The Surly Wench
424 N 4th Ave, Tucson, AZ, 85705
The Surly Wench Menu
-
Appetizers
-
Burger
-
Sandwiches
-
Specialties
-
Extra
Healthy Meal suggestions for The Surly Wench
-
Appetizers
-
Burger
-
Sandwiches
-
Specialties
-
Extra
Visit below restaurant in Tucson for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Tucson for healthy meals suggestion.
Sorry, we don't have Q&A for this restaurant.
Sorry, No Coupons available for this restaurant.
-
Address :
424 N 4th Ave
Tucson, AZ, 85705 - Phone (520) 882-0009
- Website https://www.surlywenchpub.com
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :11:00 am - 2:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : No
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Late Night
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : No
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Divey
Noise Level : Loud
Music : Live, Juke Box
Good For Dancing : Yes
Alcohol : Full Bar
Happy Hour : Yes
Best Nights : Mon, Fri, Sat
Coat Check : No
Smoking : Outdoor Area/ Patio Only
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : Yes
Waiter Service : No
Drive-Thru : No
Caters : No
Categories
Burgers
Burger or Hamburger is savored as the most desired fast food meal in the United States. A hamburger is basically a sandwich prepared by stuffing ground meat patty, generally beef, between two slices of a bun cut in half. Hamburger is also famous for its seasoning. Most popular condiments used in hamburgers in the United States are mustard, mayonnaise, and ketchup. Besides ground meat patty, hamburgers are also stuffed with lettuce, onions, tomato slices, pickles, and cheese.
Hamburgers are also categorized into two types in the United States. Fast food hamburger and individual hamburgers served at restaurants are two basic types of burgers served in the United States. The individual hamburgers served at restaurants are prepared using everything including lettuce, onion, tomato, and sliced pickles as well as melted cheese on the patty or crumbled on top. American restaurants also serve veggie burgers for those who don't relish meat. Cheeseburgers are also hot favorite in the United States.
McDonalds is the most popular fast food burger restaurant serving different types of burgers in the United States. On the other hand, there are several restaurants such as Burger King are famous for serving the best hamburgers in the United States. Most burger restaurants in the United States often serve hamburgers with French fries and other condiments. If you have a liking for burgers in the United States, then you won't be disappointed. You can easily find the best burger restaurants in your city on our Restaurants Listings directory. Check the reviews and ratings of the top burger restaurants and savor yourself with the best hamburger in the city.
WE SERVE THE FOLLOWING STATES
Looky Weed - Buy Marijuana Online
Looky Weed is here to help you navigate the maze of legalized marijuana. We provide you with a complete dispensary directory.
Ruben R.
Amazing alternative style bar. Always so much going on. The music, beautiful women of Black Cherry Burlesque, The Manly Manlesque Show, game night and special events. The staff is amazing nice and food is good too. Get the Mom's tocos or the amazing fries. All made with fresh ingredients.
(5)Erin B.
The Surly Wench does live up to its namesake. They are not big on service, let's say that much. I've tended bar for ten years and in my experience, it's much more difficult to be a dick to customers and give bad service than to just do your job well with a smile. There has been more than one occasion where I waited at that busy bar for fifteen minutes or more, money in hand, while everyone BUT me got a drink. What the hell?! I tip well, too. There's more often a cover at this place than not, which is strange considering the mediocre acts who perform there. Definitely has kept me from returning to the Wench on the last few tries. They do have good and greasy bar food, if you can overlook the fact that most of it is frozen and not made in house. I do enjoy the Burlesque show once in a great while and they have also hosted some other fun events. And there's air hockey. Maybe three stars is generous. But I really like air hockey.
(3)Kalyn W.
Fabulous! Great decor. Amazingly good food. I had a burger custom made for my no carb diet. They even made me 1000 Island dressing! Great and friendly clientele and staff. The show. .. Well how can you go wrong. Very fun and entertaining. Men stripping anything other than wood is a good thing. Wait. .. Did I say that?
(5)Teia S.
I've this place! Been coming here for a few years now and I always love the atmosphere. Drinks are good. The events are always interesting and fun. FinelIne Revisted, or Sanctuary. Black Cherry Burlesque- always a good time. Check this place out!
(5)Rikki L.
It's also worth noting that I've seen several dudes get their asses handed to them for being creepers.
(5)Nadia A.
Nasty nasty urinal tasting drink! How could a drink taste so bad!? Its like they did it on purpose somehow. And ordered a double but it was absolutely watered down with what must have been toilet water. Not okay! Do not recommend, and I love dive bars! Nope!
(1)Kaisha M.
This is a great little bar that straddles the line between dive bar and dance club fantastically. The music is loud, the drinks are great and the food is cheap. What more could you ask? There's a small dance floor towards the back which is great for those people that don't want to dance, a smaller room off the main bar that is a bit quieter for when you need a break, a few tables and booths and a window to the kitchen where you can place an order for food. I'll definitely stop here again next time I'm in Tucson.
(4)Bao H.
I'm not sure what to make of this place. I guess I should be here on a Friday or Saturday night, but Sunday mornings are kinda dreadful and dead. Needless to say, my friends and I stopped by for a shot or two. Maybe just 1 actually. We also ordered some food along the way. Fried Oreo's what the heck!? You'd think this was a carnival or state fair! Well actually this place reminded me of a carnival. Seriously, what the heck is this place! It seems a tad bit shady with some hard rock and roll theme along with some gothic "I want to cut myself" feel. My buddies and I decided to order some burgers too. I had the BBQ Bacon burger while my friend had the mushroom swiss. He said it was one of the best he had, but then again he was drunk and hungry. My burger was kind of dry, but my waffle fries were decent. One more fireball shot? Sure what the hell, I'm at a carvival! The taters really hit the spot here by the time I was ready to walk or stumble same thing I guess. Service was good here. Then again we were the only group. However, I can appreciate a smile with my service to some "old folks" like us walking into a college bar. - Enjoy!
(3)Bethany E.
My only complaint about the Surly Wench is I don't go often enough. I have always been treated with respect at the Wench by both the staff and the customers. The decor is fun and unique... very rockabilly and pirate inspired. The jukebox is one of my favorites in town, with plenty of the Cramps and Pixies to keep you satisfied. They have air hockey, foosball, pinball, and Pacman. I like going on Monday nights, when there's a DJ. The manlesque shows are really fun to go with my friends. Lastly, this place's kitchen is seriously underrated. I've had and loved the potato tacos, tator tots, and hummus. There are a ton of creative vegetarian options. Food is cheap, and the kitchen is open later than most on 4th ave. It's cash only and you order in the back, but don't let that deter you from getting some tasty late night eats.
(5)James A.
If I had a bar it would look just like the Wench. I love this place. The ambiance is super cool, the beers on tap are great, and the entertainment is varied enough to please the most hardened urban dweller, from burlesque to awesome local and travelling bands to fun DJ nights - this place has it. Every time I visit the Wench I feel like I'm in an episode of Cheers. Everyone is super friendly and the bar staff know their way around. The Surly Wench is a Tucson staple. I would highly recommend this to anyone looking for good grub, excellent drinks, stellar eats, and fun!
