 and has been a James Beard semifinalist multiple times. Simon expressed appreciation for the support from the Phoenix community, which has been vital to their success. Little Rituals opened in 2019, just before the pandemic, and has since become a beacon of excellence in the local cocktail scene. The award signifies the bar's dedication to craft and the growing recognition of Phoenix's vibrant hospitality industry. This win solidifies Little Rituals' position as a standout establishment in the national cocktail landscape.