Whiskey River Pub and Grill

Whiskey River Pub and Grill is a casual bar and restaurant at 421 River Street in Rochester's Charlotte neighborhood, situated along the Genesee River near where it meets Lake Ontario. The pub occupies a building that dates back to 1853, originally constructed as the Steamboat Hotel — a lodging house that once served sailors traveling the river and lake. The building was later home to Steel River BBQ Bar & Grill before being remodeled and reopened as Whiskey River on July 1, 2016. Original pillars from the 19th-century structure are still visible at the entrance.

The space spans roughly 6,000 square feet across two floors, with a ground-level pub area, a separate family-friendly dining room, and a private event room upstairs. Outside, a large patio features a four-sided bar and a stage equipped with a sound system for live performances.

Whiskey River carries 24 beers on tap alongside a food menu built around American pub fare. Standout items include smoked wings, pulled pork, and a fish fry. The bar features a custom-built Prohibition-era-style counter that anchors the main pub room. Drink specials rotate regularly.

The upstairs event room is available for private parties, and the patio stage hosts live music — particularly on weekends. The restaurant does not take reservations; seating is first-come, first-served. Hours run Monday through Thursday from 4:00 PM until close, and Friday through Sunday from noon until close.

Whiskey River is known for its combination of a historic waterfront setting and live music programming, drawing visitors to the Charlotte neighborhood for patio-season events. The 1853 Steamboat Hotel building gives the space an architectural character distinct from newer establishments along the river. The pub has also expanded its footprint with a second location, Whiskey's Upper Deck, at the Port of Rochester building closer to the Lake Ontario shoreline.

The pub sits on River Street in Charlotte, a waterfront community at the northern end of Rochester where the Genesee River empties into Lake Ontario. The neighborhood — locally pronounced "Char-LOT" — includes a cluster of restaurants and bars along the river, such as Hose 22 and Mr. Dominic's at the Lake. Ontario Beach Park and the Charlotte Pier are a short walk north. Street parking is available along River Street, and the area draws foot traffic during warmer months when the patio venues are in full swing.