The two star Michelin rated Providence is widely known as one of the best restaurants in the city. What you may not know is that they also have some great cocktails, and of course with great cocktails come great bartenders. I’ve know Zahra for ten years or so, since her days of slinging infused vodka drinks and martinis at Bar Marmont. Since then she’s been all around the world studying the art of making cocktails and has most recently worked with Vincenzo Marianella (who is often considered the best in the business.)
Zahra’s mastery with the cocktail goes far beyond those of your average self proclaimed “mixologists”. She approaches each drink with an artistic touch. They are hand crafted libations, perfectly balanced in flavor and presentation. They’ve just released a new cocktail menu and I got a little preview last week. Head on down to Providence for a cocktail and grab a bite if it’s payday. Here’s what you can look forward to…
Zahra creates some excellent cocktails at Providence.
Belle Vert with Reyka Vodka, thyme, cucumber, and lime juice.
The Arsenal with Bulleit Bourbon,
agave nectar, muddle blackberries, and passion fruit.
Choya's Cup with Choya Plum Wine
shochu, sloe gin, verjus, and ginger ale.
The Affogato with espresso from LA Mill, shaken over ice, mixed with Bourbon and Frangelico, then topped with fresh vanilla bean infused heavy cream.
Here is a recipe for one of Zahra’s cocktails, perfect for the summertime. (Taken from the Providence site)
Martini Fresca
1 3/4 oz Pineapple infused rum
1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
1/4 oz limoncello
1/4 oz elderflower liqueur
8-10 fresh mint leaves
Build ingredients in a Boston glass, shake, and present in a martini glass.
22. July 2009 at 12:09 am
How long has Zahra been with Providence? And why did Marianella leave?
22. July 2009 at 9:07 am
Not sure exactly how long she’s been there. But she works Sunday through Thursday. So maybe Marianella still works there on Friday and Saturday nights?
22. July 2009 at 1:19 pm
Providence is my favorite restaurant and I always just go and focus on food. I definitely have to make a point to stop in for cocktails.
22. July 2009 at 1:58 pm
Vincenzo hasn’t been at Providence for over a year. He’s now at Cop D’Oro in SM. But Zahra’s drinks are just heavenly.
22. July 2009 at 2:41 pm
I have known Zahra for over 15 years. She is amazing. Your review of her approach to mixing is spot on! She doesn’t just serve a drink, she creates. You don’t just order a cocktail from Zahra, you tell her what you like and she builds a gift for you in a glass. I have been in the business for over 20 years and she amazes me every time I visit. Get to her quick before some large alcohol company snatches her away!
23. July 2009 at 12:23 pm
i heart Providence. We went there for our anniversary dinner and had the chef’s paring menu, and it was outstanding. we were just talking about going back. Now when we do we’ll make sure to get a drink from Zahra first!