The Aviary

I have been dying to try The Aviary for a while, but the high prices of the cocktails meant I'd have to find a very specific person to go with me, who would be willing to shell out for this kind of experience. That person would be my friend Michelle. We finally settled on a date and went to The Aviary to try their cocktails, only allowing ourselves to indulge in one, because they are so pricey.

The Aviary is in the Fulton Market area, and is part of the same team that owns Next, which is next door. The Aviary's website does a pretty spot on job of describing who they are; "where cocktails and service are given the same attention to detail as a four-star restaurant; where bartenders are trained as chefs; where the produce and herbs are carefully sourced and procured fresh daily; where the name and branding of the spirit mixed is less important than its actual flavor; where drinks are made quickly and consistently in a state-of-the-art drink kitchen; where innovation and tradition are both honored."

I have to give this place credit that the cocktails were out of this world. If coming here, I would highly recommending splurging and getting the three flight cocktail. You will already have a hard time choosing which cocktail to get (if only choosing one), so getting the flight will save you that agony. Take note though that if you are just coming for a cocktail, they put you in an area next to the kitchen where it is standing high tops only. So if you want to sit just buck up and make a reservation. The atmosphere is dark and sexy, and it's pretty neat to be able to see in the kitchen where the magic happens. You should also know there aren't true meals here, just snacks. Very expensive snacks.