Barrel 44
1120 N. High St., Short North
614-294-2277
You expect an extensive list of the good stuff at a self-described whiskey bar, and Barrel 44 doesn't disappoint. After easing into a comfy leather bar stool, you can browse a selection of 71 pours, spanning all types of bourbon, rye, Scotch, Irish and Canadian. But this place really shines when it comes to settling up. During Barrel 44's excellent happy hour, 4:30 to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, you get half-off all whiskeys that are normally $5.50 or less. (Don't worry, there are a lot of choices on the modestly priced list.) Whiskey cocktails on the specialty menu are half-priced too, so if you prefer a new-fangled old fashioned to a bourbon neat, you can still make your hour extra happy.
Runners-up: Tip Top Kitchen & Cocktails, Digger & Finch