Why 1885 Cocktail Bar Should Be Your Next Date Night

I don't know about you, but my family tends to get in a routine with what we eat. We get busy during the week, and either cook at home or stick to our tried and true favorites on the go. However, we also LOVE to try new things. I say that to try to explain why it has taken us so dang long to actually go and experience 1885 Cocktail Bar in Owensboro, KY.

1885 Checks All the Boxes

Because after a recent night out there, I am kicking myself for not having been before! The stars aligned, and Michael and I got a night out. We didn't really feel like "people-ing" too much, if you know what I mean? We wanted a comfy, vibe-y spot with good food and maybe a drink or two. 1885 checked all of the boxes.

Vintage Velvety Speakeasy Vibes

As soon as we walked in, the vintage, speakeasy feel was already there. A gorgeous on-theme local art gallery hangs on the walls to welcome you. An Al Capone piece by Brittany Samsil is a focal point with his 3-D cigar among the other gilded frames and interesting photography.

Seating areas with velvet couches and feathery light fixtures offer an intimate lounge option, or you can sit at the beautiful backlit bar to watch a game or an old-school gangster movie.

A Great Place for Any Group

I noticed the different kinds of folks who were there. A group of co-workers, it looked like, was having an after-work cocktail. A group of gals spilling some HOT tea and laughing in between sips and snacks. Another couple was having a date night. Hey, hey! This is a nice atmosphere for catching up with an old friend or meeting a new one.

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1885 Cocktail Bar Food Menu

We sat at a table and took a look at the menu. I knew I wanted to try a variety of things because sometimes you need a little bit of this AND "ooooh a little of THAT" too, ya know? Everything sounded so good. Here's what they are cooking up right now.

Plates Big & Small

We ordered the Spicy Bites board as an appetizer. This has an amazing assortment of sweet and savory...spicy bites. Haha! The cheese spread on the crunchy Niko's bread was soooo good. And just thinking about those Tajin-sprinkled orange slices makes my mouth water!

Now THAT'S a Good Burger

Michael ordered the Prohibition Burger with house-made potato chips. A lot of Owensboro ate this bad boy during Burger Week 2026, and it is so good, you will be very glad you ordered it again!

Great Veggie Options

We also got some great sides to share. I love seeing a roasted brussel sprout on a menu. Especially when it is crispy and cheesy with salty pancetta. The balsamic drizzle is a nice zest of flavor.

Prettier on the Inside

The stuffed mushrooms were DELICIOUS! So bright and fresh, and the portion size was great. Unexpectedly deconstructed, which didn't hinder the flavor whatsoever, but it may make it harder to share. Once you taste it, you may not want to share anyway! Haha! She isn't super photogenic, but here she is:

The Strawberry Splat

Speaking of photogenic, though, I got the TASTIEST cocktail I have had in a long time. The Strawberry Splat. I don't usually order fancy drinks, but "When in Rome." I'm a sucker for anything coconut, and this combo was perfect. Look how pretty! The sugared rim added a nice touch.

1885 Cocktail Bar Drink Menu

Here is the current drink specials menu:

Wheezin' the Juice

They also have a great selection of beer, seltzer, wine, cocktails, and even non-alcoholic options. Michael loved this one beer called "Wheezin' the Juice," a hazy IPA. He also gave me grief for not knowing the movie reference. Haha! Called me out to his friend at the next table and everything. That was a fun dose of nostalgia I totally should have remembered!

When is 1885 Cocktail Bar Open?

We can't wait to go back! It really was the perfect night out. 1885 is something unique compared to other places in the area, and the experience as a whole feels very authentic. You can tell the whole team really cares and has put a lot of thought into this place. So go see them, support them, and enjoy! They are open Wed & Thurs: 3-11 PM; Fri & Sat 3-1 AM; Sunday Brunch 11-4 PM

This Bar Has it All: Happy Hour, Brunch, Live Music, Live Comedy

They've got Happy Hour specials and often host live musicians. I also really want to try their weekend brunch with my book club ladies sometime soon. You can follow them on Facebook to see more food and drink pictures, meet the mix-masters and kitchen magicians. There, you can also learn more about their upcoming Pop-Up Comedy Club night on July 11th.

Have you been to 1885 Cocktail Bar? What did you order? Chime in on the Facebook conversation or send us a message on the App. Bonus points for pictures!