When I think of classic DC hotels, The Mayflower Hotel immediately comes to mind. When I heard that EDGAR, the hotel bar was having a “throwback Thursday” special the month of February, I had to go and see for myself. Throwback is the best way to describe it as the special celebrates the 90th anniversary of The Mayflower Hotel DC. The cocktail menu for this celebration takes you back to the 20’s with classics of the era: Manhattans, Gin Rickeys, and of course, a classic Martini. Not only are the drinks vintage but also the price. Every Thursday this February these particular cocktails are $1.25 to represent the price of the cocktail 90 years ago.
Cocktails at Edgar DC
The Bar: The décor of Edgar DC bar is a contrast from the bright chandeliers and white walls of The Mayflower Hotel lobby. As you enter the bar area you feel the masculine touches of woods, leathers, and antique mirrors of the bar. The bartenders are wearing crisp white lab coats and ties as they concoct the classics.
Bar
The Cocktails: Cocktail programs throughout DC hotel bars are very creative. I’ve sampled everything from a raspberry version of a Tom Collins to a Moscow Mule with peppercorn simple syrup. I enjoy how mixologists throughout the city merge ingredients to take your palate beyond the classics. However, there’s a time when you have to go back to the classics. This is what Edgar at The Mayflower Hotel DC does so cleverly.
Enjoying my Martini
I started my evening at Edgar DC with a dirty martini. I find a traditional Martini (with gin) to be quite strong therefore I do not order it as often. I found the cocktail beautifully made and the perfect amount of olive juice to offset the gin (I know, I’m a wimp, but I had 2 more cocktails to try). I followed with a Gin Rickey which was much lighter, it got the vote of my drinking companion, Carlis from Spicy Candy DC. I concluded with a Manhattan. I had been up since 4am shooting for a new creative project #DCLatinCreatives and I wimped out and asked for it extra sweet. I am not ashamed to affirm my love for a Manhattan with a little extra vermouth. (All three cocktails will be served at $1.25 every Thursday in February)
My Manhattan
The Food: Along with the “Throwback” prices on the drinks, there are bar bites included in the special. And it is no ordinary bar menu. For $2.75 you can have chilled crab claws, shrimp cocktail, and mousse de foie gras. The snacks complimented the drinks perfectly. The surprise of the evening was the bib lettuce salad for $1.00. Completely unassuming until you taste the French dressing. A must order!
The Lettuce Bib Salad
The Verdict: When I arrived to Edgar DC, I was slightly incredulous of the prices that were being offered at this luxury hotel bar. We tried the drinks and were sold. There are two Thursdays left in February and I highly suggest you make it to The Mayflower Hotel DC for happy hour! Menu is served every Thursday of February from 5pm to 8pm.
Shrimp Cocktail
* Disclaimer: I was invited by The Mayflower Hotel DC to try out this menu but as always opinions are my own
