The only thing better than a bar with great bites and better drinks is one that is themed. At least, that is how they roll in Orlando. Some may call it kitschy, but you have to stand out in Orlando. The folks who are out on the town are looking for something a little different than they may have as a local place. When you decide to open up at Disney Springs, the stakes get a little bit higher. The landscape at Disney Springs is unique as it has shopping, restaurants and bars, some of which have celebrity backing other than Mickey Mouse.
On a recent trip over to Disney Springs, we found it was crowded as usual, and we were hungry and thirsty as usual. It looked like a long shot to grab a last minute reservation at a full service sit down eatery, so we looked for an alternative. This alternative came in an unlikely location near the Boathouse Orlando restaurant, also on the water, across from Wine Bar George and Gideon's Bakehouse in the form of Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar.
Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar is themed after the Indiana Jones pilot character from Raiders of the Lost Ark and his adventures. This is why they have used an aviation theme and will also help put some of the menu items available into context that enhance the experience. For folks who wander in unknowingly, they will still enjoy the bizarre and intriguing decor, even if it does not ring a bell right away.
One of the things we really enjoyed about the culinary aspect of the bar, is they have done an excellent job of providing small plates with appetizers, tacos and flatbreads with flavor profiles that are safe, yet adventurous. We have highlighted a couple of our favorites in hopes that you too will enjoy them. We started with the Air Pirate's Pretzel (not loaded). This is a pretty large pretzel and is done in a Bavarian style. It's soft, salty and shareable. We also ordered the Club Obi Won Chicken Wings with the Datil Pepper sauce to bring in the heat! They did not disappoint, but if you prefer non-spicy options, other dipping sauces are available. The final appetizer we ordered was Dr Forrestal's Churrasco, which was perfectly grilled flank steak drizzled with chimichurri and spicy peanut sauce.
At this point we did start to get full, but we were not leaving without trying a couple of tacos first. The Adobo Chicken Tacos really hit the spot, but if you are spice adverse, take the jalapenos off before consuming. The Tacos Al Pastor had really flavorful Chipotle pork belly and pineapple pico de gallo. Really well done for a bar with small plates; no flavor was spared here at all.
If you are not drinking alcohol, we recommend the Poisonless Dart. It's a refreshing soda water spritzed with fresh lime and mint. if you are going full speed ahead with alcohol, you may wish to try the Air Pirate's Mule to go along with your pretzel mentioned earlier. It's made with one of our go to bourbons, Knob Creek and as with any legitimate mule, it's served in a copper handle mug.
There is also a drink named after Jock Lindsey's snake called Reggie's Revenge that also had a nice balanced flavor profile and featured local orange flavored vodka. This is a must have cocktail if you like to take photos as it is a bright neon green, created by its' use of Midori and served in a uniquely shaped glass featured below that resembles a beaker you might find in science class.
If you are out of your Long Island drinking days, Jock Lindsey's has a Wrong Island! Let's just say that this cocktail can take your trip to a whole new level. A creation of four spirits, including one of our favorite's from Austin, Texas; drink this cocktail slow.
The verdict is clear, this well themed bar serving small plates is hitting on all cylinders and deserves a try. They have outstanding outdoor seating and bars to give you the full package, even if you are not an Indiana Jones fan. If you are a fan, you will be rewarded with hidden gems and a deeper understanding of the concept. In the past this location has also offered special seasonal and holiday menu items that are unlisted so be sure to ask your server if they are doing anything special at the moment. We had some great Christmas themed drinks and desserts in December of 2021.
As always make sure to comment below, and tell them Cam sent you to catch a buzz with your cuz! And do not forget to post the drink photos on Instagram tagging @floureggsyeast and #buzzwithyourcuz as you may be featured on our channel in a future post.
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