Within a sacred 1889 former church on Congress Street, Vena's Fizz House Portland transforms the art of mixology into an inclusive celebration where cocktails and mocktails achieve equal reverence. This pioneering establishment, founded by Steve and Johanna Corman in 2013, honors Johanna's great-grandmother Vena through an innovative beverage philosophy that began as Maine's first craft mocktail destination.

Steve Corman's analytical approach to mixology—rooted in his background as a math teacher—revolutionizes traditional cocktail creation by building complexity from house-made bitters and syrups rather than defaulting to spirits. This methodical craftsmanship earned Vena's recognition as a trailblazer in Portland's cocktail bar scene, establishing a new paradigm where non-alcoholic creations receive the same artisanal attention as premium cocktails. The bar's resilience through pandemic challenges, culminating in their expansion to the historic Congress Street location, demonstrates their unwavering commitment to beverage innovation.

The drinks program divides into two distinctive categories: Standards featuring creative interpretations like the "Lumber Sexual" with Ingenium gin, house-made pine syrup, and Alpine Herb Bitters; and Apothecary selections inspired by medicinal remedies, including the complex "Milk Thistle Spritz" combining rum, Campari, and milk thistle. Signature mocktails showcase equal sophistication, with the refreshing "Cucumber Collins" demonstrating how craft techniques elevate non-alcoholic offerings to luxury bar standards. Creative shots featuring cider vinegar, honey, turmeric, and habanero provide stimulating alternatives that challenge conventional bar expectations.

The atmospheric interior honors the building's ecclesiastical heritage while embracing nostalgic charm that encourages guests to "sit a spell" and savor meticulously crafted beverages. The multi-use space seamlessly integrates a retail mixology shop featuring vintage glassware, beverage tools, and Vena's proprietary bitters and syrups, allowing enthusiasts to recreate the experience at home. Educational mixology classes and private events transform the venue into Portland's premier destination for beverage education and social gatherings.

Vena's Fizz House reservations are recommended for this intimate venue where knowledgeable staff guide guests through both alcoholic and non-alcoholic explorations with equal expertise. The relaxed service style reflects the bar's core philosophy of savoring quality over quantity, making every visit a journey through innovative flavor profiles that surprise and delight discerning palates seeking Portland's most inclusive luxury bar experience.