A long overdue review. This has been my local for a few years now. Best happy hour deal on the UWS: sandwich, fries, and a beer for just $15. Great whiskey selection, with a solid cocktail and beer selection as well. Cozy atmosphere with good music. But the thing that really makes the place stand above the rest are the bartenders. Jeff and Billy are tremendous. Not just great at serving but very adept with a chat and great hosts. They cultivate the kind of social setting that encourages fellow patrons to interact with one another and have a pleasant chat amongst themselves. Really can't recommend the bar enough! read more

A deep whisky portfolio. Knowledgeable bartenders. Ask about their whisky club for a subscription to monthly whisky tastings. There's an incredible happy hour ('til 7 M-Sa) special: $15 for a burger and draft beer. The burger is seriously good: a double-patty smash cheeseburger with caramelized onions, pickles, burger sauce, and veggies and is $18 at baseline. In other words, buy a burger, get a beer for -$3! read more

GREAT neighborhood bar! The Whiskey selection is quite good, particularly the peated Scotch options from Islay. Some of the cocktails are memorable and the draft beers are interesting. The room is small. Be prepared to have conversations with other patrons who you don't know. The happy hour specials are very reasonable, particularly for the UWS. The food is good and the service is friendly. read more

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Our favorite bar. We have brought in several friends and family because this place is like Cheers. The food is always solid, the whiskey is fantastic, Jeff makes my favorite Old Fashioned in the city, and the bartenders are seriously the best. Great bar to have a chat. read more

Cool bar with many whiskey and scotch options. Bartender was nice and service was quick. read more

Caledonia UWS - Whiskey Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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Used to love this place. Bartender last night was so rude and condescending, won't be back. They adjusted my bill without my consent as well adding on a random charge I didn't sign for. Terrible. read more

Espresso Martini - 2/5 Nice and cold shaken, but not much flavor. Good foam. NO BEANS. Would not order this Espresso Martini again. read more

The Scottish bartender, Jeff, is amazing!! He makes everyone feel at home. I will be back!!!

If you're looking for a different vibe than most of the bars on this strip, then this gem of A bar is just what you need. Located in an area which can get a bit rowdy and loud this small whiskey bar is a nice cozy spot for a more intimate vibe. Came here on a Sunday evening and was able to get a seat at the bar with a few friends. It was lively at the time we walked in as customers were engaging with the bartender who was an absolute pleasure to converse with. Kudos to her for engaging with all the customers and making the environment that much more enjoyable. Keep in mind that this is a whiskey bar not really meant for large groups but definitely doable. There's one bartender working at time, so expect to order drinks at the bar. There are options for beer and wine, but this place is a whiskey drinkers dream as they have some of the best top shelf whiskey you could fine in the city. We had a good time along with some good conversations with others and the bartender. I highly recommend this place!!! read more

Came in to get a drink last night with a friend around 12. While looking at board and deciding on a drink, I walked to use the restroom. The bartender screams across the bar at me that the bathroom is for "customers only," like I was some filthy dreg off the street. "CUSTOMERS ONLY!" How embarrassing - everyone turned and looked like I was trying to sneak into the restroom. Did he think I was trying to steal your paper towels? Toilet paper? Soap? I can't see any reason for this reaction. I live less than a 5 minute walk from this bar, and come here for drinks often. Needless to say, I won't be back. Top notch bathroom security though!! I bet that made the bartender feel very strong and important. read more

In UWS for an extended stay and there is no shortage of great spots! This is a new fave, easy to walk past without seeing it, but don't! Amazing man behind the bar Jeff, made me an amazing gimlet and my bf loves the expansive whiskey/scotch selections. They stock plenty of other liquor but vodka is somewhat limited. We have been in too late to try food but hope to make it soon. Lastly, the Guinness is fresh! read more

This has become our default "night cap" spot in the neighborhood. We love wandering in here as we make our way home for one final drink. We typically stop by here late on a Friday/Saturday and can typically get a bar or table spot pretty easily. You typically always have to order at the bar as only 1 person is working so they can't do full table service. Although they don't have a ton of staff - they are always great to work with. They know the menu, can give recommendations and are just generally nice. Our go to drinks is typically selecting one of the "Brewsky" selections - a 12 oz beer and a 1oz whiskey pour or exploring their extensive whiskey list for something we haven't tried before. This space always feels warm and cozy to me - perfect for a cold winter night or rainy day. They only watch out - this is a WHISKEY bar - they do have some wine and beer options, but this would not be the best spot if your group has a wide range of drink preferences. read more

