If you normally stick to classic G&Ts and beers, going off menu can be a bit daunting. We chat with the charismatic Mark Thomas of Bacchanalia for advice on how to order a drink you won’t end up hating.
Ask if you can first. “Bars never list everything they have on the menu. All good bars should have classics like Old Fashioneds and Gin & Tonics covered.” Still, open the conversation by asking if you can order something else.
Know what you like and don’t like. “Don’t ask what’s popular as a bespoke cocktail is [personalized] to you.” Start with flavor profiles like sweet, sour, salty or bitter. Bartenders know what they need to ask, so be ready to answer questions about flavors you like or wouldn’t touch.
When in doubt, start with what you know. “If you don’t know what you like, ask yourself what you normally drink when you’re out.”
Listen to the barkeep. They will always advise when they think what you’re asking won’t go well together. “I’ve had customers ask for tomato and coconut together. It’s not tom yum.”
Never have too many ingredients. “You don’t have to cram all your favorite ingredients into one drink. Chances are you’ll have more than one anyway.”
Learn something new. “It’s all about slow experimentation and prodding you in the right direction of discovery.”
