New York City is home to an incredible cocktail scene, boasting a variety of unique bars that serve innovative drinks that push the boundaries of traditional mixology. Here are some must-try cocktails to enjoy during your next visit.
The New York EDITION: Peach Ain’t One
Located in a historic clock tower in the Flatiron district, the Lobby Bar at The New York EDITION offers a seasonal menu of cocktails. This spring, the "Peach Ain’t One" stands out. It’s crafted with Doce Mezcal for a smoky flavor, combined with floral lemon balm, juicy peach, and Savoia Orancio for an herbaceous twist. This drink is essentially a sophisticated peach margarita with a European flair.
Double Chicken Please: Cold Pizza
At Double Chicken Please, located on the Lower East Side, the "Cold Pizza" cocktail is a must. This inventive drink features Don Fulano Blanco tequila infused with burnt toast and Parmigiano Reggiano to recreate pizza crust flavors. It’s complemented by clarified tomato water as the sauce, lime-basil cordial, and oolong tea honey, topped off with a whimsical edible rice paper print of a hand holding a pizza slice.
The Dead Rabbit: Irish Coffee
Known for its historical roots dating back to an 1828 townhouse, The Dead Rabbit serves an Irish Coffee that has won fans across the country. The drink features Calendar Coffee’s Sumatra Mandheling blend, combined with Bushmills Original Irish Whiskey, demerara sugar syrup, and freshly whipped heavy cream, making it a standout.
Bemelmans Bar: Madeline’s Vesper Martini
Inside The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel, Bemelmans Bar is legendary for its elegant atmosphere. Bartenders craft an impressive range of martinis here, with "Madeline’s Vesper Martini" as the highlight. This version substitutes Cocchi Americano for Lillet Blanc to create a more nuanced flavor, adorned with a charming white ribbon reminiscent of the beloved Madeline character.
Death & Co: Oaxaca Old-Fashioned
Revolutionizing the cocktail scene since its opening in 2007, Death & Co continues to offer innovative drinks with an emotional experience approach. The "Oaxaca Old-Fashioned" is a favorite, which replaces whiskey with tequila and mezcal, sweetened with agave nectar and garnished with a flamed orange twist. This signature drink helped popularize mezcal across the U.S.
These bars not only serve exquisite cocktails but also entwine their drinks with unique narratives, making them essential stops in NYC’s vibrant drinking culture.