Best Bars in Boro

By: Paul Jarrett

STATESBORO, G.A., April 13, 2025  - 

Going out for a drink with friends is one of the best options when needing a break, especially in a college town like Statesboro. There are several options closer to Georgia Southern's campus, but there are also plenty of hidden gems or new spots. 

Our mission is to try every one of them so you can try something new and find your new regular spot. We tried to focus on places that may not get as much traffic as others to see the best bar in downtown Statesboro. 

Next on our list was Oak 45.

Quality: The drink quality at Oak 45 in Statesboro is top-notch, featuring expertly crafted cocktails and consistently well-balanced flavors. Whether you're going for a classic or one of their signature mixes, the bartenders know their stuff and deliver with precision and flair. It's a great spot if you're looking for quality drinks in a laid-back but classy atmosphere. Our team tested the classic Georgia beer Tropicalia and the original Oak 45 cocktail, the Goldenrod. The Goldenrod was a beautiful combination of sweet and strong. We gave it 4/5 shakers.

Atmosphere: Oak 45 in Statesboro offers a stylish yet cozy atmosphere that combines modern sophistication with Southern charm. The dim lighting and warm wood accents create an inviting space that feels like a perfect night in a log cabin. The perfect music—never too loud—allows for easy conversation without losing the vibe. You'll often find a mix of college students, young professionals, and locals, giving the place a lively but relaxed energy. We scored it with a 4/5 shakers.

Price: Cocktails typically range from around $8 to $12, with top-shelf options slightly higher. Beer and wine selections are reasonably priced, making it accessible for a casual drink. During happy hour or special events, you can often find great deals. It's not the cheapest in town, but you're definitely paying for well-made drinks in a nice setting.

We scored it with a 3/5 shakers.

Location: The hotel is just across the street from city hall, so there is a public parking lot right next door. Access to this lot makes the location just that much better than our previous visits. We scored it with a 4/5 shakers. 

Customer Service: The customer service at Oak 45 is consistently friendly, attentive, and professional. Bartenders and servers are knowledgeable about the drink menu and are happy to offer recommendations based on your preferences. Even during busy nights, the staff keeps things moving smoothly without making you feel rushed. We scored it with a 5/5 shakers. 

Overall thoughts: Our team had an amazing night at Oak 45. The log cabin feel, mixed with the well-crafted cocktails and background music, made for the perfect environment for those looking for a great night out. Oak 45 is one of the newer places in the downtown area, and we highly recommend you try it out on your next night of casual drinking. 

Stay tuned as we continue to find the best bar in Statesboro!