7 Best Rooftop Bars for Craft ‘On the Rocks’ Cocktails Around the World
7 Best Rooftop Bars for Craft 'On the Rocks' Cocktails Around the World - Sky Bar at Lebua Bangkok Serving Unique Thai-Inspired Cocktails
High atop the Lebua State Tower, the Sky Bar provides a unique Bangkok experience, with panoramic vistas encompassing the city and the river. This 63rd-floor establishment has become a symbol of the city's dynamic nightlife, largely thanks to its inventive Thai-infused cocktails. The Hangovertini, among other unique drinks, has earned the bar recognition, drawing both locals and tourists who crave distinctive tastes. The bar's accolades are impressive, including global recognition as a top rooftop bar and the 2020 Asia's Leading Hotel Rooftop Restaurant & Bar award. Sky Bar seamlessly blends a sophisticated ambiance with an accessible schedule, operating from 6 PM to 1 AM daily. It's a perfect setting to witness Bangkok's stunning sunsets while enjoying a masterfully crafted cocktail. Beyond its inherent charm, the Sky Bar has achieved global recognition thanks to its appearance in the movie "The Hangover II". The combination of stunning scenery, creative cocktails, and a touch of Hollywood magic makes the Sky Bar an absolute must for any visitor to Bangkok seeking an elevated nightlife adventure.
The Sky Bar at Lebua, perched atop the 63rd floor of the Lebua State Tower, provides an unparalleled view of Bangkok's cityscape and the Chao Phraya River. At roughly 820 feet above ground level, it stands as one of the world's highest rooftop bars, an intriguing setting for observing the subtle effects of altitude on atmospheric pressure and, potentially, the human body's response to alcohol.
The Sky Bar is renowned for its expertly crafted cocktails, many infused with locally sourced ingredients like lemongrass and kaffir lime. These elements not only add unique flavors but are also known for their potential health benefits. Their inclusion points towards a thoughtful approach to blending local traditions with a cosmopolitan cocktail experience.
The bar's architectural design weaves in hints of Greek aesthetics, with Corinthian columns adding a touch of classical grandeur. This architectural detail, beyond its aesthetic contribution, also likely plays a role in ensuring structural stability against the high winds at such an altitude. The Sky Bar's signature cocktail, the "Hangovertini," a playful tribute to the movie "The Hangover Part II," became an instant classic. The drink's name reflects the movie's humorous take on the effects of alcohol at higher altitudes, highlighting a curious intersection of cinematic entertainment and the bar's unique environment.
Temperature swings are notable at these altitudes, impacting cocktail enjoyment. However, the Sky Bar seemingly manages to adjust its approach, adapting recipes and presentation to ensure consistent quality, suggesting a careful orchestration of factors for the optimal drinking experience. The selection of thin crystal glasses also deserves note, as studies show the glass's shape influences how we perceive aromas, enhancing the cocktail's appeal. The bar cleverly uses lighting effects that adapt with the time of day, as research has demonstrated that altering light spectrums can positively influence how we perceive food and drinks.
Many cocktails on their menu go through an extensive development process, almost mirroring an engineering design phase. This approach aims to achieve harmonious flavor profiles, creating a balanced cocktail much like a well-designed mechanical system. The rising popularity of rooftop bars across the globe, with a surge in numbers over the last decade, reveals a wider shift in consumer taste. This trend underscores the desire for distinctive dining experiences beyond traditional restaurant settings.
Finally, the bar's accessible location, easily reachable via public transport, is often overlooked. It's an intriguing observation since one might assume a luxurious establishment like this would be more difficult to access. Travelers landing at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) can readily find relatively affordable flights that can easily include a visit to Sky Bar without adding a significant amount of cost to their trip.
What else is in this post?
