An Old Fashioned is more than just a cocktail—it’s a timeless classic. Made with whisky, sugar, aromatic bitters, and garnished with an orange peel, it offers a perfect balance of warmth and sweetness. 

The richness of whisky combined with the touch of citrus and subtle bitterness makes it an ideal partner for a variety of refined dishes. Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening in, pairing your cocktail with certain dishes can make for an even better tasting experience.

Let’s dive into six perfect food pairings for the iconic Old Fashioned cocktail.

A simple yet versatile pairing, roasted nuts are the perfect snack to nibble between sips of an Old Fashioned. The natural richness of nuts like almonds, cashews and pecans enhances the whisky’s warm, slightly sweet flavour. Whilst more bitter brazil nuts and walnuts balance it out. 

You can also experiment with different seasonings to add depth to the pairing. For a smoky twist, try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or black pepper. If you prefer a bit of heat, a dusting of chilli powder will provide a contrast to the cocktail’s sweetness. Even chocolate-covered nuts can create a delicious pairing, playing off the bitters and sugar in the drink.

Few things pair as well with an Old Fashioned as a perfectly cooked steak. The cocktail’s sweetness and warmth complement the deep, savoury flavours of the meat. Whilst steak’s natural umami character balances the boldness of the spirit.

Serve the steak as a main course or create appetisers using small cuts or skewers, perfect for a more casual setting. Wood-fired or grilled steaks add an extra layer of smoky richness that enhances the whisky’s complexity.

Cheese and whisky may not be as traditional as wine pairings, but they’re just as satisfying. The sweet caramel notes in an Old Fashioned blend seamlessly with a variety of cheeses, from sharp blue to creamy Brie. Aged cheeses with a nutty profile or soft cheeses work particularly well too.

Serve your selection with warm sourdough bread or thin, crisp crackers to add different textures to the tasting experience. And if you like your cheese with something sweet, try pairing with a Honey Old Fashioned to bring out the subtle sweetness in both the drink and food. The honey complements the saltier elements in the cheese selection, creating a beautifully balanced bite.

For those with a sweet tooth, a dark chocolate orange tart is the perfect dessert to serve alongside an Old Fashioned. Its rich chocolate base brings out the deep, bitter notes of the whisky, while the orange zest mirrors the citrus peel garnish of the cocktail.

This pairing is even better when matched with a Chocolate Old Fashioned, adding an extra layer of richness to the chocolate in the tart. The result is an indulgent combination of bittersweet chocolate and the whisky’s creamy warmth, making for a memorable dessert course.

While many think of an Old Fashioned as a winter drink, it pairs beautifully with lighter, fresher dishes too—like a spiced couscous salad. This Mediterranean-inspired dish includes grilled vegetables, fresh lemon juice and a mix of warming spices like cumin and coriander. The complexity of which pairs wonderfully with the cocktail’s spiced and citrus notes.

This pairing works especially well in spring or summer. Consider serving it with a Peach and Elderflower Old Fashioned for a refreshing twist on the classic, which adds floral and fruity flavours to the meal.

If you’re looking for an indulgent pairing, bacon-wrapped dates are a perfect match. The sweet, chewy dates contrast with the crispy, salty bacon, creating a delightful bite. And when paired with an Old Fashioned, this contrasting dish is even more flavoursome.

The whisky’s sweet, smoky notes enhance the savoury bacon and caramelised dates. It’s a bold yet balanced combination that’s sure to impress your guests.

Discover more whisky and food pairings to enjoy at home as well as our most popular variations on an Old Fashioned cocktail and guide to pairing whisky and chocolate.