BARS • First Round
The Skinny: One of South America’s most renowned cocktail bars, Presidente — a regular on the 50 Best Bars in the World list — lands in Wynwood via Buenos Aires, bringing elevated cocktails, Italian-Argentine cuisine, and an invite-only speakeasy, Biblioteca.
The Vibe: Don’t let the well-heeled doorman and velvet rope fool you. For an upscale cocktail bar, Presidente is decidedly unpretentious. Inside, it strikes the unusual balance of fancy and friendly. Velvet curtains give the space an air of elegance, and a backlit bar beckons as soon as you walk in.
A live DJ plays electro-lounge beats, keeping the energy high without drowning out conversations. As the night goes on, lights dim until you’re seemingly lit only by the small lamp on your table.
The Drinks: The Uno Beso Mas is a Latin American take on the old fashioned, mixing rye with cacao, orange bitters, and Cocci di Torino. The signature El Presidente is made with rum, dry vermouth, and orange curacao. The Samba Noir is a tropical rum-and-passionfruit creation. But for the real cocktail show, you’ll need to score an invite to Presidente’s back room speakeasy, Biblioteca. There, you’ll be greeted with a bar that climbs to the ceiling with dozens of rare and premium spirits, and plush furniture under stately bookshelves. Invites are given at the discretion of the staff, and asking won’t help your cause. Best to play it cool, and tip well.
The food: Playful takes on Italo-Argentine fare. First Bites are creative morsels, like the smoky kale-spinach fritters and pane al tartufo with truffle honey. Sushi selections are solid, empanadas come in traditional Argentine varieties and Argentine steak is also on the menu. An alluring set of pastas include Patagonian pink risotto with fresh shrimp and short rib bolognese.
The verdict: Drinks live up to the hype, while the atmosphere sets a sophisticated vibe for a date spot or night in search of adventurous libations. –Matt Meltzer
→ Presidente (Wynwood) • 146 NW 28th St • Wed-Sun 7p-2a • Reserve.