Best Cocktail Bars in Mercer Island

The ambiance was perfect both warm and inviting. My burger was cooked just right, and the carbonara was nothing short of amazing. The shrimp cakes were crispy and flavorful, and the sesame seeds were the perfect touch. Our drinks, a Paper Plane and a Shirley Temple, were both spot on. The crème brûlée for dessert was delicious. And the service, like everything else, exceeded my standards with the food coming out at the perfect time and the kind staff and owner. Allister truly raises the bar for restaurants on Mercer Island.

My date and I had a fabulous experience. The cocktails were amazing although a little pricey. The service was exceptional. The atmosphere was phenomenal.

We were lucky to be the only people booked. Got a private tasting with the attention focused on us.

I have seen the light, and it is in a glass. The Brown Butter High at Whiskey by John Howie isn’t just a drink—it’s a life-altering experience. If smooth, buttery bourbon had a love child with the most decadent dessert you’ve ever tasted, this would be it. From the very first sip, I felt like I had been personally hugged by a warm, slightly tipsy angel. The brown butter adds this silky, almost sinful richness, like someone melted a stick of gold and mixed it with liquid confidence. The bourbon? Oh, that deep, smoky magic glided down so effortlessly I briefly considered asking if they offer it by the bucket. Halfway through, I caught myself staring lovingly at the glass like it was my soulmate. By the end, I was contemplating writing a heartfelt thank-you letter to the bartender. Final verdict: Best. Drink. Ever. If you don’t try it, we can’t be friends.

Great ambiance, knowledgeable and helpful bartenders. Definitely coming back.