Frankie Solarik Brings BarChef to New York: A Mixology Revolution
Frankie Solarik, the renowned mixologist and judge on Netflix’s hit show Drink Masters, is set to shake up the New York bar scene with the launch of BarChef, his internationally acclaimed outpost. Known for his innovative, multisensory cocktails, Solarik is no stranger to pushing the boundaries of what a drink can be. After 16 years of redefining mixology, he is now bringing his unique vision to one of the world’s most vibrant and influential cities. BarChef, which has been hailed as one of the most innovative bars globally by Food & Wine, is slated to open in late March near Herald Square, at 21 W. 35th St. at Fifth Ave.
A New Era of Mixology: Multisensory Cocktails at BarChef
Solarik’s cocktails are not just drinks; they are experiences. Priced between $22 and $43, these creative concoctions are crafted to engage the senses, with edible components, aromatic elements, and nostalgic flavors that transport drinkers to another world. The most premium cocktails, priced at $43, are prepared on the kitchen counter and feature intricate, theater-like presentations. For instance, the Illuminated Eucalyptus is a masterpiece inspired by a Japanese pebble garden, blending Bacardi rum, mezcal, coconut, thyme syrup, and eucalyptus, among other ingredients. The drink’s pastel tones, creamy textures, and smoky hints of licorice create an immersive experience. Solarik’s attention to detail is unparalleled, as seen in techniques like “fat-washing,” where white chocolate is melted overnight and transformed into a sake-infused ice cube that melts into the drink.
Creative Cocktail Offerings: A Symphony of Flavors
BarChef’s menu is a testament to Solarik’s creativity and innovation. Alongside the Illuminated Eucalyptus, other standout cocktails include the Charred Japanese Highball, featuring smoked grapefruit and saffron bitters, and the Frida Kahlo, a coconut-washed tequila-based drink with hints of ginger and oregano. The Golden Honey Penicillin is another highlight, combining beeswax-infused Johnnie Walker Black Label with lemongrass syrup, burnt honey sherbet, and edible roasted corn cannoli. For those seeking something lighter, the Spring Thaw offers a refreshing blend of champagne, gin, spherified Campari, and floral air. Each cocktail is a labor of love, crafted to tell a story and evoke emotions through its flavors, textures, and presentation.
A Historic Venue with a Modern Twist
BarChef will occupy a 3,200 square-foot space on the top floor of a gut-renovated building that once housed O’Reilly’s Townhouse Bar & Grill. The venue boasts 82 seats, including 14 at the bar and counter, offering an intimate yet dynamic setting for cocktail enthusiasts. The space also features a retractable roof, adding a touch of outdoor charm to the indoor experience. The first two floors of the building will be home to Niku X, a West Coast-based Japanese steakhouse known for its unlimited A5 Wagyu steak. This collaboration promises to elevate the dining and drinking experience in Manhattan.
Collaboration and Vision: Frankie Solarik’s New York Debut
Solarik’s return to New York is a full-circle moment for the Canadian entrepreneur, who began his career as a food runner in Manhattan over two decades ago. Now, he is partnering with restaurateurs Mino Habib and Mathias Van Leyden, known for their work at Le Petit Village and Loulou, to bring BarChef to life. “Frankie’s cocktail creations are next level,” Habib shared, expressing excitement about the venture. Solarik’s vision for BarChef is not just about serving drinks but creating a memorable experience that challenges perceptions of what a bar can be.
Elevated Bar Snacks and a Culinary Collaboration
To complement the cocktails, BarChef will offer a selection of “elevated bar snacks” in collaboration with Niku X. The menu will feature dishes like Wagyu sliders and tuna tartare, designed to enhance the drinking experience without overpowering the intricate flavors of the cocktails. Solarik emphasizes the importance of balance, ensuring that the food and drink work harmoniously together. With its innovative cocktails, stunning venue, and culinary partnerships, BarChef is poised to become a must-visit destination for mixology enthusiasts and foodies alike in New York City.
