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Discover Smokin' Aces Bournemouth, an award-winning cocktail bar and whiskey lounge in the Triangle, known for its live music, expertly crafted drinks and lively atmosphere. Enjoy Wednesday jazz nights, Friday live bands, Saturday DJs and a monthly quiz, alongside whiskey, rum, gin and cocktail masterclasses starting from £28 per person. With its hidden downstairs lounge, welcoming approach and late-night opening hours, Smokin' Aces remains one of Bournemouth's most distinctive independent nightlife venues.
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Cocktail masterclasses and live music
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Smokin' Aces Cocktail Bar & Whiskey Lounge has been a cornerstone of Bournemouth's nightlife since opening in November 2010, bringing its distinctive rock 'n' roll atmosphere to the Triangle.
Known for its award-winning cocktails, extensive whiskey selection and independent live music, the venue combines sophisticated drinks with a relaxed, welcoming approach. Whether you're looking for somewhere to enjoy a carefully crafted cocktail, discover live local talent or dance into the early hours, Smokin' Aces offers something different from the usual town-centre bar.
With weekly jazz sessions, Friday live music, Saturday DJs and a hidden downstairs lounge, there's plenty to discover beyond the main bar.
Quality drinks are at the heart of Smokin' Aces, with skilled bartenders specialising in cocktails, premium spirits and an impressive selection of whiskies.
The venue has received national recognition for its drinks offering, including winning Imbibe's UK Best Whiskey Listand being named a finalist for the UK's Best Specialist Drinks List.
Visitors can explore a selection of Scotch whisky, bourbon, Irish whiskey and spirits from around the world, alongside creative cocktails and familiar classics.
The bar's experienced team can also help guests discover new flavours, making it an appealing destination for both whiskey enthusiasts and anyone looking to try something different.
Wednesday evenings at Smokin' Aces are dedicated to live jazz, offering a more relaxed musical experience in the heart of Bournemouth.
From 8:30pm, the bar welcomes a rotating selection of talented jazz musicians, bringing live performances to its intimate surroundings.
Whether you're a dedicated jazz fan or simply enjoy listening to live music over a drink, the weekly sessions provide a great opportunity to discover local performers.
With its atmospheric lighting, comfortable seating and extensive drinks selection, Smokin' Aces offers a welcoming setting for a midweek evening out.
Live entertainment is a huge part of what makes Smokin' Aces stand out, with the venue continuing to support independent musicians and DJs.
Friday evenings feature live music from 10pm, with performances from musicians and bands bringing energy to the main bar.
Following the live performance, a DJ takes over from midnight, keeping the atmosphere going into the early hours.
The changing programme offers an opportunity to enjoy different performers while experiencing the venue's lively nightlife atmosphere.
Saturdays are dedicated to DJs, with a selection of local and visiting performers providing the soundtrack to the evening.
Expect upbeat music, dancing and a lively crowd as Smokin' Aces transforms from a relaxed cocktail lounge into a late-night party venue.
The music programme changes regularly, so visitors should check the latest announcements for individual performers and special events.
Visit Smokin' Aces for the latest entertainment information
For something different, Smokin' Aces also hosts a monthly quiz night on the first Thursday of each month.
The quiz starts at 7pm, with entry costing £2 per person.
It's a fun opportunity to gather friends, test your general knowledge and enjoy a sociable evening in the bar.
The monthly format makes it a great alternative to a traditional weekly pub quiz, particularly for groups looking for a relaxed midweek activity.
For groups who want something more hands-on, Smokin' Aces offers a selection of spirit tasting classes starting from £28 per person.
Led by knowledgeable members of the bar team, the sessions explore the history, production methods and flavours behind different spirits.
Whiskey enthusiasts can explore different styles and regions, from Scotch and bourbon to internationally produced whiskies.
Sessions can be tailored to specific interests, with previous tasting themes including:
Scotch whisky regions
Bourbon production and mashbills
World whiskies
Participants can discover how ingredients, production methods and ageing influence the character of each whiskey.
Rum tasting classes explore the different styles and traditions of rum production, giving participants an opportunity to compare flavours and learn more about the spirit.
Sessions can cover traditional rum styles, ageing techniques and spiced rum, with the option to tailor the experience to the group's interests.
Gin lovers can also enjoy sessions exploring botanicals, production techniques and gins from around the world.
The classes examine how different ingredients and distillation methods create distinctive flavours, offering an informative experience for anyone interested in discovering new varieties.
Prices start from £28 per person, with the final cost depending on the spirits selected and the group's requirements.
Explore Smokin' Aces spirit tasting classes
Smokin' Aces also offers hands-on cocktail classes, giving visitors the opportunity to learn how to create drinks with guidance from experienced bartenders.
Unlike traditional tasting sessions, these classes encourage participants to get involved in mixing and preparing their own cocktails.
Available themes include:
Classic Cocktails: Learn how to make popular favourites using professional techniques.
Whiskey Cocktails: Discover different ways to incorporate whiskey into cocktails.
Low and No-Alcohol Cocktails: Explore creative alternatives using low-alcohol and alcohol-free ingredients.
Classes can be tailored to suit different groups, making them an enjoyable option for birthdays, celebrations, team socials and private gatherings.
Prices depend on the chosen drinks and arrangements, so visitors should contact Smokin' Aces directly for a quote.
Find out more about cocktail masterclasses
One of Smokin' Aces' most interesting features is its hidden downstairs lounge, The Rogues' Gallery.
Away from the lively main bar, this atmospheric space offers comfortable seating, quieter music and a stronger focus on whiskey, particularly Irish varieties.
Visitors can also discover the Jack Daniel's Lounge, providing another cosy setting for drinks and conversation.
The downstairs area offers a contrasting experience to the energetic upstairs bar, making it an appealing choice for date nights, smaller gatherings and relaxed evenings with friends.
The Rogues' Gallery can also be booked for private celebrations, offering groups a distinctive setting within one of Bournemouth's best-known independent bars.
Smokin' Aces welcomes group bookings, with several spaces available for visitors planning celebrations or special occasions.
The venue offers free reservations for groups of more than four people, alongside options to book booths or enquire about the New York Lounge.
The downstairs Rogues' Gallery also provides an alternative for private gatherings.
Whether you're planning a birthday, work social or a group night out, visitors can contact the venue to discuss seating and booking arrangements.
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