Tiny, in the broad understanding of the term, means anything exceptionally small. And we as a species tend to gravitate toward tiny things: animals of all varieties, hot sauce, espresso martinis, handbags—what have you. In the context of a drinking establishment, however, tiny is not the de facto requisite for a good time (we’ve all fallen victim to an overcrowded bar counter, after all). But sometimes the best experiences come in the least expected places, including the tiniest bars around the world serving big time vibes.
The hallmarks of a really compelling pint-sized bar include design with a clear point of view, clever use of limited space, and an informed menu—all with a trace of whimsy. Whether it’s a Nordic-inspired cocktail at a Montana dude ranch’s four-seat bar, or a glass of natural wine inside a zodiac-themed speakeasy in New Orleans, the spots ahead exemplify all there is to love about teeny, tiny bars.
Lytle Bar (Big Sky, Montana)
Photo: Lone Mountain Ranch
The very best dude ranches blur the line between past and present. A day spent horseback riding in the vast stretches of big sky country is always complemented by a complete immersion in design motifs of the Old West. Take Lone Mountain Ranch in Montana as an example. The property’s Lytle Bar is named after the ranch’s original homesteader and features four seats within a log cabin setting, opening onto a firelit outdoor deck. If you’re here in the winter, make a pitstop at Lytle Bar for a glass of wine before the Sleigh Ride Dinner (the sleigh conveniently picks you up right out front).
Gen Yamamoto (Tokyo, Japan)
Eight seats, four menus, one gorgeous bar crafted from 500-year-old Mizunara oak. Gen Yamamoto’s namesake omakase cocktail tasting experience brings together farm fresh produce with fine liquors, resulting in balanced flavors that reflect shiki Japanese seasonality. Each ‘course’ is poured within an elegant piece of glassware alongside a corresponding flower, further cementing a strong sense of place within this renowned Tokyo establishment.
El Changarro (Riviera Maya, Mexico)
Photo: Etereo, Auberge Resorts Collection