Atmosphere was good. Had two beers both good. Service was pretty good. Security guard was super cool and down to earth. I went on a karaoke night and it was pretty lively. read more

No donkeys here but plenty of whisky and cocktails! I've had this place bookmarked because of its prime location in Old Town Pasadena and decided to check it out for some pre-dinner cocktails. First, this is not a fancy type bar where you need to glam up. Instead, this place is completely chill and relaxing. We walked in and made ourselves comfortable in the open floor plan with an impressive display of liquors and some top shelf bottles. They also serve a limited bar food menu if you're absolutely starving. The bar tables and chairs were tall which gave us a good view for people watching. They had a shuffle board closer to the window which was always occupied. After ordering a vodka cocktail, the crowd began to increase as it was their trivia night. We decided to participate but only in a non-competitive nature because after a drink, I knew my trivia skills might be tanking. It was very lively, and the crowd really got into the spirit of the game. Known for their whiskey collection, The Blind Donkey is a great choice for whiskey enthusiasts and those looking for a mellow out bar scene. read more

The Blind Donkey - Vodka cocktail - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

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First off I have to compliment our gorgeous and friendly server Nesha (Nisha?) as she was very good to my buds and me. Our orders were accurate, she was very friendly, and when I spilled my drink from being an idiot, she went ahead and gave me another shot of what I spilled. That's what I call service. :) The drinks were also very good. I had the Hatchet Job and it had a nice smoky flavor and clean finish. There was also another drink where they added wine, and it was good, but the Hatchet Job was more to my taste. Also, you have to get the Carne Asada Fries. SOOOOOOOOOOO good. The Buffalo Fries were also good, but the Carne Asada Fries IMO is better. My friend got the burger and he said that it was good too. Great atmosphere, beautiful/ friendly servers, and great drinks/ food. What more can you ask for? read more

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I've been coming to Blind Donkey for a few years now. Their Old Fashioned's are the best in town, but they also have craft beer and over 80 different whiskies and bourbons from all over. Their food is pretty good considering the small menu they have. It doesn't have day hours, but the night crowd and trivia nights totally make up for it. If you get a chance to visit, try Red Breast 21. It's $50 for 2 oz, but totally worth the money. read more

The Blind Donkey - HAPPY HOUR OLD FASHIONED - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

Place was still under construction and not open. I walked two blocks for nothing. Perhaps a blind Donkey is posting their hours. I was there last Monday and the entire place was closed. Construction workers said it wasn't open yet. read more

The worst establishment I've ever been to in my life. It's known for its 3-5 regulars who adore it. It's a great spot to go when you're in high school. Manager Michael Spector rarely cards, and minors love it. I know I did in high school. Wait up to 10 minutes for a drink. Try ordering a drink and wait for the management to finish giving their friends free shots. Get cursed at by a manager. As a Black person, I did not feel welcome and was even called a slur. I would rather go on a Spirit Airlines flight with no AC than return to the Blind Donkey. read more

It's strange how a place can be so foreign to you when you're taken there as opposed to finding it on your own. I went to the Blind Donkey after a wedding about 5 years ago. I enjoyed the vibe of the space and the drinks they made but it remained a memory in my head until I recently returned on my own (thanks Yelp!). Now that I've come back I have plenty of thoughts of The Blind Donkey. This whisky bar is located in beautiful Pasadena. The location is gorgeous with a classic, clean feel all throughout the neighborhood. Once you pass the doorman and step in you're in a world of blacks and wood. One corner has seating against the wall partnered with square tables and chairs while the other side has longer, high top tables for community style seating. A mini shuffleboard is also located on that same side which encourages competition after some fire water in the belly. The lighting is low and mysterious and the bar is fully stocked. It is a good space for dates or catching up with good friends. The selection of whisky is also abundant with more than just the standard well drinks and top shelves. They also concoct their own cocktails which is always nice. It's great to see creativity at work. The prices are pretty standard with most drinks around the $10 mark. Overall The Blind Monkey is a fun place to be on any kind of night or celebration. Take in the atmosphere, start some great conversations, and let the drinks pour. read more

We enjoyed this joint. The art of the whiskey bar is dying, but this place does it right. Great quality cocktails, wish the bartender at the type was more equipped to recommend barrel aged bourbon, but never the less we discovered together. The food was great, options for vegan and vegetarian and all tasty. Great little gem in Pasadena. read more

I went with my two other friends. The place was little crowded and I Like the drinks and environment.

