My boyfriend and I recently checked this place out as we heard they had really cool whiskey/bourbon cocktails, which is right up our ally. The place is really cool inside with an open feel and shuffle board. They also have a great happy hour, which several people were hitting up, however we wanted the fancy stuff. I can't remember what my drink was called but it had port mixed in and was one of the more complicated cocktails. I loved it, and it was definitely different. My bf had a spin on a Manhattan that was great too. We were hoping the food menu was larger, but it was not so all we could order were the mixed nuts since we are trying to be healthy. They were great nuts though - salty, sweet, and spicy. I would like to come back and try the tasting. Yes they do whiskey tasting, how cool is that! Thanks for being cool Blind Donkey. See ya around. read more

I give this place 3.5 stars but because the staff was so friendly and attentive, I have to round up. So if you love yourself some whiskey, I am guessing this is the place to be. Now my fiance is a whiskey drinker but I am not. We decided to stop here anyway because I figured that I could try one of their signature whiskey drinks while he got his whiskey neat. Well, none of the speciality combinations looked yummy to me so I went for the Moscow Mule. It was good, actually a bit stronger than I am used to, but didn't come in copper mug which was a huge letdown because I like how it keeps my drink cold. I mean if you are going to list it on your specialty drink menu, at least get those copper cups. Anyways, my fiancee enjoyed his whiskey but I could see that he was a bit overwhelmed by all of the choices. It would have been nice if they had someone that gave you a bit of an education on all of the different types that are not readily available at most bars (minus 1/2 star). I also had to take 1 star away because of the terrible smell inside... kind of a sewer and stale booze combo. I base my deduction on the fact that drinks here are a bit pricier and because the clientele is spending a good chunk of change, this place could pay a bit more attention to the ambiance factor. read more

If you love whiskey, then this is the place for you bc there is a huuuge selection of whiskey to choose from. Their whiskey selection ranges from some that are 80 proof, to some that are 122 proof! I've come here on two different occasions - once for Happy Hour with coworkers before we went to a company dinner, and another time for a friend's birthday. Since I went at two different times, I was able to see the difference in crowds. Earlier in the evening, there aren't as many people around, so it's easy to find a place to sit after you get a drink. However, the later the night gets, the more packed it gets, so it's harder to find seats (unless you call ahead of time to reserve a table for a big party). The location is not bad - it's located near Union and Raymond. And it's only a few minutes walking distance from other bars in Old Town, like Barney's. Besides whiskey, The Blind Donkey also has beers on tap and mixed cocktails to choose from. The ones I tried were the Old Fashioned, Chumash, and Moscow Mule. The last two were my faves. With all of those, plus whiskey, you def have a good selection to choose from. For parking, street is very limited, but there is also a structure across the street that is paid parking, and probably the most logical place to park. read more

Chill atmosphere with down to earth bartenders. If you're looking for a good whiskey/scotch place, this is a cool place to go to for a nice stiff pour. The cocktails are mediocre and I've had a lot better for the price. The place is very cool and not too loud. It does get a little packed as the night progresses. Didn't get to try the food but it smelled pretty good. read more

They have a great selection of whiskey and scotch here. They are sometimes out of certain selections but they will always recommend something comparable. I haven't tried the food, but it always looks good! Its fun to come here on a chill weekday when it's not so crowded. read more

The Blind Donkey - Ballin'! - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

It's a cozy spot. Good vibes and a lot of options if you like whiskey. Service is good and there are a few tables to sit at. Good for large groups. They have tvs They have signature drinks that are tasty and a few beer selections that are not too shabby. Metered Parking is available or local garage parking. No validations. There is music in the background Prices are reasonable. read more

Great selection of whiskey, great atmosphere. Usually crowded and may not always be able to find a spot to sit however the crowd is friendly enough. read more

Everything is absolutely amazing. Knowledgable drinkers!! Gotta love whiskey they have a wide variety of whiskey. Since their grand more beer and new cocktails are available as well. Its almost like a Pasadena version of Seven Grand in downtown. The food here is pretty good too!! They just... GOT IT ALL. Happy hour is really great as well. Always a go to spot for drinks and snack. read more

