Whiskey Bars in Long Beach
Though known by many names–scotch, rye, bourbon–whiskey has a singular reputation for being a thoughtful liquor, best enjoyed by itself; neat. And from lounges to subterranean haunts, upscale bars and restaurants, Long Beach offers a variety of spots where you can slow down, enjoy a smooth pour and appreciate the rich depth of flavor whiskey has to offer. Whether connoisseur or casual drinker, you can explore these places that provide a perfect backdrop for a smooth finish to an evening.
BROKEN SPIRITS DISTILLERY
Broken Spirits Distillery (300 The Promenade N) has quickly become a Downtown mainstay with its speakeasy-inspired interior and delicious food, particularly its smoked meats dishes. Its own amazing line of artisanal spirits, particularly whiskey, is created by using time-honored techniques and the finest ingredients. Besides offering its own unique, small-batch liquor, Broken Spirits stocks a wide variety of quality whiskeys, ranging from rye to bourbon.
The Auld Dubliner
Known as a great place for an authentic Irish pub experience, complete with great pub dishes like bangers and mash and an expertly poured Guinness, Auld Dubliner (71 S Pine Ave) also has a strong commitment to whiskey, which it offers in many varieties and price points, boasting one of the largest whiskey collection in the region. It also offers several curated whiskey flights as well as Whiskey Wednesday, when select whiskies are offered at half off.
The Blind Donkey
Blind Donkey (149 Linden Ave) is a lot of fun with its classic video games, pool tables, Skee-Ball and popular karaoke nights. But there’s a serious side to the bar when it comes to whiskey. Its Old Fashioneds are legendary and its voluminous whiskey menu features precious spirits from America, Ireland, Scotland and “Everywhere Else.” Selections from Scotland are so varied that they’re divided into further regions, i.e. Highlands, Lowlands, Islay, etc.
The Stave
The Stave (170 The Promenade N.) actually feels like whiskey tastes. Maybe it’s the dark wood walls, 70-foot long angled bar or the smooth, mellow atmosphere. Then again, maybe it’s that it’s named after the oak staves used to build whiskey barrels. Whatever it is, The Stave features more than 100 varieties of whiskey as well as flights compiled from some of the best whiskey producing areas in the world.
Wille’s Tin Shop
A hidden haven, located behind Roxanne’s (1115 E Wardlow Rd) on Wardlow, Wille’s (is a distillery owned and run by Roxanne’s owner Robert Molina. Besides great vodka and gin, it produces smooth whiskies like Jackrabbit and Dirty Prospector that are barrel aged and made with local water. You can try them at Roxanne’s or at the Exhibition Room, the ultra-cool speakeasy that lies hidden somewhere in the back.
ANGEL’S SHARE
Angel's Share (5110 Second St) appeared in Belmont Shore in 2024 and has quickly made a name for itself, particularly for an impressive whiskey program with a diverse selection, from Japanese to Irish to Scotch and bourbon. The interior gives off an old school cool vibe that combines both Roaring 20s with Rat Pack, complete with chandeliers and button-tufted booths. There’s also an impressive menu featuring great shareable dishes and steaks.
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