Today, New York Distilling Company announces the opening of Jaywalker, a new cocktail bar and event space in Bushwick rooted in the creative spirit of New York City. Designed as an ode to the city’s artists & rebels, Jaywalker blends cocktail culture with experiential programming, visual storytelling, and a return to the embrace of joy and happiness in the pleasures of a great drink. From hands-on whiskey blending and live performances to expertly balanced cocktails, Jaywalker reimagines the traditional distillery tasting room as a place to connect and indulge in flavor.

At the center of Jaywalker is the eponymous Jaywalk Rye, a trailblazing whiskey created from a 17th century variety of New York rye that is just one-third the size of conventional rye. Its simple and emphatic purpose is to belie the assumption that rye whiskey is ‘spicy’. The distillery itself shines with copper stills, while nods to the brand’s rebellious identity blend New York grit with a playful sense of nostalgia, including references to Jaywalk Rye’s slogan “Size Matters.” Along the back wall, murals by David Wondrich and Dean Kotz (The Comic Book History of The Cocktail) trace the history of Jaywalk and American rye whiskey in the style of a graphic novel.

Moving beyond the textbook distillery model, Jaywalker invites guests to engage directly with the process through guided tastings, immersive blending experiences, and, among an extensive and creative cocktail list, approachable riffs on the Manhattan and Martini made with New York Distilling Company spirits at just $12 each. Reframing whiskey as something social rather than overly formal, the menu balances seasonal creations with staples like “The Original” Manhattan, served with equal parts Jaywalk Small Batch Rye and house vermouth blend, finished with bitters and a brandied cherry.

“Steinbeck said that ‘New York is where you prove if what you think in theory makes sense in real life.’ For me, the simultaneous simplicity and complexity of a great Manhattan is the epitome of a great night out,” says New York Distilling Co. founder Allen Katz. “By the second drink in hand there is usually a realized plan in play built on curiosity and confidence. That’s the feeling we want Jaywalker to capture.”

The cocktail program marks the return to New York of esteemed beverage industry veteran Jamie Gordon, and is inspired by New York City constants, like the flavors & aromas of your local flower shop, bodega, and Greenmarket. Highlights include Jaywalker’s take on an Egg Cream, with Jaywalk Bonded Rye, Ferrand Cognac, homemade chocolate syrup, milk, seltzer, & garnished with freshly grated nutmeg; and the Floral Arrangement martini, with Dorothy Parker New York Gin, Sakura Vermouth, Jasmine-infused Extra Dry Vermouth, and Chamomile bitters. Jaywalker also welcomes a playful selection of summer frozen drinks, such as the Vesper Frosé with Dorothy Parker Rose Petal-Infused Gin, Lillet Rose, Pink Peppercorn & Grapefruit-infused Vodka, rose water, & garnished with a grapefruit twist; and a Vacation Mode Manhattan with Jaywalk Small Batch Rye, Bourbon, Luxardo Cherry Liqueur , Cardamom-infused Sweet Vermouth, and Angostura bitters. 

Culinary offerings feature Dim Sum courtesy of Brooklyn’s beloved Kings Co Imperial. Guests can snack on comforting favorites designed for sharing around the table, like Fan Fan Beef & Pork Long Dumplings, Chicken Wontons with cinnamon red oil or spicy peanut sauce, and Cold Sesame Noodles topped with scallions and peanuts.

Inspired by a New York City artist’s loft, Jaywalker is conceived as a welcoming canvas for the neighborhood, equally suited for casual drinks, large gatherings, and creative collaborations. Designed by Contagious to feel distinctly Brooklyn in character, the approximately 3,000 sq ft, 370-person venue balances industrial textures and oversized murals with the warmth and sophistication of a modern cocktail lounge, complete with state-of-the-art sound system, adaptable layouts, leather banquettes, and velvet upholstery.

Jaywalker marks a new chapter for New York Distilling Company following its recent acquisition by Loch Lomond Group, expanding beyond the traditional distillery model into an immersive hospitality experience shaped by the creative energy of New York.