Apotheke
When you hang with us, a Friday afternoon plan can quickly evolve into a Friday night outing…and you know where that leads. Straight into Saturday morning. If there’s one spot we can count on to take our night in the right direction, it’s Apotheke, nestled comfortably in the narrow Chinatown alleyway that is Doyers Street. Legend has it that back in the 20th century, the hidden locale was riddled with Chinese gang wars – but now it's just where we like to go to get our weekend prescription.
The apothecary-style bar features over 250 house cocktails and over 500 bottles of liquor from around the world, and everything is divided into pharmacy-like categories – “Health and Beauty,” “Stress Relievers,” “Aphrodisiacs," “Euphoric Enhancers,” etc. We like to think that not only are they serving up strong spirits, but they're trying to keep us in good spirits, too. But with Kanon behind the bar, that's typically a guarantee. Meet Nicolas O’Connor, Apotheke's mixology extraordinaire who helps us raise our spirits each time we come knocking for a cocktail. Someone's got to be there to cure those nights that've come to a standstill, right? Read up for his take on NYC nightlife from the other side of the bar.
What’s the secret to making a great cocktail?
Creating a balance through the right flavor combinations.
Where do you look to for inspiration when making and creating new drinks?
Through food. When I am eating something with wonderful flavor and texture, it inspires me to try and transfer that feeling to a cocktail.
What makes Apotheke unique or different than other bars in NYC?
Apotheke gives the power to the Mixologist. They are able to create throughout the night based on the needs of the patron.
CONTINUE READING INTERVIEW WITH A BARTENDER: NICOLAS O'CONNOR OF APOTHEKE.
