Chase and Julia (gosh I hope i got the names right) were fabulous hosts, guides, bartenders! Step inside the dimly lit tasting room and craft cocktail bar and relax! I've been trying to stop into this distillery for years, but my timing was always off. Either they were closed that day i was there or not opening before I left. But today, the starts aligned. If you know, John and I love going to small craft/ small batch distilleries & we have the bar to back that up. Years of learning what we love and what we (I really) don't. I was all interested in the bourbon! And they delivered! Every batch is a one and done, with every new batch trying to be better and more refined than the last. Reminds me of myself, I'm always moving forward & trying to do better! Loved the bourbon. The Winter Park Arts Festival blend was phenomenal! Then... I tried the Gincident and that was an easy yes, let's take that bottle home. Meanwhile, Chase was bragging about their Best Espresso Martini.... hmmm, prove it. Made with bourbon, omg yes please. Proprietary blend of coffee, vodka made in house and yes, it was one of my to three I've ever had! And now I want to start trying various bourbons to make one at home! And I heard they do a Halloween Yelp Event!!! Whhhaaaatttt! Please please, I must go this coming fall! I LOVE HALLOWEEN!!! read more

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Came to this place and search of a popular food truck & stayed for the drinks and vibes. We were unsure really what forward slash was until we arrived. To be honest, we thought we were coming to a brewery and quickly realized it was a distillery. We walked in and noticed a bunch of outdoor seating. It was the perfect night so we looked forward to sitting outside. The atmosphere was busy, but laid back. We entered into the dimly lit establishment at Harry Potter playing on the TV (win!). It was a speakeasy-esque vibe and I loved it. We ordered an old-fashioned and espresso martini which were quickly brought to our table. They indicated that the espresso martini was the best one in town, so naturally I had to try it. I would definitely say it takes top five. We sat outside and had a great evening at this place. We will definitely be back and look forward to it. read more

The only bar that was open early on a Sunday after we had brunch in the area. Since then, my friends and I always try making plans to visit our favorite bar. Anything you try on the menu is fabulous, but if you don't see anything, the bar tenders are more than happy to make you something. They are so creative and are very knowledgeable. They have an outside area, a main room and another room in the back, so plenty of space to sit. The day we came Cas had on anime and we were loving it I haven't been able to go due to my schedule, but they always have the coolest events happening at their bar. Hopefully one day soon read more

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First time checking out this spot and it was great ! Smaller parking lot and I'm sure they get filled up pretty quick. Very low profile in the area and seems as if not much people visit because they don't know about it. From our recent experience , definitely a nice spot to enjoy a drink and relax and just socialize. They offer rental options as well for the small hall with bartenders , setups, etc. they are more of a whiskey house and has some limitations on drinks , but definitely worth a try and visit for the ambiance and drinks read more

Forward Slash - Distilleries Near Me - Winter Park, Florida

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First visit to Forward Slash, a craft beer and spirits blending house, and the space itself makes a strong first impression. The interior features a small but inviting bar with a handful of tables, plus a covered outdoor porch that's ideal on a beautiful March evening. We grabbed a table outside with plans to sample a few cocktails and settle in for the night. The menu offered several intriguing selections. I started with the margarita, while my guest ordered a glass of cabernet. The server asked if I'd like their signature salt blend adhered with what I understood to be tallow. Thinking it might resemble something like Tajín, I agreed -- that turned out to be a mistake. The margarita leaned heavily lime-forward -- not inherently bad, but the citrus overwhelmed everything else to the point that I couldn't distinguish much nuance. The signature salt blend was unfortunately the bigger miss: largely flavorless with a slightly greasy aftertaste that detracted from the drink rather than enhancing it. My guest's cabernet was fine in quality, but the pour felt modest. I understand a standard pour is 5 oz, yet for the price point I would expect a slightly more generous serving. Out of curiosity, we looked up the bottle retail price (around $20 for a 750ml), which made the by-the-glass pricing feel particularly steep. The atmosphere is pleasant and I can see how their special events could make for a lively group outing. However, for us, the value proposition just wasn't there. My Scottish blood simply won't allow me to spend $30+ (before tip) for two small, underwhelming drinks. Nice setting, but likely not our spot -- though it may very well resonate with a different demographic. read more

