in Manhattan
New York City offers every drink anyone could ever want. Finding it is the challenge. Or is it choosing from ever evolving options? Classy cocktails, creative concoctions, perfect classics, age-old thirst quenchers and over indulgence cures.
Pegu Club
On the south side of Houston a disorientated Italian tourist inquires. “Soho?” A nod, you are on the threshold. “Where all the beautiful shops are?” Pointing him down West Broadway another advance. “Is that where all the fun stuff is?” Well for a mother and daughter shopping day, yes. Others find fun at Pegu Club. British colonial themed, it provides a sophisticated atmosphere to converse and relish professional bartending.
“I will take an Apple martini.”
“Sorry we don’t serve those here. You might like to try our Earl Grey Marteani.” The kimono-clad waitress gently guides the patron back to the menu.
Tea infused Tanqueray, lemon juice, and egg white froth.
“It is fun to drink. Also we offer The Fitty-Fitty.”
50% gin, 50% vermouth and a dash of Regan’s orange bitters.
“Ok the Earl Grey.” Dutifully agreeing on a more appropriate selection.
A dimly lit performance unfolds behind the formidable bar
“Mmmm, kind of soothing, like tea with meringue.”
77 West Houston Street, New York, 10012
http://peguclub.com
Tailor
In a subterranean cocktail lounge sip a smoky bourbon and coke drink called The Waylon. Who thinks to smoke coke syrup with cherry wood chips? Bartender/mixologist Eben Freeman (formerly WD-50) offers an array of avant garde creations. Solid cocktails? You want to get a drink to eat?
525 Broome Street, New York, NY, 10013
http://www.tailornyc.com/
PJ Clarks
The 55th street original may be part of the foundations for the 45 stories of glass and steel towering above. Other than a building surviving from the 1860’s Doug Quinn is the reason to visit. The extremely personable barman recently extolled by Frank Bruni in the New York Times. Sit at the mahogany bar, order a classic (it will be good) and enjoy the show. If you don’t know how to behave in a saloon he might try teaching you.
“Don’t ask for a Red Bull and vodka. You want an energy drink? I have coffee.” http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/28/dining/28bruni.html
205 E 55th St, New York, NY, 10022
http://www.pjclarkes.com/
McSorely’s
Ale – the only option offered for a 150 years. Your choice; dark or light and they come in twos. Glasses receive a quick plunge in a sink of water. Beer flavour possibly builds on glasses like a well-maintained castor iron pan. You better be thirsty, if you don’t drink fast enough they might throw you out. Dress for saw-dusted floors.
15 East 7th Street, New York, NY 10003
http://www.mcsorleysnewyork.com/
Public
Late Sunday morning? Groaning through a hangover? Public is the answer. A great brunch spot. The pain may continue. “Table for two?” “Two hours.” Head to the bar for a bloody mary. A spice-rimmed glass contains an almighty kick, horseradish and a recipe you want the rest of. By the time you finish one you are likely to already be seated and pondering over an eclectic menu. Miso venison burger or green tea hot smoked salmon with yuzu hollandaise?
210 Elizabeth Street, New York, 10012
http://public-nyc.com/
