Great Jones Distilling

Looks Like a Lobby, Tastes Like a Distillery

We recently visited Great Jones Distilling Co, a sleek and modern whiskey distillery located in the heart of NoHo, Manhattan. Honestly, if you didn’t know it was there, you might completely miss it. From the outside, the place doesn’t really scream “distillery.” In fact, at first glance, it looks more like a luxury hotel lobby or some kind of corporate office. But once you step inside, you’re instantly transported into a space that blends the rich craft of whiskey-making with New York’s signature cool.

The exterior is understated - sleek glass doors, minimal signage, very clean-cut. But as soon as you walk through those doors, everything shifts. We were greeted by a gorgeous, well-lit reception area that looked more like a boutique hotel than a distillery. There were displays of branded merchandise - hats, flasks, whiskey bottles - and lots of shiny black and gold design elements that gave the space an elevated feel. It struck the perfect balance between modern luxury and old-school whiskey tradition.

We arrived later in the evening, so unfortunately, the restaurant had already closed. We peeked in and it looked lovely - dark wood furnishings, intimate lighting, and a vibe that seemed perfect for a special night out or a classy date. That said, we weren’t too disappointed, because we came with one goal in mind: whiskey.

So we headed upstairs to the second-floor bar. This space was open and airy with high ceilings, exposed beams, and a layout that made it feel grand without being stuffy. The crowd was mixed - some people were clearly there for a special night out, while others looked like after-work regulars unwinding with a good pour. It felt upscale but approachable, a rare combo.

The bar menu was pretty expansive—not just whiskey, but also a nice selection of cocktails, wines, and even beers. But naturally, we gravitated toward their house-made spirits.

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What We Ordered

Four Spirit Tasting Flight

We decided to go with the Four Spirit Tasting, which featured four of Great Jones’ own whiskeys:

• Great Jones Straight Bourbon
• Four Grain Bourbon
• Rye Whiskey
• Peated Scotch Cask Bourbon

Each came as a half-ounce pour - just enough to sip and appreciate the differences between them without feeling overwhelmed.

• The Straight Bourbon was smooth and slightly sweet, with hints of vanilla and caramel. A very approachable whiskey for beginners or casual drinkers.
• The Four Grain Bourbon had more depth, with a richer mouthfeel and subtle spice. You could tell this one was a bit more complex, and it lingered nicely on the palate.
• The Rye Whiskey had that classic rye sharpness—bold and peppery, perfect for those who like something with bite.
• The most unique was the Peated Scotch Cask Bourbon, which had a slightly smoky, earthy finish that added a totally different dimension. It’s the kind of thing you’d either love or find a bit too adventurous - but we loved it.

This flight was the perfect introduction to the brand. You get a little of everything, and it really showcases what Great Jones is doing differently. It also made us curious to come back and try their full-size pours and cocktails.

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Another cool thing? You can actually see the distilling equipment through the glass walls behind the bar. Copper stills, tanks, and pipes all gleamed under warm lighting, and it was surreal to remember this was all happening in a busy Manhattan building. It’s rare to be so close to where your drink is actually made, especially in a city like NYC where space is limited and production is usually elsewhere.

We didn’t do a full distillery tour this time, but it’s absolutely on our list for next time. Being able to see the equipment only heightened the curiosity. According to the staff, tours give you a deeper dive into the grain-to-glass process and even include tastings directly from the cask in some cases.

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Final Thoughts: Should You Go?

Let’s be real—New York isn’t the first place that comes to mind when you think of American whiskey. Kentucky and Tennessee usually dominate that space. But Great Jones is proving that NYC can absolutely hold its own. The whiskeys are solid, the environment is stylish, and the whole experience feels polished but still welcoming.

Whether you’re a whiskey aficionado, a curious beginner, or just looking for a unique bar experience in Manhattan, Great Jones Distilling Co is totally worth checking out. It’s not your average bar, and that’s what makes it special. Come for the whiskey, stay for the vibe—and maybe book that distillery tour while you’re at it.