18 Best Bourbon Bars in NYC

It takes unique taste buds to love bourbon, but if you’re one of those people, you will love our list of the best bourbon bars in NYC.

While there are a lot of people out there who love bourbon and would say it is their drink of choice, I am not one of those people. I am typically more of a rum and gin person. Rum is the only kind of brown liquor I can usually stomach, as I have never really been a fan of most dark liquors. My absolute least favorite liquor is tequila, which I can’t even tolerate the smell of, much less the taste. Whiskey also falls into that category which is why I don’t have much interest in trying it, or for that matter bourbon, as bourbon is a type of whiskey.

Bourbon can be one of the most iconic American drinks and there are are standards that should be met for a whiskey to qualify as a bourbon. For a whiskey to qualify as a bourbon, it should be made of 51% corn and the rest of malted barley and rye or wheat. For many, it should also be made in America, as Kentucky is where it all started. This is aged in new oak barrels which are most often white oak barrels. Elijah Craig who is a Baptist preacher is credited with the invention of bourbon. Some, however, question this history because there were apparently already distilleries dealing in corn whiskey even before Craig. But since Craig was the one credited, we can say though that he helped in the further development of bourbon. They say it is best if you drink it straight and plain, with no ice, which is something I will not be trying anytime soon. If you’re interested in giving it a go, you can pick from our list of Best Cheap Bourbons Under $30 if you want an affordable bourbon but one with quality, or some with a slightly higher prices from our list of Best Bourbon For The Money: 10 Best Bourbons Under $50.

Bourbon is an extraordinary product of the USA. It has been present so many times in history and even in novels just like F. Scott Fitzgerald’s works. We were able to find the best bourbon bars in NYC with Class Curious data. If you feel you want to have a shot of bourbon you can easily find a pick among the many bars in The Big Apple. Rest assured these bourbons don’t have additives like flavors or coloring. Wouldn’t we want to scratch the image of this most iconic drink right?

18. The Campbell Bar

An iconic institution in New York located in Grand Central Terminal where the historic design is maintained is The Campbell Bar.  The leather furnishings is sure to be comfortable and classy, where you can enjoy a sip of a quality bourbon.

17. Caledonia Bar

Caledonia Bar has a Scottish vibe with excellent service.  They have one in Upper West Side and another in Upper East Side.  You can always have the drink that you love most.

16. Vintry Wine & Whiskey

A variety of wine and whiskey including bourbon are all here at Vintry Wine & Whiskey.  This was founded in 2009 and is perfect for wine lovers as well as bourbon, and whiskey drinkers.

15. Bourbon Street Bar & Grill

A Southern Louisiana-inspired place is Bourbon Street Bar & Grill.  Since it is also a restaurant, they have a menu for kids in case you want to eat here with your family.

14. The Up & Up

Matt Piacentini owns The Up & Up cocktail bar which allows you to socialize and feel comfortable.  You can reserve a seat and if you are waiting, they will take your name and number and will text you once the seat is available.

13. Bondurants

Bondurants’ focus is on small batch of Bourbons.  You can also find some comfort food in this bar on the Upper East Side.  This place may be little but the rustic vibe will bring you a good set of food and drinks.

12. Brandy Library

You can book a reservation for a private tasting and private party here at Brandy Library.  Aside from smoked cuisines, they also have Japanese rolls and their bourbons are part of their tasting flights.  Conducting classes for all levels is also one of their programs.

11. American Whiskey

American Whiskey is considered as one of the best bars in the city especially when it comes to whiskey.  Although they innovate and have a vast collection, they focus more on bourbon.

10. The Flat Iron Room

The Flat Iron Room is not just classic and timeless where people can discuss their drinks and be guided by the educated staff, but they also have Whiskey classes.  Their classes cater to students of all levels, even beginners.  Their aim is to make their guests comfortable so the people can enjoy a drink and relax.

9. Dear Irving

With a relaxing atmosphere and the perfect place for dates Dear Irving has you covered. The place can easily get crowded so it is advisable to get a reservation.  Their drinks are their specialty but the menu offers you something to eat as well.

8. Noorman’s Kil

Whiskey tastings and other events are hosted here at Noorman’s Kil, the number 8th on the list of best bourbon bars in NYC. They also have quite a variety of bourbon to choose from landing it a spot on our list of best bourbon bars in NYC. Noorman’s Kil accepts reservations for private events.

7. Rye House NYC

An American restaurant and bar is what sums up the atmosphere of Rye House NYC.  They are into American cuisines and the ambiance is an old school theme.  They offer different kinds of bourbon which will go perfectly with your dinner.

6. The Whiskey Ward

Whiskey, Scotch, and bourbon can reduce loneliness and risk of heart attack with regular consumption. This place is well loved by many people not only for their drinks but for their great service as well.

5. Highlands NYC

A Scottish vibe and a menu with a Scottish twist can be found right here at the Highlands NYC, the next one on the list of best bourbon bars in NYC. On their menu is Rosemary Infused Bourbon and Old Grand-Dad Bonded Bourbon which are among their signature drinks.

4. Hudson Bar and Books

Here in the West Village, you can find Hudson Bar & Books which was founded in 1990.  Not only do they have bourbon on the menu but they also offer cigars and delicious snacks.

3. The Whiskey Brooklyn

Justin and George Ruotolo opened The Whiskey Brooklyn, the number three on our list of best bourbon bars in NYC, in 2010, with the help of Rob Magill. Back in the day, it was a tonic water factory, but is now all things bourbon. Most importantly, you can get great drinks here for a reasonable price.

2. Copper & Oak

A bar with a knowledgeable staff will surely give you what you are looking for here at Copper & Oak.  You have around 600 spirits to choose from, but they specialize in bourbon, Scotch, and rum. They also have tequila in store if you are into a tequila night.

1. Maysville

Named after a town in Kentucky is Maysville, a bar in NYC.  The ambiance and food are Southern-inspired.  They are into everything grilled, smoked, or charred which is a perfect match for a glass of bourbon.

Which of our 18 best bourbon bars in NYC would you want to try?