Hope you had a fun and safe July 4th! Now, it’s back to work. Here are three things I’m obsessed about this week…
1 – Manhattan Cocktail
This is my cocktail of choice this summer. Bourbon offers the warmth of a scotch without the bite, and the complexity of flavors that come from an amber-colored spirit with a tinge of sweetness. I think the only bourbon cocktail I’ve ever had before this year was a mint julep. This year I had my first Manhattan (ever) at the Brandy Library in Tribeca. It was the perfect concoction in a proper glass, unlike those tub-sized martini glasses that are home to Cosmopolitans and the like. However, the other night I did have a perfectly chilled and perfectly smooth Manhattan in one of these said glasses. I figured I’d let this one slide.
Here’s the recipe for a Manhattan. My preference these days is Maker’s 46 or Woodford Reserve. Cheers!
2 – Pencil Sculptures by Dalton Ghetti
Ghetti redefines the act of sharpening a pencil. I can’t stop looking at these mini pieces of artwork sculpted from the lead of a pencil. Yes, the lead! He can really work an X-acto blade like nobody’s business. You can see a few of his pieces here and here.
3 – Menu Design in America
An impressive collection of about 500 American menus dating back from the mid-1800’s through the 1970’s. There are A LOT of racy (and racist) menus, but each one reflective of its era. This timeless beauty is one of my favorites…
Welch’s, c. 1951, Long Beach CA
Chez Panisse has not strayed from the arts and crafts style artwork since its opening in 1985…
Chez Panisse, c. 1985, Berkeley CA
I discover something different each time I open this tome.
