When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Great Jones Distilling Co
Why Great Jones Distilling Co is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Great Jones Distilling Co. stands out as Manhattan’s first legal whiskey distillery since Prohibition, reviving a historic spirit tradition right in the heart of NoHo. Founded with the vision to embody New York’s rich culture and heritage, the distillery produces its bourbon and rye exclusively from grains grown in the fertile Black Dirt region of Upstate New York. This focus on local sourcing ensures a uniquely smooth, balanced, and complex flavor profile with a distinctive spiciness that reflects its New York roots. The distillery itself offers an inviting and unique atmosphere—described by visitors as a blend between a whimsical Willy Wonka factory and a sophisticated 1920s literary salon—making it an extraordinary place to meet up with friends for both education and enjoyment.
Visitors can enjoy guided tours that reveal the distillation process, from the pot and column stills to barrel aging, combined with tastings of signature and experimental whiskeys. The second-floor bar complements the experience with expertly crafted cocktails, offering a grown-up spot ideal for whiskey aficionados and casual drinkers alike. With a commitment to sustainability and local collaboration, Great Jones also innovates with niche barrel-aged spirits and experimental styles, engaging deeply with NYC’s vibrant culture to make it not just a distillery but a landmark experience.
Here's what people think of Great Jones Distilling Co
As of recent, Great Jones Distilling Co holds a 4.7-star rating based on 588 reviews.
Reviews for Great Jones Distilling Co. overwhelmingly highlight the team’s expertise, the quality of their whiskey offerings, and the distinctive experience of visiting the distillery. Many guests praise the knowledgeable and engaging tour guides like Jonathan, who provide entertaining and informative narrations that prompt questions and interaction. The bar on the second floor receives positive mentions for its well-crafted cocktails and lively atmosphere, often noted as a great spot for sampling the varieties of bourbon and rye produced in-house.
Positive reviews emphasize the quality and uniqueness of the spirits made exclusively from New York grains, the stylish and welcoming venue, and the combination of educational tours with enjoyable tastings. Visitors appreciate the added touches such as locally sourced food pairings and the value offered by the comprehensive tour and tasting experience. Many guests express their intention to return and watch the distillery continue to innovate.
Negative feedback tends to focus on the price point, noting that cocktails and tour tickets are on the higher end compared to other NYC bars. Some visitors also mention that the tour can be brief or feel rushed, and a few note the spaciousness could sometimes feel less intimate.
Overall, the reviews depict Great Jones Distilling Co. as a vibrant and well-regarded destination for whiskey lovers and tourists alike, balancing historical significance with a modern spirit experience that celebrates New York’s distinct identity and craft.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Marie U
Great Jones Distilling Co. is a great spot and a refreshing change from the usual NYC activities. I took their distillery tour and tasting, and it was a really enjoyable experience—well-organized, informative, and fun. It’s a good option if you’re looking to do something different that’s not overly touristy. While it’s unfortunate that their restaurant has closed, the bar is still open to the public and worth checking out. The atmosphere is sleek and inviting, and it's a nice place to unwind with a well-crafted drink. Overall, a unique and worthwhile experience in the city.
Terry Jiang
We had the pleasure of touring Great Jones Distillery with Steven as our guide, and he was absolutely fantastic! Even though he’s new, Steven was incredibly charismatic, engaging, and knowledgeable. The tour itself was amazing — I learned so much about the whiskey-making process and the fascinating history behind the distillery. The whiskey flight was a highlight, allowing us to really taste and appreciate the unique differences between each spirit. After the tour, we stayed for food, which was absolutely delicious, and the service was top-notch. Every staff member we encountered, including the bartender, was exceptional — friendly, attentive, and clearly passionate about what they do. Overall, an unforgettable experience and a must-visit for whiskey lovers (and food lovers alike)!
