We’ve been telling you for several years that the distilleries in Kentucky Bourbon Country have really been upping their restaurant, bar and food games. Here’s more proof: The Bar at Willett Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky, has been named a semifinalist for the James Beard Award in the “Outstanding Bar” category.
The James Beard Awards website said, “Considered to be among the nation’s most prestigious honors, the James Beard Awards® recognize exceptional talent in the culinary and food media industries, as well as a demonstrated commitment to equity, sustainability, and creating a culture where all can thrive.”
According to Willett Distillery, “The Bar is the only James Beard “Outstanding Bar” national semifinalist in Kentucky and the only Distillery-affiliated bar.”
The James Beard Awards winners will be announced on June 16 in Chicago.
“We are incredibly honored to be recognized as a James Beard semifinalist. Our bar serves guests with an experience reflective of Willett’s family heritage which invites guests to enjoy classically-inspired cocktails and small plates in an intimate and attentive setting. Our bar staff curates an atmosphere grounded in the principles and history of finely-crafted cocktails.”
About Willett Distillery
(From the distillery) Established in 1936, three short years after prohibition, the Willett family chose the original family hog farm, situated at the highest point in Nelson County, Kentucky, to begin construction on the Willett Distillery. By St Patrick’s Day 1937, the first barrel of whiskey was rolled into Warehouse A. Approaching 90 years, Willett continues to make fine Kentucky Bourbon and Kentucky Rye Whiskeys. It remains independent and, truly, family-owned and -operated. About The Bar at Willett Located at the site of the historic Willett Distillery and inspired by a storied family heritage, The Bar at Willett opened in 2019 and specializes in small plates, vintage pours and classically-inspired cocktails carefully executed by Executive Chef John Sleasman.
