DISH OF THE WEEK: Lust For Life at POURING RIBBONS

Every week, I document another dish that impressed and satiated me during my food adventures around New York City

There was a time not that long ago where I was dedicated to conquering Time Out New York’s 100 Best Dishes list every single year. It was a fun way of discovering new restaurants and dishes, but it began to consume my eating life. I had a difficult time straying from the list (until it was completed) and found myself limited to the dishes the publication recommended.

I’ve broken my streak for the most part, but like any closeted addict, I keep the current list close at hand and every once in a while I fall off the wagon. So was the case at Pouring Ribbons, a cocktail bar I had been wanting to try since they took the cocktail world by storm in 2012.

Pouring Ribbons is in the same genre as all the classic psuedo-speakeasies focusing on bespoke cocktails in the East Village, but it feels totally different. It’s not really hidden – the sign outside is visible between other larger marquees and you just have to negotiate with a bouncer and walk up some stairs. Also, the room is bright and spacious – a refreshing change from the usual candlelit basements.

I would have found my way here even if it wasn’t part of Time Out’s current list, but I don’t think I would have ordered the now off-the-menu Lust For Life. But I’m sure glad I took their advice.

The combination of spirits and juices sounds strange on paper, but it works wonders in the glass. Smoky mezcal is evident up front along with aged sherry, but they’re soon hushed by just a touch of sweet pineapple juice, acidic lemon juice, and complex orgeat (almond) syrup. The final touch is amazing: a frothy head garnished with a dusting of cocoa powder.

Smoky, chocolatey, refreshing, sweet, and strong. All the things I like in a cocktail. And to think I probably never would have found it if it wasn’t for a lapse in my resistance to Time Out’s recommended dishes. Perhaps resistance is indeed futile.