Great food deserves more than a basic drink. At CISCo Restaurant + Bar, we believe in crafted pairings that elevate flavor and experience, especially when it comes to whiskey.
Whether you’re a bourbon enthusiast, a neat-sipper, or new to the world of whiskey, this guide will help you find the perfect pairing for your next dinner out.
Elevate your whiskey-pairing experience where flavor, ambiance, and hospitality meet — only in Corona.
Quick Guide
Dish | Whiskey Cocktail |
Ribeye | Pacific Old Fashioned |
Filet Mignon | Penicillin |
Seared Ahi Tuna | Passionfruit Mule |
Barramundi | NY Sour |
Pork Chop | Penicillin |
Short Rib Pasta | Pacific Old Fashioned |
Cheesecake | Woodford Reserve Neat |
Why Whiskey Pairing Works
Unlike wine, whiskey is layered with smoke, spice, sweetness, and structure. When paired properly, it doesn’t just complement the food—it completes the experience.
Think of it as a bold flavor bridge between the grill and the glass.
STEAK PAIRINGS
Ribeye + Pacific Old Fashioned
- Why it works: The ribeye’s marbling brings serious richness. The Pacific Old Fashioned, made with Westland American Whiskey and stout syrup, offers a dark, malty contrast that cuts through the fat and enhances the char.
- Perfect for: A high-impact meal—business dinner, celebration, or just showing up and showing out.
Filet Mignon + The “Penicillin”
- Why it works: Filet is lean and elegant. The Penicillin, with Woodford Reserve Bourbon, honey-ginger syrup, and a smoky Bruichladdich float, adds subtle spice and a touch of smoke without overwhelming the dish.
- Perfect for: A smooth, refined night out with someone who knows good taste when they see it.
SEAFOOD PAIRINGS
Seared Ahi Tuna + Passionfruit Mule
- Why it works: The ahi’s rich texture and sesame-ginger notes pair beautifully with the Passionfruit Mule, which uses Westland American Whiskey and stout syrup for a fruity, slightly spicy profile.
- Perfect for: Guests who want something bold, but outside the usual red meat lineup.
PORK DISHES
Duroc Pork Chop + The “Penicillin”
- Why it works: The pork chop’s plum glaze and sage jus need something smoky and sweet. The Penicillin hits with honey, ginger, and scotch for a deep, warm pairing that feels custom-built.
- Perfect for: Fans of complex, slow-building flavor.
Tagliatelle with Braised Short Ribs + Pacific Old Fashioned
- Why it works: A rich, saucy pasta dish like this needs something bold and balanced. The Pacific Old Fashioned brings smooth heat and malty sweetness to mirror the red wine reduction and tender short rib.
- Perfect for: Elevated comfort food lovers.
DESSERT PAIRINGS
Burnt Basque Cheesecake + Woodford Reserve Neat
- Why it works: You don’t need anything complicated here. The caramelized, creamy texture of the cheesecake meets the vanilla, spice, and toasted oak notes of Woodford Reserve like they were made for each other.
- Perfect for: A quiet, slow finish to a bold night.
What Makes a Great Whiskey Pairing?
- Match intensity – Big flavors need a bold pour.
- Balance richness – Use spice or citrus to lift fattier dishes.
- Let the food lead – Whiskey should enhance, not dominate.
CISCo’s Signature Whiskey Cocktails
- Pacific Old Fashioned – Westland American Whiskey + stout syrup
- Penicillin – Woodford Reserve + honey-ginger syrup + Bruichladdich float
- Passionfruit Mule – Westland American Whiskey + stout syrup
Ask your server for pairings—or try a flight to explore the range.
View our full cocktail list | See our menu
Ready to Experience the Best Whiskey Pairings in Corona?
Whether you’re here for a celebration or just want to try something new, we’ve built the pairings, cocktails, and experience to match.
Make a reservation and sip something worth remembering.