Buzz: For discerning hedonists and cerebral quaffers, the chic and intimate Fine Spirits by La Maison du Whisky offers a parade of liquors sourced from all over the world.
Décor: Styled after Japanese speakeasies, this bar exudes an unpretentious and peaceful vibe. Like an-old fashioned cigar lounge, the interior has seats for only 11 and the al fresco area for 20, lending it an air of exclusivity. The wooden shelves brimming with stock also function as a liquor boutique during the day.
Food & Drinks: Cold cuts and vintage French cheese nibbles complement the tippling. The $15 cover charge comes with a complimentary plate of cold cuts and cheese, and a freeflow of Acqua Panna and San Pellegrino water. If you’d like to pair your whisky with something bittersweet, order the platter of cocoa-influenced morsels ($20), which includes truffles, chocolate cookies and dark chocolate squares from neighboring chocolatier Laurent Bernard. There are over 400 types of whisky and 100 types of premium spirits, priced between $14 and $65. If cocktails are your thing, there are about 10 traditional choices ($18-25) like the Manhattan ($18), exquisitely concocted by former Tetsuya barman Tron Young.
Music: Mellow instrumental jazz. No run-of-the-mill covers band churning out Top 20 tunes here.
Crowd: Well-heeled liquor connoisseurs who enjoy quality tipples and a chilled out weekend soiree.
Why you’ll be back: The bespoke service from the friendly, knowledgeable pair who run the joint and the deliciously extensive collection of fine spirits. The bar also holds regular tasting sessions that teach you how to appreciate whisky and other spirits.
Fine Spirits by La Maison du Whisky is in I-S Best Bars Guide 2014. Download your copy to see where else you should be partying.