- 7 Best Rooftop Bars for Craft 'On the Rocks' Cocktails Around the World - Sky Bar at Lebua Bangkok Serving Unique Thai-Inspired Cocktails
- 7 Best Rooftop Bars for Craft 'On the Rocks' Cocktails Around the World - London's Radio Rooftop Bar ME Mixing British Gin Creations
- 7 Best Rooftop Bars for Craft 'On the Rocks' Cocktails Around the World - Ozone Hong Kong Crafting Innovative Asian-Fusion Cocktails
7 Best Rooftop Bars for Craft 'On the Rocks' Cocktails Around the World - London's Radio Rooftop Bar ME Mixing British Gin Creations
High above the streets of London, on the 10th floor of the ME London hotel, sits the Radio Rooftop Bar. This bar offers a captivating mix of Mediterranean vibes and London's urban landscape, creating an appealing atmosphere for cocktail lovers. It's become known for its focus on British gin, expertly crafting innovative and flavourful cocktails to suit a range of tastes. The outdoor space has a vibrant energy, making it an excellent spot for enjoying a refreshing drink on a sunny day while admiring the London skyline's iconic landmarks. While London offers a wide range of rooftop experiences, from stylish and grand to more rustic venues, the Radio Rooftop stands out through its craft cocktails and as a social hub. It seamlessly integrates into the city's nightlife, offering a welcoming space for both locals and visitors, whether they're looking to unwind after a show, gather for a casual get-together, or simply appreciate the urban views from above. Its distinctive cocktails and social appeal make it a noteworthy spot for enjoying the diverse offerings of London's rooftop scene.
### London's Radio Rooftop Bar ME: A Mix of Gin and Elevated Experiences
1. **A Historic Setting**: The Radio Rooftop Bar ME, perched on the 10th floor of the ME London hotel, sits atop a building with a rich history—the former London Evening Standard headquarters. It offers a unique vantage point for enjoying creative gin cocktails while absorbing remnants of London's past.
2. **The Gin Revival**: The UK's current gin renaissance, fueled by over 600 distilleries scattered across the nation, is a driving force behind the bar's menu. They showcase artisanal gin brands, each reflecting the distinct botanicals and craft of their regional origins.
3. **Cocktail Chemistry**: Much like engineers carefully design machines, the bar's cocktails undergo a rigorous process of flavor balancing and textural refinement. Each drink is crafted to extract maximum flavor, utilizing techniques that enhance the entire sensory experience.
4. **Temperature's Role**: Cocktail temperature is crucial here. Served at carefully chosen temperatures, these mixed drinks achieve peak flavor and aroma. Research shows that serving temperature can dramatically change perceived flavors, making it a central aspect of their creative process.
5. **Views That Matter**: Nestled near historic Somerset House, the bar offers a spectacular view of London's skyline, with landmarks like the Shard and the Thames clearly visible. It's interesting to consider how these urban vistas may influence people's feelings and perceptions of their drinks.
6. **The Art of Garnishing**: Cocktails aren't just drinks here, they are carefully crafted with herbs and botanicals that complement the base ingredients. It's an approach that echoes how engineers meticulously choose materials to optimize the performance of a machine.
7. **Food & Drink Harmony**: The bar's accompanying gourmet bar snacks are specifically chosen to complement their gin-based cocktails. This careful pairing process suggests a scientific approach to enhancing both the food and beverage experience. It's similar to how complementary materials contribute to the efficacy of a designed system.
8. **Altitude's Impact**: As a rooftop bar, the Radio Rooftop Bar ME's elevation might affect how they manage cocktail serving. The reduction in atmospheric pressure at higher altitudes can alter alcohol absorption into the bloodstream, an important factor in the bar's responsible service strategy.
9. **Molecular Mixology**: The bar often experiments with molecular mixology, a method that leverages scientific principles to create unusual cocktail concoctions. This results in captivating textures and presentation styles that challenge traditional methods.
10. **Blending Old and New**: While the menu highlights modern gin cocktails, it also incorporates classic British flavors. This balance of traditional and modern elements reflects the larger culinary world's trend of combining the familiar with the inventive, producing a result that's both comforting and surprising.