Chill!! Leave your hipsters at the door because they are not welcome and they will be judged. Also, like whiskey before you come otherwise you will hate this place. read more

Great place to have a whiskey, bourbon or scotch. We left before trivia night started but it sounded fun. I'd go again. I'd give it 5 stars if they had a little better appetizer menu. read more

I love whiskey and I love this bar. I've only been here during happy hourish times, so I haven't had to deal with a super busy, hectic atmosphere. During the day it has a chill, laid back vibe, the cool, grey interior is a nice spot to unwind after work. Service can be a bit slow, but the two bar tenders I've met have done their best to attend to my needs when there were no other servers or waiters on staff. They also always do a great job recommending drinks based on my whiskey or cocktail preferences, more than a superficial "X bourbon is great!" or "Y Manhattan is my favourite!" Which I really appreciate. Food: Their triple fried steak cut fries and spicy chipotle and spicy ranch dip are surprisingly delicious...I highly recommend if you're looking for a cheap appetizer to pair with your beer. I'd love to try other food there. Drinks: I always enjoy my whisky sours there. They make their own sweet and sour mix which makes all the difference. I had a bourbon Old Fashioned which was not the greatest, but not terrible (maybe b/c I make them at home all the time, but imo, if you're going to get a 12-13$ old fashioned I'd head to Seven Grand in downtown.) Otherwise, you can get a bunch other great whisky drinks here for much cheaper and a much less crazier atmosphere. The two or 3 beers they have on tap have always been decent. read more

They have a great selection of whiskey. I tried Butler's Old Fashioned with the vanilla jam. I thought this would be a nice twist but it was too sweet for my taste. I think i'll just stick to ordering whiskey straight up here read more

Really like this place. Probably my favorite bar in Pasadena. Definitely one of the top whiskey bars I've been to. Located right next to Slaters 50/50, the Blind Donkey is for all the whiskey lovers out there. Even if you are a huge fan, I am sure you will find something you like here. They have pages of all types of different whiskeys from Scotish, Irish, American, and so on. Bartenders are really helpful if the menu is a little overwhelming for you. They also have beer and cocktails for non whiskey drinkers. Great place to hang out and have a drink. read more

The Blind Donkey - Ice ball with my whiskey - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

I really enjoy getting a drink in this place because they make a good old fashioned. Plus their selection of whiskey and scotches are formidable for those who enjoy a good stiff drink. Normally when I order an old fashioned in places it ends up being rather red and a little too sweet for my liking but this place it perfectly. My only real complaint about the place is that it's rather small and gets rather cramped and hot. But for a place that makes good drinks I wouldn't expect too much less. I will say the drinks aren't especially cheap, $11 for an old fashioned, so I would hope you love alcohol to drop some of your hard earned money on these great, but boozy drinks. Still I'd recommend the place as they also play some old cult classics on the television too. read more

Great place to enjoy a drink with friends. 4 stars - haven't tried the food yet, but will most definitely be going back next chance I get.

Love this place. Only been here once but I will definitely be back. The drinks are so good and the food is delicious. Thanks a while to get the food but it's worth the wait. The music is good goes perfectly with the ambience. read more

The drinks and service was great! Very pleased with Daisy, Rachel, and John. Very cool people!

