Years ago, one of my closest friends and I were visiting Los Angeles on business. After a couple grueling days of work we decided to walk Hollywood Blvd. and see what kind of drinking holes we could find. We had heard of a hidden speakeasy style drinkery that can only be found by a vintage flickering neon “Psychic Open” sign. Hogwash is the only place in Spokane that brings me back to that moment—peering down mysterious steps to a dim-lit brooding bar-top.

Nestled in the basement of Spokane’s historic Washington Cracker Building, you would easily walk right past Hogwash if your eye failed to catch the small wooden Pinocchio sign. You would stroll down the street and not be any wiser that you just passed up Spokane’s best whiskey bar. 

The Bar: For a place that nails every tiny detail in their cocktails, it’s almost ironic that an open wood studded ceiling and half speckled concrete walls are some of the first things you notice when entering the bar. The atmosphere truly feels like your friend’s basement—if he knocked out the walls and happened to collect whiskey.

The People: Brainchild of Spokane elite chef Jeremy Hansen, Hogwash is a testament of its people as much as its quality. Head Chef CJ Callahan has put his own spin on modern American classics while Simon Francis Moorby—who was recently recognized as Bartender of the Year across multiple platforms—is running the cocktail program. Both add flair to a space that more often than not fills with business execs in the late afternoon and industry faithful late at night.  

The Drinks: This is what you’re here for. There is nothing more satisfying than a menu you have full confidence in. When I bring in a newcomer, I shut my eyes and point. Everything I’ve ever savored at Hogwash was absolutely phenomenal. I have been on a Japanese whiskey kick, but you’ll find no lack of blended scotch, ryes and infused bourbons to pour in your mouth.   

The Food: When people ask me who has the best wings in town, they are a bit taken aback when I answer “the salt and pepper wings at Hogwash.” Don’t let the name fool you … they are the perfect example of what makes the menu here so amazing. Simple foods using simple flavors with really high-end ingredients. The menu is filled with cornbread, pickled veggies, chocolate tort. Each elevated by making sure they use the highest end product they can find. 

The Extras: If there is any exclamation point on this article, it is ambiance. There isn’t another space in town as quaint as Hogwash. Sitting at the bartop, ordering an amaretto sour, you’re transported to a simpler time. One where we didn’t live by happy hour discounts and delivery apps. One where process was part of the appeal of a place. A period where you didn’t need a gimmick. Just a good recommendation from a friend about a note-worthy dim-lit basement bar down the street.  

Hogwash Whiskey Den

drinkhogwash.com

304 W. Pacific Ave.

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