Wow what a FANTASTIC place! Don't let the small menu fool you, it packs a mighty punch! One of the BEST burgers EVER! And the fries are insane. Meesha our server was so attentive and bubbly, she made our night! read more

The Blind Donkey - Our fog chillin! - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

Came here on the night of Friday, August 6, 2021, and for my second drink I ordered off the main cocktail list, but I didn't realize my choice was made with Mezcal, when I had expected it to be whisky. It was totally my fault for not making sure, but I still didn't like the taste of the drink. I returned to the bar and asked the male bartender with glasses (1 of 2 bartenders) if he could replace my drink with something else. I didn't expect to get the reaction that I did. He was completely rude and responded to my request to exchange the drink with, "FOR FREE?" I explained to him that it was totally my fault, and he begrudgingly replaced my drink with a drink I had ordered earlier in the night. After he gave me the replacement drink I said, "Thank you, I appreciate it" and he just completely ignored me and rolled his eyes. Not sure why he was so upset at my request. The replacement drink was also obviously not as strong as the same one I had ordered earlier, and it included no garnish this time. :( This is not the kind of customer service that would make anyone want to return. read more

Great bar! The bartenders make the drinks right and the beer on tap is refreshing. This is a regular hangout for me.

Whiskey is a bit pricey but the selection is great! Staff is really nice too. I also liked that hey serve some food items. Seems like a bar I would frequent if I were in the area more often. read more

The Blind Donkey - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Drinks were on point. A great place to visit before going to dinner in Pasadena. Always a crowd pleaser! Chill atmosphere.

IT TOOK ME YEARS, BUT I FINALLY GOT TO TRY THE BLIND DONKEY. My good friend and our husbands were in Old Town for lunch at Harlowe's French Dip a couple doors away. After lunch we sent the guys to go find ice cream while we popped in to try some whiskey. I don't know anything about whiskey, so I just asked the bartender what he recommended for the happy hour on this rainy Sunday. He recommended the Old Fashioned so that's what Kris and I decided to order. It was really good and a bargain for $7.00. We loved the big ice ball inside the glass. Looking forward to going again and trying some different things. read more

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The bartenders were deliberately ignoring me and my boyfriend. When they were clearly not dealing with any other customers, they were just huddled amongst themselves. read more

This place is racist !!!!! I came with my boyfriend and there was a waitlist which wasn't an issue considering the reopening or various businesses. We had our name down and it was a rough estimate of about 45min-1hour. Not a problem . They were constantly sitting people down so we went to go check . The host was super rude and said he wasn't going to be sitting down anyone anymore because it was "late" but proceeded to sit down the party of 6 that was after us on the list . He then told us we would be next . Another couple got seated. Went to go ask once again and they told us that there were other bars around the corner . Super unprofessional , owner from next bar actually came out to check up on us and apologized on their behalf . THIS IS A RACIST AT IT GETS . read more

If you want to have a sexy tasty drink in a relaxed and chill bar... where you can watch a game and still hear the conversation you are having with your buddy who is there with you... then get on down to the Blind Donkey. The pear drink is reminiscent of fall flavors but if you want a great summer whiskey drink, then definitely order a For What It's Worth...oh my mama it is delicious but drink it slow; it's a strong one and the best thing you'll ever have if you like citrus flavor. read more

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Meh, I would not recommend unless you enjoy spending your evenings surrounded by obnoxious, loud drunk men. I went here for date night and even my partner was annoyed! Service was really slow. I think it took us like 20 minutes to place our order. They have a nice collection of beer but they should specify on their menu which is draft versus bottled. read more

Great selection of bourbon and whiskey...barkeep is knowledgeable and patient with questions Because of the extensive collection of reasonably priced options, ordering is at bar and process can be excruciating slow. Happy Hour Old fashioned is good value read more

Good whiskey cocktails. Fast service. Good spot for a chill drink during the week. Pretty busy on weekends

