The unofficial alt bar of 4th Ave! Surly doesn't need labels, it just needs you to know there's a reason it's been able to stick around for so long. It feels like there is ALWAYS something going on here. On my first visit, my girlfriend took me on a date here to catch a burlesque show. It was absolutely packed and everyone had a great time! And every Friday and Saturday night, there is some reiteration of a goth dance night ($5 cover). I also appreciate the slightly older crowd full of my fellow thirtysomethings, and the upstairs patio cannot be missed when the weather is nice. The cocktail menu isn't anything especially fancy, but there's still something for everyone to enjoy. My favorite is always the Prickly Heat--think a prickly pear margarita that's absolutely loaded with fresh jalapenos. It's not for the weak! There's also food, and while it's not mind-blowing or anything you'll appreciate that you can have a nice snack at midnight on a weekend. Surly Wench is a local cultural institution, and we're lucky to have it. read more

What a bummer, This place used to be full of life in all the best and weirdest ways, from the decor to the staff to the old school arcade games. Now it's a busted old bar where everyone from the waitstaff to the uptight Unbelievably stuck up KJ takes themselves way too seriously. If you're going to have a bad attitude at least have a decent voice if karaoke is going to be your vocation, and a good attitude and a compassionate manner if you're going to be a bartender . Especially on a Thursday night. These jobs are a skill, talent and a privilege, one that is terribly lacking at the Surly wench. They have taken the wordmark and instilled it into their personalities. Maybe, sadly it's time for the once mighty and always fun wench to move on and embrace the brave new world. Seriously a bummer! read more

The staff are nice and I love the size and the ample seating and goth/industrial/punk vibe. I went on a karaoke night and it was fun to listen to the folks singing. I totally appreciate the late hours and it's right off the light rail line. We ordered the Baja street chicken tacos and pints of beer. I didn't realize the pints were $9 ($1 credit card fee). The selection of beers was on tap was good but not great. The cans didn't appeal to me but I'm picky on my beer and I don't care for coors or pbr. The Baja chicken tacos were decently priced but had too much cabbage in them and not everything else. read more

Surly Wench Pub - Four Peaks Hazy IPA - Bars Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

I've drank here a few times and been for event like Goth/Industrial night, but not eaten here. I've heard the food is good and it was. They have a monthly special and it was an Italian chicken sandwich that was awesome. The service was good. Good bar food. read more

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Very cool bar in 4th avenue in downtown Tucson. I stopped by in a Thursday (karaoke night apparently) and had some tots and a "cherry limeade". Staff was friendly and helpful and the food and drinks were top notch. This whole area of downtown is loaded with cool bars and shops but this place stood out to me on my visit. read more

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I imagine Surly Wench exists mainly as a music venue, although I could be wrong. Stopping in for a couple pints on a Thursday late afternoon, the place was dead, which was fine with me. Easy order at the bar, quick friendly service and my choice of seats. It's a dive bar. And I mean that in a good way. read more

My first visit to this spot.. I found parking on 4th Avenue and picked the closest place to grab a bite. It was about 6pm so the bar was not packed or busy with the younger crowd from UofA but they were getting ready for a comedy show later in the evening. I grabbed a seat at the bar .. the space is dark and goth .. black leather bar stools & a fully stocked bar. Plenty of seating and a stage in a side room for shows. I opted for the Prickly Heat cocktail .. the bartender said it was hot .. it was spicy hot .. jalapeño & habanero hot with prickly pear sweetness and a tajin rim... so good and the prettiest shade of pink. From the food menu of tacos, burgers, appetizers I decided on the Royale burger & a side of tots. It came out quickly and wow it was juicy, flavorful and served on a buttery bun. Great burger!!! The tots were great too, not greasy at all, they were served with ranch and ketchup. Unfortunately I had to drive back to Phoenix and hate driving through the dark desert so I didn't stay for another cocktail or the comedy show but I will definitely be back. read more

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I went for their burlesque night and had an absolutely amazing time. The show was wonderful and service from the bar was everything you could expect (efficient send courteous) on a very busy night. Food and drinks were reasonably priced. Nice beer selection on tap. read more

