Crafting a Cocktail Haven: The Rebirth of a Legendary Locale
As I step through the doors of the newly revamped Holiday Cocktail Lounge, now known as Saint Marc USA, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over me. This iconic East Village haunt has been a fixture in the neighborhood for decades, and its transformation is nothing short of captivating.
I fondly recall my younger days, when I’d sneak into the dimly lit, dilapidated space, sipping on what were likely vodka-laced orange juice concoctions, oblivious to the myriad of questionable activities happening around me. Those carefree nights spent gossiping with friends and letting the bar noise drown out the chaos of the city streets outside hold a special place in my memory.
Saint Marc USA has now risen like a phoenix from the ashes, and I’m eager to see how this new iteration honors the bar’s storied past while embracing a bold, innovative future. As I take a seat at the refurbished carousel bar, I can’t wait to dive into the carefully curated cocktail and wine menu, eager to discover what hidden gems lie in store.
Raising the Bar: A Spirited Renaissance
The transformation of the Holiday Cocktail Lounge into Saint Marc USA is a testament to the power of vision and dedication. Led by the dynamic duo of Robert Ehrlich, founder of Pirates Booty snacks, and Barbara Sibley, owner of the neighboring La Palapa restaurant, this revitalized space is poised to capture the hearts and palates of both loyal regulars and newcomers alike.
The guiding force behind this renaissance is none other than Michael Neff, a renowned neighborhood bar whisperer who has lent his expertise to reviving iconic watering holes like Ward III, the Rum House, and Three Clubs. Alongside his brother Danny, the dynamic duo behind Extra Fancy and The Bar Room, they’ve breathed new life into this cherished institution.
What sets Saint Marc USA apart is its unwavering commitment to honoring the bar’s storied past while infusing it with a modern, sophisticated edge. The interior has undergone a subtle yet impactful transformation, with the carousel bar taking center stage, its working light fixtures and refurbished design adding a touch of vintage glamour. The once-dilapidated space has been given a much-needed sanitary polish, striking the perfect balance between preserving its gritty charm and elevating it to a new level of elegance.
Raising the Spirits: Innovative Cocktails and Curated Wine
But the true star of the show at Saint Marc USA is undoubtedly the drinks menu. Gone are the days of the $3 “highballs” (read: glorified vodka-and-orange-juice). Instead, the bar has embraced a sophisticated cocktail program that pays homage to its storied past while introducing a fresh, innovative take on classic libations.
The I Know You Are cocktail, featuring Ilegal Joven Mezcal, peppercorn-infused Cointreau, and Lillet Rosé, is a captivating blend of bold, complex flavors that dance across the palate. And for those seeking a more adventurous experience, the Screwdriver has been reimagined as a customizable, shaken vodka-and-amaro concoction that can be mixed with wine, apple cider, or pilsner, allowing patrons to put their own unique spin on this iconic drink.
But the cocktail menu is just the beginning. The newly curated wine list at Saint Marc USA is a testament to the bar’s commitment to elevating the drinking experience. With a selection of $10 glasses of wine and half-bottles of wine and beer, the bar has struck a delicate balance between affordability and quality. And for those seeking a more indulgent experience, the $16 bar bites, ranging from fried cheese balls to quince paste, provide the perfect accompaniment to these carefully crafted libations.
Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future
As I sip my I Know You Are cocktail, I can’t help but feel a sense of reverence for the rich history that permeates this space. The Holiday Cocktail Lounge was a haven for the East Village’s eclectic mix of artists, musicians, and bohemians, a place where the boundaries of societal norms were pushed and the lines between reality and debauchery blurred.
But in the capable hands of the Saint Marc USA team, this legendary locale has been transformed into a place where the past and present coexist in perfect harmony. The gritty charm of the old Holiday Cocktail Lounge is still palpable, yet it is now infused with a level of sophistication and attention to detail that elevates the entire experience.
I can’t help but reflect on the countless stories that these walls have witnessed – the drunken revelry, the secret trysts, the nights spent lost in the haze of music and conversation. And now, as I raise my glass to the future of Saint Marc USA, I can’t wait to see what new tales will be woven into the fabric of this iconic space.
Raising a Glass to the Future
As I prepare to leave Saint Marc USA, I can’t help but feel a sense of excitement for what lies ahead. This bar has always been a beacon of resilience, weathering the storms of gentrification and change that have swept through the East Village over the years. And now, in its latest incarnation, it stands as a testament to the power of reinvention and the enduring spirit of this vibrant neighborhood.
Whether you’re a longtime regular seeking to relive the glory days or a newcomer eager to discover a hidden gem, Saint Marc USA promises to deliver an experience that is both familiar and entirely novel. From the carefully crafted cocktails to the curated wine selection, every sip and bite is a testament to the dedication and passion of the team behind this remarkable transformation.
So, the next time you find yourself in the East Village, be sure to step through the doors of Saint Marc USA and raise a glass to the past, present, and future of this iconic institution. Who knows, you might just stumble upon your own cherished memories, or create new ones that will be passed down for generations to come.
