Bourbon, Bacon, Brews and Cigars at Bud and Alley’s

Bourbon enthusiasts celebrate an evening of elegance

A first for Bud & Alley’s Waterfront Restaurant and Rooftop Bar, the famous Seaside eatery held a Bourbon, Bacon, Brews and Cigars night Jan. 23, on a magical evening when Seaside was covered in snow. “Even with the snow, we had 80 people show up, driving on icy roads from all over the South,” says Michael Broadway, director of operations for Bud & Alley’s. “It turned out to be a big hit.” 

Michael had the idea of bourbon night for a few years, and was trying to create an exciting event for January. “I’m a big bourbon guy,” he says. “We carry some of the best bourbons in the state. I was working hard at it and wanted to create something besides a wine tasting. And bacon is a great snack food when you drink bourbon and smoke cigars. It was our first event and I was beyond excited.”

The event included more than 20 bourbons for tasting, a delectable spread of bacon-infused appetizers, desserts donated by Kilwins, and live music performed by Mari Gleason. A silent auction allowed bidders to cast their bids on rare bourbons. 

With ticket prices up to $295, the VIP tasting pours included Old Rip Van Winkle 10-year Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Eagle Rare 17-year Straight Bourbon Whisky and several other high-end bourbons.

“This will be an ongoing event the week after the 30A Songwriters Festival every year,” Michael says. “Even though it was so cold, it was great to see smiling faces enjoying the evening.”

Looking ahead to another drink-themed event? Bud and Alley’s continues to host special events. Check out the event calendar for events happening in Seaside, Florida – linked here.