DRINK: Cocktail Couture at Room 11 [DC]

Known around city for their gastronomic offerings, the libations at the neighborhood spot, Room 11 hold their own against some of the city’s better known establishments. Recently, I found myself posted up at the bar attempting to satisfy my fixation with herbal boozy cocktails and Room 11 didn’t disappoint.
I’ve been known to prefer off-the-menu cocktails which provide an opportunity to properly assess mixologists’ love for their craft and spontaneous creativity.  However, my late night happy hour started with the Quakenbos, a concoction on the menu containing rye, amaro, plum brandy, and long pepper bitters.  It was a great showing of things to come.  My next request was a different herbaceous and bitter whiskey-based elixir.  The typical offering given is either the Final Ward or the Greenpoint.  As I spotted the bartender grab the Punt e Mes (vermouth) and revered Green Chartreuse, I knew the latter was my destiny. Although it is a classic cocktail, the Greenpoint isn’t my favorite. But to my surprise, this was the best version of this cocktail I’ve ever had.  Dude knew his whiskey and the elevated sweet vermouth provided greater balance than cheaper versions.  Disappointed that I knew the last drink by name, the resident mixologist took my challenge and surpassed my expectations with the No Sugar Tonight. Game.  Set.  Match.  This cocktail was so complex yet so balanced.  The palate-pleasing creation was the perfect marriage of aperol, chartreuse, amaro, and house made coffee bitters.
Check out the crew at Room 11 for undeniable delightful eats and while you’re there be sure to enjoy their cocktail couture as well.  I know I will.