Buena Cocktails

Somewhat under the radar but worthy of a visit is the snug bar at Yerba Buena (23 Avenue A), overseen by the talented Artemio Vasquez, who learned a trick or two from his former employer, the doyenne of New York cocktails herself, Audrey Saunders of Pegu Club. The house cocktails we sampled ($12) were very good: the Jamaica 107 (left, hibiscus tea infused bernheim wheat whiskey + organic egg white + fresh lemon juice) was a hit with grown men, despite its pretty hibiscus color, and the Boludo "Yerba Mate" (yerba mate infused pisco + grapefruit & lime cordials + fresh lemon juice) was deliciously refreshing. We hear those mojitos go down real smooth too.

And if you stop in by December 30, you can partake in their ongoing celebration of the repeal of prohibition. Classic cocktails such as the Old Fashioned, Sazerac, Corpse Reviver #2 and Vieux Carre are $10.

Perhaps best of all, plunk down $11 for a brunch cocktail and they will keep sending them until you beg them to stop. Yup, unlimited mimosas, bellinis, French 75 or the Peruvian Kiss, which has trouble written all over it.

Yerba Buena
23 Avenue A (bet Houston & 2nd Street)
212-529-2919