There’s no better way to celebrate the seasonal changes than with a drink at Two E Bar/Lounge. Located in The Pierre, a Taj Hotel, New York, Two E has the design of a modern tea room, but the ambiance of the hippest hot spot in the city.
Each Equinox and Solstice, Two E hosts a mixology class featuring new cocktails specially created by Sachin Hassan, the 2006 “Best Bartender of the Year” recipient and Assistant Manager for Two E Bar/Lounge. At first approach, admittedly, I had no idea what to expect. From the moment I walked in, I saw the ever stylish Iris Apfel before entering a dimly lit room filled with gayish laughter, warm smiles and many swilling their drinks as if to be alcohol connoisseurs. I know very little about liquor, enjoy a Rosé d’Anjou from time to time, but could never comprehend the knowledge it takes to be an expert in the field, let alone creating aperitifs that pair well with the menus to complement and enhance the flavors of the meal. But after seeing Sachin demonstrate his process, it clicked. There’s more to alcohol than meets the tongue.
This summer, Two E featured three barrel-aged and infused cocktails – a Vanilla‐Infused Rum, Homemade Rhubarb Syrup; a Date & Fig‐Infused Leblon Cachaça, Aperol and Luxardo Maraschino; and an Old Overholt Rye infused with Orange Zest and Dried Cherries, Glayva and Lillet Blanc. Each drink was different and memorable in its own right. The date and fig infusion, my favorite, mixed bitter and sweet ever so beautifully while establishing a distinction between every ingredient.
The next mixology class will take place around the Autumnal Equinox in September, but why wait that long. Conveniently located in one of the best areas of New York City, Two E Bar/Lounge, whether alone or with a group of friends, is the perfect place for the perfect drink.
Photos courtesy of Sheila Donnelly & Associates and Taj Hotels