Gardiner Liquid Mercantile
Courtesy of Gardiner Liquid Mercantile
Located on the quiet Main Street in Gardiner, New York, this outstanding cocktail bar stands out for all the right reasons. This funky space was opened by the former Chief Distiller from Tuthilltown Spirits with the goal of developing "this Main Street Farm Shop, Cafe and Bar into a hub for all Farm beverages and food produced within 20 miles of Gardiner Village." This goal is crystal clear from all the thoughtful elements featured at the Gardiner Liquid Mercantile (GLM).
This bar stays true to all things New York only serving alcohol distilled in the State. For this reason some spirits will not be found on their menu including tequila however their extensive and creative cocktail list is sure to have something for everyone. The eclectic bar area features high ceilings and windows allowing for lots of natural light. The casual layout sets patrons up for plenty of facetime with one of their bartenders, allowing you to learn all about the ingredients and enjoy his art of mixology. (Also, who doesn't love free popcorn?!) Knowledgable bartenders are just the start to their tasty drinks which include ingredients like fresh squeezed lemon/lime juice and homemade syrups and bitters- this place does not cut corners.
If you come in with a group, be sure to grab one of the board games located in the front to add a little competitive spirit to your visit.
Courtesy of Gardiner Liquid Mercantile
Nothing says "we use local ingredients" like an ever-changing menu which is one of my favorite things about this place. With mainstay items like pickled eggs, a cheese plate and the burger, there are always daily specials which keep you excited each time you stop in. Although this is not a white-table cloth dining experience, the quality far surpasses many of the finest restaurants I have visited.
On your way out, stop in the Mercantile area and buy some of your favorite things to take home. In addition to their merchandise, you can head out of there with some of your favorite local whiskey, vodka, cider, coffee- just to name a few. What could be better than leaving a bar with some more to enjoy at home?
Finally, after coming here several times, I have had the great experience of speaking with Matt, Zoli and Gable and they are just good people. Everything made here tastes even better because you can tell they really believe in what they're producing. There are a lot of places you can spend your money but spending it at a place you believe in and want to see thrive, just feels better. All that said- plan an afternoon to get lost here and enjoy all the little things this great addition to the area has to offer.
Courtesy of Gardiner Liquid Mercantile