Customer service is pretty crappy. Idk his name but he just toss the menu on the table and told me it's bar service. Thanks! Tables were sticky, I rest my elbow on there for a second and I can feel a tacky ness on my elbow. The menus were also sticky, greasy and.. wet. My coworker and I ordered anyways, all our items came out great. Food was amazing, we really enjoyed it. But whenever we asked for anything it would take FOREVERRRR to get to us. It was a bit disappointing. Because no matter how good the food is, shitty customer service def brings a place down. I want to chalk it up to the guy having a bad day but because of how he is, it was crappy for me, my guest as well. read more

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Just read through your reviews and there seems to be common theme there of very rude and confrontational staff. Seemed like an intriguing location at first until reading through others experiences and seems that the unsatisfactory reviews began to increase roughly a year back (new hire or management?) needless to say enough to give me pause to select this as a meetup date location now. Advice to owners you should probably read and take these seriously and investigate or your business is likely not long for the world unless you're regular clientele is independently wealthy. read more

Major staple of old town, where everybody knows your name, where you get a mix of hipsters and exec's, gals and pals. Where you go to chill, laugh and talk about your day. Tasty appetizers and whiskey galore secret drinks and so much more! A stitch in our story this location is, we wouldn't change a thing! A perfect 5 stars The Blind Donkey is! read more

The Blind Donkey - Dr. Satan lol jk - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

Best place in Old Town Pasadena for a delicious drink! Plenty of seating indoors; there used to be additional outdoor seating (I'm hoping that will be back soon!). Bartenders are very friendly and efficient! read more

The food was okay, I like their drinks. Location is in the prime area of Pasadena so lots of shops around and venues too. Service is fast and waiters and the bartenders are friendly here. Recommended place if you are looking to grab a sip of wine or one of your favorite cocktail. read more

I love this place. Excellent drinks, crafty bartenders, great mellow atmosphere. An excellent place just to come, hang out and have some crafted cocktails with an extensive scotch and whiskey menu. It's dark, mysterious and a great place to just have good drinks and good vibes read more

Great bar, easy parking on the streets of parking garages Brick walls made for nice interior Nick of time was so good! Outside seating is nice just not blocked in. Bartenders are so nice, really make you feel welcomed and make great drinks Great place to casually drink with friends or a significant other Only recommendation is to consider changing the weird bulb yellow lighting as it makes lighting weird in pictures (: See you at trivia night! read more

Such a good whiskey bar!! The vibes are old town texas feel that you can't find in west hollywood. Good drinks and fries were bomb! Ambience : 4 Drinks : 5 Price : 4 Vibes : Texas hat old down Good for : drinks w co workers @mizukittychaan follow me on insta for more food pics! read more

They have an impressive whiskey selection and outdoor seating available Came on a Saturday evening around 6:40pm. It was fairly crowded but there were still some empty tables available. We were asked by the hostess to seat ourselves. Menu is a QR code. We went up to the bar to order our drinks and bring them back to the table. The table was slightly sticky, presumably from whoever was there before us. It was our first time here and we were basically serving ourselves. I'm not sure if this is how it usually is, or if it's a waiter serviced restaurant. I like that they offer 1oz and 0.5 oz pours for some of their whiskeys! This allows you to sample different kinds. I had the old fashioned. It was good, but not memorable. I've had better old fashioned's elsewhere. All in all, I'm not entirely sure if I'd return. I've had this place bookmarked for a long time, but was left underwhelmed after this experience read more

I came here for the first time as I was passing through town and got a chance to enjoy some people watching and delicious food while being treated like an absolute prince by Gabriel. This gentleman was so versed in the knowledges of fine whiskeys I spent my rent. The ambiance is like what I imagine the vip room on the Titanic being like minus all the water. Can't wait to come back here again if I'm ever in the area. Hopefully Gabriel is still there cause we had an amazing conversation I'd like to continue in the future. I think I shall call him my Gaby Baby read more

