The Bourbon Affair

Immerse yourself in the elegant atmosphere of the 1930s with a visit to The Bourbon Affair — a stylish conceptual bar located in the heart of Findlay. This venue has become a true oasis for spirits connoisseurs in the USA, offering guests a unique experience inspired by the post-Prohibition era.

The Bourbon Affair. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The interior's centerpiece is an impressive 12-meter custom-made bar. The entire design is steeped in the spirit of post-Prohibition: dim lighting, refined furniture, and an overall sense of authenticity transport visitors back to a time when quality whiskey was a symbol of long-awaited freedom and prestige.

Established in 2015, the bar quickly gained popularity thanks to its collection featuring hundreds of varieties of whiskey and bourbon. Here, you can find everything from rare collectibles to popular craft spirits. In 2021, the bar added a cozy terrace, allowing guests to enjoy premium alcohol and cocktails outdoors.

Today, The Bourbon Affair is more than just a drinking establishment; it’s a cultural space recognized for its high-quality service and hospitality. It is the perfect location for both a quiet end to a business day and an inspiring evening with loved ones.

For your convenience, we have gathered up-to-date contact information to help you book a table or inquire about hosting a private event. You can reach the management by phone or via their official social media channels.

The main focus here is on the art of tasting. Guests are offered "bourbon flights" — special sets that allow you to compare different varieties and find your perfect flavor. Professional bartenders, dressed in old-school style (white shirts and bow ties), will gladly give you a brief journey into the history of the spirits and help you navigate the extensive menu.

In addition to neat bourbon and whiskey, you should definitely try the signature cocktails. Classics like the Manhattan or Whiskey Sour are executed flawlessly here, while original smoky and vanilla mixes can surprise even the most discerning gourmets. Watching the masters work behind the bar is an aesthetic pleasure in itself.

For those who prefer outdoor relaxation, there is a cozy terrace and sidewalk seating, which are especially popular on warm evenings. Since the bar is located in a designated DORA (Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area), you can continue your stroll through downtown with a drink in hand. The establishment also frequently participates in local food festivals and offers space rentals for private celebrations or corporate meetings.

The establishment is located in the heart of downtown Findlay at 121 E Crawford St. This is a vibrant area with excellent pedestrian infrastructure, making the bar easy to find by navigating the popular shopping and dining districts of the center.

If you plan to arrive by car, there are numerous street parking spots and municipal lots located within a few minutes' walk. For those who prefer public transportation, Greyhound buses or local routes to the Findlay station are available, from which you can reach the bar on foot in about 10–15 minutes.

Travelers arriving from other regions often use Toledo Express Airport (TOL), a drive of about 45 minutes, or Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW), which is an hour and a half away. Within the city center, it is most convenient to get around on foot, enjoying the atmosphere of the DORA zone where walking with drinks is permitted.

The story of this unique place began in the fall of 2015 when spouses Ryan and Staci Leonard decided to bring an ambitious project to life. They were inspired by the idea of bringing the sophisticated atmosphere of big-city bourbon bars to the cozy center of Findlay. The concept is closely intertwined with the Prohibition era in the USA — or rather, with that joyful time in the 1930s when bans were lifted and bar culture began to flourish with new vigor.

The founders aimed to create more than just a bar; they wanted a place with soul and history. Every detail of the interior, from the massive bar counter to the lighting, works to create a sense of nostalgia. Ryan Leonard has often noted that the energy of the developing downtown area was the perfect catalyst for opening a bar of this format.

In 2021, The Bourbon Affair underwent a major expansion with the opening of a spacious 60-seat terrace. This allowed guests to enjoy drinks in the fresh air, following modern trends in comfortable leisure. Today, the bar is rightfully ranked among the city's best establishments by global travel portals, while maintaining its intimate feel and loyalty to tradition.

To fully experience the atmosphere and enjoy a leisurely tasting, we recommend setting aside 1 to 2 hours for your visit. This is enough time to order a tasting flight (bourbon flight), try a signature cocktail, and enjoy some light snacks.

If your visit coincides with a special event, live music, or if you plan to spend the evening with a large group of friends, your visit may extend to 3 hours. In any case, the relaxed atmosphere encourages long conversations, so there's no need to rush — every moment of relaxation is valued here.

The establishment welcomes guests in the late afternoon, offering a cozy evening after work or a busy day of sightseeing. The hours are as follows: Monday through Thursday the doors are open from 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and on Friday and Saturday, the bar stays open later — until 1:00 AM. The bar is closed on Sundays.

Please note that hours may change on holidays or during special private events. Before planning your visit, we recommend checking the official website or Facebook page for the most current information.

A stroll through downtown Findlay after a visit to the bar can be a great way to continue your evening. The area is rich in interesting locations, from cozy cafes to historical landmarks, all located just a few steps from one another.