Must-Try Cocktails Originating from New York
New York City has been a cocktail hub for over a century, with numerous iconic drinks having been concocted within its storied bars and lounges. If you're in the mood for a taste of authentic NYC, make sure to sample these classic cocktails that were born in the Big Apple:
Manhattan: As the name suggests, this classic was born in New York. Legend has it that it was first poured in the 1870s at the Manhattan Club for a banquet hosted by Winston Churchill's mother. It's a sophisticated mix of whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
Cosmopolitan: While its exact origins are debated, one popular story credits The Odeon in Manhattan as the birthplace of this stylish drink during the 1980s. A delightful mix of vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and fresh lime juice.
Penicillin: This modern classic was created in 2005 by bartender Sam Ross at Milk & Honey in Manhattan. A soothing blend of Scotch, lemon juice, honey-ginger syrup, and a smoky Scotch float, it's medicinal in the best way possible.
Bloody Mary: This iconic brunch cocktail is believed to have been created by Fernand Petiot at the St. Regis Hotel's King Cole Bar in the 1930s. It's a spicy mix of vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco, and various spices.
Tom Collins: Though the origin of this refreshing cocktail is a bit murky, it gained popularity in New York during the latter part of the 19th century. Typically, it's a refreshing blend of gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water.
Red Snapper: The Red Snapper is essentially the gin version of the Bloody Mary and is credited to the King Cole Bar at the St. Regis Hotel in Manhattan, where it was tweaked and popularized in the 1930s.
Bronx Cocktail: Originating in the early 20th century, this cocktail is a delightful mix of gin, sweet vermouth, dry vermouth, and orange juice. Its exact birthplace is debated, but it undeniably carries the spirit of NYC.
New York City's cocktail culture is a blend of tradition and innovation. When you sip on these drinks, you're not just tasting spirits and mixers; you're experiencing a piece of the city's vibrant history. Whether you're in a swanky Manhattan bar or recreating them at home, these NYC-born cocktails are a must-try for every aficionado.