Prepare for a mouthwatering adventure! New York City's cocktail scene just got a tangy twist with the Saltair, a drink that's making waves and leaving a lasting impression.
The Ultimate Savory Sip?
Nestled on one of NYC's coolest streets, Bar Contra is serving up a cocktail that's got everyone talking. With a name like Saltair, you know it's going to be a salty sensation, but this drink takes it to a whole new level.
Imagine a margarita, but with an extra kick of umami and a hint of floral elegance. That's the Saltair for you!
A Tale of Two Bartenders and a Chef
Bar Contra is the brainchild of chefs Fabián von Hauske-Valtierra and Jeremiah Stone, who brought their culinary magic to the Lower East Side. But here's where it gets interesting: they teamed up with the multi-talented Dave Arnold, a man with a resume that includes founding a food museum and owning some of NYC's most beloved bars.
Arnold's influence is evident in the bar's creative cocktail approach. From chilling glasses with liquid nitrogen to clarifying drinks with a centrifuge, Bar Contra is a gastronomic delight.
The Saltair's Secret
The Saltair is more than just a drink; it's a tribute to Arnold's old cocktail, the Corsair. The original Corsair used preserved Moroccan lemons, but the Saltair takes a unique twist by using preserved umeboshi plums.
"We blend umeboshi with tequila, let it infuse, and then clarify it," Hauske-Valtierra explains. The result? A salty margarita with a unique plum twist and a hint of floral charm.
A Balancing Act
For those who crave a little extra, the mini Modelito chaser is the perfect companion to the Saltair. It offers a refreshing reset, allowing you to dive back into the cocktail with renewed enthusiasm.
The Verdict
Is the Saltair the saltiest drink in the city? Well, it's certainly up there on the saltiness scale, rivaling even José Andrés' famous "Salt Air" margarita. But it's not just about the salt; it's the perfect balance of flavors that makes this drink a standout.
So, if you're in the mood for a savory sip with a twist, head to Bar Contra and give the Saltair a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
