Cocktail bar
Unclaimed profileTemple Bar
New York, NY · $$$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
Temple Bar's cocktail menu is a study in structured creativity, with sections like Blue Period and a caviar-bump martini option that shows confidence. The Temple House Gibson Martini and Blue Negroni anchor a program that customers consistently praise for inventiveness and strength. A compact wine list spans Champagne to orange wines, and a thoughtful non-alcoholic section ensures no one is left out. This is a place where the drinks are the point, and they deliver.
- What should I order?
- Start with the Temple House Gibson Martini, a 50:50 gin and Manzanilla sherry blend with sherry vinegar and onion. The Blue Negroni, using Blue Kampari, is a visual and flavor twist. For something lighter, the San Patricio Buck or Chios Swizzle from the Citrus/Shaken section. Consider a caviar bump on any martini for indulgence.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Cocktail enthusiasts seeking inventive, well-crafted drinks will find much to appreciate. The dark, moody, speakeasy-style ambiance, noted by guests, suits those looking for an intimate date spot or a refined bar experience. The non-alcoholic options also make it accessible for designated drivers or those abstaining.
- When should I go?
- Evenings are likely the prime time given the bar's dark, glamorous ambiance. A late-night visit might offer a more relaxed pace, but plan ahead.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Cocktails are $22-$23, with a $13 mini option. Wines by the glass range from $20, with premium Champagnes by the bottle up to $680. Beers are $9-$13, and non-alcoholic cocktails are $15. A typical per-person spend is $40-$50, according to guests.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The Blue Period section, featuring Blue Kampari, is a unique visual and flavor concept rarely seen. The Temple House Gibson Martini, with its sherry and sherry vinegar twist, shows a technical edge. The caviar bump option adds a luxe touch to the martini program, setting it apart from typical cocktail bars.
Beverage categories
We only score what a venue sets out to do. Categories a venue doesn't attempt are left unscored rather than penalized.
Cocktails
Creative, well-structured cocktail menu with unique sections like Blue Period and Minis.
Menu strengths
- — Inventive menu with distinct sections (Citrus/Shaken, Minis, Low-ABV, Blue Period, Martinis, Stirred) that show thoughtful curation.
- — Martini program includes a caviar bump option, adding a luxurious twist.
Standout selections
- — Temple House Gibson Martini: 50:50 gin, Manzanilla sherry, dash sherry vinegar, onion.
- — Blue Negroni: gin, Blue Kampari, blanc vermouth.
- — Sick as Espresso Martini: vodka, banana, vanilla, espresso.
Pricing: Cocktails $22-$23; Minis $13; caviar bump +$18
Wine
Compact but diverse wine list covering Champagne, white, rosé, red, and orange categories. Includes premium Champagne options and interesting picks like Forlorn Hope Queen of the Sierra.
Menu strengths
- — Categories span from Champagne to orange wines, offering variety.
- — Includes premium Champagnes like Dom Perignon and Taittinger.
Standout selections
- — Piper Heidsieck Cuvée 1785, NV Champagne, $28/glass.
- — Forlorn Hope Queen of the Sierra, 2023, orange wine, $20/glass.
Pricing: Wines by glass $20-$28; bottles $85-$680
Beer
Small beer selection with local craft options and a non-alcoholic beer. Prices are moderate.
Menu strengths
- — Includes local craft beer Other Half Green City IPA.
Standout selections
- — Other Half Green City IPA, NY, 7% ABV, $12.
- — Eric Bordelet Sparkling Pear Cider, FR, 5%, $13.
Pricing: Beers $9-$13
Nonalcoholic
Dedicated non-alcoholic cocktail section with creative options using products like Pathfinder, Ghia, and St Agrestis. Priced reasonably.
Menu strengths
- — Six creative NA cocktails, including a NA sparkling wine.
Standout selections
- — Dry Seventy-Five: Ritual AmarNo, lemon, grenadine, NA Champagne.
- — Nor'easter: Pathfinder, cucumber, mint, lime, soda.
Pricing: Non-alcoholic cocktails $15; NA beers $9
Spirits
Extensive use of diverse spirits across cocktails, but no dedicated spirits list or tasting menu. Quality inferred from cocktail program.
Menu strengths
- — Cocktail menu features a wide range of spirits from Irish Whiskey to Absinthe.
- — Spirits are integrated into creative cocktails, suggesting a well-stocked bar.
Pricing: Included in cocktail prices; no separate spirits list
How it sits with the food
The drink menu's range from low-ABV to robust stirred cocktails suggests versatility for pairing. The martini's saline sherry and vinegar notes could complement oysters or caviar, aligning with the caviar bump. The Greenpoint's rye and Chartreuse might match heartier fare, though specific food pairings are not detailed in evidence.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
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