The Bar at Willett Distillery, located in Bardstown, KY, has been named one of twenty semifinalists for the James Beard Award in the “Outstanding Bar,” category. The Bar is not only the sole national semifinalist located in Kentucky, but also the only distillery-associated bar.
The James Beard Awards celebrate the best-of-the-best within the food and beverage industry, and this recognition names The Bar as among the nation’s finest.
“We are incredibly honored to be recognized as a James Beard semifinalist,” said General Manager and Beverage Director Andy Pope in a press release. “Our bar serves guests with an experience reflective of Willett’s family heritage which invites guests to enjoy classically-inspired cocktails and small plates in an intimate and attentive setting. Our bar staff curates an atmosphere grounded in the principles and history of finely-crafted cocktails.”
Winners of the James Beard Awards will be announced on June 16th, in Chicago, IL.
About The Bar at Willett
Located at the site of the historic Willett Distillery and inspired by a storied family heritage, The Bar at Willett opened in 2019 and specializes in small plates, vintage pours and classically-inspired cocktails carefully executed by Executive Chef John Sleasman and General Manager/Beverage Director Andy Pope. Visit them at thebaratwillett.com.
Press Release and Information courtesy of Josh Hafer, Team Hafer Strategic Communications
This article appears in Jan 17-30, 2025.
