- The Meatpacking District isn't just a place to chug bottles of Goose and Patron. Take your next date or out-of-town visitor on this romantic walking tour for an alluring look at the cobblestone zone. (Yep, by yours truly)
- Harlem speakeasy 67 Orange celebrates its one-year anniversary tonight. They are celebrating with $5 shots and introducing a new cocktail menu. Try the "Almack's," with Batavia Arrack, Lillet Blanc, Velvet Falernum, Allspice Dram, and muddled grapes. 8 to 10 p.m., 2082 Frederick Douglas Blvd.
- A look at Williamsburg's new rum bar, Roneria Caracas, in the Village Voice. (Again, by yours truly)
- The New York Times recommends Underberg bitters to combat holiday overindulgence, and apparently Prime Meats in Cobble Hill sells more of the German bitters than any other place in the country.
- Jim Meehan shows off his $660 bartender's bag for Metromix.
- On Dec. 16, The Metropolitan Opera is collaborating with mixologist Allen Katz to hold a cocktail competition. A group of NYC bartenders were recently invited to see a dress rehearsal of Tales of Hoffmann, which opens with the title character in a tavern, reflecting on past loves. Joaquin Simo (Death & Co.), Lynnette Marrero (Rye House), Meaghan Dorman (Raines Law Room), Leo Robitschek (Eleven Madison Park), Ryan McGrale (Flatiron Lounge), Brad Farran (Clover Club), and James Menite (Porter House) will be competing to create cocktails inspired by the production.
- The Magnificent Bastard is hosting a cocktail competition in search of the next classic cocktail. Bartenders have until Jan. 31 to submit recipes, and the winner will receive a $500 gift certificate to KegWorks.
