• What: Urban Adventures New York Craft Cocktail Tour
• Where: East Village
• When: Available upon booking. Check their site for details.
• Cost: $82 per person (includes 3 unique drinks, and an incredible guide with tons of knowledge on the NY cocktail scene)

Mondays, the first day of the week to have a fresh start, learn something new, be productive and go on a craft cocktail tour. That last part was no mistake, as you cannot shock your body into completely stopping the weekend activities.
It’s bad for you.
It’s science.

The Urban Adventures cocktail tour will surprise even native New Yorkers with new, unique spots to get the most incredible craft cocktails. We went on a stormy Monday night but they offer these epic tours everyday of the week. The tours are private and customized to you. 

After briefing us on the historical background of Manhattan’s East Village, our guide introduced us to William Barnacle Tavern; the spot to quench your fiery-sugar-cubed-absinthe thirst. As for flavor, the Bohemian Style Absinthe had a sweet finish, liquorish like (anise) flavor and we were surprised to find that it was mixed with water to dilute its super strong flavor. With over 30 different varieties of the anise/fennel/wormwood stuff, it’s no wonder this former speak easy and current bar/theater is the place that even Frank Sinatra hung out at (among other gangsters/political figures- usually with no distinction!). 

Mayahuel was our next stop. A cozy tequila bar and restaurant that features several varieties of Mezcal and whose name represents the Mexican Goddess of Fertility. The food and drinks we had were an explosion of flavor (go here for a dinner date, you’ll thank us later!). We tried the Mezcal Rinsed Randy which consisted of Reposado Tequila, lime and fresh ginger. To our delight, the ginger helped refresh our palette, and the 100% Agave Tequila was nothing like what we remembered (or didnt) about the lesser value tequilas we had in college! Forgive already and pray to Myahuel for a better future!

The last place we visited was Wise Men. It was a cute 70’s themed lounge that features cocktails that are created and named in house. The featured drink was a refreshing classic bourbon cocktail that was artfully made by our skilled mixologist. It was the perfect Spring drink; fresh and lightly sweet. 

An  incredible discovery of the night was Astor Wines, which has the largest selection of wines and liquors in NY. If you’re looking for that rare drink you had in Spain – you’ll find it here. We even found a bottle of  Louis Xiii cognac that was $3,300 – that’s over a $100 per sip! 

If you’re a cocktail lover, definitely check out Urban Adventures craft cocktail tour. It’s great for both native New Yorkers or visitors. A fun night out for all!