Barmini by Jose Andres: Washington, D.C.

Tags

Barmini, Barmini by Joes Andres, DC, Mescal, Mescal Negroni, negroni, Negroni review, review, washington

All aspects of the Negroni experience at Barmini make this a must visit Negroni World Pilgrimage Site!

Befuddlement factor: 0
Presentation: 8
Drink: 9
Price: $14.00

Whether you are reading this review in Ghent or Pine Bluff, grab your passport and head out to Barmini by Jose Andres; as this is a Negroni experience you are not going to want to miss!

This cozy spot is small, contemporary in a very comfortable way; and loads of fun. You’ll get great service; including a small “welcome cocktail”.

Sit at the bar to watch the full show.  The mixology is serious; with the bartender spending a solid five minutes mixing, dropping samples on the back of his hand from a silver pipette to test; and when perfection is achieved; going through the whole process again, stirring to get just the right temperature.  I have yet to see this degree of care given in any other bar; and the result follows the effort.

I ordered the featured Mescal Negroni, which is composed of mescal, cunard, aperol and yzaguirre vermouth.  The bartender gave me a sample of the vermouth; which I highly recommend.  The Mescal Negroni itself is quite interesting with a smokey deep flavor which is worth trying, although I admit I prefer the classic on an on-going basis.

This is a spot worth going out of your way to experience; but make reservations; it is small and popular.

Waterlot Inn: Southampton, Bermuda

Tags

bermuda, hamilton, negroni, Negroni review, Waterlot Inn

Negronis do not match the general sophistication of the Waterlot Inn in Southampton

Befuddlement factor: 2
Presentation: 3
Drink: 5
Price: $14.00

The Waterlot Inn is usually on the list of restaurants to be experienced by those seeking the elusive superior dining experience in Bermuda.   The room projects a quiet, almost too quiet, elegant feel.  Service is subdued, with experience and training obviously not being a hiring criteria, as we got the classic “negroni?” response from the waitperson.

The drink failed to match the ambiance of the room; a little light on the Campari; with the bartender obviously too exhausted to be able to muster a shake or stir.  After this visit you will be able to safely resume your search for an excellent Negroni in Bermuda.