Cocktail Bar
Unclaimed profileJapp's - Since 1879
Cincinnati, OH · $$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
Japp's - Since 1879 pours a historically minded cocktail program with a creative edge. Signature drinks like the Dalton & Co. And Florida Water show ambition, while the non-alcoholic lineup is thoughtfully built. Wine and beer lists are practical, though classic cocktail prices stay off-menu. A recent guest review hints at inconsistency, but the range and value keep it a solid stop.
- What should I order?
- Start with the Dalton & Co., a reposado tequila number with honey-lavender syrup. The Florida Water’s coconut fat-washed tequila is a bold choice. For a zero-proof option, the Jade without the Fade mirrors the cocktail list with non-alcoholic gin.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Cocktail enthusiasts looking for inventive flavor combinations, as well as those wanting a well-made classic with a choice of base spirit. Non-alcoholic drinkers will appreciate the dedicated mocktail section and NA beers.
- When should I go?
- Anytime the historic bar’s atmosphere suits; evenings are likely livelier. The house shot at $5 makes a quick stop worthwhile.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Signature cocktails $13-$17; mocktails $8-$12; domestic beers $4; local craft $7.50; wines by the glass from $9. Classic cocktail prices are not listed.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- A signature cocktail menu with theatrical touches like brûléed sugar and jasmine tea foam, plus a non-alcoholic section that mirrors the creativity. The 'A SIP OF HISTORY' tagline nods to the venue’s heritage.
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
Creative signature cocktails with unique ingredients like fat-washed tequila and jasmine foam. Customizable classics add flexibility. Recent review notes a possible decline, but the range and pricing are strong.
Menu strengths
- — Extensive signature list with inventive combinations; Classic cocktails customizable by base spirit
- — Community praise for cocktail quality, though one recent review notes a decline
Standout selections
- — Dalton & Co. – Rey Supremo Reposado, Domaine De Canton, honey-lavender syrup, lemon, $14
- — Florida Water – Coconut fat-washed Casamigos Blanco, hibiscus, lime, saline, $16
- — Golden Hour Cut – Bombay Dry Gin, elderflower, chamomile, jasmine tea foam, $13
Pricing: Signature cocktails $13-$17; house shot $5; classic prices not listed.
Wine
A compact wine list covering major varietals and formats, with glass, 9oz, and bottle options. Some prices missing, but the listed ones are fair.
Menu strengths
- — Variety of wine types and serving sizes; Reasonable pricing on listed wines
Standout selections
- — LaMarca Prosecco Rosé Brut – $9 glass, $35 bottle
- — Biltmore Estate Sauvignon Blanc – $11/$16/$42
Pricing: Bar Dog Chardonnay $10/$15/$40; Biltmore Sauvignon Blanc $11/$16/$42; LaMarca Prosecco Rosé $9/$35.
Beer
Standard beer list with a few local craft options, including Rhinegeist Truth. Non-alcoholic beers round out the selection.
Standout selections
- — Rhinegeist Truth – local craft, $7.50
Pricing: Domestic $4, imported $7, local craft $7.50, NA beer $5-$6.50.
Nonalcoholic
A dedicated non-alcoholic section with creative mocktails that mirror the cocktail list, plus NA beer options. Community confirms zero-proof availability.
Menu strengths
- — Creative mocktails using non-alcoholic spirits; Multiple NA beer choices
Standout selections
- — Jade without the Fade – Cleanco NA gin, sesame, pineapple, $12
- — Pomade & Pomelo – pomegranate, lemon, lime, simple syrup, $8
Pricing: Mocktails $8-$12; NA beers $5-$6.50.
Spirits
Spirits are integral to the cocktail program, with a focus on whiskey, tequila, gin, and rum. Customizable classics imply a broad back bar, though no standalone list exists.
Menu strengths
- — Use of premium and specialty spirits in signatures
Standout selections
- — Crème Brûlée Old Fashioned uses George Dickel Rye and Captain Morgan Rum
Pricing: No dedicated spirits pricing available.
How it sits with the food
No food menu is documented, but the Crème Brûlée Old Fashioned’s sweet, brûléed notes could pair with rich desserts, while the Golden Hour Cut’s floral tea foam might suit light fare.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
Community reviews
Anyone with a free Inebrious account can rate the drinks here. Community ratings are kept entirely separate from the Inebrious editorial score above.
No community reviews yet. Be the first to write one.