(5)Buzz C.
Well, they certainly live up to the name. The bartender kept a cynical look written on her face the entire time she, umm, "waited" on me and refused to answer a simple customer service question related to the types of tequila they served - instead, she just pointed dismissively at some bottles that were too far away to read and walked away to serve another customer she deemed more worthy of her time, even though I was being genuinely polite. Sub-par service, all the way. There are better places in Tucson to spend your money.
(1)Franks S.
My favorite bar in Tucson. Great for those who like the dark side, and an adventurous stop-in for those who don't. The Burlesque is not-to-be-missed. I was a bit scared of it at first, but love the fun vibe and sense of humor of the dancers. Great stuff! I'd recommend the shows to anyone for a fun night out and it's perfect for group celebrations. They have a great beer selection and the mixed drinks hit the spot. Live music shows and DJ nights are top-notch. I've seen people balk at the cover. It's hardly ever over $5 and worth it for the entertainment and scenery. I do also like that they demand that people are respectful of other patrons, the staff, and the entertainment. There's a lot of drunken shenanigans and of course idiots out there who ruin the party for everyone else, especially on 4th Ave.
(5)Niki F.
This bar is one of the top five reasons I wish I lived closer to Tucson. Coming from someone who has a cabinet full of ornate skulls in her living room, it almost goes without saying that I dig the Surly Wench's style. I love the vibe, the staff, the drinks, the fried food I demolish because of the drinks, and I love dancing on the stage with other gothy-90s revelers during their Fineline Revisited night. If ever I become a bar fly (a retirement option I will seriously consider) this is where I will call home.
(5)Joshua L.
This is my kind of bar. A bit on the divey side, with enough character to keep it from hitting rock bottom (like say, Golden Nugget), and without trying too hard to seem divey (Meet Rack) Decor is well, loads of taxidermy and tiny oddities to keep your eyes entertained. Drinks are reasonably priced- well the beer is..I can't speak for others. I have yet to try the food, but the other night the smell of the pumpkin spiced sweet potato fries were quite tempting. Small stage, small dance floor. Separate-quieter room with booths, and air hockey. Staff is always inviting. Sometimes free at night, sometimes a cover. Parking sucks, but it's 4th avenue.
(4)Robin J.
Bar man was a total prick...total prick. Went in to use the restroom. He came over to me as soon as I went in, there was no one / very few people in the place, middle of the day kind of thing, asked "can I help you" - I said extremely politely - do you have a restroom, the tosser just said no. If I wasn't with me family (waiting outside) I would have just searched until I found it. Big deal, someone who has been a customer before, wants to use the restroom when they come in during the day - but now, oh my, dares not to order a drink - yet has the audacity to want to take a leak ...dick head
(1)Ricky V.
Maybe im just unlucky or maybe there is always a cover to get into this place. Which is weird because nothing musically i have ever heard hear has been worth it. I like the atmosphere that divey black leather punk aura of a smoke filled palace of badassery, but with crappy service more often then not and awkward feng shui im sad to say it becoming a passing phase.
(2)Aaron T.
Yelp brought us here while we were looking for a place to drink. This place was pretty cool. We didn't like the cover charge, but the bouncer hooked us up because it was our first time and we were about to turn around. The drinks were great. We killed some air hockey and pool. All in all, fun place to go to.
(4)Isabella J.
I'm clearly the odd woman out here, but I've been totally misled with this place. YES, I knew it was a burlesque bar, which I have yet to watch (and remain intrigued, but only happens on the weekends), but my foodie radar was highly triggered by several folks in town, claiming their bar fare is the "best" in Tucson and their vegetarian options are "not to be missed." After one dining experience I know that I do not intend on dining here again. Aside from the fact that their food is not very fresh (this I gathered from the clear view into the kitchen that one gets as they place their order at the kitchen) there is zero customer service. I walked in with a group of friends after deciding that being on a wait list at Lindys wasn't worth it and based on the recommendations I was excited to give it a shot. Epic fail. Walk into the bar and awesomely and nicely present myself to the bartender and told her how excited I was to try the food (her response was "yeah, it's super awesome!), grab a few menus and sit down at a booth with my friends....about five minutes later...no server, no water....the basics. I head back to the bar to ask about a server: "oh, yeah...we don't have servers." Given that I told her with excitement that it was my first time there and had heard great things, it would've been nice to have been told that you have to order food at the kitchen window and drinks, including water, at the bar. Ordering at the kitchen was even more painful. Again, trying to express interest the single person manning the kitchen, it was very clear our meal was going to be an adventure. Explaining a "bun less" burger was like a foreign language. Half an hour later I had to go back to the kitchen to ask about our food (two bunless burgers, one order of fried tacos and fries). Awkward much? Food came out and tasted of fryer oil that had not been filtered or changed recently. Ranch dressing 100% bottled. Not a single item was hand made. I'm hoping the lettuce and onions for the bun less burgers were at least hand washed. At a previous job, I trained customers on keeping their fryers clean, and this one tasted of old oil. Bummer. When a menu advertises that they have "Brew City" Onion rings, that essentially tells me that they're buying their goodies prepackaged. Yes, the patties, fries, veggie burgers, etc are prepackaged, frozen and hopefully defrosted. I can't speak to the "highly regarded" chili, since all I saw of it as I ordered from the window at the kitchen was the frozen chili in a tupperware container as the cook held it in is hand and said "ugh.....I think it's still frozen." Perhaps, I'll change my mind after a Burlesque show....but this foodie is less than impressed.
(2)Michael M.
Pretty cool set up. I stumbled here after IBTs lastnight after running into a friend. The bar staff was friendly and seemed to enjoy their jobs. Will come back again.
(4)Kamryn C.
Do you like deep-fried food? Of course you do. I came here a little while back to treat my friend to deep-fried twinkies and oreos, and of course a beer, for his birthday. The food was obviously indulgent, but great. I definitely suggest sharing. I made it through half a twinkie and one oreo and felt okay, but I would not have been able to eat the entire serving. The food comes out piping hot and with a side of maple syrup to dip, if the dish wasn't sweet enough already. Surprisingly the maple syrup really compliment the food. My friend is an avid twinkie and oreo fan and raved about the visit. This isn't high class food, but damn if it's not satisfying.
(4)Anna J.
I love love love this place. This was on my bucket list of bars I wanted to visit while in Tucson, so my husband and I had a night out on 4th Ave, came here (naturally) and it did not disappoint. As soon as I walked through the door I felt happy. Why you ask? Well call me strange (I am) but I loved the dark ambiance...the skeletons, moose heads, posters etc. Also a great place to people watch. Also loved the music they played. There was a dj playing industrial music but I can't say I've heard much of what he played before, but I greatly enjoyed it. The bartenders were good and I didn't find myself having to wait for drinks. In summary: I just really wish I could beam myself from Minnesota back to the Surly Wench in Tucson any time I felt like it.
(5)Kat K.
