It’s been a long and stressful day at the office. Your nerves are shot, and all you want to do is enjoy a refreshing drink or two with a couple of co-workers. Where do you head to grab some of Salt Lake City’s best martinis, margaritas, and brews? While Salt Lake City boasts numerous lounges and bars our mission was to find the crème of the crop. Why settle for mediocrity, when you have so many fine bars and lounges at your disposal? Here are some of our favorite after-work drinking establishments:

The Red Door

Decidedly hip, modern and edgy, The Red Door could easily be at home in Los Angeles or New York City. As patrons pass through the lounge’s doors, they are welcomed by a rather imposing mural of Argentine revolutionary Che Guevara. While some may take issue with being greeted by one of history’s most controversial figures, the mural does lend a rather striking aesthetic to the décor. Still, it is the Red Door’s selection of irresistible martinis that leaves patrons in a state of complete euphoria. Yes, the martinis are that good! The Ginger Martini is extremely popular, as are many of the “High Octane” martinis, including the delightfully crisp and refreshing Pomegranate Martini. Beyond the beverages, we’d be remiss in not mentioning the stellar bartending at The Red Door. An extraordinary combination of skill, knowledge and friendliness propel these bartenders into a class all their own. Friday nights are highlighted by cool down tempo sounds courtesy of a live DJ.

Martine Café

This swanky restaurant and tapas bar features a varied assortment of European appetizers in a chic yet remarkably warm atmosphere. While we can whole-heartedly recommend any number of Martine’s divine small plates, the reason we continually return to Martine Café after a long day at work is to relax with a glass of wine from their expansive menu of international whites, reds, roses, and dessert wines. On occasion we’ll even share a bottle of Friexenet Cordon Negro Cava, a deliciously crisp and affordable sparkling wine from Spain, with friends. If you’re even a slight oenophile (wine lover), do yourself a favor and head to Martine Café.

The Bayou

Sometimes you just want to roll up your sleeves, kick back, and enjoy a nice cold beer. If so, head to The Bayou, which offers an unrivaled selection of over 200 beers. Yes, you read that right, over 200 beers! Belgians, stouts, porters, lagers, pale and amber ales and even local brews are among the many offerings behind the Bayou’s bar. We’re particularly fond of Epic Brainless Cherries, a strong, locally brewed Belgian ale with cherry notes and a 10.3% ABV. It’s not for the faint of heart! The Bayou also serves delicious restaurant fare, including its famous sweet potato fries, which pair well with Utah’s own Epic Cross Fever Amber. Live music accompanies The Bayou’s great selection of beer and food.

Gracie’s

For those days when you want to keep it casual but are hungry for something other than bar food, Gracie’s is your place. The charming bistro offers a full menu with everything from salads and to pork tenderloin medallions, as well as the best patio in Salt Lake City — its two floors offer fabulous views — and live music every night of the week. We must admit, though, that we’re partial to Gracie’s for more than just its specialty cocktails, food and views; we love that we can catch CLEARLINK alumn Dan Eyring playing with Marmalade Hill (or, their more casual moniker, Marmalade Chill). The band’s great mash-ups, covers and original music will help you decompress after a long day at the office.