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While not all of us can afford a stay in a luxury hotel, we can probably cover the cost of a cocktail in a hotel bar.
You can take in the amenities and the atmosphere without breaking the bank.
To add to this, the hospitality industry has taken a serious knock, and with fewer tourists rolling in, it could use some support, so popping in for a drink or two is a great way to contribute a little.
You’ll find the perfect place to do just that in Cape Town according to Alia Akkam’s new book, Behind the Bar: 50 Cocktail Recipes from the World’s Most Iconic Hotels.
We’ll get to that local spot in a minute.
The book provides a global guide on the best hotel bars in the world, and what to order when you visit.
As CNN points out, most major cities have at least one spectacular establishment.
Here are some of Akkam’s top picks:
EUROPE
Connaught Bar, London
The Mayfair hotel, with its Connaught Bar, is nestled in a country estate, with carpeted staircases, wooden finishes, and a massive art collection.
What to drink: Mulata Daisy (rum, lime, creme de cacao liqueur, Galliano, fennel seeds)
AMERICA
Sazerac Bar, Roosevelt New Orleans, Louisiana
Seymour Weiss, owner of the Roosevelt New Orleans hotel, was famously friends with the Louisiana governor and US senator Huey P. Long. The politician enjoyed a Ramos Gin Fizz in the Sazerac Bar.
What to drink: Ramos Gin Fizz (gin, simple syrup, egg white, cream, soda water, lemon and lime juice)
AUSTRALIA
Blu Bar on 36, Shangri-La Hotel in The Rocks, Sydney
With a clear view of the Sydney Opera House, it’s not surprising that many visitors to the Shangri-La spend much of their time on the 36th floor at the Blu Bar.
What to drink: a cocktail comprised of vodka, a peach and nectarine vermouth infusion, and orange bitters.
ASIA
Rock Bar, AYANA Resort and Spa, Bali, Indonesia
Guests must take a cable car down a cliff face to arrive at this bar perched 46 feet above the Indian Ocean.
Despite multiple swimming pools and butler-serviced villas, Rock Bar is still the most striking feature at the AYANA.
What to drink: Lychee Martini (lychee, vodka, vermouth)
AFRICA
The Willaston Bar at the Silo Hotel, Cape Town, South Africa
And, we’re home.
The Willaston Bar and Granary Cafe are based on the sixth-floor reception level, the former a vision of velvety booths with floor-to-ceiling window views of Table Mountain.
According to the Royal Portfolio website:
The Willaston Bar is is an exquisite ode to the Mother City, offering an indulgent selection of wines and crafted cocktails. It’s the perfect space in which to relax and offers a selection of classic bar snacks and small plates available on our all-day dining menu.
It was named after the first ship to export grain from the original silo complex back in 1924.
What to drink: Rose Ginvino (South African rose gin, Chenin blanc, lime juice, grapefruit juice, rose syrup, egg white)
The Silo is closed at the moment but will reopen on November 23, 2020.
Note that when the hotel reopens, the Granary Café, the Willaston Bar, and The Silo Rooftop will be open for resident hotel guests and outside guests by prior reservation only.
So, book in advance if you feel like stopping in.
[sources:cnn&royalportfolio]
