Unveiling Romeo’s—Where Cocktail Craftsmanship Meets Urban Sophistication

Situated in East Village, Manhattan at 118 St Mark’s Place, Romeo’s endeavors to become an integral part of the esteemed nightlife heritage of the street, distinguishing itself with a meticulously curated cocktail menu and a distinctively crafted design.

Evan Hawkins, a seasoned veteran in the hospitality industry, boasts a wealth of experience, having started from the ground up as a barback and contributing to the creation of over 35 establishments. Romeo’s stands as his latest venture, a culmination of his expertise and passion. Opening its doors in 2023, the cocktail den embodies Evan’s vision of a vibrant and high-quality cocktail bar, carefully tailored to meet the desires of its patrons.

Upon entering Romeo’s, guests can anticipate an array of libations that blend the classic with the innovative. Evan explained that the menu at Romeo’s is a response to years of dealing with extensive and extravagant drink lists.

“I wanted the drinks to be creative and pretty, but also recognizable to your average guest. Familiar, but different, all whilst being executed with top tier and fresh ingredients, ice, garnishes, and glassware.”

The ingredients emphasized on the menu are fresh citrus, quality seasonal ingredients, and well-made spirits.

Evan also sets standards for house-made ingredients and syrups, as they make certain that their syrups are concocted by weight for consistency. From the refreshing Strawberry Americano to the indulgent Chocolate Negroni, each cocktail is crafted with precision and served in elegant frozen glasses. The menu, thoughtfully organized into three distinct sections – Highballs, Shaken, and Stirred – offers simplicity without sacrificing variety, ensuring there’s something to suit every palate. In the way of fare, Romeo’s has partnered with East Village-based David’s Cafe and Spice Brothers and offers a selection of light bites that complement the cocktail offerings.

Guests can expect the ambiance of Romeo’s to captivate, characterized by its lively and eclectic atmosphere. Neon lights illuminate the space, casting vibrant hues across the room, while cult films play on a loop in the background. The decor, adorned with peach walls and complemented by blue barstools, exudes a playful yet sophisticated charm, inviting guests to unwind and revel in the conviviality of the surroundings.

As someone who began their journey in the hospitality industry as a barback, Evan Hawkins knows firsthand the dedication and perseverance it takes to climb the ranks. Drawing from his own experiences, Evan has valuable suggestions for bartenders who harbor dreams of one day opening their own bar.

“You have to care about all the details, and you have to always do the whole job – no stone left unturned. If you just show up and do the minimum, you’ll never make it as an owner. Being an owner is tough, because you must think of all the little details… lights, music, temperature, bussing, cleaning, making sure the bathroom is stocked. Every little thing that can go wrong or be missed is your responsibility, so start now and form those good habits.”

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