Tom's Little Havana
Tom's serves the standard classic martinis, says bartender Steve Cross---just last weekend he made a round of Manhattans for a group of gentlemen. You can't get any of the sugary new cocktails, though; Cross says those trendy drinks just aren't for Tom's.
5428 Doyle Street, 423-8667
The Carleton
The Carleton's cocktail list is heavy on the traditional drinks.
"We're purists about martinis and Manhattans---stuff like that," writes owner Mike Campbell. "You know, stuff businessmen in the last century were fond of getting sloshed on at lunch." Try the Sidecar if you're not sure what to order---brandy, triple sec and lemon juice in a glass rimmed with sugar gives you a summery version of "hot booze in a glass."
1685 Argyle Street, 422-6335
Fireside
While retro cocktails don't show up on the Fireside's menu, bartender Bob McPherson says he does mix up Greyhounds---gin, grapefruit and slush soda---and rusty nails---Scotch and Drambuie---from time to time. "I know all the recipes, it's just been years since I've made them," he says.
1500 Brunswick Street, 423-5995
China Town Restaurant
Believe it: China Town is the only place we've found that serves a Pink Lady---that "girly drink" from the early 20th century hued pink with grenadine. While China Town's bartender, Ben, says their version mixes gin, milk and grenadine, tradition dictates egg white also be added. If you ask, you might receive.
381 Bedford Highway, 443-2444