I was really excited to check this place out after seeing their cocktail menu online, and in some ways it definitely lived up to the hype. The drinks were excellent--well-balanced, creative, and clearly made with skill. There was also a live musician performing during my visit who was amazing and added a great atmosphere and really elevated the overall vibe. Service, however, was a mixed experience. One of the bartenders (a newer female bartender) was very friendly, attentive, and showed a lot of potential--she made a great impression despite seeming a bit new. Unfortunately, the other bartender completely brought the experience down. He came across as rude, disengaged, and honestly like he didn't want to be there at all. I understand it was a busy night, but there was very little sense of urgency from him, and wait times felt longer than they should have been--even factoring in the crowd. That said, I do understand everyone can have an off night, and given how good the drinks and atmosphere were (plus the positive reviews I've seen elsewhere), I'd likely be willing to give it another shot. Overall, great cocktails and ambiance, but inconsistent service keeps it from being a top-tier experience--for now. I will be happy to update following a repeat visit. read more

Nate is the best! My boyfriend and I stopped here on a family trip and had the best time :) Nate is super knowledgeable and sociable. Highly highly recommend the cocktail "children of the corn". Perfect drinks and perfect vibe!! read more

Pricey but unique and well worth a visit when in town. The bartenders here are friendly and know their stuff. CatsEye has one of the best espresso martinis I've ever had! read more

CatsEye - Wine Bars Near Me - Ottawa, Illinois

We love stopping in to this cozy wind bar when we are in Ottawa. It has such a continental flavor! The cocktail selection is innovative and changes when new ideas present themselves. Wine selection is varied and prices are reasonable for the quality. Art by local artists decorates the walls, adding to the atmosphere. Never disappoints! read more

Cat's Eye is my favorite spot, full stop. Great cocktails, eclectic and comfortable! They are great supporters of the local art and music scene as well. I can't recommend this place enough! read more

CatsEye - Friends at the Cat's Eye. - Wine Bars Near Me - Ottawa, Illinois

Visiting my partner's hometown and it was our first time checking out this bar. We wanted to grab a nice old fashion, and this is the place just for that. The bartender is a true mixologist who knows how to mix them! They also had a lovely band playing live music. Love some good vocals and acoustic guitar going. It's a small place, but the vibes are just right. Really cool local art on the walls as well. If we ever come back, we will be sure to check this spot out again. read more

CatsEye - Cute bar - Wine Bars Near Me - Ottawa, Illinois

See all

After some time of not coming back. My wife and I decided to give CatsEye a try. (It's been since 2020 that I last had it) Needless to say we been here more times than I've been to any other place in town in a single month. Nate and his dad are great people to get to know. The place remains the same clean and attentive as it's always been. I am glad to have given CatEye a second chance because now I refuse to stop coming and my wife does too. Nate thank you for changing my perspective on your guy's business. You guys are doing one amazing job. read more

So many fun and unique drinks. This is a gem nestled in the downtown Ottawa area. Don't pass it up. They are about wine and also fun drinks !! read more

An incredible wine & cocktail experience in Ottawa, IL! Love Nate & Mike really know their stuff!

If there's a better cocktail bar in Central Illinois, I implore you to contact me so I can visit. This spot is a hidden gem; while passing thru town I desired an adult beverage but had no idea where to go. While eating lunch at a nearby brewery (Tangled Roots - it's also really good) the server suggested Cat's Eye The drink options, esthetic, vibe and service was all excellent. Resembles a speakeasy with better lighting; and did I mention the service was great?! Started off with a bourbon flight (I dug 2 out of the 3), then went with the vanilla whiskey sour (which was the highlight of the day.) I can't say I'll be in this area again any time soon. But if I'm within a 50mi radius I'll come back. Highly recommend! read more

CatsEye - Bourbon flight - Wine Bars Near Me - Ottawa, Illinois

See all

This is such a super cute and intimate place! They offer a variety of upscale cocktails and the service is fantastic! Two thumbs up! read more

See all

Such a cute and fun place for drinks. I am cocktail girl all the way. So it's nice to be able to get a drink even at a wine bar. Currently this place is not serving food. You can order from Iniga and have it delivered to you. read more

Marisa was wonderful! Knowledgeable in her mixology, so sweet in hospitality! Cats Eye store was wonderful too!! Thank you for a good birthday for my sister! read more

Catseye! Love the name, love the Vibe, love the owners. Wandered in on a Summer Friday night. Love the smiling faces and eclectic design. Comfy seating at bar, tables and they offer a boho style casual seating as well. All very important to relax, share company and drinks. Great for sexy night out or As a group which clearly there was a mix of both. Large Wine list. Offers Craft Beers...Bottles & Cans which we prefer. Mixed Drinks. My party of three enjoyed Moscato, a tasty Margarita and an excellent Red Sangria with a nice kick of Brandy. They offer free entertainment. This evening a handsome gentleman (Sean) playing the guitar and singing, made the experience one you would expect to enjoy in a trendy city location. Order the Charcuterie plate, it will make you smile. A variety of Sweet Red Grapes, Savory Italian Meats, Salty Olive Tapenade served with a variety of flats. Wait there's more...cheese selection and Salty Almonds. Nice combination that pairs well with the drinks. Have your friends look quick the other way while you steal the Dark Chocolate Salted Caramels...omg. Great night. We will return. Great addition to the City Fare of Ottawa. read more