It is odd, but I do like this place. I sometimes sit there with a drink, look around, and wonder why I like this place. I don't think I really fit in, especially when I wear my collegiate clothing, all decked out after a football game. The guardian at the door is cool and efficient. Bartender is friendly and competent; my drinks are always tasty and get to me fast. So in other words, no problem with service. Sometimes the music where the dance floor is sucks, but watching people dance funny to horrible music is entertaining to watch. Had me grinning for an hour, and downright laughing with tears rolling down my face for another. It doesn't get packed in here, thats probably the reason I always end up here, but its not dead either. The people that do show up, well, they are usually my source of entertainment. And I mean that in a good way, as in, I wish I was bold enough like him/her, and not in the way like, look at that idiot (okay, a few times i thought that). Some of them do look like they are on alot more than just drink. The main thing is, everyone is enjoying being themselves. I always enjoy myself here. So when another UoA football game rolls around, or we just in the area, It is most likely than not that I will end up here.
(4)Aaron A.
I always seem to end up at the Wrench when I'm down on 4th ave. the reason, well the funky scene and great prices of course. I like the energy that Wrench gives off. I like the air hockey and the various arcade games in the front. There is a back room with a stage. I've been here when live bands have played and this past weekend they were playing dance music. Never really too packed to walk around but never too empty either. A good balance. I'm sure ill be back!
(4)Megan D.
I enjoy the surly wench - the prices are pretty good here. It is a nice place but can look intimidating from the outside (aka slightly dark and scary to me) but I always have fun when I get inside. I usually stick with the mixed drinks and they often have live music. The most recent time I was here I came for the burlesque show (best friends idea) and it was my first. It was a good show.
(3)Angelina M.
This place was pretty cool, makes me think of like a dark kind of biker style bar that you might find in LA or something. Service was good, friendly bar tender who was on top of getting round after round. The BBQ BACON BURGER was great! Really satisfied the drunken munchies. Fun spot to go get drinks with friends, haven't gone to the Burlesque show but I think that is for the next visit.
(4)Kay P.
If you moved to Tucson from a big city, this is the closest thing you'll find to "home." Badass atmosphere, tons of seating areas so you can find the right space for what you're looking for. The dance floor is separate enough that people say they're going to the "club" when they're out for a dance night, but integrated right into the bar so you can be as much a part of things as you want (or don't, as the case may be). Dykes and other hot homos galore. Pool, arcades, air hockey. Check it out.
(5)William B.
My first visit to the Surly Wench ever was to see "Black Cherry Burlesque" perform on the first Friday of the month, which they do every month. I've always meant to go having heard about this a couple of years ago, so I packed up some courage to go by myself and did it. I showed up at 8:15 and the event started about 10 minutes later. It's a $10 admission fee for the show, and you get a stamp so you can come and go (it looks like most of the people who come to Surly Wench go out to smoke). Drinks were nice, I got rum and cokes for just $2.50 and they have a separate, and much quieter bar, attached to the side, which I want to explore next time. Much more chill than the main room. There are booths to sit at but if you want to see the stage you mostly need to stand, and boy did it get packed, especially for the 10 o'clock show (I stuck around for that, too when some friends showed up). The burlesque was a lot of fun; some of the dancing wasn't always the best, but there are nearly naked women on stage! And there are jokes from the emcees as well as raffles, amateur contests, and even a really funny performance from a man who, well, dressed as a dog did some risque things to a cardboard cutout of Judy Garland. Use your imagination on that one. It gets packed, and getting to the bar can be a little crazy. Arrive early, get your drinks, and explore that other bar area. They have a lot of cool stuff in nooks and crannies so look around. And the number of pinup type women here and gothy type guys was awesome for people watching.
(4)Andrea W.
the bartenders here consistently make excellent drinks! my siblings and i went to tucson for the weekend and we all ordered mixed drinks from two female bartenders and all the drinks were well-made.
(5)C B.
I love the Surly Wench. They have everything: live bands, burlesque shows (for men and women), interesting food (fried green beans with wasabi sauce), dance floor, booths, and a bar. The design is kickass. Unfortunately, they don't accept Amex.
(4)Valarie A.
Great bar scene, i've heard of other people having bad experiences but mine have always been fun. Came here on my 21st during the Club Sanctuary nights which I am a huge fan of now and love to go to! However, their "Fineline Revisted" event was a huge letdown. Prices on drinks are great, can't beat 'em! Prices on food a little bit more expensive. The vibe is a darker but chill one, darker lighting really sets the mood for their goth nights.
(4)Jim J.
Good stuff.
(4)Yolanda G.
One of the best bars in downtown Tucson! They have excellent drinks and great bartenders! The nights vary from Fineline Revisited to Black Cherry Burlesque. Great venue to see small bands. Most bar food is so-so, but their food is GREAT!
(4)Eric G.
Only been here during the day so far, but was happy with it. Hoping to get down here for a nighttime show one of these days but who knows when that will happen?! On a whim the wife and I strolled in to grab a bite to eat. and a pint. Excellent beers to choose from, as well as the hipster PBR that seems requisite for 4th Ave bars. I can certainly see where service may be a turn off to some. The bartender definitely seemed less than interested in us until I engaged him on things like different beers and punk rock. After that, he was essentially a friend to us. The food was better than I was hoping--certainly pub grub, but with a twist. Being a Scooby-Doo fan since childhood, I had to try the Scooby Snack--jalapeño poppers on a bun under a bed of mushrooms and sauce (vegetarian, not vegan). Definitely seems like something Shaggy would eat. And honestly, delicious "junk food". I just don't think my gut could take it too frequently! The place is what you'd expect from other reviews--dark (essentially coated black) with a punk rock/pirate take on kitsch. Pool tables in the back, air hockey, jukebox, although during the day the bartender had a punk/reggae pandora station streaming from a PC. Overall, I like it... a different feel for Tucson, even for 4th Ave. Keep an open mind and you might be surprised. Now to get down there for one of the burlesque shows...
(4)Sarah F.
This place is home. The seating is great and they have Ace Pear on Tap. The jukebox has heavy metal, punk, rock, and oldies. The food is also really good. I love to go here and hang out with my friends. Not to mention the bouncers are gentlemen have stepped in and saved me from creepers before.
(5)Stephanie G.
I go to the Surly Wench the first Friday of every month and every other time the Black Cherry Burlesque are performing. Yep, I'm a groupie! I love the bar and it's atmosphere. The patrons are diverse and colorful. The bartenders are friendly and fast.
(4)Aurore L.
