Pairing Perfection: Bourbon Tastings and BBQ at 1878
June 5, 2025
At 1878, it’s not just about serving exquisite meals — it’s about creating memorable experiences. That’s the idea behind the restaurant’s latest culinary adventure: Bourbon Tastings and BBQ, where bold Southern flavors meet refined lakeside elegance.
Whether you’re a bourbon connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, this pairing event invites you to slow down, sip thoughtfully, and savor every bite.
A Unique Spin on Backyard Classics
This isn’t your typical barbecue. Chef Nico Rossi has taken traditional BBQ elements and elevated them, creating tasting-style plates that highlight the depth and flavor of his signature dishes. The pairings bring out the smoky, spicy, and sweet nuances of the bourbon, perfectly complementing the rich, layered flavors of the barbecue.
“We cross-utilize some of our barbecue items… They’re presented a little differently for the bourbon tastings, but they’re the same dishes you’d get at 1878.”
— Chef Nico Rossi
From tender, slow-cooked meats to carefully selected spice rubs and sauces, each component is crafted with precision — honoring tradition while embracing innovation.
Sipping Lakeside: A Bourbon Lover’s Dream
With its polished interior, lakeside views, and welcoming ambiance, 1878 offers a stunning setting to explore the world of bourbon. The tastings are curated for flavor balance, featuring a rotation of premium selections that play off the smoky, savory BBQ in surprising ways.
Guests can expect a journey of flavor contrasts — the caramel notes of a small-batch bourbon enhancing the richness of a smoked rib, or a spicy rye blend cutting through the buttery depth of a garlic-infused brisket.
The result? A pairing experience that’s both educational and indulgent.
Designed for the Curious (and the Hungry)
What makes this event uniquely 1878 is the balance Chef Nico strikes between upscale execution and Midwestern warmth. The experience is sophisticated but not stuffy, with a vibe that welcomes newcomers and seasoned sippers alike.
And with each pairing served in a tasting format, it’s perfect for groups — whether you’re gathering with friends, coworkers, or that special someone looking for a memorable date night.
Don’t Miss What’s Next
The Bourbon Tastings and BBQ events are just one of many exciting experiences planned at 1878 this season. As part of a broader vision that includes summer pop-ups, taco trucks, and local food collaborations, they reflect Chef Nico’s mission to keep things fresh, flavorful, and fun.Stay tuned for upcoming tasting dates and reservations — because when bold bourbon meets soulful BBQ in a lakeside setting, it’s an event worth savoring.