Elena N.
Yelp
After appearing in Eater, one of my friends suggested we check out Marianne's before it was no longer a secret bar. I agreed and we made a same day reservation for Friday, August 26th at 5:45pm for 5 people. They do ask you to put a credit card down since they'll charge you a $25 cancellation fee per person for no shows. Not sure how strict this is, but I showed up with 6 people and we were able to fit everyone in the booth we got.
If you're not sure where Marianne's is, when you're coming from 5th, just walk down Jessie past the Cavalier entrance. You'll see a pink door to your left. That is Marianne's. The day I went, there were ropes outside and some of the employees were talking outside, so I found it easily.
*Indian summer: botanist gin, jalapeno, cucumber, lemon cordial, soda & basil salt rim ($15)
*Honey bang me sloe: barr hill honey vodka, sipsmith sloe gin, galliano, elderflower, orange juice & lemon ($13) ×2
*Long island iced tea: tea infused flor de cana rum, absolut vodka, beefeater gin, cointreau, lemon, ginger & cola ($14)
*Sticky fingers: michters rye, balvenie 12 yr scotch, angioletto, sweet vermouth, grand marnier & lemon bitters ($15) ×2
*Brandy alexander: le reviseur brandy, creme de cacao, allspice dram, cream & nutmeg ($13)
We basically tried the whole cocktail menu minus one drink. I got the sticky fingers. I am a scotch girl after all. It was nicely balanced. I ended up having a sip of every drink we ordered. If I was in a different mood and wanted something refreshing, I'd go for the honey bang. It was light, but still had a kick. For those who are calorie conscious, you can get diet coke with the long island.
*2 minute quail egg: celery salt, crispy shallots & dijonnaise ($3 each) ×2
*Smoked fingerling potatoes: black garlic bbq sauce & malt aioli ($12)
*Crispy squash blossoms: roasted peppers, goat cheese & cress ($14)
There's a small food menu so you can order some dishes if you need a little substance with all your drinking. I believe it's all prepared by Cavalier. I didn't try any of the food, but everyone seemed to enjoy the dishes.
One of my girlfriends was in town for the weekend, so we were celebrating my birthday. I told them when I walked in and they gave me a glass of bubbly right when I sat down. So sweet! Our waitress was such a doll. So friendly. She made our experience that much more amazing. And the bartender too! He was awesome and gave us a couple pours of Bunnahabhain: islay single malt scotch whisky to celebrate my bday.
From the drinks to the amazing staff, I had a great time at Marianne's. Everyone here made it one of my favorite bday celebrations so far!