Did you say catchy? Enticing? Intriguing? Hell yeah!! Since our friend and host for the week works at "The Wench" that was a mandatory stop on our Tucson adventure. And that was a good thing!!! Not only did they have a hefty selection of beer on draft - a good dozen in my estimate, a killer liquor collection and quite a large menu of classic bar items but the decor is just mind-blowing. ::::::::::::::: at loss for words:::::::::::::::: "Vampire brothel" as someone described it is quite on. In a warehouse - I would add 'cause it's definitely rough on the edges. The art displayed on the walls leave little doubt about the attraction of the owners to the dark world. Sexy vampires tearing up bloody hearts? Sure!!! Along with a generous busted piratey wench, sexy blondes, and a galaxy of sadist heroines who just make the place totally unique. Throw a few very kitschy items (goat trophy head?!? fishnet-ted leg as a lamp base?), FREE pool, a big screen to see the latest Japanese intergalactic vampire movie or robot porn (really - you have to be Japanese to even think of it) and great punk rock concerts on weekends and then you have it. The Surly Wench is quite an experience! Not to be missed when you are in Tucson!
(5)Reuben H.
Bitch... It's good! Just go. Go for the bands. Go for the atmosphere. Go for the happy hour specials put on by D.E. Go to avoid places like The Buffet. Be like Nike and just do it!
(5)Saba B.
The crowd of smoking mohawked, spiked, inked and plugged Wench patrons smoking defiantly on the street is a little off-putting for the more squeamish Fourth Avenue bar goer, but persevere. The music here is worth it. I've seen the Ting-Tings, the guitarist from White Stripes, and a wealth of uber punk, metal, and industrial bands here worthy of a much higher cover charge than the $5 which is de riguer here. The Wench caters to a devoted death punk clientele with dark vinyl and a Lynchian barroom off to the side in which one might expect to find an iron maiden for decor instead of glass cases with Wench merchandise. The sound from the stage is clear and loud - no cavernous reverb muddies the music in the smallish band area. An oddly-placed pool table limits the view of the band from the general area of the large bar, and the Wench is not without design flaws, but the kind, mostly female bar staff whip up strong cocktails with broad strokes instead of pointilist precision which are not for the faint of heart. Its age alone qualifies the Wench for epic divehood, but the music at this venue is anything but old and tired. For an intimate mosh pit, a peak at the latest vinyl fads and piercing trends, and the pungent smell of sweaty leather, the Wench is the place to be.
(4)Jennifer D.
Walking by the place I would never imagine me going into it, but when a friend invited me I went in and absolutely thought it was great. I really liked the atmosphere and all the decor. Although, the service wasn't the best, but I still enjoyed the place and would go back!
(4)eric r.
Definitely a unique place. Lesbian pirate roller girl burlesque bar. Interesting drunk food and dollar PBR's at happy hour starting at 6 or seven. This means after your buy one get one double shot drinks at the Buffet, you can polish off an early night at the wench with a couple of those and still have half your twenty dollar bill left. One big drawback, there is one skinny bartender, totasl bitch. Will ignore you, insult you and demand a tip or kick you out for not giving at least a dollar.
(3)Ebony D.
This place was amazing. Service was great, people were friendly, and the food was amazing. You walk in and there is so much to see but it sets in that this is a really themed bar, but definitely don't be afraid to talk to the people there. Everyone is great.
(5)Johnny J.
Imagine the Pirates of the Caribbean ride had a backstage bar for carnies and you've got the Wench. I've been a regular here for years and I can honestly say that the folks who've been kicked out had it coming. This place is great if you like to drink... real drinks. The bartenders here are the real deal. Sure, they can make a redbull-and-whatever but that'd be like asking Rembrandt to paint your fence. Think "old fashioned", or, if you want to drink like the cool kids, order Jamesons here. This place is not so great if you like to act out, fist pump to techno, or stiff your bartender. If that's you, feel free to grace the other bars on fourth with your cool guy self. Otherwise, just mind your manners and you can have a blast here.
(5)Stephen C.
If I could describe "the Wench" in one word, it would be "home". I've been to many bars in my days, in many cities, some of the best drinking cities in the country (New Orleans ring a bell?) and have yet to find a bar anything close to "the Wench". The staff are professional and take no s*%t from anyone. You act up you get removed, you act right and treat folks with respect, you get treated with respect. The regulars also don't put up with shysters pulling pranks. The prices are some of the most reasonable in town. The jukebox has won awards for being the best in Tucson, but then again so has the bar. parking can be a pain at times, but then again with Arizona having some of the toughest DUI laws in the country, you shouldn't be driving anyway, and parking issue solved, "cab it". All in all, it's a great place to be and you won't be disappointed.
(5)Kinga H.
Although not my typical go-to nightlife option while roaming 4th Ave, I always have a great time when I do visit this bar. This place has a fun, alternative crowd, vibe. I definitely do not blend in however everyone is very nice, patrons & staff alike. Perfect for a chill night of playing pool, listening to good music, and having some strong made drinks. Be sure to check out their Burlesque shows, amazing! & occasional some great musicians perform, also worth checking out.
(4)Hannah D.
I love this place. Best "Bar food" in Tucson. It is delicious.
(5)Ingrid T.
We came here last night because on Mondays they have a really great dj. However no one was really dancing and even when they did not super great. Now let's talk the actual bar, great prices on everything. Seriously Surly Wench is a great place for drinks on top of it they have video arcade games so ridiculous and yet so perfect. My husband loves Galaga and we had a blast for a Monday night. On every first Friday of the month they have a burlesque group perform. Now that night it is wall to wall people but I highly recommend going. Always a good time at the Surly Wench.
(4)Elizabeth W.
I have fairly mixed feelings about the Surly Wench. If someone suggests it, I'll go, but it will never be my first choice. Although, I must say that their little bar off to the side is pretty neat and I love it in there! I wish that it had a patio considering that Tucson has more beautiful nights than unpleasant ones. Burlesque nights are always fun with Black Cherry Burlesque-- those ladies can WORK IT. And dancing afterwards is always a blast, but those are the only nights I find myself really having a great time at The Surly Wench. The bartenders are really nice and I love their finesse. If you're into Rockabilly or Psychobilly, I say go for it and meet some fellow -billy-ers, but I prefer some other bars around town.
(3)Zachary C.
What a killer dive! A must visit on 4th Ave in Tucson. It is a medium to large sized bar, full of all kinds of characters. The drinks are strong, the staff surprisingly helpful, and the bar has a good vibe. Is it touristy that I bought a T-shirt? I don't care. I love my Surly Wench tee. I've visited this bar several times over the years, and make a point to go there if I stay overnight in Tucson. Just like all of 4th ave, the place is interesting and has it's own feel.
(4)Hooti P.
Great interior. The short door man is a TOTAL jerkface!!! If he is standing outside you should keep on walking.
(1)joe y.
DO NOT MESS WITH THE BARTENDERS! If you behave yourself like a good bar patron, then they will give you respect. Good bands roll through here, local and out of state. Great drink selection and beer selection. Bar food is great. Just what ya need after a good game of pool, a killer band and a strong drink.
(4)Kristina W.
