Cocktail bar
Unclaimed profile1886 Bar
Pasadena, CA · $$$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
1886 Bar operates as a speakeasy-style cocktail bar in a historic Craftsman bungalow, earning praise for its craft cocktail program. Reviewers highlight hand-cut ice, fresh juices, and premium spirits, with a cozy, romantic ambiance. The password-gated entrance adds to the allure, making it a destination for serious cocktail enthusiasts.
- What should I order?
- Order from the craft cocktail list, which showcases hand-cut ice and fresh juices. The program emphasizes premium spirits, so expect well-constructed classics or original creations. Specific names are not documented, but the quality is consistently praised.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Cocktail purists who appreciate meticulous preparation, such as hand-cut ice and fresh juices, will feel at home. The speakeasy vibe and historic setting appeal to those seeking a romantic or intimate drinking experience.
- When should I go?
- Evenings are ideal for the speakeasy ambiance, especially when the password is required. The cozy fireplace and outdoor patio make it a year-round choice, though weekends may be busier.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Pricing evidence is unavailable, but the use of premium spirits and craft techniques suggests a higher-end cocktail bar. Expect to pay accordingly for quality.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The historic Craftsman bungalow setting and speakeasy vibe, complete with a password, set it apart. Hand-cut ice and fresh juices are not just features but pillars of the program, as noted by guests.
Beverage categories
We only score what a venue sets out to do. Categories a venue doesn't attempt are left unscored rather than penalized.
Cocktails
Craft cocktail program praised for hand-cut ice, fresh juices, and premium spirits. The speakeasy setting adds to the experience, but no specific drinks are documented.
Menu strengths
- — Hand-cut ice is a noted detail that reflects attention to craft.
- — Fresh juices are used, indicating a from-scratch approach.
- — Premium spirits form the base of the cocktails, elevating quality.
Standout selections
- — Craft cocktails with hand-cut ice and fresh juices, as highlighted by reviewers.
Spirits
The spirits program is defined by the use of premium spirits in cocktails. No standalone spirits list is documented, but the quality is inferred from the cocktail program.
Menu strengths
- — Premium spirits are a core component of the cocktail program.
- — The selection, while unspecified, supports a craft cocktail focus.
Standout selections
- — Premium spirits used in craft cocktails, as noted by guests.
How it sits with the food
No food program evidence was found, so pairings are speculative. The cocktail focus suggests a bar-centric experience, likely with small bites if available, but nothing is documented.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
Community reviews
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