I’ve had the pleasure of eating and grabbing a cocktail at The Gladly twice and left both times feeling it was time really well spent.  Not only was the food creative and well executed, but the cocktails were very memorable.  Attention to detail, combined with a knowledgeable wait staff, created a unique cocktail experience.

A Manhattan is a classic and fairly easy to construct, so the artistry that is required to make a Manhattan truly great is often nuanced.  While I’m happy to be married to one of the best Manhattan makers on the planet, this leaves me with very high-level of expectations for one of my favorite classic cocktails.  In this regard, the Gladly Manhattan did not disappoint.   As with any Manhattan, the devil is in the details and the use of Russell’s Reserve Bourbon, Guinness maple syrup, toasted orange peel and tobacco bitters added nuances of flavors that combined to deliver an exceptional Manhattan experience.  Even the cherry offered more flavor than your run-of-the-mill soaked cherry floating in a bourbon-based classic. 

In contrast to the simplicity of a great Manhattan, the Conflagration Nation is a truly unique Gladly creation (which has won several awards) that balances many great flavors to deliver a very intensely pleasing result.  This drink combines Angel’s Envy rye whiskey, Bulleit 10 year Bourbon, Amaro Nardini, Sandeman Reserve Ruby Port, Calvados, mint simple syrup and tobacco smoke.  As good as the Manhattan was, this may have been even better – and much more original!

It was obvious from both drinks that there is some stellar talent behind the bar at The Gladly.  It was also interesting to see tobacco used in two different ways to good effect in creating both a classic and a signature drink.

In all cases, if you want a cocktail with a flavor that is taller than the Seguaro cacti that proudly adorn Phoenix’s magnificent landscape, I recommend that you try The Gladly.  Come hungry . . . .the food is also worth a visit!