The 5 Best Places for a Cocktail Around Frederick

A great cocktail isn’t just mixed — it’s crafted. From the balance of flavors to the art of presentation, the best cocktail bars in Frederick turn every pour into a story. Whether it’s a smoky old fashioned or a seasonal creation with local ingredients, these establishments blend creativity, precision and atmosphere into something worth savoring. The Best of the Best highlights the local spots that have raised the bar, literally and figuratively, when it comes to handcrafted cocktails.

McClintock’s Back Bar

McClintock’s Back Bar is where Frederick’s first organic distillery showcases its spirit — in every sense of the word. The bar features a rotating menu of inventive cocktails made from McClintock’s own award-winning gins, whiskeys and vodkas. Guests can explore classics reimagined or sample modern concoctions that spotlight locally sourced ingredients. The ambiance strikes a balance between industrial chic and warm hospitality, creating an experience that reflects both craftsmanship and community. For cocktail enthusiasts, it’s the perfect place to taste where artistry meets authenticity.

Hootch & Banter

Hootch & Banter has become a cornerstone of downtown Frederick’s dining and nightlife scene. Known for its creative bar program and upscale comfort food, the restaurant’s cocktail list reads like a love letter to innovation. Each drink is thoughtfully designed to complement the menu’s bold flavors, with fresh ingredients and modern techniques taking center stage. The downstairs lounge offers an intimate setting that invites guests to linger over their drinks — proof that good cocktails are as much about the atmosphere as the glass in hand.

Springfield Manor Winery Distillery Brewery

Springfield Manor Winery Distillery Brewery combines three crafts under one roof, giving guests an array of flavors to explore. The distillery’s cocktail offerings highlight its small-batch spirits, from smooth bourbons to aromatic gins. The setting adds to the experience — scenic mountain views, rustic charm and attentive service make every drink feel like an escape. Whether visiting for a tasting flight or a signature cocktail, Springfield Manor delivers a refined yet relaxed environment that celebrates Maryland-made quality.

10Tavern

At 10Tavern, the cocktail menu reflects the restaurant’s creative approach to modern dining. This Thurmont hotspot serves drinks that are both familiar and fresh, with a mix of classic recipes and inventive new flavors. Guests can sip craft cocktails alongside locally inspired dishes, enjoying a setting that feels both casual and elevated. The bartenders’ attention to detail and enthusiasm for their craft make every order an experience — not just a drink.

Rosie Cheeks Distillery

Rosie Cheeks Distillery brings a fun, unpretentious attitude to the art of distilling and mixology. With a lineup of handcrafted spirits distilled on-site, its cocktails showcase creativity without losing sight of balance. The tasting room offers an inviting space where guests can sample everything from fruit-forward spritzes to spirit-forward classics. Rosie Cheeks takes pride in producing quality spirits that speak for themselves, and its cocktails highlight that same confidence — flavorful, thoughtful and made with care.

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