The speakeasy-inspired little branch in Manhattan’s West Village is an ode to the 1920s. While the interior is low-ceilinged and club-like, the cocktails here are civilized, not cocktail-fueled. The menu is confusing, but the suspender-clad bartenders are more than happy to help. This speakeasy offers an atmosphere reminiscent of the 1920s speakeasies, while still serving the tastiest cocktails around.
Sasha Petraske’s speakeasy is a hidden gem in the West Village
If you’re a fan of classic cocktails, head to Sasha Petraske’s speakeasies in the West Village. Founded by the late Sasha Petraske, Little Branch serves up classic cocktails. There’s no written menu, but the bartenders have a huge repertoire of recipes. Another hidden gem in the neighborhood is Employees Only, a bar that’s hailed as one of the world’s best. This tucked-away bar is tucked away behind a psychic shop, so you may not find it immediately.
The staff is smartly-dressed and produces excellent cocktails. Classics are served over ice, but you can get creative with custom drinks based on your preferences. Try the Quiet Storm, which combines Bulleit Bourbon and redbush-tea-infused Bianco vermouth. The cocktail is served over ice, and you can even order an egg flip made with the liquor.
It is reminiscent of 1920s speakeasies
Speaking of the prohibition era, New York City had no shortage of speakeasies. Despite the prohibition, these bars were popular hangouts for young people. They were notorious for having hidden wine cellars, invisible chutes, and camouflaged doors. In recent years, numerous bars have recreated this old-world feel, with some even resembling the originals.
These speakeasies were illegal taverns that sold alcoholic beverages, many of which were run by members of organized crime. However, the passage of the 18th Amendment in 1919 outlawed the sale, manufacture, and transportation of intoxicating liquors. Prostitution and gambling also flourished in speakeasies. This prompted Herbert Hoover to call the law a “noble experiment.” The Volstead Act was passed to enforce the new law.
As the demand for alcohol increased, gangsters began competing for control of the industry. Al Capone, a trusted associate from New York, came to Chicago in 1920 and instructed Torrio to buy illicit liquor from speakeasies. Capone manipulated rivals and forced them to surrender their territory. Torrio retired from bootlegging in 1925 after an unsuccessful assassination attempt. He subsequently handed the business to Capone.
It serves craft cocktails
When it comes to drinking alcohol, there is a difference between a regular bar and one that serves craft cocktails. A regular bar may serve the same drinks as a craft cocktail bar, but the ingredients in the drinks may be different. Craft cocktail bars typically add liqueurs to their drinks to give them a more distinct flavor and uniqueness. A craft cocktail bar should have liqueurs available on their menu, whereas an OG bar may only offer bitters.
Craft cocktails are different from standard drinks because they are created with care and precision. A craft cocktail uses fresh ingredients and does not contain artificial fragrances or preservatives. The ingredients are carefully blended in a craft cocktail recipe, so it will be unique to that particular bar. In addition, a craft cocktail is made with high-quality spirits. This means the cocktail will have an even higher quality and taste. To create a craft cocktail, you should research the ingredients and choose quality ingredients.
It is a civilized way to drink
Located beneath a nondescript building on 7th Avenue, Little Branch is a speakeasy-style cocktail bar. With a style that evokes speakeasies of the Prohibition era, the bartenders are all dressed in suspenders. The menu varies from a selection of classic cocktails to custom creations. You can also order jazz trios to play in the background. Whether you’re a fan of Prohibition-era cocktail history, you’re sure to find a cocktail to suit your tastes.
Sasha Petraske is the same owner of Milk and Honey. While his other bar is slightly more accessible, Little Branch is more tucked away down a flight of stairs in the West Village. While it boasts a similar aesthetic and the same bar ambiance, Little Branch is a warmer place to drink. There are lots of booths available for you to relax, or you can stand at the bar for a cocktail master class.