Caledonia UWS - Whiskey Bars Near Me - New York, New York

Great date spot in the UWS- esp if you're a brown liquor drinker. Bartender wasn't super friendly- but it was busy and we all have our wrong-side-of-the-bed days. Selection is wonderful and the location in relation to other restaurants makes it perfect for a pre-dinner drink (or post!) Playlist is amazing and the vibes are A+ read more

It's a curious psychological phenomenon. When places are in your own backyard, they're somehow less compelling. Intrigue comes with distance--I suppose due to the mystery that comes with travel time? That said, it's also objectively the case that the Upper West Side tends to be a wasteland when it comes to the bar/restaurant scene. Venues are "good for the UWS" but rarely considered elite when compared to those in other neighborhoods. So I had a clear reason why a visit to Caledonia Bar never seemed imminent. I knew of its original existence years ago when I hung out in Yorkville a bit more often and saw its original outpost. But it's been on the UWS for a minute now, and I finally made the choice to pop in. A pop in, though, when it comes to whiskey, is never just a quickie. I settle in, make conversation, get to know the selection and before you know it a pop-in becomes a post-up. Such was the case on Saturday night. The bf hates whiskey so that's partly why whiskey bars aren't high on my list these days, but he entertains my intrigue from time to time. For the UWS, Caledonia is an excellent bar. Overall, still solid. It boasts a lengthy scotch list and offers a short list of flights as well as some whiskey cocktails. If you're looking to refine your palette and/or learn more about scotch, Caledonia is for you. Came here at around 10pm on Saturday night. The place was about half-full and we found two seats at the bar fairly quickly. The space itself is pretty bare bones but still cozy. The lighting is kept fairly dark so you could definitely come here if you're looking for an intimate vibe (think sharing a whiskey tasting with a date). For those looking to explore, discover, learn, better understand their tastes, I highly recommend a flight. I happen to actually really dislike scotch, yet I love rye and like most bourbons. I've known this about myself for years now but will still occasionally try to force it due to stubbornness. Most whiskey-lovers will say it's blasphemy to not love scotch. So I continue to try--only when the ideal circumstances present themselves, such as this one. I gave our bartender my spiel and though I could feel his judgment oozing through his pores, he recommended the Region Flight (Auchentoshan 12 | GlenDronach 12 | Bowmore 12) for me. It features one scotch from the main three regions in Scotland: Lowlands, Highlands, Islay. With three 1-oz. pours of each whiskey, you can start to begin to discern elements that might be influencing your proclivities. I appreciate that they feature flights like these on the menu, because I often find whiskey bars to be quite daunting. There's no shame in being basic in this instance. The power of choice is dizzying most of the time. Caledonia makes it more approachable. As it turns out, the only kind of scotch that I can somewhat enjoy is that from the Highlands. I can use that information to make more informed choices in the future, so they did me (and all those who come here) a service. But if we're being real, my conclusion is still that I will always opt for rye and bourbon over scotch. And if Caledonia can't change my mind about that, I'm not sure what can. After my scotch flight, we switched to cocktails. Though initially wary, I eventually opted for the Barrel-Aged Boulevardier (Jim Beam Double Black, Campari, Cocchi Sweet Vermouth). Our bartender convinced me when I was on the fence. For some reason I thought I didn't love campari, but this drink was outstanding. Deep, rich, warming and spirit-forward. A drink where the whiskey shines, the other elements serving to enhance the spirit beautifully. Because we were at a whiskey bar, I refused to order anything other than whiskey. So I convinced the bf to order the Bee's Knees (New Amsterdam Gin, lemon juice, honey, housemade lavender bitters), which is one of my very favorite gin cocktails. He doesn't like whiskey and tends to like shaken drinks to my stirred, so it worked out well. As I expected, well-balanced, well-executed and dangerously yummy. I'm considering returning just to urge the owner to sell me a liter of those lavender bitters. Cheers! read more

Caledonia UWS - Region Flight - Whiskey Bars Near Me - New York, New York

Went for happy hour on a Friday after work with three others. The bartender was friendly and got us all drinks very promptly. We also ordered some piping hot pretzels which were served with various mustards. It's not the kind of bar where you can get anything you like- there's whiskey and scotch and some beer and wine. That said, we enjoyed the house cocktails and Scottish beers, and the friendly service. I'd recommend it for dates and small groups since it's a pretty cozy place with limited but tasty menu. read more

Rude/ aggressive bartender. There wasn't much of a vibe. But at least it wasn't crowded.

