While we love our low-ABV spritzes, and light lagers, occasionally the mood strikes for something with a bit more oomph. When this craving hits out at a bar, it might be tempting to ask the bartender for an “extra strong” drink. But according to industry pros, that might not be the best approach.
Cheyenne Paydar, bartender at Monkey Thief, a new cocktail bar in Manhattan’s Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood, recalls that at many spots he’s worked at, customers would often come in asking for extra boozy versions of well-known drinks. Guests might say: “Can I get an Old Fashioned, but make it strong.” Or “I’ll have a strong Rum and Coke.” However, these requests tend to be vague, so bartenders are left not knowing what exactly the consumer wants. Further, these orders can sometimes come across as a sneaky way for drinkers to get a little extra alcohol for the price of a regular drink.
“What they are really asking for is a double, but expect to get it for free,” Paydar says. So when he gets this request, Paydar will follow up, asking if they would like to order a double or if he can recommend a spirit-forward cocktail for them to try.
While it might be easy to order a double Vodka Soda or Gin and Tonic — especially when out at a nightclub or dive bar — it’s not as simple when it comes to a bar’s signature cocktails. Paydar explains that at Monkey Thief and many other
