10Best: American bars where gin takes center stage

Larry Bleiberg | Special for USA TODAY

Gin is having its moment. With more than 200 craft distillers creating new flavors and variations, drinkers and bartenders are re-discovering the versatility of the juniper-based alcohol, says Matt Teacher, author of The Spirit of Gin: A Stirring Miscellany of the New Gin Revival ($24.95, Cider Mill Press). Part of the popularity has been fueled by the move to locally sourced products. "We're seeing new flavors that have never been added before, from farm honey to beach plums," he says. Teacher shares some favorite bars and cocktails with Larry Bleiberg for USA TODAY.

Oyster House

Philadelphia

Who needs tonic? Shellfish pairs perfectly with gin, Teacher says. "A martini and a plate of oysters creates a certain high that's very pleasant." This restaurant has more than 50 gins behind the bar and counting. He suggests trying a Martinez, a predecessor to the martini made with Beefeater Burrough's Reserve Gin. 215-567-7683; oysterhousephilly.com

Cathay Circle Lounge, Disney California Adventure

Anaheim, Calif.

Talk about Disney magic. Even gin lovers can find a thrill at this Disneyland theme park restaurant, Teacher says. "It's a really nice venue. It has the unique combination of sophistication and casual atmosphere." His order: a Pimm's Punch, made with Pimm's No.1 Cup liqueur, Plymouth gin, strawberry and lemonade. 714-781-4636; disneyland.disney.go.com

Broken Shaker

Miami Beach

This laid-back bar started as a pop-up within the Freehand Hostel. "It's a very cool, relaxed-yet-happening setting with strings of lights between trees, a really fun environment," Teacher says. "You're getting something special for the same price you'd pay for a cocktail in a plastic cup in a beach bar." His suggestion: a pistachio gin fizz, made with Bombay gin. 305-531-2727; thefreehand.com

Wisdom

Washington

Teacher calls this bar D.C.'s gin hub. Last year it launched a gin club for members to track their progress through the bar's 90 varieties on offer. He says the owner, "gintender" Erik Holzherr, loves to talk about the spirit. "He's very passionate, one of the most knowledgeable people when it comes to gin." Try this: Eminent Domaine, made with Bluecoat gin, ginger liqueur, Luxardo Amaro (a bitter herbal liqueur), apple juice and lime. 202-543-2323; dcwisdom.com

Imperial

Portland, Ore.

While Portland's best known for its beers, Teacher says this restaurant's impressive craft cocktails and ambience make it worth a visit. "It's a really cool big open space. And they have an underlit block of ice that they chip from when they make a drink." He suggests ordering A Radish Walks into a Bar, with Ransom Old Tom Gin, sweet vermouth, radish gastrique, lemon and pepper. 503-228-7222; imperialpdx.com

Bar Congress

Austin

This Lone Star bar stands out for its "shift shots," pre-mixed cocktails served from a repurposed wine tap. "It looks like a chemistry set behind the bar," Teacher says. He also likes the emphasis on fresh ingredients and the range of offerings. "Their collection includes staples from every type of gin." His order: the St. Martin, made with St. George Terroir Gin, Cocchi di Torino vermouth and Green chartreuse liqueur. 512-827-2760; congressaustin.com

The Oak Bar, Hermitage Hotel

Nashville

You can't beat the atmosphere at this classic Music City bar. "It's a happening good spot," Teacher says. "One night I looked over and saw Lewis Black telling jokes, and another time, there was T Bone Burnett, Elvis Costello and John Mellencamp." He says to order a martini made with local Corsair Gin. 615-345-7116; capitolgrillenashville.com

Sable Kitchen & Bar

Chicago

This chic venue in the Hotel Palomar has a '40s feel with a modern touch, focusing on craft cocktails that look as good as they taste. The gin selection includes bottles from around the globe, organized by style. Teacher likes The War of the Roses with Fords Gin, elderflower liqueur, lime juice, simple syrup, bitters and mint sprigs. 312-755-9704; sablechicago.com

Williams and Graham

Denver

This modern speakeasy is hidden in what appears to be a bookstore. The gin list includes a section of Colorado-crafted spirits. While the bartenders are quick with suggestions, Teacher recommends the Beurs van Berlage with Damrak gin, Amere Nouvelle bitter orange liqueur, Byrrh (a French wine-based aperitif flavored with quinine), lemon and bitters. 303-997-8886; williamsandgraham.com

Gin Palace

New York

This Manhattan watering hole, which is closed until April, is one of the few places you'll find gin and tonics on tap. "They were early in the gin scene and they're doing the coolest stuff," Teacher says. "They are all about British rock and all their cocktails are named after that." His drink suggestion: Police and Thieves, made with London dry gin, lime, pineapple and grapefruit juice and cinnamon syrup and bitters. 212-614-6818; ginpalaceny.com