French Roast | 6 Must Try Cocktails + Small Bites To Try On The UWS

Updated: Jan 19, 2021

There's a French and American café on the upper west side with a vintage charm indoors, and a sidewalk setup with tents/umbrellas that offers comfort in social distancing. The name is French Roast, located on Broadway just off the 1 train at 86 street, or the C/B train at 86th. I had the pleasure of visiting this find for a tasting of their signature cocktails, and two small bites to share with you guys. If you know me, you know I love a good cocktail that's nicely garnished, so this was a fun experience.

Seven cocktails were tasted, and there were definitely some faves amongst the lineup..

First up...

The COCKTAILS

The Big Apple...hot apple cider, spiced rum and brandy

The presentation on this was very nice, with fresh green apple slices ...highly recommended

Carolina Mule... virgil kane bourbon, amaro lucano, maple, mint & ginger beer I enjoyed this drink, refreshing and highly recommend as well

Smoking Bullet...bullet bourbon, lemon, provencal syrup and torched herbs This was a performer in terms of presentation. Upon bringing out the drink, a waiter then lights the thyme to give the drink a smokey vibe...definitely recommended.

Pumpkin Old Fashioned....knob creek, black walnut bitters, maple and pumpkin puree Now I'm not much of a fan for old fashions, but I must say this was pretty decent. Due to the pumpkin puree, it wasn't as strong as most old fashions...recommended.

Mulled Red Wine ..orange and warm spices This is one of those drinks that you kinda like, but would have to sip real slow because

it's a bit intense

Gin Soak Pear...brooklyn gin, poire williams, pear puree, cardamom bitters

Chai Martini...titos, chai tea, oat milk and star anise This wasn't a favorite, tbh... it was one of those drinks that tasted like medicine.

The EATS

Moules Mariniere....mussels with attention to details in the taste. It's a french dish made from cooked mussels with scallops and onions sautéed inside the shells, in a white wine marinade. This was go good. Highly recommended

Beef Sliders....caramelized onions, gruyere and bacon.. The sliders were good, nicely paired with the Carolina Mule, Smoking Bullet or Gin Soak Pear.