Hey, yeah, yup. Totally as good as it gets. The Surly Wench, for what it does, does it better than anyone else. Fantastic bloody marys, surly wenches behind the bar. Overheard once "It's not called The Chipper Fucking Barkeep!" A stage! Live music a few nights a week, and they're always pretty well organized about it, too. Air hockey, upright classic video games, pool table, mega-touch video (if that's what you're into), and an in house kitchen making some reasonably good bar food, deep-fried fair food, (yup Twinkies, Oreos) burgers, tacos and such. Home of; Black Cherry Burlesque, Tucson Roller Derby and The Fineline Revisited, a revival of a well loved Tucson Goth-Industrial club. All of these things help to make the Surly Wench special and different from any place you'll go. Important note here, like most of the best places in Tucson, this place is well loved by the people who work there and its' regulars, and is the sort of place where you may get funny looks if you try to take liberties. Be polite, it's a little like being in someones living room. It pays off, and you'll be family in no time. PRO TIP; Black Mondays (On Monday nights, yes) are hosted by Tammie award winning DJ Matt McCoy of BangBang fame (and many other very successful club nights for over a decade). Come watch him spin new and strange, experimental and whatever he wants. Guest DJ's every week, it's like the test kitchen of electronic music. FUN. Oh! Extra PRO TIP; yes, if there's no street parking, or if you absolutely just cannot parallel park there is a secret parking lot directly behind the building. It's probably safer than the street, but you still need to walk all the way around to the front.
(5)Kelly L.
we went for the tachos and we were not disappointed! tater tot nachos covered in nacho cheese, poblano sauce, and a bit of sour cream are not to be taken for granted - they were amazing! the tots were perfectly cooked - crispy on the outside, soft on the inside..we wished we ordered more than just one order! The bar itself is a little gloomy and I don't think the bartender was super excited 2 girls a little tipsy from wine tasting down the street strolled in, but we got decent drinks, were able to grab a table, and dug into the tachos...have I mentioned how amazing the tachos are?!?
(3)Laura K.
Everything I hoped place would be. Fantastic homage to my favorite movie, the Royale with cheese, is great with tots. Margaritas are made with love and fresh squeezed citrus to perfection. Wish we could have been here to enjoy the burlesque shows, just means we'll come back again!
(5)Kimberly M.
Really cool little bar. Let's see...Decent Jukebox- was pretty surprised to see the Goddamn Gallows in there. 2 of their albums, in fact. Franziskaner on tap, yesssss. Rosemary Garlic Lemon fries were salted to hell and back. I tried to choke em down, but eventually had to send 'em back. The regular fries were much better. The bartenders were pretty cool and the key lime pie martini was surprisingly delicious! I liked the rest of their cocktail menu too. Interesting, delicious sounding and creative but not pompous. I was especially intrigued by the salty white russian, though I didn't order it. A word of advice---before putting any cash in the jukebox check with the bartender to make sure their system is not set on Pandora. I put some cash in the box and had to sit through about 12 horrendous, depressingly awful country songs before I realized my songs were not going to play. They would not refund me the entire amount I put in the juke, which isn't really cool in my opinion. All in all, I'd recommend checking this spot out, it's cozy yet not cramped and looks like a real good time when they have bands.
(4)B M.
Went to see the "Manlesque" show not so long ago. It was not worth the money. I get it that its supposed to boost your self esteem and its more about the act, but, uh the acts were not good or interesting. Don't waste your money and they charge for you to sit in the dancing area, like twenty bucks, not worth it. Anyways, read some of the reviews on the food. ITS BAR food, its suppose to be greasy and not good, duh. Also, its sort of true if the staff don't recognize you or you aren't their friends they are rude, specifically the male bartender. The female bartenders are very sweet and nice, talk to everyone. The bouncers are so much nicer these days, before they were rude, but that part has gotten better for sure. I go to fineline and always have fun. Nice place to chill on off days.
(3)Amanda S.
This place is dive-y without any creepiness/dirt. A large pub with a fun atmosphere and great sarsaparilla whiskey. The Black Cherry Burlesque show is well-worth the $10 fee they charge to get in. That is about the only thing that will get me down on 4th Avenue on a Friday.
(4)Steve L.
I really want to love this place....however everytime I stop in the beer is warm...hey its 100 degrees out and we live in Tucson turn that beer fridge down!
(3)Aly K.
I came here last night for a friend's birthday and I was not impressed with the service. I usually come here once a month and I always have a great time, but definitely not last night. Walking into the bar, the doorman was nice and friendly, but the bartender was nothing but rude. I was with a group of friends trying to have a good time, and it seemed like he wasn't paying attention to us. I can understand if it was busy and there were a lot of people at the bar, but there was not, just a group of 3 aside from my group and I. We waiting for 10 minutes to get refills on our drinks, which were not well mixed. He told us to wait a moment while he flirted with the group of females that had just sat down. Very professional. Towards the end of it all, it seemed like we were overcharged for our drinks, which we found out he charged us for one drink 3 times, something we didn't even order. The other times I've been here, I've had the female bartender and she was amazing. She paid attention to each patron, she was sweet and nice, and she made the drinks exceptionally well. I don't know. I guess I came here on a bad day.
(2)Dr Tim L L.
Very surly, very surly. Went for the Burlesque night - First part was well done. Self-esteem building for some of the gals. They all worked hard on a routine. 3 of the gals were very professional and had amazing outfits. The Break was TOO LONGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG. lordy The second half was okay. One gal was stellar again. The audience is fun. Nice setting for lesbian couples to enjoy being open and out. Once was enough. The bar is really skanky. The bathrooms atrocious. There is a nice jug of ice water to enjoy. Once was enough.
(3)Eve S.
One of the few gems Tucson has to offer in terms of nightlife, for sure. Music is entirely dependent on the night, but usually enjoyable and even danceable on some occasions. Can't beat Strongbow cider for a mere $2 and other generous drink specials. Ladies be prepared for bushels of creepy hipster types, who may try to hit on you relentlessly and not take "no" for an answer though this is rare.
(5)Sabrina M.
Love this place sooooooooooooo Much!! The atmosphere is super chill and the drinks are not crazy expensive. All in all this place is killer awesome.
(5)Andrew C.
Tattoos: Nope. Black or Band shirt: Nope. Breathing: Yes. Welp, looks like I lucked out, Dale. A nice selection of local beers, good music, tables to hang, and a crowd that minds their own business... my kind of weekday bar. I may not be familiar with the go-to places in Tucson, but I'd say this place has its' own charm!
(4)Eliot E.
I've been to great punk/goth divey bars all over this country. Sadly, Tucson does not have one, but the Wench is pretty close. I'm not sure where the pirate theme came from, but it's not too overdone and easily forgotten minutes after entering. Weeknights at the Wench are a great time to belly-up to the bar and enjoy their cheap prices and decent liquor selection. The girls behind the bar pour well and are pretty nice too. The food is surprisingly good depending on who's working the grill that night. The jukebox is one of the best in town if you like rock/punk/alternative music. The crowd here is mixed, but pretty easy going. The black decor and the punk music isn't enough to keep the frat boys out, but they generally don't stick around long, and the punk/goth types that hang out won't sneer at you for being well dressed. On weekends it can get pretty crowded and there's usually an event, so plan on paying a $5 cover charge after 8:00. There's a stage in the back, but it's a small room so you may not have a great view of the band. Oh, and it's loud. It's not a perfect rock/punk/goth bar, but it will do.