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Another first! Nestled away in a quiet corner sits this little gem. The drink menu is extensive. While you wait for your expertly crafted cocktail, take a gander at the interesting tales of distilleries they use to blend for their craft cocktails. We had the pleasure to meet Tim, the owner/operator who excudes enthusiasm for his product and ensuring the clientele feels welcome. The space appears to be a bit small but they do offer outside seeting. Happy hour is during select hours. But don't go on a Tuesday or you'll miss out as they are closed on Tuesdays. Hope to come back again to explore more menu options. read more

Forward Slash - Ahhhh, so good. Tequila beverages and Sazerac. - Distilleries Near Me - Winter Park, Florida

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Absolutely adore this place! The cocktails are on point and the staff are super friendly and engaging. Joe and I stopped in for some midday cocktails and were the only ones in there for most of the time and enjoyed chatting with the staff the whole time. We'd previously only been there for Yelp events and will definitely be back for more :) read more

Forward Slash - Gothic Revival - Distilleries Near Me - Winter Park, Florida

Came to this bar after getting some food at the food truck in front of the establishment. And found it very nice! The staff are very pleasant and friendly individuals and the drinks I got which were mocktails were delicious! The decor was very nice and relaxing, I would definitely come back with family and friends to hang out at. read more

My husband was gifted a membership here for Christmas and he has enjoyed this location quite a bit. They have a great selection of blended whisky/bourbon/rye drinks, but they also have a gin and vodka that is distilled in house and makes some really great drinks (like the Florida tea ceremony and their version of the espresso martini). They have a few tables inside and outside as well as a small patio to sit and chat with friends. All of the staff is super friendly and knowledgeable. Great place to stop in and try some unique and different cocktails. read more

Forward Slash - Florida tea ceremony - Distilleries Near Me - Winter Park, Florida

I got try some delicious drinks at the last yelp event I attended and couldn't help but visiting! The bartenders are so cool and truly know their drinks. I really enjoyed how vibey and dark the inside is, perfect for a date night! I tried the the gothic revival at the yelp event and loved it, this time they recommended their espresso martini and even offered to make it decaf since I sadly have some caffeine sensitivity. Absolutely delicious! Will definitely be back. read more

Forward Slash - Decaf espresso martini - Distilleries Near Me - Winter Park, Florida

I have been coming here ever since they opened, almost 3 years ago. I have also celebrated my birthday here for the past 2 years- no doubt, my favorite bar!! They have THE best espresso martini. The bartenders & owners are so friendly and attentive. Its a chill vibe & they also have an amazing happy hour M-F (closed on T). read more

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I asked some friends to join me here for happy hour on a Friday night. I first experienced Forward/Slash at this year's pre-Halloween Yelp Elite party and was impressed with the ambiance, the space and the fantastic bar staff. We were greeted by a new bartender, Chase, and he is an excellent addition to the team. He makes fantastic cocktails, is a great conversationist and a lot of fun. We had many pleasant conversations throughout the night as we sat at the bar. The drinks we tried included my past favorite, The Gomez (tequila), created by Cas. He was also attending the bar and although this cocktail was on the seasonal listing and not really available, he said he had enough to make at a few more drinks. (Now, that is catering to the customer! Thanks, Cas!) The Pumpkin Spice Expresso Martini (vodka) was another highlight. Other cocktails we tried included The Florida Tea Ceremony (gin), the Dirty Martini (vodka) and the Experimental B/More Mait Whiskey (a two finger pour combination-see pic). Everyone was happy with each drink selected! In addition, Speakeasy Burger had food for sale in the parking lot area on this night. They made delicious smash burgers that complimented our perfect combination of cocktails! Bar Manager, Bric, was also there, as was another bartender, Julia, that I met at the Yelp event. It was great to see and talk with both of them again. This place is a jewel in the Winter Park area and is not to be missed if you are looking for excellent specialty cocktails, a cool vibe and a fun night out. read more

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We love Forward/Slash. Great drinks. Beautiful little intimate bar. The bartenders are fun to talk to, have great recommendations and are friendly. They also host some fun makers markets and have awesome holiday inspired drinks. Five stars every time. read more

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We came in for drinks and the Sushi Saint pop up and had a great experience. I love the back room area where they host the pop ups. Service was great and there were plenty of seating options for a smaller location. I always get the Florida tea ceremony. It's my favorite cocktail. It has gin and chamomile tea and has lovely floral flavor. My second drink was the dirty martini. It was exceptional. I absolutely adore their blue cheese goat cheese olives. This is my favorite dirty martini in the area. I love everything about Forward Slash. read more

Forward Slash - Sushi Saint pop up hand rolls - Distilleries Near Me - Winter Park, Florida

