ken stewart's east bank
Why we love it: You may be used to pairing steak with red wine, but think about trying an aged whiskey instead. This Flats East Bank restaurant has around 130 neon-colored bottles lining the walls, including splurges such as the Macallan 25 ($100 for a 1-ounce pour). "It has a really clean, dry sherry start with a smooth aftertaste," says operations manager Tyler Lewis. Try this: Macallan 12 ($8 for a 1-ounce pour) has a richer alcohol taste at a fraction of the price. 1121 W. 10th St., Cleveland, 216-696-8400, kenstewarts.com/eastbank
LIzardville
Why we love it: Forget the impressive beer list here and ask to see general manager Burl Lane's massive book of more than 300 whiskey selections from Scotland, Japan, Belgium, England and the U.S. "We take pride in what we do and are genuinely beer and whiskey geeks," he says. Try this: A 2-ounce pour of Balvenie, with its rich mix of cherry, vanilla and wet oak notes, will set you back $350. 25380 Miles Road, Bedford Heights, 216-364-2337, lizardville.net
rib cage bar and grill
Why we love it: A curated whiskey list of more than 30 options is enough to keep even neighborhood regulars surprised at this family-owned dive bar. The small selection includes a few surprises such as Eagle Rare bourbon with its fruity and butterscotch flavors. "[It's] something rare that not many other places serve," says bartender Samantha Grove, "nothing over the top, just good ol' fashion bourbon." Try this: Smooth, amber-colored Pritchard's whiskey ($8) served on the rocks. 2214 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-321-7427, facebook.com/theribcagebargrill
soho kitchen and bar
Why we love it: Chef and owner Nolan Konkoski, who offers more than 120 whiskeys behind the 12-foot bar at his Southern-style restaurant, knows spirits warm the Dixie soul. "Bourbon and fried chicken is about as good as it gets," he says. Try this: The smooth wheat taste of Pappy Van Winkle's ($40) on the rocks. 1889 W. 25th St., Cleveland, 216-298-9090, sohocleveland.com
xyz the tavern
Why we love it: Although 90 whiskeys line the red brick wall, bartenders at this Gordon Square Arts District spot usually reach for the brown sugary sweetness of Powers ($6). "This is by far the whiskey of choice," says bartender Grant Grayson. "It's bold, oaky and smooth." Try this: Lagavulin 16 ($18), dry with an aftertaste of molasses. 6419 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, 216-706-1104, xyzthetavern.com