(4)Alex G.
I liked this place the moment I set foot in it. Lots of room, an efficient bar, decent food and friendly staff. There was a band playing that night but it just looks like the place has an awesome juke box. I'll have to go a few more times when I'm back in Tucson to get a real feel for the place. Thumbs up so far!
(3)Michelle L.
The name is perfectly fitting for this grungy venue. It's a dark, edgy no-nonsense bar that caters to a diverse crowd of goths, bikers, punks and other odd characters, but I've never gotten attitude from the staff for being a pretty average-dressed gal. The drinks are also stiff and tasty. If you want to experience the wilder side of the Tucson night life, I can definitely recommend an evening at the Surly Wench! The Burlesque shows on First Fridays are a must!
(4)Lauren W.
I'm new to the Tucson area and this was the first bar I went to and with good reason. Browsing through yelp reviews on Tucson gay bars I realized there are no decent ones, not really at least. On one review of I don't remember what bar, one girl wrote a review and mentioned The Surly Wench at the end, and I was convinced. Great atmosphere, amazing staff/bartenders, friendly, etc. Favourite place to drink so far.
(4)Jentry M.
My favorite bar on 4th Street. The Wench is home to Reasonably Priced Good Drinks, Decent Pub Style Food, and great atmosphere. It has plenty of space and an ample amount of nooks and crannies to slot into while enjoying a pint. It also has a distraction for all comers to enjoy. Hit it up with your mates and you'll be sure to have a good time !
(5)Eugene W.
Best dive bar in town since the Buffet seems always overrun with frats slumming it or looking for easy prey. Gives Che a run for its money for best bar downtown since sorry to say the Tap has seen better days. No attitude & everyone seems pretty relaxed & laughs a plenty. The bar is a fine place to plop yourself down for a few hours. Jasmine's my all time fave pour master/sass talker. Pool & the only air hockey table around,i believe. Dance floor & sound system good enough for me. Yeah its on 4th ave., it can't all be ideal!
(5)Sergio S.
First off--how cool is this place's name? I caught a Rockabilly showcase here with my cousin and thought the place was pretty off the hook. Loaded bar, decent beer selection and killer ambiance. I think the place can best be described as feeling like you're in a vampire brothel. Maybe that's not everyone's idea of killer ambiance--but strangely enough, I felt very at home here. There's pool tables and plenty of spots to hang and people watch. The people watching is especially cool here. I do wish the stage area were a little broader, but still--it's a nice set up. Cheers to the Wench!
(4)Jackie T.
I definitely don't fit the look of the crowd but I never feel out of place when I'm here. Everybody is friendly and hospitable. Fun little place for music or a casual drink.
(4)Sally M.
Fun place to visit ~ and great atmosphere!
(5)Claire D.
The wenches here surely are not surly. - Nice booths for a chat with friend's - live bands, different DJ nights that mostly feel like the old Fineline - Fineline Revisited! - good drink specials - roped off drink line to avoid the bullshit - pool - air hockey, or, as another user said, air honkey - fattening delicous bar food - swanky bathroom I loves me some Surly Wench. I buy some cigs from Puff 'n' Stuff and spend all night here. Sometimes I get drunk enough to dance. -
(4)Jim T.
Open at 5PM?!?!?!? Tried it for lunch, FINALLY found a parking spot. Long walk, and CLOSED ! From out of state, probably won't return.
(1)Dale P.
If you want to deal with nasty bouncers and rude bartenders this is the place to go. Apparently if you miss the tattoo quota you are clearly not good enough for this bar. The last two times I went I saw people get kicked out for breathing. For example, a guy was standing in the middle of the bar talking to someone and was apparently in the way of the bouncer who asked him to move by screaming at him and pushing him. When the guy objected to this behavior the bouncer proceeded to kick him out. I've been to this place at least 10 times and after seeing that I've had enough of the Surly Wench and it's terrible employees. There are way to many great bars in Tucson to deal with the type of bartenders and bouncers who work at this place.
(1)Lisa K.
Back in my Tucson days, this was my favorite bar. I love love love the vibe and the people who hang out here. Unlike some other 4th ave spots, TSWP is NOT full of insipid U of A undergrads in short shorts and baseball caps. Like some of the other reviewers, I really appreciated having a place to go where I could drink in peace without having some douchebreathe try to pull some cheesy line or grab my ass. Plus, the place seems pretty queer friendly without being a "gay bar" so that makes it a nice environment for all. I love the bitchy mean bartenders, who aren't that mean at all, really. Definitely go enjoy a bruised pear (pear cider topped with guinness) in this cool spot. Watch out for the bloody marys- they pack a mean punch. Only complaint: sometimes the band ruins the vibe instead of enhancing it. The best part? The huge wench painting behind the bar. She's my patron saint.
(5)Jason M.
This place is kind of a hipster hang out lately, but it still does the job. The drinks are made really well by an experienced bar staff. I've seen a few good shows here but if there isn't one the juke box is amazing. You won't be let down by the theme of this place as everyone loves pirates, though it is getting a bit overdone.
(4)Emily L.
This bar was love at first sight when I first came here as a Tucson visitor. Good music, attractive ladies, decently priced drinks, awesome stuff to read on the walls and a kick ass jukebox. I've lived in Tucson about 4 or 5 months now and I have to say that "the wench", as everyone calls it, is slipping. Black monday's are now obsolete, but when they were around it was depressing to see so many people acting like pretentious hipsters instead of dancing! I mean, monday nights were the best music nights in T-town that I'd ever been to and there were usually only 2 people on the floor. Also, their need to charge a cover everytime a crappy rockabilly band comes through town drives me nuts. I refuse to pay to see a band I've never heard of play crappy music. But there are still great things about the wench. Air hockey and the kitchen are among them. They have awesome drunk food, people! Overall, I think they've changed a bit over the past few years (there are way less lesbians there now), but I still go for the burlesque, music and hockey which I am hard-pressed to find anywhere else.
(3)Aaron M.
This is what a bar should be like. Tattoo's, hipsters, lacy undergarments, hot pants and stockings. It has a biker bar vibe but it welcomes all. There is no judgment or classes in here. Just enjoying good beer, food, and company with friendly staff and kind folks.
(5)Ashley D.
Had a blast here on a Monday night! The people watching is great. Drinks specials are ok. The atmosphere is a plus. It's rare to come across a good goth bar. The DJs were good, but the music was a tad difficult to dance to (even though there were plenty of people on the dance floor). All types of people are welcome here. Very non-pretentious. Overall great!
(4)Katie S.
It's always a good sign when you walk into a bar for the first time and two of your favorite (but random) songs play in a row. The bartender was nice (not surly at all), the drink was good and cheap, and the booths are comfortable. I also have to love a pub where you aren't getting harassed by jocky, frat boys the whole time you are there.
