Whiskey. This strong and dark libation comes in many different varieties and names from blended whiskey to single malt Scotch. Many things come to mind when one thinks of whiskey, such as gentlemen’s clubs and cigars. For serious whiskey drinkers in Orange County, there are not too many options for places with a substantial selection. Here are the best places to quench your thirst.

Haven Gastropub

190 S Glassell St
Orange, CA 92866
(714) 221-0680
www.havengastropub.com

They may be known for their excellent beer selection, but Haven Gastropub also offers some of the top whiskeys as well. Their selection is vast and tops the 100 mark for varies rye, bourbon, American, Canadian, Irish, and Scotch. They come equipped with specialty ice and specific glassware for the drink of your choice.

Hopscotch

136 E Commonwealth Ave
Fullerton, CA 92832
(714) 871-2222
www.hopscotchtavern.com

Located in Downtown Fullerton, this establishment has more than 10 pages dedicated to their specialty drinks and selection of 50 types of whiskey. Try their “Blue Collar Special,” which includes a pint of Eagle Rock beer, 1 shot of House Whiskey and 1 Short Cigar for only $10.

Wild Goose Tavern

436 E 17th St
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
(949) 722-9453
www.goosebar.com

This new tavern in Costa Mesa is dark and mysterious, with many dark selections of libations. Wild Goose Tavern has all the trimmings of a great whiskey bar from the pool tables, to the modern jukebox and great bar menu including rabbit sausages.

Memphis Café

2920 Bristol St
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(714) 432-7685
memphiscafe.com

Come here on a Saturday for their Whiskey Weekends special. You can get your whiskey cocktail fix such as a Manhattan for only $5.

Anqi

South Coast Plaza
3333 S Bristol St
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(714) 557-5679
www.anqibistro.com

Spacious and beautiful this grand restaurant also features a large wall of different liquors. A large portion of that wall is dedicated to many top shelf whiskeys and cognacs such as the legendary cognac from the prestigious house of Remy Martin, Louis XIII.

Mesa

725 Baker St
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(714) 557-6700
www.mesacostamesa.com

This artsy lounge is a local favorite for their ambiance, art, retractable rooftop and whiskey cocktails. The mixologists here make a strong Manhattan, Old Fashioned, Sazerac and many other favorites.

Marian Bacol-Uba is a food and travel writer/blogger. You can follow her travel and culinary adventures on www.marianthefoodie.com. Follow her on Twitter, Facebook & Instagram. “LIVE. LAUGH. LOVE.”