Cocktails Cleveland
American · Fusion · Cleveland, OH
About
Don't expect a leather bar despite any old signage. Cocktails Cleveland (formerly Rockies) is more of a dive bar with drag shows on weekends and a mix of dancing, karaoke, and pool tables.
The bar opens at 11am every day and runs until 2:30am, making it a reliable spot for a late happy hour. The crowd skews 30s and 40s, with a strong local bear presence. You'll find a large smokers' patio out back and plenty of seating for mingling. The basement dungeon is closed and has been for a while, so don't hold out for that.
Cocktails Cleveland sits in Cleveland's Edgewater neighborhood, a short drive from other gay bars like Twist Social Club and Leather Stallion Saloon.
Features
- ✓Drag shows on weekend nights
- ✓Karaoke and dancing throughout the week
- ✓Large outdoor smoking patio
- ✓Pool tables and video bar
- ✓Open from 11am to 2:30am daily
Cuisine
Good for
Practical
What people say
Rated from 24 reviews. 128 community ratings. View this venue on Yelp
From the community
“Shaky start”
It's disappointing that all the leathermen were in the dungeon with a dress code, leaving the upper bar dull. As someone from Columbus, I find the leather scene back home more enjoyable, given my leather friends. I hope Cleveland improves beyond these initial visits.
A visitor · Over a year ago
“Leather bar not!”
Why do they call this a leather bar when there's nothing leather about it? Saturday drag shows don't fit that label. I've been to strip shows a few times featuring twink strippers, which isn't my thing, especially at a supposed leather bar. The basement dungeon has been under renovation forever and probably won't reopen.
A guest · Over a year ago
“It does have potential”
Maybe this bar can return to its former fun days. The staff could be better though one bartender is a hit. Good jukebox, usually a quiet crowd, and a large smokers patio. Plenty of space to socialize, plus pool tables. Some nights have dancers and karaoke, but I'd skip those. The downstairs leather dungeon is closed now, hopefully they do something good with it. The area isn't great, just use common sense when coming and going.
A recent visitor · Over a year ago
“The lowdown no BS”
Three stars for the decent bartenders and the clean, spacious bar. But that's it. Maybe once the remodeled dungeon opens it will improve. Upstairs is mostly empty most nights. What you'll find: one small group of a woman and her two male friends sitting at the far end of the bar talking among themselves all night. At the other end, older men and thirty-somethings come and go. Most people don't sit at the tables except on weekends. Friday and Saturday drag queens fill the bar. I've seen some of the strip shows, and they're best avoided unless you like very skinny flamboyant guys with an occasional 'straight' guy 'just doing it for the money'. Who needs that? I don't.
A local visitor · Over a year ago
“Usually festive, always see somebody you might know”
Wednesday and Sunday night karaoke usually draws a good crowd in warmer months. Sunday potluck dinner earlier in the afternoon was always fun with interesting food themes. Friday and Saturday drag shows sometimes include benefit shows or leather competitions. The downstairs basement dungeon bar is occasionally interesting.
A visitor · Over a year ago
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Cocktails Cleveland have drag shows? +
Yes, drag shows happen regularly, especially on Fridays and Saturdays.
Is there a dress code? +
No dress code is enforced. Casual attire is the norm.
Is the basement dungeon open? +
No, the basement dungeon has been closed and will likely not reopen.
Does Cocktails Cleveland serve food? +
The menu includes American, fusion, and Italian options, but Yelp does not confirm food service hours.
More Bars in Cleveland
Happy Dog
4.2
Bars · $ · 1.1 mi
Saucy Brew Works
3.8
Bars · $$ · 2.0 mi
Twist Social Club
3.7
Bars · $$ · 1.2 mi
The Hangar
Bars · $$ · 2.1 mi