Wednesday, September 1, 2010

11 Madison

I have been to the bar at 11 Madison a few times, and as with all my experiences with the USHG properties, the service was impeccable.  On a recent Thursday I made a last minute decision to meet some friends there for a drink, and encountered a pet peeve.  I ordered bartenders choice- which is an option listed on the cocktail menu.  My parameters were something gingery, but preferably not the standard Dark 7 Stormy or Moscow Mule.  ‘Give me something different,’ I said.  My cocktail was a delicious twist on Pimm’s Cup with averna, carpano punt e mes sweet vermouth, cucumber, citrus, mint, ginger.  I enjoyed it greatly until I looked through the menu deciding upon drink #2, and I saw the “Number Eleven” Cup.  To put it bluntly, my bartender’s choice was a standard drink on the menu. !!  I know, I know.  Technically it was his choice- and I should be fine if that choice is to make me a standard cocktail.  From his perspective, it was almost a guarantee that I would like the drink- and I truly did.  However, typically when ordering bartenders choice, I’m looking to be surprised, and I’ll admit it: to feel special.  Especially from a restaurant that has an in- depth bartending magazine (http://www.elevenmadisonpark.com/EMP_Cocktail.pdf).  The hospitality was there, the drink was great, and I will definitely be back; but I’ll stick with the menu. 

Average drink price: $14-
Gramercy: 11 Madison Park, New York, NY 1001
(212) 889-0905

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