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A craft distillery that takes cocktails to the next level! First of all Forward Slash makes their own spirits. They put a unique spin on many popular varieties that are worth trying on their own. Now when it comes to craft cocktails, Sure they have the classics but they put a unique and tasteful spin on that are worth the trip if you're into cocktails. read more

Looks really nice and seems to be a friendly environment. A cool hang out spot! The drinks look nice and the staff are friendly. They have two bar areas. One in front and another one in the back. The parking is around the back and side of the building though. My friends said they used to park in the street all the time because they didn't know there was a parking lot. If you follow the road and go around, you will see the lot. The place was very nice though. We liked it! Will be back soon! read more

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F/S has become one of my favorite bars in Orlando after trying them for the first time at a Yelp event a few years ago, where we got to tour the distillery and try a few of their whiskeys and bourbons, which are all high quality (i highly enjoyed the experience and I don't even like whiskey). Their cocktails are solid too, I've tried probably over 6 of them in different Yelp events and my 2 visits to the location outside Yelp events. My favorite are the espresso martini and this other cocktail I cannot remember the name of or find on the menu photos but it had coconut milk, vodka, and orange bitters and it was simply delicious. Service is excellent -- staff is extremely attentive and checked in on us several times. Ambiance is cozy, with dim lighting and comfortable leather chairs, and fun, with some cool decor items and board games available for borrowing. read more

What a cool place! My bartenders were charismatic and talented. They have a great collection of in house blended whiskeys, my favorite being the deliciously peaty experimental: B/More. Going back when I get the chance! read more

Forward Slash - Smazzies! - Distilleries Near Me - Winter Park, Florida

I booked a tour for four of us since my in laws were coming for a visit. I believe the tour can host ten people but I didn't realize they only book one party! So there was just the four of us which made it very intimate; it was like a private tour! We parked (free, lot out front, or street side along the back) and headed in, used the restroom and we were offered a drink before the tour! This is a first for me. Usually the drink(s) are along the tour and/or at the end. We were surprised we could order anything on the menu. No price limit! The tour started on time. It's a small facility so there's not a lot of walking. Our tour was during Christmas season so they had decorated everything. It was really cute to see that they even decorated the parts of the business that most people would not see- like in their mixing areas. The first stop was their private event space. The rates are incredible. I am considering having a party here. They have preferred vendors but said you can also bring your own food. They have a minimum spend which varies based on what day of the week you book. They do not charge an event rental space. Wow! They do have fees for bartenders/tips but it's still very reasonable. Their mixing room was cool. We saw the various barrels, their distillery equipment and bottles on bottles of product! We were able to smell what was aging. The last stop was their tasting room. This was where we joined with Samir, who has worked there awhile but has quite a history of working in the beverage industry. He was the key to our experience- we really enjoyed meeting him and learning about their process as well as the beverage industry in general. The tasting was set up with snacks and water and had a few glasses laid out in front of us. The goal was to taste four of their offerings- a three bourbons and a rye. They also had a Christmas time offering to share with us. We had a lot of questions and we really enjoyed learning about the process of how they make their blends. They do not make anything of their own other than taking what is already made and making their own blend and sometimes aging stuff. We had some differing interests among the group so we were able to try their gins and their mezcal/tequila blend. We also tried some of their homemade bitters. During the tour, I was able to order more cocktails. Also, when the tour was over, the bar area was very busy. So they let us continue to drink and spend time in the tasting room. They didn't kick us out or ask us to move. How nice! We finished our drinks and purchased a box of 6 various bottles. They have been around about 8 years so some of their earlier creations are no longer available or are super rare/ hard to find. I imagine some of the bottles we purchased will be rare and highly sought after as well. There wasn't any membership to speak of so you basically gotta go in and ask what they're making and stay on top of new releases that way or via their social media. We have visited the bar prior to having a tour. They sponsored a hole at dubsdread for a charity gold tournament and I won two free drink coupons. And of course I forgot those coupons when we visited. Ha! Their menu changes with the season but they also have some staples. I love that drinks tell you which bartender made the idea. It's so fun. It's like a small family that works there. I enjoyed the coquito, black strap, handmade eggnog, and fizz of the North Star off of their seasonal menu. The visit prior, it was fall, and I had a tiki style cocktail called "my own summer" which was amazing. I also had the Guavamente which was so on the seasonal list. I've tried the southern style and old fashioned off the regular menu. Everything has been really great- craft cocktails that don't take forever to make and great service form the bartenders. They will even come out from behind the bar to take your order at your table! This place is top notch. We will definitely be back. And I did go back and use those drink ticket vouchers. What a deal! read more

