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A toast to Magnolia’s own: Lefty’s on the Square is officially the Best Cocktail Lounge in Arkansas.
This 2025 honor, awarded by AY Magazine, solidifies what Magnolia locals and devoted travelers have already known—Lefty’s isn’t just a place to grab a drink. It’s a place to gather, celebrate, and experience something unforgettable.
From Magnolia to Statewide Recognition
Tucked in the heart of downtown Magnolia, Lefty’s has always been more than a restaurant and cocktail bar—it’s a story. A speakeasy-inspired hideaway built inside a beautifully restored historic building, Lefty’s carries with it nearly a century of whispers, war stories, and woodwork.
And now, it carries the title of Best Cocktail Lounge in Arkansas.
What Makes Lefty’s Stand Out?
According to AY Magazine’s Restaurant Road Trip feature, it’s the “experience” that keeps people coming back. From the show-stopping Flame-Kissed Dip to the smoked-at-your-table Salmon Board, Lefty’s isn’t interested in doing the expected. And when it comes to cocktails? That’s where the magic happens.
Each drink is a thoughtful composition—whether it’s inspired by the art deco lighting above the bar or named in honor of a local regular. Every pour is backed by intentional flavor profiles, premium spirits, and a deep respect for the craft of bartending.
Speakeasy Vibes + Southern Hospitality
The building itself has a story to tell. A century-old bar top (smuggled in during Prohibition), bullet holes from a 1932 raid, and walls that echo Magnolia’s past all come together to create an atmosphere unlike anything else in the state.
Christy Ouei and Burt Adams, the owners behind Lefty’s, brought this vision to life with one goal: create a space where people feel welcome to linger, celebrate, and sip slowly.
As AY put it: “It’s the kind of place you walk into and instantly feel like you’ve stumbled upon something special.”
Lefty’s Isn’t Just Winning Awards—It’s Redefining the Scene
In 2024, Lefty’s took home the title of Best New Restaurant in Arkansas. Just a year later, it clinched Best Cocktail Lounge in Arkansas. The trajectory is clear: Lefty’s is raising the bar—not just for Magnolia, but for the entire state.
Whether you’re in town for a special occasion or simply chasing the perfect Old Fashioned, Lefty’s promises an atmosphere that’s equal parts nostalgic and next-level.
Come See Why Lefty’s Was Voted Best Cocktail Lounge in Arkansas
The next time you find yourself searching for the best place for cocktails in Arkansas, skip the usual and head to the Square.
Lefty’s isn’t just a restaurant. It’s a destination.
Cheers to the win. Cheers to Magnolia. Cheers to Lefty’s.