Tim Hewitt
*This review is for a special chef collaboration event* My GF and I recently attended the first (hopefully of many) Great Jones chef collaboration dinner event. Worth. Every. Penny. For the price of admission we received a 6 course tasting menu collaborated on by two chefs (one of whom is Great Jones’ executive chef). Each dish was paired with a house-made cocktail, wine or whiskey. The cocktails were all whiskey based (of course) but showcased a wonderful variety of flavors pleasing the pallets of all and showcasing the misunderstood diversity of the spirit. The food courses were, similarly, not lacking in creativity, daring and diversity. Highlighting the many cultural varieties of cuisine in NYC, the tasting menu showcased many Latin and European flavors and techniques. From seared duck breast, to empanadas, to a scallop crudo and treś leches. While I may have had minor critiques on some of the finer techniques of the dishes, the menu was bold and flavorful. If given the opportunity, I will 100% be attending this event again.
Lisa
The distillery tour was very informative; our guide Amanda shared some great info and we loved the guided tasting she ran! The whiskeys were dynamic and unique, and the cocktail bar had great offerings. We also had exceptional customer service when we emailed about a sudden issue that arose with our original booking time, they were so attentive and helpful. We are recommending all of our friends go on the "homegrown" tour and try their spirits at bars when they see them on the menu!
Elaine Jung
I had a wonderful experience on their distillery tour. Jonathan was exceptionally kind and demonstrated extensive knowledge of the whiskey industry. The distillery had a refined and impressive atmosphere, and I enjoyed the whiskey flavors Jonathan introduced, particularly the straight bourbon. I hope to try the wine-infused whiskey on my next visit (Jon recommended it, but I had to pass this time due to my alcohol allergy). I will definitely be stopping by the bar soon. I highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting the area!
How to reach Great Jones Distilling Co
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Why Great Jones Distilling Co may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Great Jones Distilling Co with your friends? This distillery offers a uniquely compelling blend of history, craft, and atmosphere that makes it a standout destination in New York City for group meetups. As Manhattan’s first whiskey distillery since Prohibition, Great Jones Distilling Co taps into a rich heritage while delivering a modern and engaging experience. Whether you and your friends are bourbon aficionados or simply looking for a memorable outing, this place provides more than just drinks—it’s a social hub where you can bond over expertly made whiskey, delicious food, and a lively, welcoming ambiance. Guests frequently praise the knowledgeable and friendly staff, who enhance the experience with entertaining tours and personalized service that feel like a private adventure, not just a visit to a bar. The setting itself — a sleek, spacious venue with a stylish, warm design — invites lingering conversations and joyful celebrations. From casual evenings catching up over craft cocktails to special occasions like birthdays or intimate group parties, Great Jones Distilling Co offers an engaging, vibrant atmosphere where friendships truly thrive.
What activities does Great Jones Distilling Co offer for groups? The main draw begins with their highly recommended distillery tours that bring guests behind the scenes of the bourbon-making process. During these tours, knowledgeable guides share the history of the distillery, insights into whiskey distillation using their pot still and column still, and details about their use of New York State grains. The tours include tastings of various whiskey expressions, allowing your group to savor and compare flavors together while learning what makes each unique. After the tour, guests can ascend to the second-floor bar, an intimate space perfect for further sampling and socializing. This bar area offers a curated lineup of bourbons and cocktails, as well as seasonal and creative drinks, such as the tropical-inspired "The Other Side" cocktail featuring rye, coconut, and exotic spices. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxed yet sophisticated gathering where friends can discuss flavors or enjoy live music events hosted here occasionally. Additionally, the distillery hosts frequent "Prohibition Hour" specials with discounted cocktails, creating an energetic vibe that encourages mingling and celebration.
Why is Great Jones Distilling Co perfect for a group meetup? The venue’s layout caters expertly to groups both large and small. With a main dining room downstairs featuring a large counter that offers views into the open kitchen, groups can enjoy delicious meals crafted from locally sourced ingredients alongside their drinks, making it feel like a full culinary experience rather than just a bar stop. Their food menu, praised for interesting and flavorful dishes like the popular burger with applewood smoked bacon and red wine braised onions, complements the drink offerings expertly, providing satisfying options for a diverse crowd. The beautiful, meticulously maintained space is warm and inviting, making groups feel immediately comfortable and welcomed. Its strategic location in NoHo, near the crossroads of Broadway and Great Jones Street, is easily accessible and surrounded by other nightlife and dining options should your group want to extend the evening. The ambiance strikes the perfect balance between upscale and approachable, ideal for casual get-togethers, celebrations, or even cocktail tastings with a bit of education mixed in.