I experienced a #technologyfail when I had my google maps app out and I still struggled to find this place. If you're experiencing similar struggles, just look for a door with a large 53 above the door and you found it!! Old school address searching FOR THE WIN!! I don't think it actually says Blind Donkey or anything. Blind Donkey is a really chill whiskey bar with dim lit lighting and intimate ambiance. When we came in they told us to sit anywhere we'd like and to just order at the bar. The menu was well organized with a decent selection without being too cluttered. We both felt like... while at the whiskey bar, order some whiskey... so we both opt for their flights: Ye Olde Flight ($13) - Old Grandad 100, Old Overhold, Old Welles Antique Intro to Ireland Flight ($10) - Bushmills, Powers, Teeling Okay I totally get that flights of anything are meant to be a small taster so you can sample it, but these whiskey flights were more like a teaser. I would rather pay more for a decent sip to actually taste what I'm drinking. I liked it, but I don't know if I had enough to really appreciate any distinction among the varieties. If you want a more straight forward drink I would suggest one of their classics-- the Old Fashioned ($10). This is my go-to drink at many bars and at Blind Donkey they make theirs with wild turkey rye, simple syrup, angostura bitters and orange rind. This Old Fashioned was really smooth and I was able to savor its' taste. This was a great place to grab a drink or two and talk since they basically get you your drinks and leave you alone for the most part. They check on you minimally, but service was really friendly. If I'm in the area with good company, I would definitely come back here for some solid drinks and mellow vibes. read more

The Blind Donkey - whiskey flights - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Right next to 50/50 burgers If you know where Slater's 50/50 ( http://www.yelp.com/biz/slaters-50-50-pasadena-2 ) is at, then you will be in luck to find this bar! The bar is right next to Slater's 50/50. You cannot miss it if you're on Union st. You'll see this big red door with a bouncer sitting outside checking IDs before letting peeps in. Great, great experience. There were a lot of whiskey's to choose from and I was overwhelmed! If you're a whiskey drinker, you should know NOT to down your drink or be taking them as shots right? Else.. what's the point of whiskey tasting?I was a little disappointed seeing some people ordering their Flights (which are 3 shots of variety of whiskey) for $10 and using them as shots. :( that's just sad. I thought you're suppose to enjoy it not just get f..ed up before you get the chance to try the other kinds of dranks. Ordered.. Four Roses Cask Strength Single Barrel - smelled like honey but did not taste like it. Ha, that fooled me. Butler's Old Fashioned - cannot complain about how strong it was, but I was able to taste the mixture of an old fashion. Not bad. http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/the-blind-donkey-pasadena?select=Lfi_RjUV6HS-LgzRnWHkgw#VEM9ddboePvhvucd3jAbVQ Crowd and seatings? - There's bar seating and table seats. I guess first come, first serve! There are snacks to order, but all orders are taken at the bar but they will deliver your food to your table. Games? - Shuffle board and chest painted on some tables! Just make sure to grab the pieces from the bar.Or ask them for it. I am a whiskey person so Blind Donkey, I will be coming back. read more

The Blind Donkey - Single barrel rye and bird of courage! - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

I've been here a couple of times for Happy Hour, it is located in Old Town Pasadena. Their specialty is Whiskey but they also serve beers and cocktails. I came here with my friends on a Friday, around 5pm, it was fairly empty and quiet. Towards the evening around 9:30pm it started to get busy. The lights were dimmed, the music got louder but the ambiance was still casual. My friends and I also had fun playing with the Shuffle Board that is located at the front entrance. This is one of the bars that my friends and I enjoy going to. ::Food:: I've tried the Triple Fried Fries and Garlic Parmesan Fries, nothing special about it. The Green Goddess Chicken Wrap is stuffed with lettuce, dressing, pieces of blue cheese and chicken; it also came with a side of fries. The chicken was tender and the wrap was soft. (http://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=2Eh1suADDzPJdaWPzMLu8Q&userid=NO5e0WtLAOYcjheLU6OEVg) (http://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=2GWPdvLs-4mlqAORKTzZ-A&userid=NO5e0WtLAOYcjheLU6OEVg) (http://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=naifw9Lqg7mwOfdPkwztOQ&userid=NO5e0WtLAOYcjheLU6OEVg) ::Drinks:: My favorite drink would be the Nick of Thyme. It has Buffalo Trace, Honey-Thyme Syrup, Lemon, Cock and Bull Ginger Beer. Another drink that I like is the Moscow Mule, it consists of Figure Vodka Kings Ginger, Bundaberg ginger beer, and lime. If you like beer try the Ten Fidy by Older Blues. The flavor is a combination of chocolate and coffee. (http://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=NO5e0WtLAOYcjheLU6OEVg) (http://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=4ir36bQcWIvXM5sjKaB8Iw&userid=NO5e0WtLAOYcjheLU6OEVg) ::Customer Service:: Tim is awesome, very friendly and he makes the drinks perfect! The staff is also attentive, every time we had an empty drink, they constantly removed it from our table. ::Rating:: Drinks/Ambience: 4 Stars / Food (based on what I've tasted): 3 Stars ::M's Notes:: -Happy Hour is from Monday thru Friday, 4pm- 7pm Saturday and Sunday, 1pm-5pm -$2 off select draft beers and $4 well drinks. read more

