When John Jacob Astor founded the first St. Regis in New York over a century ago, he intended for it to be the birthplace of culture. It was a destination for social influencers and kindred spirits to meet and discuss ideas—often over a luxuriant tipple. Much time has passed since, but the appeal of a perfectly crafted cocktail remains unchanged. Now, the magic of old-school New York glamour is being brought to life again by Astor Bar, the signature bar nestled within the opulent walls of St. Regis Singapore.
Taking patrons on a sensory journey through five iconic New York neighbourhoods, the newly launched cocktail menu at Astor Bar features over 40 different drinks, each one inspired by a historical or cultural milestone that once occurred in the Big Apple. If you’re not sure what to order, just ask bartender Yvonne Tay, who fuses her innovative mixology with solid technique to consistently produce drinks that are off the beaten path, and yet perfectly balanced.
Standouts include Tong Wars, a tangy-hot mix of Chinese plum vodka (Tay’s prized creation), lime, spiced honey & apple, chilli bitters and ginger beer. Each sip is savoury and refreshing, and perfectly evokes the heat of the Chinese gang wars that descended on the streets in New York’s Chinatown in the late 1800s.
Also not to be missed is the Calle Catorce—Tay’s unconventional spin on a gin and tonic. The London dry gin, manzanilla sherry and mescal bring a complex and smooth mouthful on their own, but the true star of the drink is Tay’s secret ingredient: Manchego cheese.
Your night at Astor will be rounded out by the Violet Hour, a special ritual trademark of the well-loved watering hole, where Tay engages the audience and pours a special round of her velvety, signature violet martini for everyone in the house. Suffice to say, you’ll be heading for home in a good mood.
Find out more about Astor Bar’s New York New York menu at marriott.com
