5 Cocktails in Boston We Love

Posted: 12:11 pm, September 2, 2011 by Jon

Bostonians are lucky to live in a city that has so many great chefs and bartenders. Most of them go unseen or nameless to us, but their craft is certainly well-known. In an effort to bring to light some of this aforementioned craft, Lin and I have compiled a short inventory for you. Below is a list of 5 cocktails in and around the city that each of us are really into right now. Cheers!

1. Sazerac from Bar at Clio in Back Bay

For me, it doesn’t get any better than having a cocktail at Clio. Todd Maul is a genius and knows how to properly manage a bar. The first thing you will notice about this drink is the aroma. Before you sip, inhale deeply and gather all the wonderful smells of the ingredients. You will notice the lemon zest, then the rye and oak from the whiskey, next the anise flavor from the absinthe and finally the bitters. Appreciate everything about this cocktail: the care with which it was made for you, and the rich 200-year tradition steeped in its flavor. After you enjoy this drink, you will realize why it was named Boston Magazine’s Best Sazerac of 2011.

2. Whiskey Smash at Eastern Standard in Kenmore

ESKD is one of my favorite places to have a cocktail in the city. The whiskey smash is such a wonderful blend of flavor that work so well together. The fresh mint compliments the lemon, the sugar cuts the sourness of the lemon and the bourbon brings everything together. If you have been reading our blog, it should be no secret to you that I love whiskey.

3. Deconstructed Cola at Trina’s Starlite Lounge in Somerville

This cocktail is unlike any you will try. It’s a work-of-art. It’s the way a rum and coke should be. It’s made with homemade cola bitters (Yes, cola bitters. How cool is that?), white rum and lime. Perfect.

4. Old Tom Collins at Deep Ellum in Allston

I may be one of the few people in the city that still love a Tom Collins cocktail. I always get double takes when I order one. I wish more bars would bring it back because it’s such a refreshing summer drink that is very simple to make. I also love gin drinks. Deep Ellum does a very nice job with their Tom Collins.

5. Pimm’s Cup at Drink in Fort Point

It wouldn’t seem right to not have Drink on this list. If you have never been to Drink, you should definitely make your way over to Fort Point. It’s a unique establishment where you, the patron, are the menu. Just tell one of their fabulous bartenders what you like and they will make you a fantastic beverage. I suggest to give their Pimm’s Cup a try, it’s damn good. For those not familiar with the drink, read this NPR article.