Blueprint
196 Fifth Avenue
Between Union and Sackett Streets
718-622-6644
Getting There: R to Union Street

The mixology cocktail scene in New York is at an all time high. But take a short trip over the bridge, and you will find out why Brooklyn is the new home to this thriving booze culture. Located on Park Slope’s bustling fifth avenue, the newly opened Blueprint Bar is serving up elegant cocktails of yesterday with new school flare. Blueprint comes to us from the mind of Rory Dwyer the man behind popular Slope bars Commonwealth, High Dive, and Sharlene’s.

The bar’s location, which was formerly a Thai joint has been painstakingly transformed into a spot on recreation of a speakeasy lounge without any of the pretentiousness. In fact, every meticulous detail has been accounted- for from the ornate relief ceilings to the long dark wood bar- showing that a lot of thought went into Blueprint’s design.

Blueprint has raised the proverbial bar on cocktail preparation for its patrons. One key element to their originality is their use of handmade drink bitters- a delicious concoction made by Regina Christiansen, Blueprint bartender and collaborator. Flavors like fennel and orange help to enhance these classic spirits. During our first visit, I ordered a Manhattan, one of my favorite drinks, and was given the choice of house rye or bourbon. Deferring to Christiansen who recommended the bourbon, her choice was spot on as not only was the drink fantastic, but the presentation was impeccable.

Naturally you’re going to work up quite an appetite sampling such a variety of cocktails. Thankfully Blueprint has taken that under consideration by providing small plates, snacks, and an ever changing meat and cheese selection all furnished by chef Colin Wright. During the week of August 15th, Blueprint will be offering fine cured meats such as Alto Adige Speck and Prosciutto di San Danielle to be appropriately paired with cheeses like Piave and Garrotxa. The snack options are also quite inventive, with offerings such as Spicy Watermelon, not likely to be found elsewhere.

Starting this weekend, Blueprint will open its doors for Brunch service at 12pm. You can start the day on the right foot kicking back in their outdoor garden while sipping a fresh squeezed mimosa, and munching on a handcrafted BLT sandwich. Blueprint bar is a refreshing and diverse addition to this ever changing neighborhood. Cheers!

- Jayson Rubin