Surly Wench Pub - Main bar. Waiting for burlesque at 10! - Bars Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

Unique is the best way I can think of to describe the Surly Wench Pub. We have frequented on a number of occasions, and it is never the same type of crowd or experience. The staff has always been fantastic, and the drinks are a reasonable price for 4th Ave. Though they do often charge a $5 or $10 cover on the weekends which I don't love. Not sure what bar to choose in town, worried about whether you will fit in? Then the Surly Wench is the place to go. I have been to EDM DJ sessions, Burlesque shows, no entertainment nights, Karaoke nights, and they are all great. They could use more seating, but I am not sure where they would put it and still accommodate the weekend crowds. read more

I was only their once so take this review with a grain of salt, but I did not feel well attended to and did not feel a friendly vibe. Had one beer and left. Also door on bathroom stall lacks a lock. read more

Fun "goth" bar with good drinks and a hip crowd. We stopped in here last night for some beers and to check out the talent. Meaning the semi-talented karaoke singers of all ability levels. The last guy was okay. He was actually able to sing in tune. But the singers before him, some of them were horrific. They were horrifyingly bad, like why do you get up there when you can't even begin to carry it tune. But maybe that's the point, singing as badly as you can because it's part of the fun, right! Anyway, there seemed to be a lot of locals who knew each other, so if I lived around here and enjoyed karaoke, this would definitely be a bar I would want to hang out in. But maybe not for the quality of the singing. Lol. read more

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If you are in to unique bars with awesome vibes this place is for you. It's dark, the music is different and the service is great. A friend and I stopped by for a quick mid day drink. The bartender was super friendly and very attentive. Gave me recommendations. Highly recommend if you are looking for a bar that's not the same old same old, touristy trap. Just buyer beware the spicy heat margarita is no for the faint of heart. SPICY is in caps for a reason. Just know you will be crying by the end of the drink .... Tears of spicy spicy joy. read more

Love this place! The only place my friends and I go out to! The vibes are immaculate and the bartenders are awesome (: read more

Surly Wench Pub - Bars Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

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I dropped in here for a quick dinner recently. The place was quite dark, with music playing and a movie playing (silently but with captions) on the TV screen. There was no table service; I had to go to the bar to place my order with the bartender. I ordered chicken tacos. They have three kinds of salsa, but you can only get two with each order. The tacos and salsas were tasty. The menu said the price was $12, but it rang up at $13. The bartender said the extra dollar was a fee for paying with a credit card. Whatever. Anyway, the food here is good, but I could have done without some of the quirks. read more

Great drinks, good music and very cool decor! There is a stage for music in the back, pool table and Elvira Pinball machine! Kind of a gothic theme with velvet paintings on the wall. Large bar to sit at with a few booths. Plenty of room to stand etc. They also have swag like t-shirts, hats etc. The ladies in our group all bought a shirt. Those Surly Wenches!! LOL Covid enforcement was a little ridiculous in my opinion. Took mask off to take a picture and the bartender got a little pissy with me. I understand, but no one was around me, and it was literally for 3 seconds. Everyone in our group would come back. read more

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This is the vibe I've been looking for! I went during a slow time, but it was such a refreshing spot to find. Inviting but darkly themed, with great helpful staff (with good taste in music) and inclusive of all walks of life. The elote nachos were delicious! read more

Surly Wench Pub - Bar area - Bars Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

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Came here after spending some time at The Boxyard. The place was pretty empty in comparison to other joints in the area (at least from eyeballing it) so getting in wasn't an issue. We did have ae empty plastic cup from the Boxyard (for souvenir) that the bouncer said we couldn't bring in. However, after some talking he said that we could bring it in if we'd leave it behind the bar for as long as we were there. The bartenders were also pretty strict about this (not friendly at all when they asked us to give up the cup to leave behind the bar). I mean, I understand that it's your job but we weren't drunk and they could have been a little bit more friendly about it. As for the bar itself, it was a pretty chill place. Since it wasn't super packed, I could actually sit down and have a conversation with my friend without having to shout. And plus, we ended up playing some old-school arcade games like Tetris. We did try to play Galaga too but the game wasn't working at the time. Bummer. Definitely wouldn't mind coming back here the next time I'm in town, but I know to not bring any type of drink containers. Even empty ones!! read more