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The first time I ever came here was actually for a yelp event so I was thrilled to come back! I introduced a friend of mine to this place after eating nearby. When you walk in, it is fun mood lighting like you're walking into a speakeasy ;) The bartenders were very friendly and we ordered two espresso martinis. They had great foam and flavor, if maybe on the lighter side when it comes to coffee strength. I do love that they use espresso vs an espresso liqueur. This was a great little place to "night cap" after eating (it was not night). Will definitely be back to try other cocktails! read more

Forward Slash - Espresso martini - Distilleries Near Me - Winter Park, Florida

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Forward Slash is always a great time. The bartenders are very engaging, there is ample seating, and the vibe is always great. We stopped in to try the holiday menu items and they didn't disappoint. I can't recommend this establishment highly enough! read more

Forward Slash - Distilleries Near Me - Winter Park, Florida

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Wow where to start?! We stopped by on a Sunday as soon as they opened (2pm) after hearing friends rave about the espresso martini. Well those friends did NOT steer us wrong! We tried the pumpkin espresso martini and it was Devine! I don't even love pumpkin spice things but this was just a hint of extra flavor and so smooth! We also did a whisky flight and two of the seasonal drinks - the Mulder and Scully and one that came in a heart shaped glass. Everything was so balanced and amazing! I am certain that is due to the ladies behind the bar who truly loved their jobs! They were friendly and passionate about the drinks and products! The ambiance was also spot on magic! Who doesn't love a good Tim Burton movie with scary instrumental music playing during the Halloween season?! It was also dark and cozy inside which was a perfect vibe! read more

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Spooky season has *arrived* at Forward Slash! Loved kicking off the season here with all of the spooky decor & cocktails. How cute is this heart shaped glass? It's actually a shareable punch! It was such a balanced cocktail I could have had one myself! The pumpkin spice espresso martini was so delicious and absolutely the "winner" in my eyes. What a fun time, I can't wait to come back! read more

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Fantastic cocktails with a really great food truck parked outside. The atmosphere was spacious and a DJ was spinning amazing vinyl. Our bartender was super friendly and helpful recommended drink options based on our flavor preferences. Perfect girls night out! I highly recommend it! read more

Forward Slash - Distilleries Near Me - Winter Park, Florida

Amazing spot, epic choice of drinks. We got the espresso martinis, they were amazing to say the least. Super professional and kind service. That lighting and vibe is warm throughout, there's even an outside area. Kegs line the back wall, it's really stunning when you walk in. read more

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I came here for happy hour and enjoyed every minute. My previous experience here was for a Yelp Elite event and if you have not, please check this place out. My favorite seasonal drink was The Gomez. Bartenders were very friendly and it was nothing but positive vibes. I will be back again. read more

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Cocktails here are made well and with craft. The area is pretty small with not a lot of big group options. The ambiance is nice with the soft lighting and they sometimes do Trivia. read more

Forward Slash is always a hit! Their new spring seasonal menu is light and refreshing at the perfect time when the weather starts to warm up. read more

Forward Slash - Seasonal cocktail menu - Distilleries Near Me - Winter Park, Florida

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No food here. Great drinks. They great specialty drinks. Small and intimate place inside. Plenty of space outside. Very friendly service. read more

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Had a great time at the Yelp event it was my first time at forward slash. The drinks were delicious and the bartenders were very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about discussing the drinks with us. The gomez was my favorite. The decorations in there were so fun and they were playing halloween movies. Looking forward to returning. read more

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New menu alert at Forward Slash!! The service is always amazing and the drinks top notch. Our Friday night happy hour go to! Love sitting outside on days like today. read more

Forward Slash - Happy hour at forward slash! - Distilleries Near Me - Winter Park, Florida

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Need a night cap? Mid-day drink? A just because it's a day that ends in 'y'? No judgement here. This place has what you need. A cocktail for the season with a pumpkin spice espresso martini, a beer for a comfort offering, a wine for feeling fancy. Parking lot is a dedicated lot, making things real easy in an area that isn't known for excellent parking options. Inside is dark and moody, giving a lounge like energy. The back portion of the location doesn't open until afternoon hours, but it has an open rustic feel to it. Staff here is quick to serve up drinks and make recommendations as needed / wanted. The owners are regularly on site and friendly as well! Overall: A+ Great drink stop off for those who need a break! read more

