Since New York just offers so many cocktail bars it is hard to choose if you enter the city as a tourist. What do I want to see, where do I want to go? You almost need a plan if you tend to explore like I do. The focus is always on the cocktail bars. It can get busy at times so I rather see less than just too much.
Headless Horseman
You tend to loose focus otherwise. Originally it was planned on meeting Ivy Mix for a portrait but it did not work out so I said, I want to see Leyenda at least. A Mexican inspired cocteleria in Brooklyn, opened by Julie Reiner and Ivy Mix. One evening was reserved to travel over to Brooklyn and see what they have to offer. You walk in and you are sent to somewhere in Mexico. The atmosphere is cosy and the friendly bar team helps to set the scene. A mixed team of men and women and a jeans apron as work uniform stand for a laid back vibe to enjoy a few cocktails. Other playful elements such as the cans for napkins and cutlery, cigar box for coasters, brick walls, small niches to sit with candles and the nicely arranged spirit selection with a focus on tequila, mezcal and rum underline the concept and make you discover thought through design aspects. The glasses are rather simple as the focus lies on the cocktails. You can expect something from the creative cocktail menu, Ivy Mix got awarded “American Bartender of the Year” in 2015 at the Tales of the Cocktail’s Spirited Awards.
Pam Am Sour
We took a seat at the high chairs at the bar, explored the back bar with the wooden boxes and crates that lie playful on top of each other and build sections of spirits, and were served the must have tab water which came nicely designed water glasses together with a big bottle to refill. We browsed through the creative compositions and opted for the Cabezaso and the Palo Negro. The first one was an excellent creation with a long lasting spicy clear lemon oil, hint of elderflower and a symbiosis of vermouth and Lillet. The spiciness originates from the Habanero bitter. All in all very complex, round and sophisticated. The Palo Negro used dry Sherry, Grand Marnier and orange oil which build an superb marriage. The drink is well balanced, strong, heavy and very powerful. A lovely small gem in the heart of Brooklyn. I’ll be back.
Photos © Leyenda
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