(4)Stephanie S.
i still can't get over how cheap the drinks were here. i ordered 3 tequila-pineapples, and the tab was $7.50??!? seriously? well i wasn't planning on drinking that much tonight but SHIT if you're gonna just give it to me, dont mind if i do! as an out of towner, my cousins knew just where to take me for a good time. their friend was in a fashion show here for some local designers and stores, which was an awesome way to advertise some local duds! cool rockabilly/anything goes kinda vibe where you can get your drink on and mingle among tuscon's finest.
(4)Ben A.
Played here on tour in 2010. Was surprised at how cool of a venue this place was and was even more pleased when we ordered dinner after sound check and the food was excellent too. Bar staff was friendly and the drinks were pretty awesome. Sound system for the bands / DJs was also pretty powerful and fit the room well. Any place I can play Galaga gets a thumbs up in my book too.
(5)Gringo's T.
Went to the Bricktop CD Release last night and really liked this place. Nice set-up, friendly bartenders and good drink prices.
(5)Patrick O.
I love this place but my friends often shy away from me when I am craving some Surly Wench. The women you find here are like the next Angelia Jolie's, hot, different and very seductive. You won't find any Guess wearing, white belt showing douches in this place, only laid back, and rather interesting people who like to have a good time and have more knowledge on society than most others. Plus they have a good idea with a roped off drink line to avoid the jackass standing behind you shouting to a bartender....see they're smart.
(4)Jack C.
Great atmosphere, cheap drinks, pool tables. So far it's the only place I know of in Tucson that serves pickle juice chasers.
(5)Laura D.
Air hockey, good jukebox, good bartenders, good decorations, good food and fried candy bars (the latter not an attraction for me, but at least a source of amusement), has some essence that reminds me of Baltimore (home). Comfortable, fun.
(5)Victor R.
Great scene bar! 1.00 pbr on Monday nights, but staff is not that friendly and it is too loud to talk, so hit somewhere else if you wanted to chat. Personally I once forgot my card there and when I went back (within 10 min of leaving) they wouldn't let me in to get it (knocked for like 20 minutes; I wasn't going home without my card) then they charged me because by the time they felt like opening the door they had already considered my tab as left open. Watch out.
(3)Eric M.
Lindy's is so over, people. And the Buffet smells like poop. Instead, come here for your cheap burgers and whiskey. The waitstaff is friendly and the nice selection of coin-op arcade games is an unexpected bonus. Not only are the burgers great, but the appetizers and non-burger items are also memorable: try the potato tacos! And be sure to drop a quarter in the vintage Zybots machine in the lounge next door.
(5)Samantha D.
There are pictures of painted women, what i think are roller derby jerseys, and a poster of angelina jolie all hanging on the walls. There are two pool tables, fried oreos, veggie burgers, and decent drinks (I can't remember the draft selection as I was drinking rum and diet). We met some really cool guys there and it was definitely a place where it wouldn't be awkward to walk in and strike up a conversation with someone. Just another fantastic part of the wonderfulness that is Tucson.
(5)princessaja g.
Well I was invited to go here to watch a Burlesque show .And i have to say it was amazing.The club is small but cute.I had a hard time getting service.I think it was because I was straight haha.Anyways I did enjoy the show .And learned a thing or two from the girls.
(3)church B.
they carry 'Rebel Yell' bourbon. in case you didn't know, this is the best bourbon in the history of the world. love the pinball, the Galaga, the free pool during happy hour, the fried food, the air hockey...all that's great. but most importantly, They. Carry. Rebel. Yell. Bourbon. 4th ave is great for bar-hopping, people watching, street screaming. you know- all the things that make life great. but did you know that you can do all of these things in one place (& one place only) while sipping 'Rebel Yell' bourbon? that's right. Surly Wench. who knew? l'd have given this place 6 stars but for 2 reasons: 1) they do NOT open until 5 o:clock. day drinkers, you are not welcome here. 1b.) that's why God invented Che's, but jesus christos who can start that late in the day?? Noon? B) Yelp only goes to 5 stars, and despite my repeated attempts to offer a 6th star, they will NOT return my emails & in fact seem to have taken out a restraining order against me & that's fine. l can take a hint. long story short, the Wench rules. $2 PBR pints along side the bestest ever bourbon in the history of the world equals awesomeness that is unattained by every other bar on 4th, despite all efforts. thank you, Surly Wench!
(5)Rachel F.
My little bro, my mom and I stopped by the Wench for some afternoon brew on this past Saturday afternoon. As visitors from California, we found the bar to be awesome. The bartender was friendly and gave us suggestions on what beers to try. We played a couple rounds of pool and had fun checking out the sweet decor inside the bar. I have no complaints at all.
(5)Ramin S.
The Surly Wench has an interesting atmosphere, as you might guess from the name. Apparently they have burlesque there sometimes, which I'm curious about but haven't seen yet. Their beer is good, and they usually have specials. They also have a couple pool tables. It's a fun bar to hang out in.
(4)Kaisar Nova K.
Nice spacious spot with good live music shows. I was there when the Roller Derby girls were having a fund raiser. The place has a mod type feel. I liked the parlor room with the pool table.
(4)Tim S.
Although we were there on an off night (no band), we had a great time at the Surly Wench. We were put off by the fact that the kitchen only takes cash, but the bar was fine with credit - weird. The food was great though and our large group (20ish) found tables easily and got our food fast! I wasn't drinking so I can't speak to the quality of the drinks, but the rest of the group had no complaints.
(4)Brad T.
Waiting for Caruso's this was a great watering hole. Don't worry if you don't have a tattoo, there are plenty of people with tattoos to make up for your oversight. No one bother's you, even the bartender so if you sit at a table you need to go to the bar to order drinks. Got a good cider drink and blond porter per the bartender's recommendations.
(4)Kevin M.
Wasn't sure where to go in town. Checked Yelp for some idea of a district I could check out. 4th Ave near the U of A seemed promising. Didn't get there until 10 P.M., when apparently all kitchens in the area close (seemed odd). Surly Wench delivered what I needed. This place confused me at first. The kitchen is cash only, but I can treat the bar as an ATM and pull cash from my credit card to spend on food? Aren't you part of the same establishment? The food was really good though - we brought the Pita appetizer back to our hotel and my girlfriend had it for lunch the next day. The sandwiches were well put together, and the Salsa Burger was out of this world. Impressive micro brew list as well. I'd never heard of Ska brewing before (and this was the same night a band called Ska-Boom was playing the Hotel Congress - is ska still popular in AZ?). Decor was reminiscent of the bars I frequented near the University here in Mpls, so it ended up being a nice homey atmosphere. I also enjoyed that they were playing Saturday Night Fever on the T.V. above the door. And the big plus - so often a bar will decide they are going to be "gritty," and they end up becoming a shithole. Not so with Surly Wench. Yes, they have a skeleton theme with the posters on the walls, and it's kind of dark, but the kitchen is clean and well-lit, and the washrooms are nicer than some I've seen at four-star restaurants. For my OCD, that was icing on the cake.
(4)Nadia G.
