2015 was a fantastic year for new bars in Cincinnati. In addition to one of my favorites, Myrtle’s Punch House in Walnut Hills, three more great bars of note opened their doors last year. They all have a slightly different character that is reflective of their respective neighborhoods, but each of them has earned a place as one of my go-to hot spots.

The Littlefield, on Spring Grove Avenue in Northside, has the most “neighborhood” feel of these three bars. They specialize in bourbon, including bourbon inspired desserts, such as Bourbon Flourless Chocolate Cake and Bourbon Pecan Pie, as well as scrumptious Chocolate Chip Cookies made with ginger, molasses and bacon. In addition to the bourbon and the delectable desserts, The Littlefield also features rotating taps of the obligatory local brews as well as a great selection of board games to pass the time. If the weather cooperates, there is a patio that is perfect for people watching, outfitted with picnic tables and umbrellas. And if Northside is great for anything, it is great for people watching.

Pearl’s, on Eastern Avenue in Columbia Tusculum, right around the corner from The Precinct and next door to Tostado’s, oozes east side attitude. (As an eastsider at heart, I can’t decide if that is a good thing or not.) The rehabbed row house is a smaller venue, but when weather permits, the large patio sports heaters and flat screen tv’s and accommodates quite a few patrons. There is also a private room upstairs that is available by reservation. Pearl’s is always packed so be prepared for a standing room only crowd unless you arrive early enough to snag a spot at the bar or one of the precious few tables. Pearl’s is not so much about the cocktails, which are good, but more about being seen at the hippest place to go. Of these three bars, this is the one at which you are most likely to find an out of control bachelorette party. You get the picture, right?

And speaking of hip, they don’t come any cooler than Sundry and Vice. On the corner of Republic and 13th Street in Over the Rhine, the turn of the century apothecary vibe plays well with the historic architecture in the rapidly revitalizing neighborhood. And while the cocktails are on the pricier end of the spectrum, they are always fantastic. Think jumbo square ice cubes and fresh takes on classic drinks. The Night Cure, a bourbon drink with lemon, honey and grapefruit oil gets me every time. Can you get a beer at Sundry and Vice? Sure you can, but why would you with drinks of this caliber? While I don’t usually like to play favorites, Sundry and Vice is always at the top of my list. If you are in the neighborhood and can’t get a table at Sundry and Vice, walk just a block north on Republic to Low Spark, or a couple of blocks north on Vine to the bar at Kaze. Both bars are cool spots as well with great drinks. Low Spark has a 1970’s vibe and Kaze has a cool Japanese feel. Sundry and Vice is the pinnacle, but Low Spark or Kaze won’t let you down either.