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After I got to sample the Horror in the Holler menu at an event, I had to come back and bring my boyfriend for a Halloween round at Forward Slash! This is such an awesome spot! I love their themed decor for Halloween - they do a great job with so many details. The standouts were definitely the pumpkin spice drinks - I love the espresso martini (made with Eola Coffee, a local favorite of mine) and my boyfriend was a big fan of the pumpkin spice old fashioned. The staff makes such good quality drinks here! We heard them mention they make all of their syrups in-house as well as their spirits, and the care they put in is evident. They have something for everyone, and the staff were friendly and helpful. I can't wait to return, and Horror in the Holler may just be my new Halloween season tradition! read more

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I came here recently with my husband because we were looking for spooky Halloween vibes for a date night and we definitely found it here. I really enjoy the creativity with the drinks but also options for those who don't drink. The night I came i just wanted a nice hot tea and that was presented nicely. I can't wait to come back for their next holiday! read more

I came to the Yelp Elite event here to kick off the spooky season, and my friend was so jealous of the pictures I sent her, so we had to come in again! We can in on a Sunday right after they opened at noon. We were greeted by the friendly staff and perused through the cocktail menu. I knew I had to have the pumpkin spiced espresso martini again. It really is divine. I enjoy my espresso martinis a little bitter because I do not enjoy all the cream that some establishments put in it, and this is right to my liking. Nothing welcomes fall like pumpkin spice! My friend loved her cocktail as well. We sat at the bar and took in all the Halloween decor. I liked that even though it was the middle of the day, it still felt like nighttime spooky inside. read more

Forward Slash - SPOOKY - Distilleries Near Me - Winter Park, Florida

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Gin and tonic was great, however, the "6 oz" wine pour was modest (and that's being generous). read more

Forward Slash - Distilleries Near Me - Winter Park, Florida

The drinks were good. My problem is this is a cashless establishment but they put a hold on your card for $50 even if you spend $10. And I don't like my funds being tied up like that. read more

Forward Slash - Distilleries Near Me - Winter Park, Florida

This place is much smaller than it appears on the outside, it was cute and cozy inside despite the super high ceilings. When we walked in, I wasnt sure if we were meant to order at the bar or find a seat. When we got to the bar someone offered a menu and told us we can sit wherever. We found a quiet spot in the corner and ordered. I got the seasonal To the Sun and my partner ordered the dirty martini. Both were delicious. They don't offer food, but it's a cute spot for a cocktail. Hours are a bit odd, and it was pretty dead for a Friday night. read more

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I attended a "Horror in the Holler" event here and was immediately impressed. Having never been here before I was immediately struck by all the massive murals wrapped all the way around the building. As soon as I walked in was greeted warmly by all the staff, and also just kind of impressed by all the fun Halloween décor they had put up. The bartenders where lightning fast, especially given how they essentially got slammed with several dozen people all at once, and courteous despite the massive immediate onslaught they faced. I tried a few of their new signature drinks, and while they were all varying degrees of "good", the three notable standouts were: The Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini which I can honestly say without a hint of exaggeration is the absolute best espresso martini I have ever had. Perfectly balanced between sweet and bitter, still managing a strong coffee taste with just a hint of pumpkin spice, I have never had a more perfect espresso martini and I really hope that makes a permanent home on their menu. The Out for Blood on the other hand was the perfect drink for the friend that isn't into cocktails, but just wants something sweet and fun. A cute little themed drink that comes in a blood bag, it has just enough alcohol to remind you you're not drinking kid's party punch, but not enough to make you question why all the walls are moving. And lastly, The Phantom, this drink was something else. Normally mezcal cocktails just taste like varying degrees of worse mezcal, but this was wholly it's own thing. When it first hit my lips I thought it was terrible, by the second sip I thought it was great. This is honestly one of the most unique cocktails I've ever had. The taste is virtually indescribable and all I can do is advise everyone to try it at least once. All in all, this was an overwhelmingly positive experience. A great staff, cute cozy interior (though I think they might be mid renovation, that was unclear), and masterfully crafted cocktails give this my highest recommendation to try out. read more

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Had a great time at the Sushi Saint event. I hope they hold more events like this in the future. The drinks are already some of the best in winter park, but the addition of some incredible sushi made this visit unbelievable. The bartenders are all great/attentive and the outdoor area, especially on a cool night, is perfect. read more