Lift a glass and prepare to embark on a journey without borders. No passports, no jet lag, just the artistry of mixology and the magic of ingredients transporting you across continents. Three bars, each with its own distinct identity, invite you to sip your way around the world: Tu Bar in Vietnam, The Nomad Bar in New York, and Mr. C Seaport in Barcelona. Buckle up, your taste buds are about to take flight.
Photo: Robb Report
Imagine embarking on a journey around the world, not with a passport and a suitcase, but with a curious palate and an adventurous spirit. Your guides? Three unique bars, each offering a distinct portal into a different cultural cocktail landscape. Buckle up because this liquid expedition is about to take you on a sensory voyage beyond borders.
These three bars are just a taste of the incredible cocktail journeys waiting to be discovered around the globe. Each one offers a unique perspective on a different culture, using flavors, traditions, and atmospheres to tell a story. As you embark on your own liquid exploration, remember that the true magic lies not just in the drink itself but in the connections it fosters. The conversations sparked, the friendships formed, and the cultural understanding gained are the true treasures you bring back from each sip.
Tu Bar: A hidden gem in Ho Chi Minh City
Step into a world of delectable cocktails and warm ambiance at Tu Bar, a hidden gem tucked away in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Founded in 2017 by two friends, one Vietnamese and one American, Tu Bar embodies the spirit of bringing people together over shared experiences.
True to its name in Vietnamese, Tu Bar embraces a unique wardrobe theme. Antique cabinets and vintage-inspired décor create a cozy and intimate atmosphere reminiscent of a hidden nook waiting to be discovered. This whimsical theme extends to the menu, where handcrafted cocktails are presented with playful names and creative garnishes.
Photo: Tủ Bar
Tu Bar’s cocktail menu is a symphony of flavors, featuring both classic concoctions and innovative creations. Using fresh, seasonal ingredients, the skilled bartenders whip up masterpieces that tantalize the taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or a curious newcomer, there’s something for everyone to discover, from refreshing seasonal offerings to signature drinks bursting with unique flavors.
Beyond the cocktails, Tu Bar offers a warm and welcoming environment. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are always happy to recommend a drink based on your preferences, ensuring a personalized experience. The bar also attracts a diverse clientele, making it a perfect spot to meet new people, relax with friends, or enjoy a romantic date night.
Tu Bar keeps the magic alive by hosting regular events such as wine tastings and cocktail-making classes. These events offer a deeper dive into the world of mixology and provide a chance to learn from the experts.
The Nomad Bar: New York’s global gathering place
Soaring above the bustle of Manhattan, The Nomad Bar offers a different kind of escape. Here, the world comes to you, reflected in the eclectic cocktail menu and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Award-winning bartenders like Leo Robitschek craft innovative libations that draw inspiration from global flavors and historical periods.
Photo: Eater NY
Embark on your adventure with the “Penicillin,” a modern classic named after the Scottish cocktail. Blended with blended Scotch, honey-ginger syrup, lemon juice, and a floater of Islay peat-smoked Scotch, it is a complex and smoky delight. Then, venture to the tropics with the “Jungle Bird,” a tiki-inspired masterpiece featuring Jamaican rum, pineapple juice, Campari, and lime. Each sip transports you to a vibrant Polynesian paradise.
The Nomad Bar’s ambiance is as diverse as its menu. Globe-trotter maps adorn the walls, plush leather seating beckons relaxation, and the warm lighting sets the stage for memorable conversations. It’s a space where cultures collide and connections spark, all orchestrated by the magic of expertly crafted cocktails.
The artful alchemy of Izakaya cocktails in Tokyo
Step into a dimly lit, intimate izakaya in Tokyo, where the air hums with lively chatter and the aroma of grilled yakitori fills your senses. While traditionally known for sake and beer, izakayas are now embracing the world of cocktails with a meticulous, artistic approach. Here, bartenders are not just mixologists, they’re storytellers weaving Japanese flavors and traditions into each glass.
One sip of the “Yuzu Cosmo,” a vibrant green concoction featuring Japanese citrus, shochu, a kind of distilled spirit, and elderflower liqueur, transports you to sun-drenched citrus groves. The “Sakura Martini,” with its delicate blend of sakura-infused gin and sakura liqueur, evokes the fleeting beauty of spring blossoms. Each cocktail is presented with an element of surprise, perhaps a garnish of pickled ginger or a sprinkle of matcha powder, adding another layer to the multi-sensory experience.
Beyond the flavors, the izakaya experience itself is a journey into Japanese culture. The warmth of communal seating, the friendly service, and the convivial atmosphere create a sense of belonging. As you savor your expertly crafted cocktail, you become part of the vibrant tapestry of izakaya life.
So, embark on your own global cocktail tour. Let each sip be a passport stamp, transporting you to new cultures, flavors, and experiences. Be open to experimentation, engage with bartenders who are passionate storytellers, and most importantly, savor the journey. Remember, the world is indeed a glass, waiting to be explored one delicious sip at a time.