5 to Try: Classic Cocktails
By Melanie Berliet, New York
Any bar can offer wine by the glass, and a vodka tonic with a splash of cranberry won't stump a standard bartender. But, even in New York, only a select few can create a cocktail that qualifies as classic--like a masterpiece martini or a timeless gimlet. Look to this list for talented mixologists, appealing environs and first-rate concoctions starring the freshest ingredients.
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Employees Only
510 Hudson St, New York, NY
Originally invented as a healthful beverage, the Pimm's Cup is a refreshing drink. When concocted by the suspender-wearing bartenders of this sleek art-deco West Village venue, the blend of Pimm's, ginger soda, cucumbers and mint is not only satisfying for its freshness, but also for its ability to transport you to classic times past. -
The Campbell Apartment
15 Vanderbilt Ave, New York, NY
Before hopping on board the train, enter this hideaway off Grand Central Station and brace yourself for a jazz age time warp. Dress the part (no jeans and sneakers) and clutch a classic creation like the prohibition punch, reminiscent of the potions served during--you guessed it--prohibition. This one’s made from passion fruit juice, Grand Marnier, rum, and Moet & Chandon. -
PDT
113 Saint Marks Pl, New York, NY
Its moniker begs that you “please don't tell,” but after accessing the speakeasy lair through a phone booth in a gourmet hot dog shop, you will want to do exactly that. It's too difficult not to share such a juicy secret as the bar’s careful cocktail creations. Ask for a traditional vodka gimlet and wait while it’s crafted with the freshest ingredients and topped with the perfect bit of froth. -
Bemelmans Bar
35 E 76th St, New York, NY
How could you not order a gin martini, what with the mood-setting live piano and creamy leather banquettes? Patrons serious about drinking imbibe the classic cocktail while basking in the glow of the bar’s unique surroundings--the walls, and even the lamp shades, were decorated by the illustrator of the Madeline books, for whom the bar was named. -
GoldBar
389 Broome St, New York, NY
With an interior swathed in gold, this treasure chest of a lounge epitomizes modern decadence in a way that separates it from its classic cocktail-serving peers. But what lies within its glasses is just as classic as what's in theirs--like the vodka ginger highball, a worthy creation made from Snow Queen vodka, simple syrup and fresh ginger.
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Temple Bar
332 Lafayette St, New York, NY
Have a Manhattan at this high-class den of a bar. It's a smooth mix of Angostura bitters, Noilly Pratt sweet vermouth and Maker's Mark. -
Flatiron Lounge
37 W 19th St, New York, NY
For a refreshing citrus treat, try the sidecar--rimmed with superfine sugar--at one of the city's most sophisticated cocktail lounges. -
Angel's Share
8 Stuyvesant St, New York, NY
Every drink here is mixed to perfection, including the martini. Expect expert proportions of gin and vermouth in this classic cocktail. -
Pegu Club
77 W Houston St, New York, NY
Completely discreet and drop-dead gorgeous, this lounge is a mecca for serious cocktail connoisseurs. -
Death & Co
433 E 6th St, New York, NY
The foreboding name, dark doorway and unlikely neighborhood create an illusion of mystery around this classy cocktail den.