I came here on Tuesday night with a good friend of mine. I enjoy scotch very much and was surprise to find this little gem here in Pasadena. Most whiskey/'whisky establishments are 15 to 30 minutes away from Pasadena. Although small in size, there is enough room to find a good table or sit at the bar. They have a good selection of fine whiskeys and offer several flights. I recommend you try a flight if you not a whiskey connoisseur or ask the owner, John. John is most helpful. If you come here on a Friday and or Saturday, you might not get special attention. Come during the week. Uisge beatha! read more

Pretty average. Decent bar option for the Pasadena area. Nothing that stands out about this place. 3.5 stars. Dark, muted interior. Staff was nice and had good drink recommendations. Had a Manhattan $12 which was well made. Also tried the pear cider which ia good drink for girls as its very sweet. read more

My favorite bar in Pasadena. Great atmosphere and whiskey selection. The fries are out of this world!! They also play great movies on the tvs! read more

Excellent music, thank you, it's really making this business meeting. Bartender very helpful, friendly (a departure from most bartenders in cool bars) and knowledgeable about whisky, of which, best whisky selection in the hood! read more

Cool bar in old town its nice and clean with nice selection of drinks. they got a good crowd of people, i didnt see too much disrespectful acts going on when i was there... which is great because usually bars can get pretty rowdy. I'll be back with my girlfriends! read more

Great drinks and good bar food. It's one of our favorite places to end the night when my partner and I go out. Fun atmosphere and great bartenders. read more

This place is great. the bartenders know how to treat their customers to make sure experience is special. I especially like Penny; she is a throwback and I mean that in the best way possible. Bartenders use to be your friend and talk to you. it wasn't all about making drinks, it was about knowing their customers. Penny is fabulous and I appreciate the fact I am a Gold Line trip away from visiting the Blind Donkey. She educates you on the drink that is appropriate for you because she LISTENS to what you like so that she can match right whiskey for you. Those fancy mixologists are so busy on their 'craft" that they're probably too busy to listen to you. Folks, realize you are stepping into a whiskey bar, so have a whiskey, swill it and chill. read more

Let's see, as far as whiskey bars this place has a selection of whiskey and scotch that will satisfy any drinker. You can find hudson manhattan rye here. Also on the cheap side, it's cool they serve powers. Not everyone goes for Jameson. Get's packed on the weekends. Try coming weeknights, less people. Cheers! read more

I love the Blind Donkey. John and Penny are the best. They really care about the quality of service and take care of each of their customers like old friends. The downtown vibe of this place really goes a long way with patrons. I find that all of the people I take to this establishment instantly fall in love with the bar, the people behind the bar and amazing mixology menu they have. They have my standards when it comes to whiskey, but they also seem to carry some hard to come by favorites and yes they do have some great craft beers as well. It's funny they seem to have added not only to the street that they are on, but they seem to have added a bit of swank to the city of Pasadena. I am always happy to give them one of my highest ratings. Cheers to your next adventure at Blind Donkey. read more

Been here only once so far. Came for a quiz night (which was a lot of fun). Some of the bartenders are nicer than others so it's a hit or miss. I'll probably come back for another quiz night and may try their food next time. Parking is easy, love South Pas for their convenient public parking! read more

They have a great selection of whiskey and bourbon as well as several good beers. Service is decent; helpful when choosing something new. Definitely looking forward to trying more from their menu. read more

Tried going on a Saturday - NOPE! Super packed. No tables available. Huge crowd around the bar area, waited for 15 mins couldn't get a drink, walked out. Why is it 4 stars? Attempt 2: Thursday night. Plenty of sitting. Walked up to the bar and was instantly greeted. Ordered the carne Asada fries and chili cheese fries. Both pretty good. Drinks kept coming and customer service was good. read more

So I sat at the bar for happy hour. Drink specials are good. Bartenders know there stuff and the food prices are great. The only thing I would knock them on is there's no food specials for happy hour. But the burger I got was great and so were the fries. I'll come back here for sure. I didn't get anything special for a drink but I heard people asking the bartenders stuff and they really were quick with answers. They were also very nice. Nice atmosphere here. It's really chill. I would recommend read more

If you love whiskey, you better be stopping by the Blind Donkey! You won't regret it. Their Old Fashion was perfect and the Irish mule was right on point. They definitely know what they are doing here. Also the Bartenders were really nice. The place is kinda small but has a lot of seating and a bar top. It's dark inside with dim lighting which I love so had no problem with that. I went on a Tuesday after 10 and even then it was a good crowd. If you're in the area, don't hesitate to stop by!! read more