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The Blind Donkey has been a staple of my life in Pasadena for years. The staff has always been welcoming even at the busiest of times. Yes, sometimes there is a wait, especially since the re-opening; but I am grateful that they are still standing as this pandemic slows & I will always recommend them to anyone in the area looking for a solid Old Fashioned paired with some garlic parmesan fries & great atmosphere. read more

The Blind Donkey - Old Fashioned - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

I was nearly blind, and sometimes a jackass, for several years. That is, until I had my cataract surgery (I know, cataracts was a surprise to me, too, especially at such a young age). Nowadays, I can see very well, but the latter issue may still rear its head from time to time...and I apologize in advance. John, one of the owners of the Blind Donkey, has worked in some of Americas most well-known establishments across our fine nation, and is out in the lead for the first time in his career. During our little chat (ie. formal Yelp Q&A session), he is in no manner a jackass, or a donkey, or blind -- although, he does wear glasses. A seriously super nice gent with a hipster Seattlesque 'tude, he's seasoned and educated in NY, is customer-facing, and seemingly very willing to share his well-earned stripes to train and groom his staff in order to create a tip-top whiskey saloon (no sarsaparilla served, so don't even ask). Drafts and a small food menu is also available, including a burger -- which, must be had soon by you, me, and all of our amigos (even the ever-so-snooty Yelpers, they have some nerve!). From 67 types of Whiskey at its soft launch to 95 types just 12 days later. How many bottles will fit on the shelves, and how far they are willing to accommodate the aficionado? Rustic in decor, it's small and intimate, and the overall feeling is very welcoming here. In case you were studying to be the next Cliff Clavin, you can read a nice little article about the differences of a mule, a jackass, a donkey, and a burro. http://ask.yahoo.com/19991021.html. Good luck with that. read more

Ambiance, Service, and Drinks: The place was lively and a little dim and the MC was amazing! The bartender was very attentive, friendly, and suggested some well know whiskey's to try. After having a shot of the Yamazaki and the hibiki, I was very relaxed. Going through my facebook photo rolodex, I came across these bad boys. The Yamazaki 12 year and the Hibiki 12 year and bam memories came back like if it happened yesterday. Good times! About 8 months ago, I went to a meetup event at the blind donkey where there was trivia night. Our team of 7, took 3rd place out of 8 teams and for our prize we got a 2000 Australian Parrot Calendar! Haha Yes, that's so random, but very fun. If you guys want a chill place to relax after work, Blind donkey is the place for you. I didn't try the happy hour, but will try to make it the next time I go. read more

The Blind Donkey - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Huge plus is the great whiskey list and really good cocktails. Atmosphere is fun. Staff seems to be hit and miss. If you sit at the tables inside, you have to order food and drinks at the bar, no table service. Food is really good, if pretty limited menu. Fries are excellent!! read more

Dark and industrial vibes (almost gritty) with delicious cocktails, friendly staff, and lively music and atmosphere. Bartenders are welcoming and there is a bouncer at the entrance who checks ID and is great. You truly truly can't go wrong with any of their cocktails (strong!) and I had my first ever shot of Clase Azul here (100!!!). A solid spot for drinks and catching up. Volume level is 7/10 so speak up! read more

I'm not really a huge whiskey fan, but came here b/c its in my hood and it's fairly new still. Its usually always crowded w/ people when I walk my dog down the street at night. I happened to enter the dimly lit bar on a Monday night I think it was? Yes, it was a Monday night. It wasn't empty, but it wasn't busy... there was PLENTY of open seating around. Had I known they served food, I wouldn't have eaten at Slaters 50/50 (next door) - since I've already eaten there several times already. My Drink: Sidecar - not bad... I don't like the fragrance of whiskey (any alcoholic drink for that matter). As long as I didn't smell it, I was good, haha. Note: Shuffleboard & an arcade game are available to play :] There are also a couple or maybe just one TV (don't remember). read more

The Blind Donkey - Sidecar - Whiskey Bars Near Me - Pasadena, California

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