Bar Jackalope in Los Angeles offers over 120 whiskies, including about 40 Japanese expressions, at its 18-seat bar.
The generally softer, delicate style that characterizes Japanese whisky makes it a beautiful pairing with sashimi or sushi. But most Japanese whiskies are also terrific sipped neat, and can go fabulously with a good cigar. Given their more delicate style, mixing in cocktails can be tricky, but mixologists have come up with some beautiful combinations. If you’re looking to make it a Japanese whisky night, here is a selection of bars from around the 50 states that have what it takes.
Zuma
Las Vegas
In a city that can sometimes feature over-the-top extravagance, Zuma Las Vegas definitely fits the bill. Not only does it serve up bold authentic Japanese cuisine izakaya-style, but it also has one of the rarest Japanese whisky collections in the West—including some expressions that are no longer sold in the U.S. Gracing its wall of whisky, among about 20 other Japanese pours (ranging from $16-$300/1.5 oz.), is the limited-edition 2022 Yamazaki Tsukuriwake selection, which consists of four single malts: Puncheon ($200/1.5 oz.), Spanish Oak ($200/1.5 oz.), Peated Malt ($200/1.5 oz.), and Mizunara ($300/1.5 oz.). Zuma is one of about 30 accounts that received the collection, and once it’s gone, it’s gone for good. zumarestaurant.com
Bar Jackalope
Los Angeles
This candlelit, vintage-style 18-seat Japanese whisky lounge is tucked away behind Seven Grand whisky bar. Featuring over 120 whiskies—about 40 of which are Japanese—mystery flights, and cigars for smoking on the patio, Bar Jackalope is an ideal spot for whisky drinkers—novice or experienced. The knowledgeable staff will point you in the right direction, whether it be a rare pour of Nikka Miyagikyo Peated single malt 2021 special edition ($117/2 oz.) or a cigar to pair with your (Japanese) Old Fashioned. barjackalope.com
Bar Leather Apron
Honolulu
If you’re looking to experience Japanese whisky in an exceptional cocktail, look no further than Bar Leather Apron. Situated in downtown Honolulu, this intimate cocktail bar features 500 whiskies, of which about 25 are Japanese, including Hakushu 18 year old ($75/1.5oz.). Their award-winning bar program includes idiosyncratic cocktails such as the Sagano Smoke ($22), crafted with Hibiki Harmony, Ardbeg Wee Beastie, matcha, lemon, honey, and a whole egg. barleatherapron.com
School House Kitchen & Libations
Arvada, Colorado
Going back to school will take on a whole new meaning when you visit this place. It’s a schoolhouse-turned-restaurant that boasts a textbook-sized selection of over 1,000 whiskies, including about 60 Japanese pours. From rare bottles like Matsui Shuzo Tottori 21 year old blend ($61/2 oz.) and one of the 492 bottles released in the U.S. of Akkeshi Peated Boshu 2021 single malt ($85/2 oz.) to a Japanese flight of Ohishi Brandy Finish, Hatozaki Small Batch, and Mars Iwai ($16/¾ oz. of each), School House has options for everyone, whether you’re a new student or a master-certified Japanese whisky drinker. schoolhousearvada.com
Local Three
Atlanta
Featuring monthly guided whisky tastings, around 500 bottles—24 of which are Japanese—and an ever-changing seasonal food menu, Local Three is known for its impressive brown liquor selection and upscale yet cozy ambiance. Its menu incorporates whiskies from around the globe, making it a great spot to experience new and rare expressions. Some standout Japanese pours include Nikka Taketsuru 21 year old ($60/2 oz.) and Yamazaki 12 year old ($50/2 oz.). localthree.com
