Upscale in Downtown: Pensacola’s Cocktail Bar Program
Downtown Pensacola is awash in dining and imbibing options all the way across the spectrum of price and genre, but what’s a gal to do when you want to get dressed up and sip a crafted cocktail? When you don’t just want a drink, but an experience? Lucky for you and your favorite Little Black Dress, Pensacola does not disappoint when it comes to upscale cocktail bars for your weeknight or weekend plans.
The Kennedy
It’s no surprise that some of the finest cocktail lounges are located right in the heart of downtown on Palafox Street including The Kennedy, an upscale bar awash in 1960s flair and featuring house-infused liquors and a trend toward the tropical. Enjoy the lush textures of green velvet, gold, and polished decor as you sip crafted cocktails combining the old with the new. Peruse the seasonal menu and look for helpful descriptions like “boozy,” “crushable,” and “profound,” or ask one of the talented mixologists to recommend something new.
Old Hickory Whiskey Bar
Just down the street is The Kennedy’s big sister, Old Hickory Whiskey Bar, a no-nonsense oak-studded bar featuring the city’s finest selection of whiskeys. Browse the whiskey library for something neat, or order The Old Hickory, their take on the Old Fashioned. Not a fan of the darker stuff? Old Hickory features a rotating seasonal menu so you always have something new to try, from a light and fruity gin sipper to a spicy mezcal margarita and even a couple of zero proof options.
Restaurant IRON
Sure, you know Restaurant IRON for their impeccable entrees and upscale southern style, but did you know it’s also an excellent place to have a classy cocktail? Bypass the sit-down dinner and sidle up to the bar for an expertly crafted beverage from IRON’s mixologists. Regulars love The Iron Goddess made with tequila and elderflower and the Smoked Old Fashioned which comes garnished with thick cut bacon.
Angelena’s Ristorante Italiano
Take a stroll to Southtowne where you’ll find a swanky cocktail bar located in Angelena's Ristorante Italiano. The classic black-and-white tiled bar boasts an impressive wine list but they don’t skimp on their cocktail program, all with an Italian flair. Want a martini to pair with your cocktail dress? You’ll love the vintage-inspired vesper, or the limontini made with house-made limoncello.
