The Whiskey Coop: An Elegant and Casual Experience at the Armory Square in Downtown Syracuse
Bar and whiskey selection at The Whiskey Coop in Downtown Syracuse
The Whiskey Coop at the Armory Square in Downtown Syracuse is both spacious and elegant, while simultaneously offering a casual and relaxed experience for visitors seeking a well-crafted meal and a stellar selection of spirits.
Upon entering The Whiskey Coop, you are greeted with a view of an industrial, yet rustic chandelier adjacent to a mural of an animated chicken with a monocle and black bowtie that seemingly foreshadows the experience you will find once you have descended the staircase into the restaurant below.
Entrance to The Whiskey Coop features an industrial chandelier and chicken mural
Below, the space is diverse. There are vintage couches for lounging over a cocktail, booths for dining as a group, and a vibrant bar with comfortable chairs and a spectacular view of dozens of elevated spirits. From Japanese whiskey to Scotch, you can find an elegant selection of varying craft spirits.
‘Ginzo’ cocktail featuring Japanese whiskey and Japanese bitters
The menu is casual, yet refined, featuring Wagyu beef smash burgers, fried chicken sandwiches, various fried finger foods, and a small variety of Southern-inspired dishes. The Whiskey Coop has an extensive spirits list and a diverse list of libations for all who imbibe. On this venture, I chose the spicy route and went with their Nashville Hot Chicken, which offered an exceptional amount of heat. I paired this lunch with the ‘Ginzo’ which was a whiskey-forward cocktail reminiscent of a Manhattan, but with Japanese whiskey and Japanese bitters. It was smooth, fruity, with a hint of tart flavors that made for a nice sipper to cut the heat from the Nashville Hot Chicken.
Nashville Hot Chicken with a side of sweet potato waffle cut fries
Overall, it was a great experience made better by a friendly bartender. Next time you find yourself at the Armory Square in Downtown Syracuse, stop in for a good time.