In a move that blends preservation with passion, locally owned restaurant group POV Foods has officially acquired one of Phoenix’s most cherished neighborhood dive bars, the Swizzle Inn. The transition, which took place in May, brings new ownership to the bar — but regulars can rest easy. According to the new stewards, the dim lights, quirky nautical decor, and “Shark Fart” shot aren’t going anywhere.
Best known for operating the Rusty Spur Saloon in Old Town, POV Foods has earned a reputation for reviving iconic Arizona spots while preserving their authenticity. The Swizzle Inn is no exception.
From its glowing strings of tinsel-wrapped holiday lights to its circular bar top and front-door porthole, the Swizz has long served as a cozy hideaway in central Phoenix. It’s the kind of place where darts fly, pool balls crack, and $2 mystery shots are poured without pretension — and it’s staying that way.
“The Swizzle Inn is the neighborhood’s living room,” POV Foods Owner Bill Toole said. “It’s a place people come to unwind, share a story, shoot some pool. We’re not here to change that, we’re here to honor it and keep the doors open for the next generation of regulars.”
Originally opened in 1996 by Beth Johnson, the Swizzle Inn has grown into a local institution. Known for its windowless, tucked-away vibe, the bar has charmed generations of Phoenicians with its laid-back atmosphere and tongue-in-cheek style. The “No Starbucks Parking” sign outside has become as much a part of the Swizz’s identity as its Wednesday night trivia or daily “catch of the day” drink specials.
Guests will continue to see the same familiar faces behind the bar, trivia will still kick off every Wednesday at 7 p.m., and the brown bag mystery shot will remain a staple.
“We’re not some big corporation coming in to rebrand or remodel,” Swizzle’s General Manager and Bev Director Annie Gaillard said. “We’re local folks who believe in the power of community, and we plan to carry on the Swizz’s tradition of being a spot where everyone feels welcome.”
The bar joins a portfolio of Arizona favorites under POV’s banner, which includes other longstanding community mainstays like Red, White & Brew in Mesa, Lakeside Bar & Grill in Peoria, 32 Shea in Phoenix, and Bill’s Grill in Prescott. Each location holds its own piece of Arizona’s story — and the Swizz is the latest chapter in POV’s commitment to celebrating that heritage.
“This is our livelihood and passion, and when we commit to a place, it’s for the long haul,” Toole said. “The Swizzle Inn felt like the right fit because it already has history, and we want to help carry that forward.”
For more information, visit The Swizzle Inn on Facebook.
