**INITIAL REVIEW**…read more
21st Amendement Distillery is one of two distilleries operating in Vero Beach, and the "younger" of the two, too. Located within the heart of Historic Downtown Vero Beach, it is a fine place to visit if you want to enjoy a cocktail on the rocks. My good friend Patrick and I hit this place up, and I will say, it is defintely a distillery I would love to come back to. Maybe enjoy a nice cigar with my scotch bourbon.
Though an address is provided, 21st Amendment Distillery (which I will shorthand to 21st for the remainder of this review) is located on a "minor road" that seems to run one end at the Indian River Chamber of Commerce all the way to American Icon Brewery.
The parking situation includes street parking along 13th Avenue. Take note only the west side of the street has angled pull-in parking, while the east side of the street are parallel parking spots. There are some dedicated parking lots and even a parking garage but they are a couple of blocks away.
Decor-wise, the outdoor seating arangement fits with the modern style Downtown Vero Beach is aiming for, but inside is an amazing mix of today's modern aesthetic without being overly modern and throwback to the 1920s and 1930s. Why? Because between 1920 to 1933, the United States had prohibition. It wasn't until 1933 the 21st Amendment repelled prohibition thus legalizing alcohol.
And now you know why 21st is known as it is.
Back to decor, 21st uses a lot of mahogany and wood (or at least it looks like it) furniture along with leather seating. There is a small outcrop of a stage for performers to entertain guests who come in and enjoy a glass of spirits. The bar looks like something out of a old Chicago mystery flick, and there is an area of lounge chairs reminiscent of a smoking room.
Remember I said I would smoke a cigar here with my drink? Apparently, 21st has a fine selection of cigars. I did not see any of the patrons smoking any there, but I am sure if they provide it, it would be an option.
As for my drink, I was suggested by our beautiful waitress, Brittany, to get the Night Shift as an hommage to the fact I've been working night shift for way too long and need to go back on days. It is an agave spirit with bourbon cream and vanilla. Needless to say, it was delicious... and STRONG! Got Patrick a latte in which they decored the foam in the classic leaf often seen as coffee art. We also split their version of a charcuterie board.
Now pricewise, the food and spirits were a little high, but I consider that more of a testament on the standing 21st has over the other alcoholic places within the area or even the city.
Side notes: the men's restroom was clean and stocked, but it is a single-server. Take that into account if 21st happens to be full to the gills with patrons.
Also, 21st is one of the businesses featured in the Treasure Coast Wine, Ale, and Spirits Trail. If you want to partake on an adventure seeking out the Treasure Coast's best breweries, distilleries, and other alcohol-related locations, check this trail out.
Ultimately, 21st was an excellent place to enjoy a mixed drink with or without a cigar, by yourself or with friends, while listening to local acts perfect their craft. And to be fair, this is a local distillery and not an extension or branch, ergo, 21st gets my highest rating for an initial review, four out of five stars.
If 21st remains consistent with their service, their drinks, their food, and the atmosphere they provide, I will then grant them their fifth star for consistency.
