The Boonville Distillery operates out of the old Buckhorn building - a restored space in the center of town that now blends small-batch spirits with casual food service. Inside, the bar is framed by bookshelves and a wood-burning fireplace, with lounge seating that leans more library than saloon. It’s a deliberate setup: low lighting, worn leather chairs, and a menu that covers both cocktails and comfort food.
Distilled on site, the spirits include vodka, gin, whiskey, and seasonal infusions used across a tight cocktail list. Everything is poured over a long, heavy bar with visible stills behind the counter. Drinks skew classic with a twist - think barrel-aged gin with soda, or a spicy whiskey sour with muddled citrus.
Food service pulls from a rotating mix of barbecue, burgers, and Mexican-inspired dishes, depending on the day. It's not a full-service restaurant, but plates come out steady enough to anchor a midday stop or early dinner. Taco salads, pulled pork, and burger variations are the staples, with specials marked on a chalkboard near the entrance.
The space doubles as a community hangout - dog-friendly, no-frills, and often quieter during the day than at night. It stays rooted in Mendocino’s rural rhythm, balancing craft production with an unfussy local crowd. Whether for a straight pour or a longer sit-down, The Boonville Distillery folds small-town hospitality into a setting built to linger.