I was in a part of the city I don't visit very often, had some time to kill and Yelp to the rescue! I like whisky, it's a few blocks away, so I'll try it. Jeff the bartender greeted me right away (with his awesome accent). Gave me the bible, the menu and a glass of water (without requesting it, thanks Jeff). I reviewed the menu and was completely undecided. Jeff helped out. He asked what I normally drink and what was I in the mood for. We chatted for a bit and he finally recommended the Old Fashioned. He said he's not a mixologist but he can make all the drinks on the specialty drink list perfectly. I liked his honesty and confidence so OF it was. He wasn't lying! He made in Perfectly. It was strong and tasted of whisky but the blueberry and orange peel added a soft, deliciously sweet layer of flavor. The best OF I've ever had. I was also eyeing the Scotch Egg. Jeff said do it, it's amazing. And I did it. Wow. It was completely cooked through, the pork sausage had great flavor and a crust that added texture and an extra hint of saltiness. What a great little happy hour/ pre-dinner snack. Very differ from the usual wine and cheese I'm accustomed to having. It's a bit pricey (nearly $10 for one egg) but definitely worth the experience. A couple next to me ordered burgers and they looked good, large and juicy. Next time I will try that. read more

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Small little hidden jewel with a fantastic whiskey selection. A must try for an intimate date.

Incredibly gracious and welcoming staff - bar tender is patient and convivial, great bar

New spot that's classy but not stuffy. Modest food menu, massive Scotch list and decent lineup of beers. No TVs, which is fine by me, even welcome. Cocktails are well-made but a bit smallish. Tried the fries (crisp, thick, good) and the Scotch egg (slightly runny yolk, nicely seasoned, also good). Staff was cheerful and quick, so all in all a fine addition. read more

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I had such a great experience at Caledonia UWS tonight. This place has a full shelf of whiskies vary among all regions at a reasonable price point. Hanna knows her game and recommended a few decent Scotch whiskies that I had never tried before. She also told some fun stories working as a bartender. My friend and I enjoyed the time we spent here and recommend you to come as well. read more

This is a really good whiskey bar! They have a large selection of whiskeys as well as whiskey based cocktails. The only thing is they don't have any food and the menu says it does. They also don't have happy hour which is a bummer. But overall, nice place would be good for a first date, catching up with a friend, or even a solo visit. read more

This place is the bomb. Excellent drinks and the cheeseburger and fries were top shelf. Delicious. Dave, the manager, makes it look effortless to take care of everyone's needs, especially when running the place by himself. I highly recommend this location here in the UWS. read more

friendly staff, great drinks, monday night drinks are $10 all night. have t tried their newer food menu yet but looks good.

Lovely, chill atmosphere. Slim bar, fat whisky list. Good place to take your time to sip. read more

Caledonia UWS - Whiskey Bars Near Me - New York, New York

So the whiskey here is great and all, but personally I come here mostly for the grilled cheese. The grilled cheese is perfect - crispy, golden and buttery on the outside, chewy and gooey inside, perfect thing for a winters night with a bowl of tomato ! I'd recommend going on a weeknight, as it can get a bit fratty on the weekend. UPDATE: Returned and the grilled cheese (and most of the rest of the food menu) is gone - just bar snacks now... very sad :( Drinks are still good but probably won't be back. read more

I can't get enough of this place. Everything about it is awesome, especially their killer happy hour! $10 appetizer and beer? $14 entree and beer?! Yes please. And their grilled cheese? So freaking good. read more

Cosy place, not too crowded, with friendly staff, and a great selections of whisky from around the world including most of my favourite Scotch distilleries. I only wished they'd also add some Australian, esp. Tasmanian ones too. read more

