A month-old speakeasy in lower Manhattan is offering a brand new cocktail that’ll set the the tone for fall.
A new speakeasy opened up in August on a cobbled alley of the Seaport District called Cannon’s Walk. This cozy bar, Mr. Cannon, has a handful of wonderful cocktails—like their delicious 1817 Martini made with grapefruit infused dry gin, dry vermouth, and maraschino. But their newest cocktail isn’t as discreet as the location. The octopus punch bowl cocktail will serve anywhere from 4 to 6 people (depending on how much you can drink) and, wow, is it strong!
To make this drink, Mr. Cannon teamed up with Red Bull and developed an interesting concoction around the cocktail’s centerpiece—the octopus bowl.
When you order this drink you’re ordering an experience. The goblet is brought to your table, followed by a cart with all the ingredients. Then the bartender makes it for you table-side, like fresh guac at a nice restaurant.
The show of creating the cocktail begins with vodka, set on fire to give it a smoky flavor as fresh cinnamon is grated into the fiery caldron bowl. (In the dimly lit bar it almost feels like you’re taking part in some sort of secret witchcraft.)
As the flames burn out a hefty amount of rye whiskey and sweet vermouth are poured in. Followed by a bowl of ice, orange and black walnut bitters, Red Bull orange, almond syrup, and activated charcoal. The black liquid is reminiscent of squid ink (or in this case octopus ink).
Once the cocktail is finished being made and sufficiently stirred it’s ladled into each glass and garnished with an orange peel. It all happens so quickly before your eyes you’ll miss it if you aren’t paying attention.
Take friends, co-workers, or a date here next time you go out and you’ll be sure to impress them all.