Went there on a Friday night. This place is pretty small and actually quite dark. Very little light. Not even a light above our table to make it easier to see the food. Small tables half our group had to stand up. The food we ordered took like an hour to get it. Nothing to write home about. read more

A little pricey but definitely a cool vibe. The place is first come first serve seating. It's hard to find a place to sit just be aware of that. read more

Nope. The happy hour menu sounds good but you order a double and get a single and the bartender says that their pours are a double is a single on the menu and that a real double is a quadruple or whatever the hell she was talking about so I paid $20 for a well scotch double at happy hour is what you're telling me? After that fiasco, I tried the $10 manhattan and the old fashioned and neither tasted right. I should have ordered the happy hour $2 draft beer but I was afraid they'd serve it to me in a shot glass. read more

Their food menu used to be amazing. They're fries and burgers were better than slaters but they decided to change and downgrade. Now their burger tastes like one you get at your uncles labor day bbqs. The bald bar tender also seems stuck up and has an attitude. Their drinks are still good so there is that. read more

I found this place by accident on Monday evening. A co-worker and I dropped in. She loves bourbon and I love scotch so this place was perfect. The guy behind the bar turned out to be one of the owners and was extremely knowledgeable about his whiskeys. We spent a great hour or so chatting about whiskey and trying some new things. I found the pricing reasonable, the whiskey selection great, the bartender friendly and knowledgeable, the place great looking, and of course the location excellent. For sure I'll be back. read more

I dislike drunk and disorderly humans. I dislike having to get all photon death ray on their asses. I like whiskey. At the Blind Donkey I was able to enjoy the latter without enduring the former. I like friendly, non-antagonistic people. The bartenders and patrons fit that criteria. The selection of spirits was impressive, however tBD lacked sufficient inventory of some of their more interesting offerings: Pappy Van Winkle's Family Reserve and Prichard's Double Chocolate Bourbon in particular. I did sample and consume numerous drams of Blanton's Single Barrel - Taste: Char, maple, ground amalthea, zoåtc9 (possibly 8). Extremely pleasant through to the finish. Despite the establishment's name, no donkeys - blind or otherwise - were drinking at the bar or available on the menu. tBD does serve other types of food, though the kitchen was closed at the time: 00:21:13:05 Thursday. A bowl of sweet and spicy nuts were offered which I accepted and savored. The music playing on their sound system was eclectic and unobtrusive. I will return. read more

You'd be lucky to stumble across this place when passing through Pasadena and you'd be wise to look it up and read this review. A unique niche in the Pasadena bar scene with an extensive whiskey/bourbon selection and an even more knowledgeable bar-keep; seek out Penny. Original years sold only in Kentucky too! I just moved to Pasadena and have been actively exploring Pasadena bars....this place ranks among the best. Also, tucked away in a central part of old town, just off the main drag so you don't get the annoying riff raff. Larceny, Makers, Four Roses, Noah's mill, triple smoke, Willet- stocked bar full of gritty, salt of the earth, all American choices. Z money read more

Went here last night for a few drinks to celebrate an upcoming big event. They have some great hard to find bourbon and were pretty busy. What I didn't expect was the bartender to get into a fight with a client! We were having a good conversation and minding our business when all of a sudden a fight breaks out on the other side of the bar! The bartender and some not drunk, not unruly dude are throwin' bows. The fight went outside and they eventually kissed and made up. Weird night but great bar read more

Good beer, great food. This little gem has a good selection of craft beers. Living in LA County can make it somewhat hard to find good establishments that serve quality craft beer. They have a wonderful assortment of finger foods that are delicious. I was not a fan of was how hot it was in this place. It felt like there was simply no air moving at all, we were burning up. Second, I was slightly offended when we ordered a sour beer, and the bartender had a slightly rude tone when he told us "you do know its sour and funky right?" I get it, we're girls. We look like we don't know much about beer, but just let us order what we want, we didn't ask for a recommendation. read more