Bars, Breweries, Distilleries & More
Here are some great suggestions from my travels over the 10 years. Let's explore delicious cocktails and cozy spots that have left a mark on my journey.
Alter Ego
Recently, we visited the buzzworthy Alter Ego Cocktail Club in Downtown San Jose, and it absolutely lived up to the hype! Nestled inside Still O.G., this bar offers an impressive cocktail experience.
The Annabel Lee cocktail was a standout, featuring a delightful blend of brandy, aperitivo, chili, and tamarind. Its perfect balance of sweet, bold, and spicy flavors is a must for any cocktail enthusiast! The stunning presentation, topped with a bubble that released a smoky pop, was unforgettable—especially with the image of a lady holding a cigarette.
The Canyon Lullaby cocktail was equally impressive, combining rye, passionfruit, and Calpico in a cute cactus-shaped cup for a fruity, sweet delight.
We also tried the Buster Babs, a fascinating clarified drink made with rum, carrot, turbinado sugar, and more. This unique cocktail takes days to prepare, resulting in an incredibly smooth and sweet flavor profile, beautifully presented.
Bee’s Knees
Discover Bee’s Knee bar in Kyoto, a stylish speakeasy with a Prohibition-era vibe offering Japanese-inspired cocktails. From the citrusy Truffle Bee’s Knees to the Umami-rich Da-Shi Martini, each drink is crafted to delight. With attentive staff and unique cocktails, this upscale bar is a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts in Kyoto.
Bar B & F
B&F Bar, a cozy speakeasy beneath Tokyo’s famous Bar Benfiddich, serves custom-crafted cocktails inspired by Japanese flavors. Perfect for adventurous drinkers, simply name ingredients like yuzu or cherry blossom, and the expert bartenders will mix a drink tailored to you. With an inviting atmosphere and attentive staff, B&F Bar offers an unforgettable, personalized experience for cocktail lovers in Tokyo.
The Underground Speakeasy & Distillery
Experience the charm of The Underground Speakeasy & Distillery in Downtown Las Vegas, a hidden gem located within the Mob Museum. Just steps from Fremont Street, this Prohibition-era bar offers expertly crafted cocktails inspired by history, with decor that transports you back to the 1920s. Friendly staff, unique drinks, and live music make it a must-visit spot. For a full experience, explore the distillery and museum exhibits too.
Italian Cellar Speakeasy Bar
Discover a charming speakeasy bar with a warm, inviting atmosphere reminiscent of the Prohibition era. Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails like the Sbagliato and classic Tuscan Negroni, with plans to return for off-menu drinks. The friendly bartender adds to the welcoming vibe, making it a perfect spot to unwind. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a unique cocktail experience!
Lamp Bar
Discover Nara’s top-rated bar, Lamp, one of Asia’s 50 Best Bars, known for its unique cocktails and artistry. Owned by champion bartender Michito Kaneko, Lamp offers a truly personalized experience with no set menu—order based on your taste preferences, and enjoy house-made vermouth crafted from sake. Signature cocktails like ‘The Beginning’ and the ‘Lamp Negroni’ feature Japanese ingredients, including burdock root and Nara cypress, for unforgettable flavors. A must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts looking to explore innovative Japanese flavors!
The SG Club
The SG Club in Tokyo is a unique multi-floor bar combining Japanese elegance with a vintage 19th-century saloon vibe. Ranked as one of Asia’s top bars, it has two distinct areas: Guzzle upstairs, for a lively atmosphere, and the quieter, more refined Sip downstairs, ideal for savoring cocktails. Signature drinks include the floral Bathtub Yuzu Drop and the dessert-like Drunken Grandma's Apple Pie. The “Whisky Nigiri” offers an umami twist, while Charlie Brown Loves Wagyu combines bourbon with kobe beef and peanut butter. A pricier spot, but absolutely worth visiting!
Here Kitty Kitty Vice Den Bar
Here Kitty Kitty Vice Den Bar is a hidden gem inside Resorts World in Las Vegas, concealed behind a wall that opens discreetly, making it a fun adventure to find. The ambiance inside feels intimate and sophisticated, reminiscent of small, atmospheric bars found in Japan, with a warm and inviting design that sets a relaxed tone. The bartenders create custom cocktails based on your preferences, while their unique whiskey-based options provide a flavorful experience perfect for unwinding in a cozy yet vibrant space away from the Strip's hustle.