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Introduction
It is the truth of the matter—there is something magical in the well-done Old Fashioned. It is confident, elegant, and not too complicated, but at the same time tastes like a complete experience in a glass. However, this is the catch: not all bars do it right.
The fact is, when you have ever drunk one and thought to yourself, Hmm… this is just tasting like orange soda with regrets, there is nothing wrong; you are not the only one that said that. Have you been dreaming about the right combination of smooth whiskey, just a kiss of sweet, a hint of bitters, and a smell of citrus twist, or are you simply sick of blowing your money on weak imitations? This is the guide you are looking for.
We will demonstrate to you how to get the actual good stuff within your radar, which is the kind that will touch every chord. This can be your treasure map to cocktails. We must start sipping.
Ingredients to a Great Old Fashioned Cocktail
Okay, what exactly is so special about an Old Fashioned that it is brag-worthy?
First of all, it is about the fundamentals done right:
Select a quality bourbon or rye whiskey—we can afford to pass up the varieties of cheap stuff we are already familiar with.
A little sugar or simple syrup—not too much, a syrupy stranglehold.
Couple dashes bitters to bring depth to it
A squirt of orange peel, possibly a cherry too, should the bartender be feeling charitable
However, the point is that everything is all about balance. Too sweet? It is a children's cocktail. Too strong? You drink a shot, and you are in an attitude. The classic Old Fashioned is blended to be smooth, mellow, and a sum total of the right tones in a single gulp.
And presentation is not forgotten. A good Old Fashioned is worth an oversized glass, a decent cube, and a bit of flair. As a great bartender, this will not be seen as just a beverage; it is a ritual.
The Best Way to find a Good Old Fashioned near You
What we want to do now is talk about the hunt, how you can actually figure out the best Old Fashioned in your neighborhood.
Local Tools
Begin with the already set programs: Google Maps, Yelp, or TripAdvisor. Search on your device for "Old Fashioned near me" or "cocktail bars near me." Identify locations where there is a good 4+ star rating and then look at what people say in their reviews (search the word old-fashioned in them as well).
What to Seek
References to bartenders that “know what they are doing”
Remarks concerning the taste, quality, and taste
Hints on the atmosphere: no one enjoys having great drinks in an offbeat environment
Real Humans
Still unsure? Ask your hotel concierge, the foodie with whom you're dining, or even your local bartender (bartenders know where the good stuff lives). A single piece of good advice can save you five pointless drinks.
Famous Kinds of The Establishments That Sell Good Old Fashioneds
All bars are not constructed in a great old-fashioned way. This is where it is to be found:
Luxurious Cocktail Lounge
You will most often get expert bartenders, fresh produce, and an attitude that shouts, We are serious about our drinks.
Speakeasy Styles Lounges
These up-and-coming graffiti stars are classic fans. Dim lights, easy-listening jazz with a killer Old Fashioned? Yes, please.
Old-fashioned Whiskey or Bourbon Stores
When whiskey is in the spotlight, then you can rest assured that they do not mess with the Old Fashioned. There will be stiff pours and the best shelf.
Rooftop Bars and Bars of Hotels
Surprisingly solid! These oft-forgotten locations may be home to superb mixologists too, and views you can mix with.
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True Customer Experience—I got my ideal old-fashioned in 5 minutes.
Now visualize this: my friend Jake arrives at a new city on a work-related matter, he gets to his hotel room, and he immediately desires to crave an old-fashioned. But he can afford no trial and error.
He gets on to Google Maps, types in best Old Fashioned near me, and then he gets a place that is only three blocks away with a bunch of five-star reviews praising their cocktails. He gets in, orders one and… smack. Magic.
Poured into a heavy glass on a very clear ice cube, with just enough citrus scent, delicious bourbon neither sweet nor bitter, but just the right sweetness.
The bartender even informed me that they use house made bitters and a brown sugar syrup. Jake did more than getting a drink but he found his new favorite bar to visit when he travelled.
Lesson of the day? The ideal Old Fashioned is sometimes only a few clicks away, you simply have to know where to search.
Three Important Elements to Be Seen in a Good Old Fashioned
How to tell a good Old Fashioned across the bar? Your cheat sheet looks like this:
Orange peel but not what a vegetarian is likely to make faces at: sad, dried-out slices of peel but fresh orange peel, all that springy stuff at the inside of the orange
Good whiskey, preferably top shelf; otherwise, do not bother.
Empowered taste—neither too sweet to be a syrup nor rough and spicy
Not a plastic glass and a sure no wine glass
Anything a little bitters to give depth instead of clobbering everything
Adornments of contents known as a food to make it interesting, such as smoked glasses, flavorful syrups, or fancy ice cubes (additional ones are good!).
There are even cool custom versions with maple, cherry-wood smoked, and even spicy ones in some places. Provided that you like that, go ahead and explore. However, in the event that it reminds you of cough syrup, run.
Top Local Spots to Try
These are some suggestions of where to go (you can substitute these with other suggestions of your city):
1. The Oak Barrel downtown
Cozy lamps, soft cushioned leather sofas, and a bartender shaking like a musician: all these things are associated with a bar. They have a smoked old-fashioned? Unforgettable.
2. Fox & Flame—Midtown
Creative twists of gold acts. Honey-lavender Old Fashioned: bizarre but great.
3. Hideaway Lounge, Riverside of Riverwalk
All speakeasy vibes. The menu is secret, but their standard Old Fashioned is spot on; it is strong, smooth, and all served in style.
4. TopGlass Rooftop Bar in uptown
Stunning views + bourbon heaven = the perfect Friday night. Their cherry-flavored old-fashioned is a popular drink.
Old Fashioned Pro Tips: Tips on a Perfect Experience Making the classic Old Fashioned drink is a bit of an art. There is so much to feel and experience as you make your own Old Fashioned.
And here is how to make it even better:
Happy hour: Awesome beverages, fewer people
Perch at the bar: Look on as the bartender prepares your drink, converse with him or her
Keep it with something salty: Old Fashioneds are snack-loving beverages: consider truffle fries or sliders
Be patient: It is not a shot; savor and enjoy the moment
A cocktail is a mood. Take time over it.
Conclusion
An excellent Old Fashioned has nothing to do with alcoholism but rather with proportions, creativity, and the fact that it is pleasing to get an important drink that simply fits.
A couple savvy searches, a modicum of keen interest, and a copy of this guide sitting in your back pocket, and you may soon have found that next ideal pour right on your doorstep.
So go out there, find out all your local places, and when you do find out the one, please lift a glass to all those cocktail lovers who are continuing their search.
What is your favorite old-fashioned? Send me a message in the comments (or better still, bring me with you next time)
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