I have now been to Surly Wench well over a few dozen times. They just opened up a whole new room with a bar inside and plenty of couches to relax on. I always start a tab and am always surprised to get my bill because it is always cheaper than what I thought I would be paying. I have eaten there a few times and the food is soooo good. I recommend the BBQ Burger with crispy tater tots. Yum. They also have potato tacos and fried Oreos which I hear are very tasty. The doorman there is always pleasant and so are the bartenders except I have to agree with a comment below, there is one rude bartender, I wonder if we are talking about the same lady. There all always live bands or DJ's and this bar is never boring. From burlesques shows to guitar hero nights to 80s dancing, it's a must "stop by" if you are on 4th Ave!!
(4)Erica H.
The closest thing to a cool bar in Tucson. It's an intruiging place with a different crowd. I love the derby girl feel and the rough men. Sometimes overwhelmingly lesbian, but that's my taste, so no complaints. Cheap drinks, edgy customers, and bar games make for an amazing time, always
(4)Lala M.
Fun. I like it :) & I love the big-boobied wench painted on the wall behind the bar.
(4)SARAH O.
I LOVE this place! I just moved here from California and there are a TON of Rock style pubs/bars out there and I was shocked when I came across this place! The atmosphere was great and the music awesome! Everything was very well priced and even the food was good. I'll def be returning!
(5)gal p.
from the old wrinkly ladies in bikinis and goth women gyrating in wedding gowns (gross, yet incredible! you can't look away!)...to the Gia-Era pic of Angelina Jolie on the wall...to the wonderful jukebox...to the cute DJs who play New Order!!!!!...this place is AWESOME! i found this place, despite it's surly name, to be very hospitable. the bartenders, door men and clientele were in my experience quite friendly! i just moved to town from NY and it gave me a little (well large) dose of much-needed seediness reminiscient of the lower east side. i recommend the dance nights on thursday, where they place dancey and new wavey tunes, and youre most likely to see a wrinkly old woman getting down! definitely give it a shot!
(4)Amanda B.
I would love to say that I love this bar because it's so cool, which it is, or because the bartenders are fast and cool and friendly, which they can be, or because they have great drink prices and good music, which they do, usually, but sadly no I go to this bar for one reason: air hockey table. Sure they play cool movies on the tv with the subtitles on, and sure they have booze and bands play there sometimes and they have pool tables and the fratties are afraid to enter, but they have a freakin AIR HOCKEY TABLE! Honestly it's the only reason I ever go into the Wench and it's probably the one reason I will ever go into the Wench. Sure I'll get a drink at the bar, but only so I can get quarters.
(4)Chris L.
Cool little place, stopped in on a Thursday night around 7:30 and got a pint of Guinness. It was empty in there and the pint was expensive but not bad!
(4)Mary R.
If you're strolling on Fourth, this is as good a place as any to stop in drinks. It skews a little older and a lot less college (thankfully), so it offers some variation from the typical Fourth St. crowd. Drinks are a little more expensive than warranted, but at least the service is usually efficient and even surprisingly friendly at times. As it is a refuge from fratastic other bars, it can get crowded; also, the high ceilings seem to make it difficult to keep it at a comfortable temperature during summer and winter. The Wench is on my list of top ten bars in Tucson, but I have to knock it a star for the all-too frequent occasions in which one is forced to leave by the ungodly decibel levels. I know, I'm the oldest twentysomething in the world...really, I love a good, loud, can't-hear-the-day-after show every once in a while, but I don't like just wandering into the bar, getting your drink on, and then hearing the inevitable squeal of deafening feedback indicating that some local ragers are getting ready to rrrrrraaaaaaawwwwwwk. The sound is not just loud, it's bad, so it's impossible to discern whether or not the music's any good anyhow. If the music ain't blarin', this place merits 4 stars.
(3)Danny M.
This is the best bar in Tucson. No bullshit, no overpriced drinks, no assholes. Good beer, good pool, good air hockey, good jukebox and good times. (Also good shows even though the sound is less than stellar but I can't penalize for that because everything else is SO AWESOME!)
(5)Bonnie G.
This place truly is one of my favourite bars...EVER! I first went here back in December during a trip to visit Phoenix to escape the brutal New England winters. After checking out most of what 4th ave had to offer, my brother and I decided to stop in here after seeing Ms. Pac-Man prominently displayed in the window. A huge cavernous space, I sidled up to the large bar to the right of the entrance and was greeted by a friendly bartender reciting specials and I stuck to the Miller High Life and excitedly lit a cigarette (been banned back east for a looong time) and looked around, impressed with the chill atmosphere, the huge pirate wench painting and a jukebox that offered Death from above, Peaches, Pixies, Misfits and more! After a recent drive down to Tucson, I could barely contain myself to visit here again. To the immediate right of the door are vintage couches and chairs, Ms. Pac-Man arcade, another arcade game and a Twilight Zone pinball machine that flashes to say no to drugs. The long bar has cushy stools, PhotoHunt, and plenty of booty-related art to keep ones eyes busy. To the left of the door is a cushioned window seat, still one of the best jukeboxes outside of Charlies in Harvard Sq., air hockey, and more booths set up against the wall. Walking past the bar and booths is another larger room with a stage, and tables and I believe more booths. The restrooms are to the back and rather hip with lots of mirrors (full-length-holla) and kept pretty clean. The clientele is a mix of hipsteresque, grad student and slightly older groups. They were playing episodes of She-Ra on a giant screen over the door when we there, and last time they played Nightmare Before Christmas. It wasn't packed either times I've been. The drink specials were pretty good and even after happy hour was over, the G&T was still a reasonable 2.50. Although I got my ass kicked at air hockey and will probably have weird dreams from seeing She-Ra to a soundtrack of Peaches and The Stooges, I cannot recommend Wench enough.
(5)Bambetel R.
Sure, the wenches are surly, but so are the patrons. The place exudes an atmosphere of someplace between 'respectable' and seedy. The crowd is a collection of drunk coeds and college pukes, dingy alt types from around 4th Ave, and the occasional deranged vagrant. Play some pool, get hammered, have a good time. The Wench is remarkably good for this...
(4)Vincent P.
march 07 Great crowd mix. AIR HOCKY and finaly Pool tables!... good nice bartenders...until last call....cool movie clips playing... Black,Dark, Gothic, burlesque Decor... Music too loud to talk to strangers...They kicked us off the pool table at last call...I felt they could have let us finished
(4)Heather M.
The Surly Wench is atmosphere and it's nice knowing I'll have a lower chance of being groped by a drunk asshole here than other places. I've had mainly good bartender experiences too - only had one eye roll come my way. Prices are fair, their bruised pears are amazing, and the jukebox is like a mish-mash of teenage punk rock nostalgia. I just don't like the cover that forces me to other bars when all I want is air hockey and the Wench in my sweet embrace.
(4)Jonah N.
Great dive bar! Cheap drinks, decent food and a good jukebox. I must also add that the staff were very nice and welcoming. Definitely a must visit while in Tucson.
(5)Adam D.
lesbians and air hockey. sign. me. up.
(5)Tiffany T.
great place to hang out love the staff. great drink specials
(5)