What makes Great Jones Distilling Co stand out in terms of service? The reviews consistently highlight phenomenal customer service as a key reason people return and bring friends. Attentive and knowledgeable servers create a personalized experience, guiding guests through the distillery’s offerings with enthusiasm and a sense of humor. Tour guides like Jonathan (mentioned frequently) combine expert knowledge with an engaging delivery that encourages questions and interaction, turning a simple tour into a shared experience memorable for groups. The bartenders also stand out, with stories of personal connections between staff and customers adding a friendly, intimate dimension to visits. Whether discussing sports over a cocktail or sharing the latest in craft spirits knowledge, staff foster camaraderie that enhances the group dynamic. This level of service not only makes each guest feel valued but also encourages groups to relax and enjoy their time together, knowing every detail is taken care of.
What are some highlights of the food and drink offerings that complement a meetup? Great Jones Distilling Co is foremost a distillery known for its whiskey, but its culinary program holds its own as a reason to gather. The kitchen serves innovative dishes that pair wonderfully with their spirits. One noted vegetarian dish is the roasted cauliflower with tahini glaze and chili de Arbol, a spiced but balanced plate with thoughtful flavors. Desserts like the inventive baked Alaska, made with lemon and coconut sorbet and a pineapple-rye sauce, offer a refreshing and unique end to a meal. Cocktail selections emphasize their signature rye and bourbon, with creative mixes like tropical-spiced tiki drinks that bring variety and visual flair to the table. Their "Prohibition Hour" cocktail specials also provide an affordable way to sample thoughtfully crafted drinks without breaking the bank, making evenings lively and inviting. The combination of food and drink at Great Jones is designed to keep groups engaged and satisfied, catering to diverse tastes while showcasing the distillery’s core craft.
How accessible and convenient is Great Jones Distilling Co for group events? The distillery’s location in Manhattan’s NoHo neighborhood makes it a prime spot for locals and visitors alike. Easy transit access and proximity to other entertainment venues mean your group can seamlessly integrate a visit into a larger day or night out. The venue itself is well-suited for private gatherings such as birthdays, receptions, and social meetups, with flexible space that can be adapted to different group sizes and purposes. Advance reservations for dinners, tastings, or private tours ensure your group can plan ahead and receive dedicated attention. The well-thought-out ambiance and design also mean that whether your group prefers a seated dinner, casual cocktail gathering, or a guided educational tasting, Great Jones can accommodate comfortably. This practicality combined with the engaging experience makes it an excellent choice not only for spontaneous nights out but also for carefully curated group events.
What unique experiences can your group share here? Beyond food and drinks, Great Jones Distilling Co offers a chance to connect over a shared appreciation of whiskey craftsmanship. The distillery tours are more than educational; they are social experiences that invite discussion and discovery among friends. Exploring the history of whiskey in Manhattan, learning about the production process, and tasting new expressions together creates a bond that extends beyond typical bar noise. Some guests highlight the jazz brunch events and specialty tastings that add a cultural or festive dimension to visits. The venue’s decor, including a map of Manhattan speakeasies from Prohibition times, adds a historical storytelling layer that sparks curiosity and conversation. These unique touches enrich a simple meetup, turning it into an experience your group will remember and talk about long afterward.
Why does Great Jones Distilling Co consistently receive high ratings? With a strong rating of 4.7 from nearly 600 reviews, the distillery clearly resonates with visitors as a top-tier venue. Reviews emphasize the combination of excellent drinks, quality food, knowledgeable and friendly staff, and a beautiful, well-maintained space that makes every visit special. The passion and care put into every aspect of the experience—from distilling to serving to ambiance—show through in the enthusiasm of guests and their desire to return. The ability to host a variety of events and cater to a range of needs, all while maintaining a lively yet intimate atmosphere, keeps Great Jones Distilling Co relevant and beloved in New York’s competitive hospitality scene. For groups looking for a destination that offers both fun and sophistication, this distillery stands out as a premier option to rally at.