The Art of the Bar: Cocktails Inspired by the Classics

by Jeff Hollinger, Rob Schwartz, Georgeanne Brennan (Foreword)

By the bartenders of Absinthe Brasserie & Bar in San Francisco.

From Tokyo to New York, a cocktail renaissance is happening as 'bar chefs' create delicious elixirs worthy of their kitchen counterparts. An epicenter of this barroom artistry can be found at the Absinthe Brasserie & Bar in San Francisco, the city that spends more money per capita on alcohol than any other in the country.

Bartenders Jeff Hollinger and Bob Schwartz share their artisanal approach for stunning creations that unveil a new spectrum of flavors. Fresh herbs and even aromatic lavender are deftly used to augment classic and new cocktail recipes. Syrups and mixes are carefully crafted from scratch, ensuring small-batch perfection and a harmony of flavors. Hollinger and Schwartz also share the colorful anecdotes behind the 21 Hayes, Ginger Rogers, and other signature cocktails created at Absinthe.

Acclaimed photographer Frankie Frankeny captures their virtuoso mixing performances with a refreshing take on the cocktail, creating a showpiece for any living room.

Genres: Cookbooks, Cocktails, Nonfiction, Food, Cooking, Food and Drink, Reference

144 pages, Hardcover

First published October 5, 2006

Reviews

[Pete · Rating 4 out of 5]

So far, this is the best printed collection of tincture and syrup recipes I've found. A great source of inspiriation. The photos are great.

[Jennell McHugh]

Absinthe Brasserie in San Francisco was excellent... I look forward to becoming a regular.

[Vince Mattaliano · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book is an easy and useful read. But it should be understood at the very beginning, that the book presents drinks that are inspired by the Classics. The author however is kind enough to also present The Original Classic, in most cases.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting. Gave history of cocktails and reasons for different ingredients. Well laid out with great photos and recipes.

[John G. · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a new, home bartender, found this book very helpful and inspiring. Gorgeous pictures, tons of inventive recipes, well worth having in my drinks library!

[Caroline · Rating 4 out of 5]

Looking at this book makes me thirsty. It's a little too fancy for me, though. Plus it leaves out the Gimlet, which is a crime.

[Scott Kirkwood]

This book was recommended to me by a bar owner in Seattle.