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New York’s nightlife is about to get a dash of London flair—and more than a few chili-salted rims. On Monday, October 27, the acclaimed Side Hustle bar from The NoMad London will take over the bar at Crane Club for one night only, bringing along head bartender Leo Robitschek and vice president of food and beverage Niall Mullins for an evening of agave-laced alchemy.
Known for its cheeky, technically brilliant cocktails and lively Latin-American energy, Side Hustle has earned a cult following in London’s NoMad Hotel. Now it’s crossing the pond to link up with Crane Club beverage director Chris Lemperle and head bartender Chris Moore for what promises to be a spirited summit of four powerhouse mixologists.
The evening’s à la carte cocktail list will showcase Side Hustle’s signature wit and balance: a smoked dirty martini that swaps olives for smoked gordal and chilis; Curry On, a mezcal-based mix with umeshu and curry leaf; the bright and vegetal El Tucan featuring mezcal, genepy and grapefruit; and even a tomato basil Negroni that gives the classic a garden-fresh twist. For the abstinent (or pacing themselves), there’s a N/A Paloma with Seedlip Citrus.
Each ticket also comes with a round of small plates inspired by Side Hustle’s Latin-leaning menu—guacamole with ajo perejil, prawn croquettes with bonito and habanero and Baja fish tacos with morita chili slaw—served alongside reserved seating in Crane Club’s crimson-draped dining room. Cocktails can be ordered separately throughout the night.
It’s a fitting match of bold personalities and lush settings. Crane Club, chef Melissa Rodriguez’s see-and-be-seen stunner in Chelsea, has built a reputation for theatrical dining and killer drinks, with ruby-red booths, Deco arches and a crowd that knows a $350 Vesper when they see one. For one night, expect that scene to lean a little more Soho than SoHo.
Tickets are available through Crane Club’s website, though, as with the restaurant’s famously elusive burger, you’d be smart to snag one fast. After all, when one of London’s best bartenders comes to town, you don’t want to miss your shot—or your mezcal.