"Hidden behind Scopa Italian Roots in Venice, Old Lightning may sound like one of those contrived speakeasies you stopped going to years ago. It’s not. Yes, this reservation-only bar is tricky to get into (they’re only open on weekdays and spots fill up fast), but once inside, you’ll be treated to one of the largest and rarest collections of liquor in the country. The tiny space looks like a tiki-themed airport lounge from the 1960s, and if you want to take a photo, you won’t be able to - because they take everyone’s phone at the door. As far as the actual drinking goes, you can certainly order something off their cocktail list, but you should really do a tasting instead. Just name your liquor, and the amount of money you’re willing to drop (they range from $50 to $5,000), then spend the rest of the night sipping Oaxacan mezcal from a distillery that closed in the ’70s." - brant cox
