As Oceanside continues to become more and more of a dining destination, it adds a new drinking option to its offerings tonight, with the opening of 3LocalBrothers' 101 Proof. Ensconced within Urge Gastropub and Whiskey Bank, the 600-square-foot speakeasy is a swanky hideaway that expands upon the main eatery's already keen focus on whiskey; in addition to a craft cocktail menu from Shannon King, which ranges from a flaming tiki drink to 10 variations on the Old Fashioned, 101 Proof carries an impressive list of 300 whiskey varieties.
Inspired by the Prohibition era and its former function as a bank vault, the plush bar and lounge features a copper ceiling and a penny-lined floor. Reservations are encouraged, though some of the 35 seats will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Open Thursday through Saturday from 6 p.m. to midnight to start, the bar has its own entrance off of Vista Way and a strictly-enforced guest code. Bar memberships, available at $500 or $1,000 a year, will give members access to personal liquor lockers, special single-barrel bottle releases, and private tasting events.
A throwback bill of fare, available until 10 p.m., includes pan-seared foie gras, roasted bone marrow, chicken roulade, and bananas Foster. The bar also plans on organizing pairing dinners in the space — five-course menus served with both beer and spirits.
101 Proof Cocktail Menu by EaterSD on Scribd
