Created in the spirit of the hardworking ice harvesters who converged on the frozen Kennebec River each winter, The Independent Ice Co. is a bar specializing in fine whiskeys, from around the world and around the corner.
Come in and learn about our favorite spirits, try our selection of Maine ales, and enjoy our food offerings. Whether you take your drink with ice, or prefer it neat, you’ll be at home here.
Megan Bell
1708135354
Dim lighting which makes it a cozy, laid back atmosphere. A ridiculous number of whiskey/bourbon selections. Had the “cutting board” which was delicious! Service is excellent!
Nathaniel Franklin
1705696439
This is a really beautiful bourbon bar located in the heart of downtown Portland. We the space isn't large but the atmosphere and styling create a really cool vibe. If you're a bourbon fan, they've got more varieties than some stores available for tasting. Don't skip a visit
Michael Young
1696781089
The best cocktail bar in Portland. Over 400 whiskey options make for great drinks! It's a bit small and can get crowded, but if you can catch it on an off night, it's the best option in town.
Tracy Thill
1689982593
We didn't eat, but sat & had a couple drinks. Our server was very knowledgeable & personable. Atmosphere was nice to just talk & enjoy the evening. Definitely going to be back.
Caleb m
1688914057
Looking for a meal with a group of seven without any reservation but lucked out just having to wait 10-15 minutes for a group to finish up and leave. The host/waiter was working like crazy in every direction but stayed friendly the entire time and appeared to take his time to help out any table that needed something. Best service I have had anywhere in quite some time. If you are a big fan of bourbon/whiskey then this is a no brainer for you to stop in. Also fans of cocktails the bartenders made great drinks, especially recommend the maple syrup mule (so good!) Considering we had a group of seven the food came out in a quick manner and it was tasty. I went with the southern fried chicken sandwich. It was very tasty, but maybe not my favorite fried chicken sandwich of Portland but I would have tried everything else that my table got because it all looked tasty. Fries again were not the best of the area but still tasty. Very impressed with our dinner here from the awesome service to some good food, will be coming back.
Kimberlie Rice
1687806355
Had no problem getting a table for 4 just before 6 pm on a Friday. Attentive service, knowledgeable staff, great cocktails and food! I'll be back!
Summer Perkins
1685717631
Great experience! The staff are friendly and knowledge. Try the Smoked Manhattan, Black Walnut Old Fashioned and the Rosemary Sour. I recommend adding a side of Kennebunk fries. So good!
Sean Elliott
1682257967
Walked in off the street and had a fantastic experience having drinks at the bar. They had an extensive list of cocktails, of which we tried at least a handful, all of which were enjoyed.This place is a must for whiskey aficionados and one we will surely visit again when we are back in Portland!
Tim
1680473311
Our go-to happy hour in Portland. Bourbon Sangria a huge hit for non bourbon drinkers and a Manhattan both on tap. With pork sliders, buffalo cauliflower, brussel sprouts, dips and plates we always start our stay satisfied. Huge selection of scotch and bourbon. Awesome service (Say hi to Mimi!). Packed during the season so get there early. You will not be disappointed.
Jim Anderschat
1679920909
We stumbled across this place in our hometown, and it blew us away! I'm a bourbon lover and never realized on of the world's best whisky bars is located 5 miles from me!!I was stunned after reading the catalog of options and started with a Col. EH Taylor Small Batch. Craving more I toured Ireland with a West Cork Bourbon Cask! In the meantime, she was enjoying varieties of Old Fashions!Our tour guide was Cole J, and he knew the options well!This is a MUST visit for dark drinkers! No other words!
Doug
1676148498
This is 100% my favorite place in Portland Maine. The selection of bourbon is absolutely INSANE!! Bartenders are great, super knowledgeable and the vibe inside is top notch. I’ve been here multiple times and every time is as good as the last.I’m sure it’s a zoo in the summer months and I’ve had the good fortune of only visiting it in the winter months. Winter in Portland is great, no crowds and it’s just a different feeling from the summer months.
Andrew Collins
1674486481
Had a great time at the Independent, which has somewhere near 500 different types of whiskey. The waitstaff and bartenders were EXTREMELY helpful in helping us make selections amongst such a diverse selection.We liked the Wiggly Bridge bourbon (recommended by our waitress) so much that I bought a bottle to bring home with me on the airplane. Yes, it survived the trip.
Rebecca B
1661903317
We came here for dinner when visiting Portland and were very pleased! The chicken sandwich was delicious and the drinks were phenomenal (my personal favorite was the maple cider mule and my husband enjoyed their old fashioned). The ambience at the bar was also amazing and the staff were very attentive. Definitely recommend!
Eva C
1654395828
Best experience ever. We ordered the sticky ribs (they are to dieeee for!) and I ordered the house old fashioned.The owner Larry came over to check on us, AMAZING service, great atmosphere and drinks and everything! Cole was the best waiter!!I can’t recommend enough!
Joe I
1640791312
Great atmosphere and drink selection. Ordered the filet and didn't need a knife. Great flavor. Also had the crispy Brussel sprouts which were great. My fiancé ordered the tortellini and grilled chicken which was also great. Arrived around 9:30pm, no wait and the staff were very friendly which added to experience. Definitely recommend this place!
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