Wow, what horrible service. Had a server turn us away tonight who was rude from the initial interaction. Such a shame since people from Scotland are nice and polite. Don't allow your employees to be jerks to patrons and maybe your business will do better. I'll never go back. read more

Came here for some cocktails with a friend. Really nice vibe with a full menu of mixed drinks. The bartender on Monday night was chatty in a good way with a great sense of humor! So happy that the UWS has a place like this instead of the plethora of dives and wine bars. I had the bee's knees and it was the bee's knees. Oh and be aware, you get what you pay for because drinks are tasty and strong! I also saw they have quite the selection of ciders and no angry orchard (thank goodness). Great place for a low key date, to catch up with coworkers or a friend. No TVs, some cool tunes and great ambiance. read more

Amazing the best. A very authentic Scottish bar in the Upper West Side, heaven. Food is terrific, selection is unbelievable and the bartender is fantastic. read more

Caledonia UWS - Scotch selection is surreal - Whiskey Bars Near Me - New York, New York

Great bar addition to the upper West side, which always seems lagging in the decent bar department (too many sports bars, bro-joints, and overall bland & uninteresting bars in this area). Has an excellent selection of whiskeys from around the world. But also had other drinks and an above acceptable beer selection for a bar that focuses on whiskey. If you want blue moon on tap and watery whiskey sodas made with brand x liquor, this is not the place. If you want a nice, cozy environment with knowledgeable, friendly bartenders happy to help you navigate the overwhelming selection of scotch whiskeys and beyond, this is the place. Also pretty good food. Burger was great, as was the fried chicken sandwich. Also try the scotch eggs. read more

Another winner from the owner of Caledonia UES and The Hamilton! I came here for drinks and dinner with my friend. I ordered the fish and chips, imagine my surprise, and delight that the fish was a battered wing of skate, it was amazing. The house made tarter sauce was the perfect companion. ( I dipped my fries in it as well). So glad the UWS has this little gem. The walls are lined with a couple hundred scotches, bourbons and whiskies, for those that love a crafted cocktail or a beer,...all here. Perfect for meeting friends or for a quick bite. Love it!!!! read more

Amazing place, single malt selection! Bartenders they are very friendly, Try the penicillin!!! read more

Johnny, the brand new bartender, mixed our drinks perfectly and provided excellent menu recommendations! Ask for him. Fried pickles, scotch egg, and pulled pork sandwich are a MUST. read more

I went here for a drink after dinner. We were looking for a quiet place to grab a drink and fit perfectly. My date had the Cabernet which she said was very good. I ordered an Old Fashioned based on the Whiskey types that were on the menu; the old fashioned tasted great. Drinks were quality but not the cheap side. They have an interesting selection of whiskeys and the beer an the wine on the menu are of good quality. It is a little too dark and you need to use something to light up the menu. read more

We stopped in for drinks, and their whiskey selection is by far one of the best on the UWS. We arrived at 5:00 on a Friday and we were the first ones there...not too busy at all and had good ambiance. The bartender was nice and the drinks were great, we will be back. read more

Caledonia is a solid spot for a whiskey or scotch. They have a great selection and the bartenders are always helpful and kind. Music is great too-- leans towards 90's British Rock Oasis, Blur, early Coldplay. Never had a bad night here. There used to be a cool bartender from Glasgow named Alan, but he may have left. Either way, good spot. Wish they had more food options...that's my only critique. They need reliable bar snacks. read more

Met up with a college student here late at night and she had left over fries from a previous restaurant. Owner yelled at us for bringing in fries and then charged us for fries we didn't order. A customer service oriented owner would have let it slide and would have told us their kitchen is open late and encouraged us to come again and order from their menu. If you like rude, angry bar tenders that get off on stealing from college kids, it's a great place. read more

This is the latest outpost of the growing Caledonia Empire founded by the great Scot Mike Ferrie. Caledonia UWS has terrific beers on tap and the best whiskey selection on the UWS. The bartenders are very knowledgeable about whiskey and will help you with a selection if you are confused. The cocktails are excellent and the wines very good and well priced. No TV's so you can engage in polite conversation and enjoy the lovely atmosphere. Why go anywhere else? read more