Nestled behind the glorious structure of Boulton and Watt and bustling Houston Street lies Drexler’s an elegant and chic bar rightly situated at the border of the East Village and the Lower East Side. When it comes to escaping the frenetic New York lifestyle, Drexler’s delivers. Whether it’s the dim lighting, the exposed brick and decorative iron bars, or the cast-iron bathtubs filled with beer behind the bar, Drexler’s provides an atmosphere that makes you feel as though you’ve entered a speakeasy in the 30’s. You’re not here simply to drink; you’re here to experience.
The cocktail menu has a little bit for every taste, from different sours to milk punch to everything in between. Don’t miss the Employee of the Month (for two!), filled with rum, orgeat, passion fruit, pineapple, and sherry, and comes in a prize-winning goblet that looks like it could have been taken from the Harry Potter movie set. Beat Surrender and Bees Knees were next on the menu. While Bees Knees–obviously–consisted of honey, lemon, and gin, inducing a nostalgic throwback to southern summers and nature, Beat Surrender, with its mix of vodka and champagne, was deliciously dangerous. With fig preserves, lemon, and sugar, it has a certain understated sweetness that was addicting. While the New York Sour sounds bizarre (bourbon and egg whites, who knew?), with hints of cinnamon and lemon, this bourbon beauty did not disappoint. Similarly, Reunion Tour, with gin, grapefruit, and lime has a mesmerizing sweetness.
The charcuterie, with delicate cheeses and meats, tapenades and baguettes elegantly arranged to match the soft, rustic atmosphere, make you feel as though you’ve been transported to the Italian countryside. A little bit of jazz, rock, and country heighten the mood. From our cocktail sampling, each one a gorgeous, delicate concoction, and delightful eats, Drexler’s is a perfect escape, and I can’t wait to go back.
Twisted Talk: Have you been to Drexler’s yet? What’s your favorite cocktail on the menu? Discuss below!