7 Best Rooftop Bars for Craft 'On the Rocks' Cocktails Around the World - Ozone Hong Kong Crafting Innovative Asian-Fusion Cocktails
Ozone, located on the 118th floor of Hong Kong's ICC Tower, boasts the title of the world's highest rooftop bar. From this lofty perch, 480 meters above the ground, visitors are treated to sweeping, panoramic views of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. The bar itself has a distinct blue-toned atmosphere, creating a stylish backdrop for its innovative Asian-fusion cocktail menu.
Ozone's cocktail creations are a testament to skilled mixology, blending classic techniques with modern Asian flavors. While the setting is luxurious, the price point for drinks remains relatively affordable, with cocktails typically around HKD 160 (roughly USD 20). The bar doesn't just focus on cocktails though. It also offers a selection of smaller, Asian-inspired tapas dishes. This complements the drinks perfectly, creating a cohesive culinary experience for visitors.
The bar's ambiance is further enhanced by live DJs, weaving a vibrant soundtrack into the Hong Kong night. The outdoor terrace is particularly enticing in the evenings, providing a spot to enjoy a cocktail while admiring the glittering city lights below. Ozone has become a popular destination, drawing in both locals and tourists who are drawn to its unique blend of fine cocktails, delicious food, and breathtaking views. It undoubtedly stands out in Hong Kong's dynamic bar scene, offering an unforgettable night out at a truly remarkable location.
### Surprising Facts About Ozone Hong Kong Crafting Innovative Asian-Fusion Cocktails
1. **Ingredient Sourcing**: Ozone's cocktail creations often feature unique ingredients sourced from across Asia, including Sichuan peppercorns and yuzu. These unusual additions not only bring a burst of flavor but are also intriguing from a health and wellness perspective due to their purported benefits.
2. **Fermentation Expertise**: The bar leverages advanced fermentation techniques to create their own syrups, drawing inspiration from both scientific principles and traditional Asian practices. This approach allows them to explore unconventional flavor profiles, pushing the boundaries between food and drinks.
3. **Altitude's Impact on Cocktails**: Located high atop a skyscraper, Ozone experiences subtle changes in temperature due to its unique microclimate. These variations can affect a cocktail's texture and taste, requiring careful adjustments to maintain a consistent drinking experience.
4. **Atmospheric Effects at Great Heights**: At an altitude of roughly 1,600 feet, Ozone is one of the world's highest bars. This elevation can alter atmospheric pressure and potentially even oxygen levels, factors that can influence how we perceive aromas.
5. **Glassware's Role in Flavor**: Ozone thoughtfully employs custom-designed glassware, informed by the principles of aerodynamics. The way a drink is presented can directly impact the release of aromas, demonstrating how the physical aspects of a glass can augment the sensory experience.
6. **Flavor Pairings Based on Science**: The cocktail menu is a testament to detailed analysis of flavor pairings. This is grounded in research from the field of molecular gastronomy, a fascinating intersection of science and cuisine that emphasizes creating surprising but harmonious combinations.
7. **The Science of Ice**: Ozone uses specialized ice cubes designed to melt slowly and maintain a drink's temperature. This meticulous approach to ice selection significantly impacts how a cocktail tastes by minimizing dilution and allowing flavors to fully develop.
8. **Asian Stories in Every Sip**: Ozone's cocktails often tell stories—they are frequently themed around historical Asian narratives. This unique approach seamlessly links food and drink with history, fostering curiosity about the cultural background of each ingredient pairing.
9. **Bartenders as Culinary Engineers**: Bartenders at Ozone undergo extensive training, including mastery of sophisticated techniques like sous vide, which infuse flavors into spirits. Their expertise illustrates a fascinating blend of culinary creativity and engineering-like approaches to extract the most optimal taste.
10. **Staying Ahead of the Cocktail Scene**: The bar constantly monitors global cocktail trends and guest feedback. This allows Ozone to evolve and adapt their menu, ensuring that their creations remain both innovative and relevant to changing consumer preferences.