Cocktail Bar
Unclaimed profileRusk Kitchen + Bar
Cincinnati, OH · $$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
Rusk Kitchen + Bar runs a broad beverage program with something for nearly everyone: a 50-plus bourbon list, a global wine list, local Ohio drafts, and a full mocktail set. Signature cocktails like the Peebles Old Fashioned and Rusk Mule anchor a menu that spans classic to seasonal. Happy hour and Wine Wednesday add value, though cocktail quality draws mixed guest reviews.
- What should I order?
- Start with the Peebles Old Fashioned ($15) or Rusk Mule ($10) during happy hour. Bourbon fans should target Blanton's Straight From The Barrel ($45) or Weller Full Proof ($28).
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Whiskey enthusiasts and value-seeking happy hour crowds will find plenty. The mocktail list and non-alcoholic beer also make it accessible for designated drivers or those skipping alcohol.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Cocktails $10-$15, drafts $6-$9, wine glasses $9-$16, bourbon pours $7-$60. Happy hour drops select cocktails to $8.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The bourbon list is the anchor, with rare pours like Blanton's Straight From The Barrel and Weller Full Proof. The combination of local drafts, seasonal cocktails, and dedicated mocktails shows range beyond typical bar programs.
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
A varied menu of signature, seasonal, and brunch cocktails. Prices are fair, and happy hour offers solid value.
Menu strengths
- — Diverse menu spanning classics, seasonal specials, and brunch options.
Standout selections
- — Peebles Old Fashioned - Buffalo Trace, vanilla demerara, orange bitters, $15.
- — Rusk Mule - Corazon tequila, ginger beer, lime, $10 (or $8 happy hour).
- — The Woodburn - Buffalo Trace, Canton ginger liqueur, St. Germain, lime, $13.
Pricing: Cocktails $10-$15; happy hour $8 for Rusk Mule and Peebles Old Fashioned.
Wine
Global selection with house wines by glass and bottle, plus Wine Wednesday half-price bottles. Notable picks include Sancerre and Chianti Classico.
Menu strengths
- — Wide range of regions and styles.; Wine Wednesday promotion adds value.
Standout selections
- — Chianti Classico - Castello di Radda, $16 glass / $57 bottle.
- — Sauvignon Blanc - Domaine de Rome, Sancerre, $70 bottle.
- — Sparkling Rosé - A to Z Wineworks, $36 bottle.
Pricing: Bottles $30-$80; glasses $8-$16; house wine $8 during happy hour.
Beer
Solid draft list with local Ohio representation and seasonal rotations. Includes a non-alcoholic option. Prices are reasonable.
Menu strengths
- — Local Ohio drafts like Rhinegeist and Rusk Lager.
Standout selections
- — Rhinegeist Juicy Truth IPA - Ohio draft, $8.
- — Rusk Lager - Ohio draft, $6.
- — Voodoo Ranger Juice Force - seasonal double IPA, $9.
Pricing: Drafts $6-$9; cans/bottles $5-$7.
Nonalcoholic
A thoughtful mocktail menu with creative options like Strawberry Mint Spritz and brunch-specific drinks. Also offers NA beer, coffee, and juices.
Menu strengths
- — Multiple mocktail options beyond standard sodas.; Brunch mocktails add variety.
Standout selections
- — Strawberry Mint Spritz - strawberry, lemon, mint, soda, $8.
- — Golden Hour Spritzer - orange, honey, ginger beer.
- — Strawberry Basil Lemonade - lemonade, fresh strawberries, basil.
Pricing: Mocktails around $8; Stella Zero NA $5.
Spirits
An outstanding bourbon and whiskey list with over 50 selections, including rare and allocated bottles. Prices are competitive for the category.
Menu strengths
- — Extensive selection with rare pours.; Spirits available neat or on the rocks.
Standout selections
- — Blanton's Straight From The Barrel - $45.
- — Whistle Pig 10 YR Rye - $28.
Pricing: Bourbon/whiskey pours $7-$60.
How it sits with the food
No specific food-pairing guidance is available, but the diverse beverage menu suggests flexibility. The Woodburn, with bourbon and ginger, could stand up to hearty American fare, while the Hugo + Rouge prosecco cocktail suits lighter dishes.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
Community reviews
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