Calling all Manhattan lovers. File this one under " best happy hour ever ."
If you love bourbon, leap years and Atlanta, head to 1Kept on Feb. 29 for drinks, bites and bartenders slinging riffs on the king of cocktails: the Manhattan. Yes, Atlanta cocktailians, Woodford Reserve and Liquor.com are back in the 'A' for this year's installment of the "Manhattan Experience."
The yearly cocktail competition challenges bartenders from around the country to recreate the stirred (never shaken) tipple using the rich warmth of Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select while concocting an original riff on the classic with the much earthier Double Oaked Barrel bourbon.
What does this mean for you? The best happy hour in town featuring bourbon Manhattans, a few of the city finest bartenders, tasty food and the announcement of Atlanta’s winner, who will go on to compete in the regional finals for a chance to be crowned the classic’s master in Manhattan on Apr. 18.
The 10 bartenders concocting for Team Atlanta this year are:
- Eric Simpkins of The Lawrence
- Trip Sandifer of The Painted Pin
- Matthew Murphy of Palm Restaurant
- Joseph Haywood of Bar Margot at the Four Seasons-Atlanta
- Anton Preslicka of The Lawrence
- Lee Hoechstetter of the Atlanta Braves All-Star Grill
- Cleburne Workmaster of H. Harper Station
- Brendan Town of newly opened JP Atlanta
- Emily Mitchell of Holeman and Finch Public House
- Brian Graham of The Southern Gentleman
The Manhattan Experience is a free, first-come, first-served event so be sure to reserve your spot. Simply send an email with "Manhattan Experience" in the subject line to sholmes@greenhouseagency.com. UBER is highly suggested. A discount code will be provided for your fare at the event.
Manhattan Experience: Feb. 29, 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., 1Kept, 2293 Peachtree Road, Atlanta, 404-254-1973, 1kept.com
Editor’s note: Beth McKibben will serve on the Atlanta judges’ panel of the Manhattan Experience.
Thirsty for more cocktails to try at area bars or mix at home?
Check out cognac cocktails at Atlanta bars.
Try these 10 champagne cocktails .
Read more stories like this by liking Atlanta Restaurant Scene on Facebook and following Atlanta Dining on Twitter.
Read the AJC Fall Dining Guide, Atlanta Around the Clock, here .
About the Author
