from $40 for a sampler of six bourbons to $950 for a “Dream Flight,” featuring six notable single malts like the Glenrothes 42-year and the Balvenie 40-year. While Flatiron is in no way fussy, the more relaxed American Whiskey (247 W. 30th St., 212.967.1070) surprises: Five flat screens behind a 50-foot-long main bar and stuffed bison heads hanging on the opposite wall won’t clue you in immediately to the 250-deep whiskey menu. There, you’ll find an emphasis on bourbon, rye and other American whiskeys. On the menu, spirits are organized by character, like “Light & Floral” (Eagle Rare 10-year-old) or “Hot and Spicy” (Four Roses Small Batch), and served as either one- or two-ounce pours. Once you’ve whet your palate, move on to Barley & Grain (421 Amsterdam Ave., 646.360.3231), where you’ll enjoy more than 36 different single malts and 48 American whiskeys along with a whiskey-themed steak-and-burger menu. Leave Rochelle Out of It (205 Chrystie St, 212.673.2400)—named for the owners’ ex-girlfriend—presents the laid-back, social vibe appropriate to the Lower East Side, but is serious about its list of 100plus whiskeys, including trend-forward Japanese labels. In
Astoria, Queens, you’ll find the barbecue, craft brew and whiskey mecca The Strand Smokehouse (25-27 Broadway, 718.440.3231). In addition to the usual suspects, you’ll also find bourbons and ryes continuing to age in barrels above the bar, ready to be tapped.
Gin and Juice
Gin has long been an overlooked spirit, but no more. Gin Palace (95 Ave. A, 212.614.6818) is tucked inconspicuously between East Village bars Amor Y Amargo (bitters-focused) and Cienfuegos (rum cocktails and punches). While the black vinyl-padded banquettes and Art Deco-themed back bar mirror are retro, the gin program here is anything but. Listing over 70 products hailing from France (Citadelle), Brooklyn (Greenhook), San Francisco (Junipero) and England (Sipsmith) means an endless combination of botanical influences in your cocktail, from fullon juniper to floral grape notes. A tap pours carbonated gin and tonics featuring one of four housemade tonics. Walk past an unassuming pastry counter to the unmarked door, and find yourself entering the seductive speakeasy Bathtub
Left: At Morimoto, select from over 20 different sakes or select from the signature Morimoto Sake Collection. Right: Whether neat or on the rocks, you can choose from over 250 different whiskeys at American Whiskey.
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IN New YORK | may 2014 | innewyork.com
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