Platform 18, named one of the 50 Best Bars in North America according to World’s Best 2023, unveiled a new menu with more than 20 new cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks, along with three new boozy ice creams. Located at Century Grand alongside two other concepts, UnderTow and Grey Hen Rx, Platform 18 takes patrons on a truly immersive mixological journey. The bar itself is styled after a Presidential Pullman train car with views of prohibition-era New York City rolling by outside the windows.
This “new chapter” of Platform 18 focuses on the flavors of the Roaring Twenties. Jason Asher, co-founder and vice president of beverage for Barter & Shake, explains that this period saw an influx of different groups moving to New York City, each bringing with them their own unique cuisine. The role of women in defining culture is often overlooked when talking about the Roaring Twenties, Asher continues, which inspired the menu’s name: “Queens of New York.”
READ MORE: How Jason and Kailee Asher of Barter & Shake are shaking up cocktail entertainment
For a unique cocktail experience, try the “A Fight a Night” — a savory drink featuring Lost Irish Whiskey and Bulleit Bourbon as the main spirits, along with bay leaf, carrot, celery, thyme and clarified potato. This tipple is served with a side of chive and white cheddar chips, which add a perfect cheesy crunch that complements and enhances the flavors of the drink. Asher says this cocktail evokes notes of a shepherd’s pie yet does so in a balanced, approachable way that surprises the palate without straining it.
On the sweeter side, the “Harding Hotel” combines coconut oil washed Bruichladdich Scotch and Planteray Xaymaca Rum with pandan, coconut and lime. Served with an ube white chocolate disk, a small bite plus a sip brings out the fattiness of the coconut without the heaviness of a cream-based drink.
A great way to cap off your stay is with a “Clay Pigeon” — a served hot shot of Tullamore D.E.W. Irish Whiskey, Mr. Black coffee liqueur, topped with whipped cream and nutmeg. The nutty and slightly sweet coffee notes make for a perfect digestif. Note that while the menu does feature a light snack — warm marinated olives, togarashi popcorn and parmesan — there isn’t a full kitchen, so make dinner plans beforehand or afterwards. Guests are restricted to 90-minutes in the bar and seats are limited, so be sure to make a reservation in advance at Century Grand’s website.
