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.
Gatsby's Cocktail Lounge
Located within Resorts World in Las Vegas, Gatsby’s Cocktail Lounge offers an upscale yet playful ambiance with a focus on unique cocktails and champagne. Known for fun, Instagram-worthy drinks like the Champagne Bath, served with rubber ducks, it’s an ideal spot for celebrations and milestone events. The bar’s atmosphere combines 1920s elegance with modern flair, featuring curated music and a lively lounge vibe. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or looking to elevate your Vegas experience, Gatsby’s adds a unique twist to any night out!
Hin Areni Winery
Hin Areni Winery and the historic Areni-1 Cave in Armenia offer a fascinating journey through one of the world’s oldest winemaking traditions, dating back over 6,000 years. Visiting Areni-1 Cave first gives a sense of Armenia's deep-rooted wine heritage, discovered during a 2007 excavation. Then, at Hin Areni Winery, guests experience modern Armenian winemaking with tastings of local varieties. This combination creates a truly enriching experience, blending ancient history with contemporary wine culture—a must for wine lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
I Love Sugar - Candy Martini Bar
For a whimsical and sweet cocktail experience in Las Vegas, I Love Sugar’s Candy Martini Bar is a must-visit. Known for its giant, candy-themed martinis, this bar offers over-the-top creations that come with fun dry ice effects, making each drink as much about the visuals as the flavor. Try the colossal Gummy Bear Martini or “Pop It Like It’s Hot,” which is perfect for sharing with friends or family due to its size. Each drink brings a candy-inspired twist, creating a memorable Vegas outing for any group
Oak & Ivy
For a refreshing escape from the bustling Las Vegas Strip, Oak & Ivy in the Fremont area offers a warm, intimate setting perfect for whiskey enthusiasts. Known for its inventive cocktails crafted with homemade and seasonal ingredients, the bar specializes in whiskey-based creations. Their "Smoke & Spice & Nothing Nice" with BBQ bitters and bourbon offers a unique twist, while the "Apple Pie Harvest" is a popular signature choice. The knowledgeable and passionate staff add to the experience, making Oak & Ivy a spot worth revisiting for creative, expertly crafted drinks.
Aire Bar
If you're looking for a scenic, relaxing spot in Leeds, Aire Bar along the River Aire is a fantastic choice. This spot combines charming brick architecture with a cozy atmosphere, perfect for socializing over drinks by the water. The bar’s impressive drink menu, including ciders and craft beers, is well-loved, and prices are reasonable, making it a great option for both locals and visitors. Watching boats drift by as you sip on a refreshing cider adds a romantic touch to the experience—highly recommended if you’re in the area!
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!
Matsumoto Brewery Honcho
While exploring Matsumoto, I stumbled upon this fantastic taproom with an impressive lineup of craft beers, which included offerings from Matsumoto Brewery. Located on the third floor, the taproom provides a cozy atmosphere with a warm, laid-back vibe and a great view of the bustling intersection below. Matsumoto Brewery, known for its high-quality beers brewed with local ingredients, also has another nearby taproom in Nakamachi. This brewery truly highlights local craftsmanship in each of its brews, making it a must-visit for craft beer enthusiasts. Highly recommend!
The Chandelier
For a unique cocktail experience, try the Verbena at The Chandelier bar in the Cosmopolitan, Las Vegas. This intriguing off-menu margarita starts with eating a Szechuan button, a small edible flower that activates a tingling, buzzing sensation on your tongue. The flower’s numbing effect intensifies the cocktail’s citrus notes, turning each sip into a sensory experience that’s as unique as it is enjoyable. Known for its multi-level setup and iconic crystal design, The Chandelier bar is a top Vegas spot for creative cocktails in a stunning setting.
SUSHISAMBA
Sushisamba is a lively spot that combines Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian influences in its dishes and cocktails, creating a unique dining experience. The bar offers a blend of classic and inventive cocktails, including the Wasabi Margarita, which has a subtle wasabi-infused tequila, and the Nashi Martini with a rich pear flavor. They also have an impressive sake selection, spotlighting regional Japanese varieties. With its vibrant atmosphere, Sushisamba is a great choice for Japanese-inspired drinks and fusion cuisine in an upbeat setting.
Whitelock's Ale House
Whitelock’s Ale House, the oldest pub in Leeds, has been serving since 1715, originally under the name The Turk's Head before the Whitelock family acquired it in the 1880s. Tucked away in a charming alley in the city center, it retains much of its Victorian character with vintage mirrors, wood-paneled interiors, and stained glass. Known for its historic charm and cozy atmosphere, Whitelock’s hosts events like beer festivals, making it a unique spot to enjoy local brews and pub fare. A must-visit for history lovers and beer enthusiasts alike!
Kirkstall Bridge Inn
The Kirkstall Bridge Inn is a cozy, historic pub near Leeds, situated along the scenic River Aire and not far from Kirkstall Abbey. It’s beloved for its riverside views, charming interiors, and selection of craft beers from Kirkstall Brewery. With a relaxed ambiance, it's a fantastic spot to unwind with a pint after exploring the nearby medieval abbey ruins. The pub also serves up hearty British fare, making it a lovely place to experience a bit of Leeds' local culture and history.
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.
20twenty Cheese Bar
20Twenty Cheese Bar offers a cozy, intimate spot perfect for gatherings with friends or romantic dates. Known for its excellent selection of wines and craft beers, it’s also a great place to enjoy a charcuterie board or a tasting platter with curated cheeses and meats, making it versatile whether you're in the mood for wine or beer. The bar's charming atmosphere and emphasis on quality pairings make it an ideal destination for a relaxing yet refined experience.