Charles H’s Latest Menu and Celebrity Mixologist Series
The vibrant cocktail culture of New York City, the renowned Charles H speakeasy bar, nestled within the Four Seasons Hotel in Seoul, has recently launched a captivating menu curated by head bartender Odd Strandbakken and beverage creative director Alyssa Heidt. The menu pays homage to the legendary American author Charles H Baker Jr., whose global cocktail adventures from 1920 to 1950 left an indelible mark on mixology.
Strandbakken emphasized the enduring relevance of Baker’s books, describing them as “bartender bibles” that continue to influence contemporary mixologists. He shared, “Our NYC enlivened mixed drink menu is both a potential chance to observe Charles H himself and drench our kindred mixed drink specialists in the energy of New York’s Denial period speakeasies.”
The menu boasts five innovative drinks, with highlights including the NYC Flight – a round of Manhattans paying tribute to different New York neighborhoods. The Yellow Taxi, a twist on the classic Penicillin, features a mezcal base, homemade ginger-honey mustard, a smoky float inspired by hot dogs, and a garnish of ginger jelly for an extra kick.
The All Day Mary, inspired by the renowned Dante bar in New York, incorporates freshly juiced Korean vegetables, lacto-fermented chili purée, and a New York-style ‘Everything Bagel’ salt rim. The Old Fashioned Highball is a harmonious blend of two classic cocktails using mandarins from Jeju Island, while the Knickerbocker mocktail offers a non-alcoholic version of the Knickerbocker cocktail, infused with local bokbunja juice.
In addition to the exciting new menu, Charles H is set to host a ‘Companion Series’ sponsored by Pernod Ricard, featuring guest appearances by esteemed mixologists from various bars across Asia throughout 2024. This collaborative series, inspired by Charles Baker’s influential book ‘Gentleman’s Companion,’ aims to unite like-minded enthusiasts in the spirit of creativity and friendship.
Upcoming guests include Rogerio Igarashi Vaz from Tokyo’s Bar Trench on January 30, Tamaryn Cooper from Singapore’s 28 Hongkong Street on February 27, and Manhattan Bar in Singapore in March.
Alyssa Heidt said, “Similar to our namesake, we realize that life’s best delights are in every case best shared, so we can hardly stand by to team up with the absolute best mixologists on the planet.” She expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration.” Notably, Charles H received a nomination for Best International Hotel Bar at the prestigious 2023 Spirited Awards, cementing its status as a beacon of excellence in the global cocktail scene.