Vilnius has a lively bar and cafe scene that has matured considerably since independence. The old town, Gedimino Avenue, and the Užupis neighbourhood have the highest density of options. Lukiškės Prison, converted into a cultural space after closing in 2019, is an unexpectedly atmospheric setting for an evening drink.
Lithuanian beer is worth drinking. The major national brands — Švyturys (from Klaipėda) and Utenos (from Utena) — are decent lagers; Gubernija and Kalnapilis are also widely available. The craft beer scene has expanded sharply since 2010: breweries like Dundulis, Sakiškių, and Apynys produce interesting ales and stouts that turn up in specialist bars.
Midus (Lithuanian mead) and gira (a fermented rye bread drink, similar to kvass) are worth trying as local alternatives. Starka is the traditional Lithuanian spirit — a dark rye vodka aged in oak barrels that predates the vodka tradition by centuries.
The Užupio Kavinė on the Vilnia riverbank is the most atmospheric coffee spot in the city. Craft Pub Vilnius on Stiklių Street has the best Lithuanian craft beer selection in the old town.