Many people believe that the first bar dates back to the days of the Wild West. In fact, that is not entirely true. Back in the Middle Ages the first prototypes of modern bars appeared. Those were taverns and taverns, but these places looked a little different than modern bars.
Only two kinds of furniture were used in taverns. A bench and a table were enough for people to relax. And benches were much more popular than chairs because more people could fit on them.
Only in the 18th century everything changed dramatically, the beginning of changes was in North America. It was here that the first bar counters appeared. What was the reason for the changes? And the thing is that this very item allowed dividing the space into two main zones – for visitors and service personnel. The bar counter made the barman’s work comfortable, because no one interfered with him, and the visitors were also like in the palm of his hand. Besides, under the bar counter there were stored guns and money. It should not be forgotten about the speed of service and time saving.
A little later the bar began to be made wider and bar stools were installed near the bar for the convenience of visitors. This place became the center of meetings and acquaintances. Nowadays bar counters can be seen not only in bars, cafes and restaurants, but also in large kitchens. The design and material for manufacturing can also be varied.
Milk and Honey
On the window of the building at this address, you may notice a small sign that reads M&H, Tailors, Alterations. The iron door right next to the sign is the right entrance.
Milk & Honey Bar opened in 2002 in two cities at once – New York (Soho area) and London. The institution has a club system, so if you are not a member of the club, you need to make a reservation in advance to visit the bar. However, the entrance is allowed only until 11 p.m.
Cocktails from the bar are made only from natural ingredients: freshly squeezed juices, handmade syrups and natural flavorings. Besides cocktails, the bar offers wide wine list, rich choice of champagne, whiskey, armagnacs. Gaming room, designed for private parties, is situated on the second floor of the bar. Poker, chess, a special menu of drinks, the possibility of ordering music – all this is waiting for the company of guests from 25 people.
Little Branch
“The Twig is located in the West Village neighborhood. To get to this bar, you must find an iron door with no sign on it. The only indication that you have come to the right address is the guard at the entrance. After climbing a long staircase, the visitor enters a classic American bar from the 1920s. Even the bar staff are dressed accordingly. The institution offers guests a cozy atmosphere, light semi-darkness, masterfully created cocktails. Also the bartender will be happy to prepare an individual cocktail – just name your preferred flavors and alcohol, and then watch the creation of a personal drink. Often the bar hosts jazz evenings and live music concerts, which makes this place even more attractive for guests. It is worth noting that in the bar you can pay only in cash.
The Raines Law Room
The semi-dark, lively, and loud atmosphere of the bar called the Raines Law Room makes the visitor feel like they are entering a private party in someone’s living room. Upon arriving at the right address, one must find a staircase leading down to a black wooden door. All one has to do is ring the bell and the bar doors will be open.
Pre-booking is highly desirable, otherwise there simply may not be any free space in the bar. To make a reservation you need to send an email with the exact date, time and number of guests.
Often visitors to the bar are amazed that the cocktail list in the bar is too large, so it is sometimes very difficult to make a choice. There is also a wide range of spirits on the menu: rum, whiskey, vodka and gin.
Death & Co
During Prohibition it was believed that people who drank alcohol lived under the shadow of death. The name of the bar “Death and Company” comes from this belief. The establishment offers guests the simple pleasures of life – good wine, quality cocktails, expertly prepared food.
The bar does not offer reservations, so sometimes you have to wait your turn to enjoy the interiors and atmosphere. To find the entrance to the bar, you have to walk to the store, which has wooden panels instead of windows. A metal sign with the name Death & Co. on the sidewalk will let you know you’re in the right place. If you’re lucky and the bar is vacant (which is unlikely), the security guard will let you in right away. Otherwise, you’ll need to leave your phone number, which you’ll be called when seats are available. Usually the wait is about 20-30 minutes.