When I find gems like this bourbon bar I can't wait visit and share with friends. On a recent wedding trip to Cincinnati we reserved a cottage nearby in Mainstrasse and immediately headed over. We found a perfect spot on the patio behind the bar and I headed inside. The decor is simple and inviting. The bourbon wall is impressive. Over 400 (? Sure looked like at least that much) bourbons stocked. I always like to ask the bartender to suggest options when I visit bars that specialize in the drink (craft bars, bourbon bars etc). I told them what brands I enjoy and asked for a suggestion. They did not let us down offering a bourbon I've not tried before. The patio was a perfect and laid back area to sip on great bourbon and enjoy a cigar. I will be back! read more

Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar - Bartenders choice (tell them what you like ask for suggestions to try something new) - Bars Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

Sometimes I just need to sip on strong, medicinal, and tasty concoction that only OKBB can deliver. From the delightful cocktails to the intimidating selection of bourbon and whiskey, there's something for everyone here! Let's face it, when it comes to tasty cocktails, the leading lady in town is Molly Wellman and she certainly flexes her muscles through this establishment! The back patio is small, but has lots of seating and is even kept warm via fire in the cold months. You may leave smelling like a campfire, but I've spent many nights laughing with friends on the patio with a tasty drink in-hand. The bar itself is a bit narrow, but if you can snag a seat at the bar, you're golden. The staff is knowledgable and eager to make a recommendation, so it's definitely a great spot to expand your palette. If bourbon intimidates you, start with a cocktail (the manhattan is fantastic). If you're a pro, they probably will have something new for you to try. tl;dr: They have more than enough bourbon for you to: expand your palette, introduce yourself to bourbon, have delightful cocktails, get very intoxicated. read more

Put this place on your must visit list. I have been here a few times now, and every visit has been enjoyable, and every time I get to try something new. The bar is small. I prefer not to stand wall to wall, so I like to visit on off times. Last night, we stopped in after an early dinner and enjoyed a drink. There was room at the bar, but by the time we left it was filling up. They offer flights of bourbon on Fridays, so I took the opportunity to sample a few that I don't have at home. My date had a spiced bourbon cider that she really enjoyed. This is one of those places that makes each drink by hand to order, so be prepared to sit back and enjoy the process. One of the things that makes this place different than many - a guest came in after we were seated and sat next to us at the bar. She said she didn't know exactly what she wanted but was in the mood for something like a gin gimlet. The bartender suggested a house specialty that he thought she would like. She agreed and when he served it up, she loved it. I really like a place where the staff is engaged enough to know what they are doing and how customers tastes work. This isn't the kind of place that I would hang out all the time, but there are obviously some regulars. It's special and comfortable at the same time. read more

Staff: awesome. Second to none. Drinks: plentiful. Even a non-bourbon-lover like myself can enjoy themselves here! Atmosphere: Gorgeous, intimate and rustic This is a rare gem in the Cincinnati metro area! You won't be disappointed! The only reason why I don't give it a fifth star is that if you're like me and don't like bourbon or whiskey, it's pretty intimidating and may prove to be a limiting factor for new clientele. I probably won't come back unless there is another event there, but if you love bourbon or just want to learn more about it, look no further! read more

Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar - Bars Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

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Now this was a ton of fun. I'm already looking forward to going back to this spot. Awesome concept (bourbon tasting...come on!), smart and kind staff, ambiance out the wazoo, and delicious bourbon. So. Much. Bourbon. I think what I liked the most was that it was a small, cozy, and intimate setting. I can see where and how if you didn't get a seat at the bar on a busy evening you might not be a fan, but if you can score a seat at the bar...heaven. Again, I'm already looking forward to going back to this spot. Hard work...but somebody's got to drink all that bourbon. read more

Awesome spot. Some pours are a bit pricey comparatively but a great selection and the bartender was awesome. Would recommend every time.

This bar is a dream for me. bourbon is by far my drink of choice in pretty much every scenario and I have the utmost respect for anything that Molly has a hand in. How it took me until just recently to finally get here is beyond me and I'm a bit disappointed in myself honestly. The space is a bit small inside, but the patio in the back offers a much bigger area to move around and spread out. My friends and I went on a Friday night and it was jam-packed! The inside has a rustic and cozy feel to it that I appreciate when I'm sipping bourbon. The selection is vast and the bartenders were very knowledgeable in the questions that I had for them. I was directed towards the Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel Commemorative Edition and it was fantastic for the price and the amount that they gave me. The patio had the same style of lighting as Neons and had a bit of a barn feel. They had a fire pit and a few picnic benches as well as some tables. It will be great to use the patio space this spring through fall. All-in-all, I will hopefully be adding this place to one of my regular spots, especially if I'm in Mainstrasse or NKY! read more

Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar - Heaven. - Bars Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

The bar manager Taylor and his crew has built a stellar collection of bourbon with over 600 and now a very solid list of rum as well! Stop by on Monday nights and Taylor will knock your socks off with one of his Tiki Cocktail drinks that are as original as Taylor is himself! read more

Even if you don't like bourbon -GO HERE IMMEDIATELY! This place turned me into a bourbon lover. The bartenders tell you the history of your drinks and each bourbon. You can tell they love their craft. I love the fresh egg white they use in their whiskey sours. The cherry vanilla is my favorite but the lemon and spicy are amazing as well. Their Manhattan is the best I've had in the city and they make a great seelbach. The copper bar, rustic walls, and close quarters make this a great environment. Great for an after work cocktail or a night out with friends! read more

Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar - Cherry lemon whiskey sour - check out that egg white foam - Bars Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

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We took an Uber across the river from Cincinnati to have some bourbon in Kentucky and struck gold here. A mind blowing selection for bourbons. Try a flight. We started there then moved to cocktails. Awesome bartender, and a very cozy little spot. Wish we had time to come back last week. Next time, OKBB. Thanks for a great night! read more

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This is a great place and the place to be if you want to try new bourbons. This is the kind of place you go to first in the evening. Its a place to savor bourbon, not a place to get drunk. The bourbon is pricey but I guess good bourbon is not cheap. I think when I go back, I'll go on Thirsty Thursday when I hear they have discounted drinks. What better time to try a bourbon you've never had before? read more

Tiny place. HUGE selection of whiskeys, ryes, and bourbons. If you love brown liquor or are interested in learning more about -this is the place. If you wouldn't touch the stuff, you might be able to get a beer, but this place really isn't for you. read more

Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar - OKBB - Bars Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

Love this place! Cocktails are delicious and price points are great. They do a great job of rotating the specials and keeping the menus fresh. The selection will put your parents liquor cabinet to shame! Total hipster vibe... Beards, tattoo, and quirkiness, but it works. The space is limited on the inside, like 25 people feels super crowded, but in warmer weather they have access to a back patio which was recently converted to allow more seating. We went on a warm Saturday night in January, which sounds weird, but we had the fire pit and patio to ourselves. I think the improvements made to the outdoor space have really set this place apart for me and moved it to the top of my list of places I want to hang out at on a regular basis. As the name would lead you to believe... This place doesn't carry 100 craft beers on tap, so if that's your thing, this probably isn't for you, but they do have several options. My advice... Go early, don't be afraid to ask the bartenders questions before deciding on a drink, and listen to their recommendations. read more

Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar - We had a blast on the back patio after a long day at Perfect North! - Bars Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

might be the biggest selection of whiskey and rye I've ever seen (and I am always on the lookout haha). really amazing selection with flights, featured distillers and knowledgable bartenders. no food, but a perfect place to stop pre- or post-dinner. really loved this place read more

OKKB has the biggest selection of bourbon I've seen except maybe for the The Century in Dayton, OH. Definitely a place to check out if bourbon makes you happy in your tasty places! We came in around 9:00 on a Friday night. The place was packed full, mostly hipsters. Man buns and beards abounded! Not that that's a bad thing. The bar space is VERY cramped, and every place we stood we felt like we were in the way. Because of that we only stayed for maybe 20 minutes. The bourbon selection is enough to keep a bourbon aficionado busy for days. I was hoping they had the newest release of Old Forester Birthday, but they only had 2014's. We ordered Friday Night Flight #3, which included a taste each of Elmer T. Lee, Orphan Barrel Forged Oak, and E.H. Taylor Single Barrel. $20 for maybe 2 oz of bourbon, but they were delicious! I've been on a mission to try more Orphan Barrel and haven't been impressed with the ones I've had so far, but this one was smooth as butter. I was happy I had the chance to try it. I also ordered a Sazerac via my friend and was so looking forward to trying the cocktail here after so many raved about it, but instead received a glass of Sazerac Rye. Boo for communication problems. But it was good! I'd like to come back when it's less crowded and I feel more comfortable sticking around and studying the menu. read more

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Very cool spot in Covington. Kinda divey, kinda old school and a great variety of all levels of bourbon goodness! Bar tender was friendly and the music was just right to hold conversations without screaming on a Fri evening. We arrived at 4pm and it got busy around 5:30pm. It is quite impressive & I admired how well stocked/displayed the bar is with varietals of bourbon ranging in prices up to $220+ per 1.5oz pour. I initially indulged in a bourbon cocktail to kick-off my Friday Happy Hour. Then got to trying the Collaboration at around $15/pour as well as a 15yr old Pappy Winkle for $40/1.5oz. We were there with 2 bourbon connoisseurs and the evening evolved into a bourbon tasting experience. Cheers! read more

If you enjoy bourbon this is the place to go! Amazing selection and a very knowledgeable staff to craft your long-time favorite or help you explore something new! read more

Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar - Outdoor patio. - Bars Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

Wanted 75$ for Weller 12. When I told them I got it for 28$ next door they made fun of me. Won't be returning.

