New York Spot-Light: Whitman and Bloom Liquor Company

Deciding where to grab a drink (and possibly nosh on something tasty) in Manhattan's bar-heavy Kip's Bay can be tough for even the savviest sipper. If you're in the mood for artisanal cocktails and/ or made-to-be-shared, locally-sourced rustic new American fare, consider stopping at the 19th Century retreat-inspired Whitman and Bloom on 3rd Ave between 27th and 28th Streets. I recently attended the launch of the restaurant's winter menu and sampled a few seasonal cocktails.

The bartender mixed cocktails with masterful nonchalance 

(See my thoughts on the cocktails after the jump)

Spot-Light NY: Haru Sushi Midtown

 

Hip Hip! Haru!

Let’s say you’re in Times Square, and you decide you want to catch a good happy hour nearby with friends, but you also want to eat something other than typical bar food without it costing a lot. A first thought might be to walk down to 8th Avenue in search of something fun. However, a better bet would be to check out Haru Sushi near the corner of 43rd Street and Broadway. Well lit, casual and surprisingly affordable (especially considering its location), it’s great for hanging out without having to get glammed up.

I was recently invited to try a few drinks from their Fall sake cocktail menu (just in time for Global Sake Day on October 1), and my taste buds were quite pleased.

First, there was the Ultimat Saketini ($12), a crisp concoction comprised of Ultimat Vodka, sake and plum wine. It was potently refreshing, and though one isn’t really supposed to eat the garnish on a drink, I couldn’t resist the sake soaked cucumber shreds. Call it the antidote to post-office tension.

 

 

 

 

Next I tried the Cherry Blossom ($12), which combines Svedka Cherry Vodka, nigori sake, peach puree and cranberry juice. I’m normally not one for really sweet drinks, but this one managed not to be syrupy, so it was cool. If you’re into girly drinks, this one is for you. However, it’s also one that’ll sneak up on you if you drink too many too fast.

 

 

 

Lastly, there was the Mr. Beam’s Sake Cider. Since I’m a bourbon gal, I was especially looking forward to tasting this combination of Jim Beam Black, Reiko Cold Sake and fresh apple cider. The bad news was that they were out of cider. The good news was I had a skilled bartender who was able to whip up a very tasty substitute (which I’ve heard may now get added to the menu). The drink I tried substituted fresh pressed apple juice for cider and added bitters and ginger ale.

Ladies, I’m not sure if this is the place to go cruising for guys, but it’s definitely a spot for great drinks in a laid back atmosphere, whether you’re coming straight from work or stopping in before a night out.

For more information on Haru Sushi, its menus and locations, visit HaruSushi.com

 

Technorati Tags: Haru Sushi,cocktail menu review,bar review

Spot- Light NYC: Pranna’s New Cocktail Menu

 

The Spice of…

I recently attended an invite-only tasting for Pranna’s (79 Madison Ave, Manhattan) new Summer cocktail menu. Inspired by the Southeast Asian-influenced menu at the restaurant, cocktail consultant, Raphael Reyes created a lineup that infuses fresh ingredients and flavors from far-off places. There’s a little something for everyone, from cocktail connoisseurs to casual imbibers.

Those who are into sweet drinks will enjoy:

Bison Leaves- Thai basil, fresh lemon juice, fresh pineapple, Hibiscus, Veev Acai Spirit, Zubrowka Vodka

Full bodied, but refreshing, this concoction’s fruity and floral flavors pretty much mask the taste of the alcohol. You definitely know it’s in there, though. The finish has almost a twinge of a licorice taste. All in all, it’s tasty and plays well with spicy dishes.

 

If you’re more of the crisp drink type, I suggest:

Silver Obha- Shiso, yuzu juice, fresh lemon juice, fresh pineapple juice, agave nectar, Partida Tequila

The first word that comes to mind with this one is refreshing. It’s flavor is citrusy, summery and perfect for a hot afternoon… oh and it’s got quite a kick.

 

 

 

 

Prefer to taste the liquor in your cocktail? Try:

Spiked Rabbit- Sage, agave nectar, lime juice, fresh carrot juice, yellow chartreuse, Combier Triple Sec, Milagro Silver Tequila

Don’t let the fact that it contains carrot juice scare you away. This cocktail is really delicious and slightly spicy. Still, it’s pretty light, so it’ll leave enough room for their falafel balls (YUM).

 

 

 

When you’re in the mood to sip something really spicy, order:

Irish Kampai- Angostura Bitters, maple syrup, Benedictine, Yamazaki Whiskey, Michael Collins Whiskey

The most “manly” of the drinks I sampled, it’s strong, pronounced flavor is also quite pleasant. Ladies, if you want to impress the guys at the bar with your sipping savvy… order this one.

 

 

The best advice I can give you is to go and look at the entire menu (see it online here). You may see something appetizing that I didn’t mention here… if you do, please come back and recommend it to your fellow readers. I only listed 4 of 13, AND they have virgin drinks, too.

*NOTE: Irish Kampai photo by Abigail Ekue

Technorati Tags: restaurant review,bar review,NY nightlife,Pranna NY