Nihon Whisky Lounge, San Francisco

You might not expect to find fine whiskey at a sushi bar, but Nihon Whisky Lounge doesn't cater to traditional expectations. Its selection of more than 500 single malts (about a fifth from Japan) fits in with the sophisticated, lounge-like atmosphere. Guests can opt for the omakase (chef's choice) dinner or choose from the large sushi selection which includes the Sesame Salmon Go—a sushi roll made up of fresh fish, kaiware, cucumber, lemon, sesame oil, and sea salt. Those who chance upon a perfect pairing, can buy a full bottle of whiskey and store it in a private locker to savor on future visits.

In terms of drinks, the whiskeys—a collection named the best in the city by SF Weekly in 2011 and among the biggest in the U.S. by Eater—are just the beginning, though they did earn the bar the distinction of making Liquor.com's list of "15 Bars to Visit Before You Die". Bartenders blend creative cocktails, with a special emphasis on both whiskey and champagne, to go with classic Japanese drinking food from the robata grill.