Stopped in here to have an afternoon drink while shopping on 4th ave. They had Buffy playing on the TV so they won my wife's heart off the bat. Server was amazing...great time here with drinks poured well and nice cold local brews. Coming back to check out Burlesque nights next month, sounds like a great time. See you next time. read more

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Surly Wench( don't call 'em Shirley) is a great place to dance, eat, & have a great drink! Staff is absolutely fantastic! I love that even when it's been a spell since I've stopped in I feel welcomed! First Friday of the month is for one of Tucson's best Burlesque shows! Saturday's are great for Fineline revisited, Industrial night, or maybe some live music! Stop in and tell me differently! read more

Surly Wench Pub - Bars Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

I wish I could give them more stars because of how amazing this place is Every time I come in for a drink or some tacos, I feel so welcome. Before COVID, they had cool events like Fineline or 80's Party which I dearly miss! Growing up listening to 80s and some rare music (they play tons of it), I felt amazing when I came by. Now that everything is different due to COVID, they still try to keep things going (online ). They SURE do practice social distancing and make sure everyone is safe. Coming in, you have to get some hand sanitizer and keep your mask on until you get to your table. When your food is served, your server is wearing their mask and gloves properly! I'm telling you, they want to keep you safe at all times and the same for their employees! As for the food, I highly recommend the chicken tacos and a barrio rojo Make sure you end up getting the deep fried Oreos for your dessert though!! :) best in town! Thank you guys so much for your service and safety! You will always have my support! read more

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My daughter was in town so we met up with some of her friends that she only knew online. Had a blast! The bartenders were awesome and took great care of us! Had nachos with beef for dinner which were very good and definitely hit the spot! It was 90's dance night and lots of people were on the dance floor having a great time! Love this place and will definitely go back again as soon as we get a chance! read more

So good. So real. Must come visit if you are not an A H. No A H s allowed here. Lol PS pbr draft $3 all other draft beer $6 read more

Surly Wench Pub - Bars Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

Keeping this short... Sparse! Good drink prices! Super staff! Dark! Clean! read more

Surly Wench Pub - From stage area - Bars Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

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Fun atmosphere and very laid back with fun events on the weekends. Great place for a small gathering of friends.

They have Pimm Cups here! I was surprised this far west they would have the stuff to make a New Orleans drink but they do. They also have some arcade/pinball machines and a nice pool table (although the top pocket is lower than the rest of the table. Be aware when shooting down table). They really could have someone to level it for them. Plenty of space at the bar and on the floor. You can smoke out back for those that want. The bartender they had the night I was up there really good. She's a bartender not just a beertender. read more

Love the name, so went there while in town. Friendly staff, great kinda goth decor, good drinks! Chelsea was our bartender and she was wonderful! However, now my husband has a new nickname for me... read more

We love this place, the Saturday flashback dance parties are a riot, and the food is very good, just wish they had air conditioning so we stay away during the summer because it's too hot. read more

First off, the bartender knows how to pour a Guinness Stout right! That's already a plus! Place is cool and rock star punk vibe! Definitely will comeback and worth checking out! read more

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Pre-covid this was the only bar I would go to. Now during Covid it still is the only bar I will go to. They are continuing to keep staff and patrons safe by requiring masks and social distancing. They have a nice patio now which is my favorite. The staff is friendly and not only do they make great drinks but their food is amazing as well. I recommend Mom's Tacos especially. If you are wanting to have some grub and a drink on 4th Avenue and want to still maintain Covid safety measures, stop in! read more

Surly Wench Pub - Bars Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

When I'm in Tucson I love hitting up this bar. I'm addicted to their salty Russian. This visit I decided to get some food with my drinks. The tacos were really good, I wasn't sure how the food would be. Remember is is a bar so food choices are slim. The bartenders are always very quick with service which is also nice. This is a chill spot to come and just hangout. When I have friends in town I bring them here. Fourth Ave is always a great Tucson experience. read more