Really cool bar! Awesome bourbon options. Have to go through the bar and sit on the side patio too. Service was great! Also heard they had nice coffee. Haven't had a chance to try it but it was a nice experience and atmosphere. read more

This place has a great selection of bourbons. the bartender said they had around 400 Bourbons. It has got a warm and cozy interior and for warmer weather, a lovely patio out back. You can have your bourbon neat or in any of a number of tempting cocktails they have available. read more

Oh my goodness what a great time! So many bourbons and Lily knows about all of them! Matt has us laughing and we met some good people. Say I'm the patio w a fire and enjoyed great cocktails. read more

If you love bourbon and want a casual atmosphere to hang out, then look no further, this is the place to go to. Have not seen any where else in Cincy with the amount of bourbon selections as this place. Friendly staff who are super knowledgeable on all the different types of bourbons available - and they will take the time to work with you to find the perfect drink for you. If you at are new to bourbons, this is a perfect place to build up your experience and try out the endless selections they have. The prices are reasonable as well. I have come here on several occasions on a Friday or Saturday night and am usually able to find a seat. Ordered both the old fashioned and the manhattan. Have to give the manhattan the pick here as it was one of the best I have every tried. Perfect place for a pre or post dinner drink. read more

Overpriced, hipstered out, and tiny... it's like they brought a little chunk of the trendy douchebagerdom that defines OTR to the much more authentic and fun Kentucky. With any luck, their exorbitant prices and inherently elitist attitude will get them to change their tune when the new wears off. Avoid at all costs. If your friends want to meet there, encourage another venue. There are at least fifteen locations on Main Street, Covington. No point in meeting up at the shittiest one. Also, I looks like when they opened they invited some Yelpers to come down and probably get some free samples. There are about a dozen reviews from opening night that are all positive and all by prominent Yelpers. I'm not accusing anyone of anything, I will just let you draw your own conclusions. Skip this place. read more

Easily the best bar I have been to in a long, long time. OKBB is just an exceptionally wonderful bar by all standards. It's absolutely gorgeous, first of all. We asked the bartenders how much control they had over stocking the bar and they said they were given a budget and worked from there. These guys REALLY know their stuff. I love how bourbon experts in KY all insist that there's no such thing as "good bourbon." It's really about what you like. That approach made me like and appreciate bourbon even more. The bartenders had selected bourbons from all over but we stuck to Kentucky and Ohio bourbons. They asked us what sort of flavors we were looking for and then selected according to our sometimes arbitrary preferences. They did not err once. I was amazed at the diversity of flavors in the bourbons and the differences in how they played with the palate. Some were quite smooth and others were pleasantly grainy. Bourbon, you are awesome. I saw a gorgeous drink being made and asked the bartender what it was. To my surprise, it was a whiskey sour! I didn't even know whiskey sours were real cocktails. I always just ordered whiskey with sour mix at a college bar and assumed that's what a "whiskey sour" was. Yep, my world view was altered permanently that night. It was one of the prettiest and tastiest drinks I've ever had. I also discovered that every sazerac I'd tried before was a travesty against whiskey. If I were one of these guys, I'd have a really big head by now. They were just so good at their jobs, so knowledgeable and so cool. I'd ordinarily say that pricing is irrelevant at this level of quality. We had no idea that any sort of special was going on and figured we'd sample liberally because we were on vacation anyway. At the end of the night, three of the best craft cocktails I have ever tried and three pours of artisan bourbons totaled to a grand amount of $25. Our visit coincidentally fell on "Thrifty Thirsty Thursday" though. If you really want to make a delicious and educational night of it, come on a Thursday. Come any day, regardless of the specials. This place is Dope with a capital D. GUH, I wish I could go back this Thursday. read more

After a refusal to make a deshaes Manhattan and a dismissal of a mint julep ( I was asked to go to Cincinnati) I have concluded that bourbon should not be put n a box. A bit stuffy and hipsterish - I love bourbon and do not want to be told how to drink it. Brought some out of town guests Saturday night - So uncomfortable and hot in there. No AC whatsover or outside seating. read more

Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar - Woodford Reserve Double Oaked - Bars Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

OKBB was our first stop on the way to Louisville from CVG during my bachelor party. I think this place was the best bar we checked out during our stay. The bourbon selection was fantastic! The venue itself is cozy, yet managed to keep the 9 of blissfully entertained with booze as we roamed around the space. The bartenders were super friendly. Quite some time has passed since I visited OKBB, yet I still find myself looking forward to finding my way there again - hopefully, in the not-so-distant future. read more

The most Wonderful Kentucky Bar!!!! They have Every Bourbon Ever Made, or pretty dam close. I love the selection. The best Whiskey Sour in town, traditionally made with egg whites. In the Winter they have the most wonderful cider. They are always our first stop. read more

I'll first start by saying, as many of the reviewers have stated, that I LOVE bourbon. My drink of choice when I go out is usually either a super hoppy IPA brew or bourbon. So, I guess I would be their demographic. The building is a really, really neat building. It is very chic and modern, yet rustic. It really is a cool atmosphere and an awesome place to drink. They make good use of the small space by adding bench seating along the wall which is a cool idea. They do have a million (not really, but close) different kinds of bourbon, whiskey's and rye's and they can pretty much make anything you want considering this is a Molly Wellman establishment. The bartenders are very knowledgeable as I would only expect. The mixed bourbon drinks that I had were good, again as I would only expect. On issue is that everything is a little overwhelming. There are almost too many options here (I know, I know). And when it gets crowded it is really, really difficult to be able to talk to a bartender about what your tastes are, so I'd recommend coming during a slow hour to really get the full OKBB experience. The patio area is nice too because the inside is so small and like I said, can get crowded. All in all, OKBB delivers on what their name suggests. Which is a pure bourbon experience. So, if you're all about that dark brown Kentucky spirit you'll be all about this place. read more

I LOVE THIS BAR!!! Can I say more? Clint S. is the best bartender I've ever encountered. I will go here 10 times out of 10. Clint and OKBB FTW. read more

Do they have bourbon? Yes. Is it super overpriced? YES. Is it served to you by a guy who is dressed up like an old-timey barber with a handlebar mustache? Yes. Is that legit? NO. It's faux-Portland and sooooo 2008, thereby lending further creedence to the hypothesis Twain once (apocryphally) forwarded: that even the end of the world will reach the Cincinnati area 10 years later than anywhere else. Not to mention: the last time I was in there, they were somewhat inexplicably blasting death metal on the house Pandora. Bourbon and death metal are anathema - if you disagree you are wrong, no mistake. Can a brother GET some Tom Waits? Leonard Cohen? Some Graham effing Parsons??? Crikey, y'all. Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar is your joint if you NEED to spend $95 on a single pour a' Pappy for the sheer pageantry of posturing, instead of just enjoying a nice single pour of Wild Turkey with one ice cube. It's battalion HQ if you don't understand that any bourbon-style whisky distilled and / or bottled outside the bounds of the Commonwealth is a complete farce and a travesty of justice. Save your pennies. Find a dive away from Main Strasse. Find somewhere where the people - and the stock - are real, unvarnished and nothing close to "curated." You sinners. read more

For what it is, this place is perfect. If you don't like bourbon, don't go. If you do like bourbon and want to sample a favorite or learn about something new, this is the place for you. Came here with girlfriends on a recent Saturday night and we snagged the large picnic-style table in the back. It isn't a large place for sure, but that helps with the feeling of being in a special spot (probably wouldn't feel that way if it was packed though). They offer a bourbon of the day, a mixed drink special, and a bourbon flight in addition to the wall of bottles behind the bar (no menu, just ask or point). I tried the bourbon flight (3 tastes for $10) and was very pleased. The bartenders were very friendly and knowledgeable and I found a new bourbon I liked from the flight. The place feels civilized without being stuffy and the clientele is slightly older and more low key than your usual bar so it makes for an enjoyable stop after a nice dinner at one of the Mainstrasse restaurants. read more

