Ironside Whiskey Bar

Ironside is a whiskey bar in Portland's Old Port where the bartenders Liz and Kadie know their stuff and actually care if you're having a good time. The space does double duty as an afternoon tea spot, which feels like an odd fit, but the bar side is where things click. Come for the whiskey, the personality, and a drink menu that takes some real thought.

• Bartenders Liz and Kadie are personable, knowledgeable, and attentive
• Broad whiskey selection and creative seasonal cocktail menu
• Downtown Old Port location with valet parking available
• Staff that actually enjoys making you happy

Start with whatever seasonal whiskey cocktail has caught your eye on the menu, they put real thought into the names and the drinks themselves. If you're exploring whiskey neat, the bartenders will happily guide you through the selection based on what you usually gravitate toward.

The lounge-style seating with decorative bottles gives it a casual, modern feel. It's relaxed enough for a solo drink at the bar or a catch-up with friends, not loud or stuffy.

If you're a whiskey drinker, this is the place to land. The bartenders are personable and funny, genuinely interested in talking you through what you like rather than just pouring. They've got seasonal cocktails that show real creativity in the naming, and the selection is broad enough that you'll find something worth exploring.

Whiskey Bar: Wednesday–Saturday, 5:00 pm–11:00 pm. Sunday, 5:00 pm–10:00 pm. Closed Monday and Tuesday.

Afternoon Tea Service: Select afternoons (check availability when booking).

Closed: Monday and Tuesday.

Ironside operates on a reservation system through OpenTable; walk-ins are accommodated if space allows, but booking ahead is strongly advised, especially for afternoon tea. Call (207) 774-4200 or reserve online. Afternoon tea in particular fills quickly, particularly on rainy days and weekends. Allow 2–3 weeks' notice for groups of more than four. The whiskey bar is more forgiving for walk-in traffic on quieter nights (Wednesday, Sunday), but weekend evenings are snug.

Guests consistently praise Liz and Kadie for their knowledge and genuine care about customer satisfaction. One recent visitor called them "top notch" and a delight to work with. Whiskey enthusiasts say it's worth the trip if spirits are your thing.

Ironside sits on the lobby level of the Portland Regency Hotel, in the heart of the Old Port - Portland's historic waterfront neighborhood, walkable and concentrated.

• On foot from Congress Street (downtown Portland): 5–10 minutes through the Old Port.
• By car from the Midcoast: 20–30 minutes from Brunswick or Rockland.
• From Portland International Jetport: 10 minutes north.
• Nearby walks: The Portland Observatory is a 3-minute walk. Fore Street and the waterfront parks are 2 minutes. Custom House Wharf and the ferry terminal are steps away.
• Day trip option: Ironside anchors a Old Port visit; pair it with lunch at a nearby restaurant, a waterfront walk, or an afternoon at the Portland Museum of Art (10 minutes up Congress Street).
• Parking: Complimentary valet through the hotel. Street parking in the Old Port is difficult and metered.

Do I need a reservation? Yes, especially for weekend evenings and afternoon tea service. Walk-ins work on quiet weeknights if space allows, but book through OpenTable or call ahead to be safe.

What's the dress code in practice? Smart casual. No athletic wear or t-shirts; blazer and jeans, or a nice dress, fits perfectly. The room expects you to look like you're out for something, not running an errand.

Is afternoon tea service offered every day? No. It's a select-afternoon offering tied to hotel events and availability. Check the OpenTable calendar or call (207) 774-4200 to confirm. Book 2–3 weeks ahead if you're planning around it.

Is there wheelchair accessibility? The lounge is on the hotel lobby level; accessibility depends on the Regency Hotel's entry and elevator infrastructure. Call ahead to confirm ADA accommodation.

Can I get a table just for cocktails, or is there a minimum food order? The bar operates on a full lounge model; food is not required, but ordering small plates or snacks is customary and expected. Drinks alone, for 1–2 hours, is standard practice.

Does Ironside have a wine or beer program? Yes. Maine craft beer on draft (Maine Beer Co., Cushnoc, Hard Tellin') and wine by the glass (Sauvignon Blanc, Prosecco, Pinot Noir, Cabernet), around $12–$16. The focus is spirits, but alternatives are available.

Is there outdoor seating? No. The lounge is entirely indoors on the hotel lobby level.

Can I do a private event here? The Regency Hotel offers private dining and event space; contact the hotel directly at (207) 774-4200 or via the website to discuss group bookings.