We are in Tucson for 2 nights and stopped by the Surly Wench for a drink and some food on a Sunday evening. Everything was so good. Our bartender Jennifer made us some great drinks and her Mai Tai was amazing! We shared a Royale Burger protein style and not only did it smell amazing, it was so good! Being a Sunday night there were still quite a few people and the place is decorated just right. If you're ever in the Tucson area, this is for sure a must. Great food, great drinks and the staff is awesome! read more

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Great bar. We went on a Monday and had open mic for comedians. Drinks were good and even the food. It looks they have tons of shows. read more

Surly Wench Pub - Bars Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

I've been asking several around the Tuscon area to make this beautiful thing for me and FINALLY. It's delicious and the interaction involved with me explaining the drink and being served was beautiful. I love this place. Always groovy :-) read more

Surly Wench Pub - Mexican Tequila sunrise - Bars Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

Walked into this bar Friday night with two friends, who were in line ahead of me. The bouncer checked their IDs and let them in. When the bouncer checked my ID, he said "it's $5 for the band." I said "what?" Confused, as neither of my friends were asked to pay $5. I'm heavy set but my friends are not. Coincidence? Not so much. Get it together. It's 2022 and that kind of treatment and singling folks out doesn't fly anymore. read more

Drove from Phoenix to Tucson to see the bands at SWP . Love the venue ! First of the staff was fantastic! One person was nicer than the next . There was a space with seating that was away from performers if you needed some quiet. The entire place is large with a lot of casual space . The bar was long and the bar staff was super attentive! They had a few pool tables and some bar games also . The bathrooms were very clean . The stage is set high which gives a great view no matter where you are . No drama , no BS and overall just a great crowd . I'd definitely go back for a band I wanted to see . read more

I love the Wench. I love the eclectic, crazy, wild and fun decorations. I love the Tater tots and potato tacos. They have a good menu but it is still bar food. Order in the back! This place is a must see at least once, especially with the gentrification wave heading towards Fourth. I hope Surly survives what I fear will be another Mill Ave sad story. They've been such a welcoming, diverse, and safe place to go. It's been awhile since I've seen a show there but I did enjoy them when I went. If you're looking for a unique Tucson experience, this place is a must stop in. read more

Part dive bar, part awesome bar, and the rest just super cool. A great music venue, and great bartenders, this unassuming spot is a historical gem in the world of Tucson music (Aerosmith played here in the 70s!!!!!). The bathrooms are clean (major plus), and it has lots of space to hang out and enjoy the great libations and entertainment. The burlesque shows are top notch, and the offering of VIP is probably the biggest benefit. Go here! It's so much fun!!!! read more

I'm rating it 4 stars for the burlesque show that happens first Friday of the month. The theme for the show was more funny burlesque themes. Loved that dancers were all shapes & sizes and were celebrated. This was our first time watching the show (and to pub)and general tickets were $10 & $25 for VIP. I wish the website would've mentioned that general tickets were to the side of the small stage & standing only while the VIP seating actually sat down. There were no signs that stated it was VIP. It was extremely disorganized since there was not enough seating for the VIP's so that took time for them to figure out. This show is over 2 hours with intermission so my feet were barking! I also had to deal with sloppy drunk girls falling on the floor by my feet twice. There was also drama between a couple & three girls about "stealing" of seats. They required masks which most wore, but it was packed in there for the show. I have no photos, because it was not allowed. Next time, I'm buying VIP tickets. read more

Hands down, my, and our favorite pub/bar/pool hall/show venue/place to grab a bite/comfortable hangout downtown. A staple of the community on 4th Avenue. read more

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Tried to go 5 different times. Gave it 3 "positive" tries. Each time was ignored by hospitality, bartenders, and DJs. Men who were with us 2/5 of the time were immediately recognized and respected. Do not go here as a woman unless you are a regular. They will not respect you and ruin your night. There is no respect for any woman who do no come regularly- no matter what you order or how much money you have (comes from someone who has given them 4 different tries after the first bad experience) read more