Death & Co.
Alessandro Scire CalabrisottoShare
Death & Co – New York, NY
Since its doors opened on New Year’s Eve 2006 in Manhattan’s East Village, Death & Co has earned its reputation as one of the most influential bars of the modern cocktail renaissance. Founded by David Kaplan and Ravi DeRossi, Death & Co was envisioned as a tribute to the clandestine spirit of the Prohibition era, a time when drinking was a private affair and speakeasies were havens for those who cherished the art of a well-made drink. The bar’s name itself, “Death & Co,” suggests a nod to the secrecy and rebellious thrill that surrounded the act of imbibing during Prohibition, and it has become synonymous with innovative, world-class cocktails.
The ambiance of Death & Co is as thoughtfully crafted as its drinks. The bar’s dimly lit interior, with its dark wood panels, marble-topped bar, and intimate booths, creates an atmosphere that is both sophisticated and inviting. The moody decor, combined with an attentive staff dressed in classic attire, brings a timeless elegance to the space. Patrons feel as though they’ve stepped back in time, yet the experience is anything but old-fashioned. Death & Co is as much about the present and future of cocktails as it is about honoring their past.
What truly sets Death & Co apart is its meticulous approach to cocktail creation. Each drink is crafted with an unparalleled attention to detail, from the quality of the ingredients to the presentation. The bar’s menu is extensive, with a blend of both classic and contemporary cocktails that showcase a deep understanding of flavor balance and mixology techniques. A hallmark of Death & Co is its innovative use of ingredients, combining unexpected flavors and spirits in ways that surprise and delight the palate. One of their iconic cocktails, the Naked and Famous, is a prime example—a smoky, slightly bitter blend of mezcal, Aperol, yellow Chartreuse, and lime juice that has become a staple in cocktail bars worldwide.
Another signature aspect of Death & Co’s cocktail program is its commitment to using house-made ingredients. The team takes pride in creating syrups, tinctures, and bitters in-house, allowing them to control every flavor note in each drink. This commitment to craftsmanship extends to their selection of spirits, which is carefully curated to include unique and high-quality bottles that enhance the bar’s creative offerings. The bartenders, known for their skill and passion, are always willing to share the story behind each drink, making the experience both educational and interactive.
Over the years, Death & Co has expanded beyond its original New York City location, establishing outposts in other cities, including Denver and Los Angeles. Each location maintains the signature ambiance and commitment to quality that defines the Death & Co brand while incorporating elements unique to its locale. For instance, the Denver location, housed within The Ramble Hotel, offers multiple bars and a more expansive space, including a coffee shop that transitions from day to night. This flexibility allows Death & Co to reach a broader audience while staying true to its ethos of delivering exceptional cocktails and hospitality.
In addition to its physical spaces, Death & Co has had a profound impact on the cocktail community at large. The bar’s influence is evident in the way it has shaped cocktail culture, inspiring other bars and bartenders to prioritize quality, creativity, and hospitality. Death & Co has also published a book detailing its philosophy and recipes, allowing fans and aspiring mixologists to explore its techniques and approach from home. This publication has become a cornerstone in cocktail literature, cementing Death & Co’s status as an authority in the field and helping to spread the knowledge and passion that has made it so beloved.
Despite its expansion and accolades, Death & Co has stayed true to its roots. Each visit feels like an invitation to partake in a piece of cocktail history, a place where the artistry of drink-making is celebrated and shared. For anyone who appreciates the craft of a well-made cocktail, a visit to Death & Co is more than a night out; it’s a journey through the evolution of modern mixology, one drink at a time. With every sip, patrons experience the bar’s dedication to its mission: to honor the tradition of cocktails while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in a glass.
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