NYC's 5 Best DIY Brunch Cocktail Bars For 2013
Mimosas, Bloody Marys or Bellinis -- no matter your morning cocktail of choice, these Manhattan bars and restaurants are offering a new way to enjoy imbibing at brunch. The 'do-it-yourself' trend has taken flight in the city, letting you and your crew be your own bartenders to mix, stir and shake your drinks, as strong or sweet as you like, for a serious weekend wake-me-up. By Sarah Shaker.
More: NYC's 6 Best Bloody Marys
The perfect Bloody Mary can be hard to find. Some like it spicy, while others want more tomato flavor in this popular hair of the dog. At KTCHN you can make it your own way for $10. Choose your liquor, from 42 Below, Russian Standard, Grey Goose and Stolichnaya then choose your favorite fixin's for a personalized Bloody Mary to enjoy with your brunch.
More: NYC's 6 Best Outdoor Brunches
Close your eyes while at this East Village eatery and you may mistake it for Paris. Well, maybe not. But you'll certainly enjoy the French fare and ambiance -- including mussels, frites and so much more at Affaire. Make a brunch reservation at this bistro and lounge to enjoy their $25 make-your-own mimosa with Moet Chandon or California sparkling bottle service. Or try their new Gogi Royale Sunrise Mimosa (OJ, Champange and Organic French Gogi Berry Liquor) for $7. Brunch plates range from basic egg dishes to French inspired specialties. If you're visiting for dinner, don't miss out on one of their popular burlesque shows. Cheese lover tip: their Goat Cheese French Fries are a real treat!
Act as your own mixologist with a tray of five delicious mixers, including signature fresh juices, liqueurs and toss-ins like candied ginger and fresh berries for $15 per tray during brunch at Sotto 13. The DIY kit comes complete with stirring spoon and measuring glass, to show off your bartending skills. Order a bottle or glasses of the Prosecco of your choice, ranging in price depending on your preference. Follow along with the provided recipe card or get creative and craft your very own bubbly cocktails. Or check out their recently launched $25 All-You-Can-Drink Boozy Brunch option, including two tapas, one side plate or any wood fired pizza and unlimited brunch cocktails with a 1.5 hour limit to get your drink on.
Brunch in Midtown for Lexington Brass' new six-course family-style tasting, served with a DIY champagne cocktail kit. A bottle of Seguras Viudas Cava and a variety of juice mixers and fresh fruit are included to make your own brunch cocktails. The meal features both sweet and savory dishes like buttermilk pancakes, donuts, frittata and truffle fries. Make a reservation to enjoy this brunch for $50 for a couple and $85 for a table of four, from noon to 3pm on weekends.
Bowery's hopping during brunch, with trendy restaurants running up and down the block. Sip on vodka with Saxon + Parole's signature blend of freshly squeezed tomato juice, carrot and celery and season it to your liking for only $12. A traditional Bloody Mary with no garnish will send you over to a bar full of fixings, including hot sauces, spices, celery salt and pickled veggies to truly make it your own. If you're looking to keep your buzz going, try their Chicago Fizz (Bacardi 8, ruby port, lemon, egg white, clove 'mist') for a deliciously strong cocktail.
Sarah Shaker is the founder of the blog Bright Lights, My City.
