I used to think it was nonsense when people would talk about the “notes” and “subtle undertones” of whiskeys and bourbons. So, when I told one of my whiskey-loving friends about that hot take, he leaped from his seat and insisted we put that theory to the test.
He poured three or four bourbons from his collection of 140 whiskeys, a collection he described as “completely out of control.”
I was pleasantly surprised to learn that I was able to identify some differences between them. This made me feel both humbled and like I’d become just slightly more sophisticated, which is always a win.
I know not everyone is a fan of this high-burn spirit, so while whiskey is the focus here, you can always check out these restaurants for the actual food. Nonalcoholic beverages are also included.
While the TX WhiskeyRanch distillery is located near downtown, offering tours and allowing guests to taste its wares, I thought it didn’t really fit into the column’s format. I wouldn’t call it a restaurant or bar, so I’m just giving it an honorable mention here. Don’t come for me.
Nancy’s old-fashioneds at Ron’s Corner Tavern
My sources in the whiskey-loving community mentioned Ron’s Corner Tavern as a top spot. While beer is their primary focus, they offer $4 and $5 select whiskeys on Wednesday Pint Nights and during Thursday night trivia.
Their website highlights a classic whiskey-based cocktail, saying their “leader, Nancy, is an award-winning old-fashioned craftsman. You just haven’t had an old-fashioned until you’ve had Nancy’s.”
The menu shows standard pub fare, such as a Bavarian pretzel, wings, a half-pound burger with fries, BLT with avocado and an 8-inch pizza. Those with a sweet tooth will also find bread pudding with caramel rum sauce, blackberry cobbler with ice cream, and beignets.
1829 Airport Freeway, Bedford; 817-993-9903
Clue in the name at Whiskey Cake
Who would have thought that a place called Whiskey Cake offers a wide variety of whiskeys? Probably most people, so it shouldn’t be a surprise to find this Alliance eatery on the list.
Their whiskey list is several pages long, with tons of American varieties, bourbons and ryes to 38 Scotches, eight Irish, four Canadian and nine Japanese pours from brands like Yamazaki, Nikka and Hakushu. Their adult beverage options aren’t limited to whiskey, and while they feature seven whiskey-focused cocktails, they also have rum, tequila, gin, vodka, beer and wine.
Not one for alcohol? They have mocktails.
Dinner is served 4 p.m.-midnight, with shareables such as hummus with crudite, goat cheese fondue, deviled eggs and fire roasted Brussels sprouts. Mains are primarily surf and turf and sandwiches, with salads and kids options also available. Brunch is Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.-3 p.m. and lunch runs Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Those avoiding animal products will want to inform their waiter of any dietary restrictions, as many dishes, including sides, are prepared in animal fat. That said, while their eponymous dessert is the only sweet on the menu, the famous toffee cake is rich enough to be its own meal and comes with a bourbon glaze, spiced pecans and a large side of house-made whipped cream.
2849 Heritage Trace Parkway, Fort Worth; 817-289-3691
We’d love to hear from you! Send your restaurant tips and hot takes to erin.ratigan@fortworthreport.org.
Erin Ratigan is a freelance journalist and writer specializing in narrative news features. You can find her on X @erinratigan.
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