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Most Unique Bars In Orange County

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(credit: Shutterstock)

The bar scene in Orange County has many establishments that attempt to depart from the "same old thing." With innovative entrepreneurs and acclaimed mixologists behind many of these concepts, it's no wonder that these bars are packed (not just on the weekends). Whatever your poison may be, whether it's scotch or wine, beer or vodka, these five bars beat out the rest.

Macallans
(credit: Ryan C./yelp)

Macallans Public House
330 W. Birch St.
Brea, CA 92821
(714) 529-1224
www.macallanspubbrea.com

Brea's downtown Macallans Public House has one of biggest collections of fine whiskeys in Orange County. Named for the famous single malt scotch whiskey distillery in Scotland, Macallans has over 200 of the best and premium brands of scotch, whiskey, bourbon, rye and blends, plus 50 rare scotches and whiskeys. The pub's original Irish coffee offerings are based on the 1943 recipe at the Shannon Airport in Limerick, Ireland. The mood is contemporary, and Macallans Public House is the best spot when you want to meet up for a drink before dinner or to catch the week's game on TV with traditional pub fare. The pub also features a cigar-friendly patio facing Birch Street, which accommodates 24 guests.

Vaca 2
(credit: Vaca)

Vaca
695 Town Center Drive
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(714) 463-6060
www.vacarestaurant.com

Located in the South Coast Plaza Theater District, Vaca is a new hip bar and restaurant with the OC's top barkeeps. Vaca makes its own vermouth from over 20 botanicals, and the bar recommends you order it the way it was intended, on the rocks with an orange twist. Another favorite signature cocktail of the bar is its “Vaca Tonic,” created with Brooklyn gin, frozen gimlet, fever tree Mediterranean tonic and basil blossom. Vaca also has quite the extensive sherry menu. The restaurant features authentic Spanish cuisine, and a seat in the bar offers you flavorful tapas, cured meats and cheeses.

[feature]-the-bungalow
(credit: The Bungalow)

The Bungalow HB
21002 Pacific Coast Highway
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
(310) 899-8530
www.facebook.com/theBungalowHB

The Bungalow, the latest project developed by hospitality visionary Brent Bolthouse, will open its second location in Huntington Beach in June 2016. The oceanfront bar will be one of several exclusive businesses to reside at Pacific City, a brand new dining, shopping and entertainment destination on PCH. The Bungalow HB will embody all of the rustic and vintage charms of the original Santa Monica location, while paying homage to Huntington Beach's 'Surf City' history and community, with an expansive ocean view. In addition, The Bungalow HB is working with Bear Flag Fish Co., known for its fresh seafood menu, as its exclusive culinary partner. Signature cocktails will include Bitchin' Sangria and its namesake Bungalow Margarita.

Related: Orange County's Best Rooftop And Balcony Bars

Anaheim Brewery
(credit: Abby J./Yelp)

Anaheim Brewery's Tasting Room
336 S. Anaheim Blvd.
Anaheim, CA 92805
(714) 780-1888
www.anaheimbrew.com

Located in the packing district of downtown Anaheim, Anaheim Brewery's Tasting Room invites customers to take a seat at its vintage wooden bar for an evening of beer and history. The tasting room allows visitors to watch the fresh local brewing process, while tasting a range of beers made right there in the brewery. Beers available include Anaheim 1888 (the flagship), Anaheim Gold, Coast to Coast IPA and Anaheim Bockbier. Anaheim beers are also offered in several local restaurants, hotels and bars.

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(credit: Anne Watson Photography)

The Cellar
156 Avenida Del Mar
San Clemente, CA 92672
(949) 492-3663
www.thecellarsite.com

The Cellar brings the Orange County community together for spectacular wines, artisan foods and live music. With an overflowing menu of reds, whites and sparkling wines, The Cellar curates local wines from California (Paso Robles, Santa Ynez, Napa Valley), coastal states (Washington, Oregon) and international sources (Argentina, Italy, Spain and France). The bar menu is rounded out by craft beers, drafts, ciders and more. Ecstatic hour, which is offered from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., welcomes revelers to taste wine and beer and dine on delectable small plates such as crispy brussel sprouts, sweet chili wings, sweet potato fries, hummus board, cheese plate and petite burrata.

Related  Best Artisan Cheese Shops In Orange County

Sheryl Craig is a writer with a passion for interesting finds and treasures in Los Angeles. She has a background in journalism and public relations. A mother of two daughters, Sheryl integrates her healthy lifestyle into raising her children. Her work can be found at Examiner.com

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