This. Is. The. Spot. I tried OKBB with a friend last night, and I will definitely be back. The back bar with wall to wall bourbon/whiskey, the picture perfect lighting, and limited seating all contribute to the cozy feel in this joint that feels a bit like a step back in time to a prohibition era spot. The bartenders really make the place. They were friendly, attentive (but not overly so), and just SO knowledgeable about bourbon. One of them was telling us all about the process, different types of bourbon, etc. There aren't any drink menus, they just listen to what you like and whip something up. It's incredible. For those truly dedicated bourbon-ers, there are flights crafted just for you! The major downfall, however, is the limited seating. This place is tiny. Other than the bar seats, there is one table and a bench along the wall. While I think the size is a plus, I can see how it could get super crowded...which would take away from the cozy feel and interaction with the bartenders anyway. Prices are typical for a bar of this kind. Not a cheap place, not overly expensive either. I spent $20 (without tip) on a flight (3 bourbons) and a crafted cocktail. read more

This is my FAVORITE place to go on Thursday nights. Every week they have Thrifty Thirsty Thursday where you can get a shot of one of their featured bourbons for $3 or a cocktail with one of those bourbons for $5. And when I say cocktail I do not mean a bourbon and coke, I mean some quality cocktails. They only charge $5 for an Old Fashioned, Seelbach (made with champagne), or Manhattan. And they really go the extra mile, lighting the orange peel on fire and crafting each drink with perfection. Even though their featured bourbons may not be the most expensive ones there, they never disappoint and the bartenders are really good at recommending which bourbon goes well in which drink. I think they do specials on the other nights too but Thursday is the night to check it out. They're also a cute little patio area in the back where you can smoke a cigar when it's warmer out. read more

Sing it with me. "I love this bar!" Granted, I am a bourbon kind of guy, but this place beats the band. It is well stocked with tasty treats and knowledgeable staff. If you can dream up any bourbon-based drink, they can make it...and how! I had several ridiculously delicious hot toddies, but tried several other drinks. The sazerac was incredible, as was the hot apple cider. The next time I go I will have to play my favorite bar game where I ask the barkeep to make something in accordance with my mood. I can only imagine the mosaic of flavors that they will come up with. Small and pleasantly decorated, the bar is welcoming - neither hipster nor dive bar. Seating is limited so be patient and kind. Perhaps you can strike a conversation with a fellow bourbon lover or sing along to the honky tonk and classic country playing quietly in the background. There is no doubt about it. I'll be back, Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar. I'll. Be. Back! read more

Love love love Molly's newest venture! Ordered a Seelbach(bourbon cocktail) and a Pappy Van Winkle 10 year bourbon. Both were delcious and priced well. But it was in the details that make OKBB such a special place. In addition to the impressive wall of bourbons (50+) each pour was beautifully served in Glen Clarin glasses. My friend (bourbon lover) said for bourbon drinkers its the preferred way to serve premium bourbons. He was right, the bourbon was delicious. Everyone should visit this bar, I'm sure OKBB will become a favorite. read more

Again, I can't say enough about Josh and his team. They should all be designated Kentucky Colonels. You know the thing that sets this place above the rest?? Pure CLASS... that's what. Even if their selection was half of their ridiculously awesome hoard, it would be a strong, strong spot and that is because the way they treat their guests. There is no room for douchebagedness here people. Who know who you are... They follow one of the core creeds of Bill and Ted --- "Be Excellent to Each Other" and for god's sake, don't mix Coca Cola with your Pappy (but then again, that would only be a polite suggestion as they respect that every palate is different). Bar none the best place for mash bills. Quiet and comforting, I think they grind up unicorn horn or dragon bones and lace all of their Glencairn glasses...but even if they don't, they certainly wouldn't have to. Fus Ro Dah! read more

Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar - Bars Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

Visited this place on Friday night and Sunday night this weekend. Still the best bar in the area. If you're not coming here for brown liquors then don't come here. If you are coming here for brown liquors, you may not leave. One bottle of vodka in the place. And it's hidden. How do you not love that. read more

If you love bourbon this is the place to go to. The bartenders are so brainy about this wonderful liquid. Don't like bourbon? Ask them about their cocktail specials and WATCH them make it. I literally mean watch them make your drink. It's an art. Great atmosphere too! read more

fantastic little bourbon bar. an impressive selection of bourbons far and wide. small bar area with limited seating, but there is an outdoor patio in the back. bartenders were friendly and paid great attention to detail. i've been having godfathers for years, and i now know what they're supposed to taste like. next time, i'll be having a flight! read more

Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar - Bars Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

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Is there any reason to go to any other bar when OKBB is at your disposal? If bourbon is your thing then this is the holy grail in the northern Kentucky area. The bartenders will always point you in the right direction and treat you like an individual and not just another number. There are no tv's so you actually interact and enjoy each other's company. The best part is there is no smoking! That is huge especially for it being a Kentucky establishment. I highly suggest coming here and if you catch me here I will get you an old fashioned to prove my point! read more