Sometimes you come across a bar that has tradition, history, amazing decor, great drinks and a friendly and talented bar team. When you get all of that in abundance, it becomes a 'never to forget' experience.
I found myself in awe of all these things at the Kronenhalle Bar in Ramistrasse in Zurich last week. This a unique bar with exquisite mahogany panelling and marble top tables with legs designed by Diego Giacometti. Art by Picasso, Klee, Tinguely and Miro adorn the walls. The sheer majesty of the surroundings immediately tell you that you are in a special place. .
As you enter you feel like you have entered an expensive antiques shop, unnerved by the feeling that you might knock the odd piece of classic art over. After a while the ambience takes you over and you appreciate that this is a place where people have come to enjoy great drinks.
Then you meet the bar team, with Peter and Christian and their team cre
ating wonderful drinks . Having expected reserved and stuffy tradition, you are greeted by an array of exciting cocktails served by a team that just look delighted to be working there.
ating wonderful drinks . Having expected reserved and stuffy tradition, you are greeted by an array of exciting cocktails served by a team that just look delighted to be working there. Suddenly the art around the bar loses significance. The craft behind it becomes the focal point. Moreover, the decor misleads. This is not a place thats stuck in the past. This is a bar where professionalism and creativity work hand in hand. Peter Roth, a world renowned mixologist served us with a smile. He showed us a great repertoire of cocktails.
Finally we settled on one. 'Olio Nobile' as fine and logically named as it sounds. The name derives from the beautiful Tuscan olive oil that helps create it's delicious, smooth and refreshing taste. The dash of oil helps it go down easily, too easily. This wasnt quite spring or even summer when the drink would be even more appropriate. Even so we enjoyed a few. Our experience was complete except soon afterwards Peter Roth sent us his recipe. A true nobleman, offering a truly noble experience.
Olio Nobile:
4cl Brockmans Gin
1 Scoop Lemon Sorbet
1cl Olio Nobile 'Fruttato' Olive Oil
6cl Orange-Passion Fruit Juice
2 Tablespoons of Crushed Ice
Mix in blender.
Garnish with a Spring of Mint and a Green Olive
Enjoy!
Bob
