Nightjar

Nightjar is a bar in Peoria, IL, specializing in artisanal cocktails and craft beer with a focus on seasonally rotating menus, rare spirits, and creative, story-driven beverages. Located at 112 State St #1a, it serves a curated selection of 12 classic cocktails, each crafted with precision and flair, while also offering a rotating lineup of award-winning craft brews. The bar features a unique summer-long competition where guests vote on which classic cocktails earn a permanent spot on the menu, with the final winner crowned “the hottest cocktail of the summer.” Nightjar welcomes patrons seeking a distinctive drinking experience, from casual sippers to cocktail enthusiasts, and hosts weekly trivia nights on Wednesdays from 7 to 8 pm. With a 4.80 rating, it stands out for its consistently high customer satisfaction.

The bar’s identity is deeply rooted in storytelling and craftsmanship. Its small 5-barrel brewery produces beers inspired by mythology and folklore, with names and flavors drawn from legends and alchemical themes. Notable brews include *Duneyrr’s Call*, a crisp German helles lager perfect for summer evenings, and *Bartender’s Bane*, a wild ale collaboration with Reserve Artisan Ales that blends blackberry, mint, and lime into a tart, refreshing, and unexpectedly sessionable drink. Each beverage is designed to evoke a narrative, turning every pour into a moment of discovery.

Situated on State St in downtown Peoria, Nightjar is located just a short walk from several key landmarks: about 54 meters from Water Street greenery, 73 meters from WTVP greenspace, and within 0.1 miles of the Richard Pryor Statue, the Peoria State Street Post Office, the Fallen Officer Memorial, and the Peoria Police Department.

Nightjar is recognized for its thorough, well-documented online presence and a website that search engines read clearly, reflecting a business that values transparency and accessibility. Its reputation is built on creativity, consistency, and a deep commitment to craft, making it a standout in Peoria’s vibrant downtown scene. With a blend of theatrical flair and genuine quality, Nightjar has become a destination where every drink tells a story and every visit feels like a discovery.