See all

Very cool spot for wine and upscale drinks. They have music on weekends and a friendly staff

Fantastic little hidden gem. Decor is fantastic, drinks are on point, lots of entertainment and the staff are very friendly. Definitely check this place out. Thank you Nate! read more

Ok, so we truly came for the entertainment tonight, Fiddlerock!!! Yes, it rocks!!! However, the guy behind the bar is very impressive!! He is hon Point mixing and serving his heart out!! We would come back any time!! read more

Lucky Ottawa for having the gem establishment, CatsEye! The owners have certainly created a welcoming gathering space to enjoy their well curated libations. The calendar of live events and an eclectic shop next door will definitely have us visiting again! Thank you for the experience! read more

This is a hidden gem. a relaxing place to enjoy wine, a seasonal cocktail or craft beer. Often there is live music or entertainment. Go with a group or by yourself. never disappoints. read more

Had wonderful cocktails in addition to a wine flight. Met great people. Will definitely stop here again when we come through town.

This is a hidden gem in the Illinois Valley. Located downtown Ottawa is has signature cocktails. Hand curated by the owner. Relaxing atmosphere. read more

Love this wine bar.. Catseye is very relaxing and has a great wine selection ..What I like the most is there are no TVs and no loud music..You can visit and enjoy each other's company...The bartender's are very attentive and know the product they are serving...Love eclectic atmosphere read more

I nice wine bar. Not from the area but I wish Toledo Ohio had a decent, low key place like this. For the size of the town, kudos to you. A gem. Would have liked small plates but I can't complain. read more

Catseye is an exceptional small business with a great vibe. They offer an expansive wine collection, great craft cocktails, and great live music. They are an important part of our community, and the city of Ottawa has their back. read more

Wonderful service and friendly owners. Well crafted cocktails, extensive wine list and a wonderful vibe. (and only 30 mins away)

I've tried this place more times than I should have. The poor bartender runs her ass off while owners/managers do nothing to help. Utterly ridiculous management! We told the owner (after 30 minute wait) we would like some service who in turn sent the already over worked bartender to apologize. Not to mention they have little knowledge or wine or craft beer. I'm not sure what they folks did before opening a wine bar but they should go back & do that! People... go spend your money where it's appreciated! read more

I had never been to Ottawa before but was visiting a friend who lives locally. First of this place is so nice. Very cool hipster vibes with a beautiful bar. When we went they were actually out of an ingredient to make a drink we were all interested in having. This led to a small series of events that left us slightly disappointed. I won't go into detail because it's too long and at this point irrelevant but what I wanted to say is when I was asked via email how my experience was I was honest, and the way it was handled was SUPERB. Its very obvious that this establishment really cares about how they make their customer feel. I feel that they were genuinely interested in making things right with me and that is the sign of a successful business! If I'm ever in Ottawa again I will absolutely make it a point to stop at this unique and cute spot. read more

Very cute spot with a laid back feel. Bartender was very nice. Stumbled on this place while leaving Tangled Roots and decided to stop in.

This is the best place for a glass of wine and small bite in the Illinois valley! The atmosphere is relaxing and hip, a great place to catch up with family, friends or your significant other in a quiet atmosphere. We recently had a baby shower there. Everything was top of the line including the wine, small bites of meats and cheeses, and the owners and their assistance that day. It was a fabulous event that Francie and Mike helped plan out. We have also been with friends to enjoy their evening hours and had great wine, excellent service, and lots of laughs! Cat's Eye is a gem and I can't wait to go back! read more

See all

Everything about this place is special. From the wide variety of wines and well thought out cocktail and craft beer menu to the eclectic and repurposed interior design, when you walk in, you can't help but feel welcomed and comfortable. The bar is inviting, but I love the option to sit semi-privately in a small group setting. The bartender was friendly and knowledgeable and I'm looking forward to so many more memories here. I might even get married here. read more

Excellent service and wine knowledge. Had a great experience. I would recommend the small plates with a nice red wine.

I have been to Catseye many times and always enjoy the atmosphere, entertainment, and cozy environment. The drink selections are great!! Because of this, I chose to have Catseye be the place for my wedding (both the ceremony and reception). The Catseye staff made our special day absolutely amazing!! Every little detail was perfect, the charcuterie table was a work of art and delicious! They managed every little detail for me and made the event seamless and incredible! The Catseye staff are friendly and helpful, the owners are so great, and Catseye is truly an exceptional spot to enjoy drinks, friends, and entertainment. Will be back often!!! read more