You’ve never, ever had cocktails like the ones at this Hidden Gem in Downtown Miami
Right Hand simply does it right
With many bars in South Florida, a few weeks back my Co-founder Matt Meltzer insisted I try Right Hand’s martini for my feature on ....martini’s! So without pulling my teeth, we went to explore their martini program. Well, low and behold - holy shit, it was absolutely worth that $30 spend. I would also soon learn that they refer to it as ‘Martini Service’ for a reason. And that’s because they replace your frozen glass around three times per order. Also, I feel obsessed based on the fact that they offer you a side car so it truly hits all your spots. For this specific order - you can choose No. 3 Gin or Haku Japanese Vodka and then select how you like it prepared - and their team behind the bar who I refuse to refer to as bartenders (because they are mad scientists) create pure magic in a glass.
Anyhow, last night, I dragged EIC of Aventura Magazine Jacquelynn Powers for a tasting menu that Right Hand’s owner Diego Calvo whipped up. Since Jacquelynn only drinks Rose & Tequila, I took one for the team and forevermore will be grateful for the experience provided. They offered me a scotch libation that took five days to prepare - marinating in coconut milk with a mamey astronaut ice cream on top, a fresh flower Paradise Farm slushy with vodka, a tequila and passionfruit smokey situation and I wrapped it up with a lightly dirty vodka Martini with olives. FYI, every day they stuff their olives with a different cheese varietal. Yesterday, I was spoiled with Manchego alongside lion’s mane mushroom crisps.
The space: Think the ultimate 80s and 90s NO FRILLS bar. There is…a bar, and a few chairs running along the perimeter of the room. They have a DJ booth upstairs for….drum roll, please….insane beats. But sadly, last night there was a World Cup game so they were streaming it on a projector in the rear of the space. I guess I will have to go back to enjoy jams with…a martini or that scotch situation.
What to eat and drink: They have bites on the menu like hotdogs and tater tots, cheeses on a board like cheddar or brie… But, here is what I recommend. Beer lovers take a look at the menu. They source from local breweries. And, the Martini goes without saying. Lastly, please try Operation Space Monkey that is made with Monkey Shoulder Scotch and the concept is that it was built for an astronaut, served by an astronaut man in a helmet and poured in an Italian Ichendorf Milano Glass. Topped with Astronaut Ice Cream that is produced with Paradise Farms mamey, a Chai from Admari tea and a coconut milk wash, it leaves you speechless. It is poured over a XL round ice ball, too! OH - vodka lovers I encourage you to experience the square bites. You are welcome
Right Hand’s selection of wine is from Eastern Europe, France, Italy and Diego considers his hand-selected assortment to be “very old world!”
Don’t miss: If you don’t like hard liquor, please have a glass of DORGO. It’s a white ‘Tokaji Dry Furmint.’
Perfect for: After work happy hour (from 5-7 p.m.), to go with a friend to talk shit or even with your partner for a casual celebration. As I learned last night, you can also go to watch games!
Expect to pay: $8-25 per drink, so it depends how thirsty you are.
How’s the parking? There are lots in the vicinity however he’s working on a deal that we will share with you in the future. I took Uber and you should, too - but there IS parking on the street. And if you wear sneakers, try the lot near the Intercontinental.
@righthandmiami // 21 SE 2nd Ave, Miami