Shelly Fireman and I have been friends for over 20 years. Over that time, I’ve come to know the quirky and affable character that is Shelly. On top of being an extraordinarily successful businessman, Shelly brings his personality and love of Italian cuisine to many of the places he opens. Only a restaurant giant like Shelly Fireman could take over the famed former Wildwood space at 225 Park Ave and make it even more iconic.

Restaurateur to hot spots such as Trattoria Dell’Arte and Cafe Fiorello, every place Shelly opens is a sure-fire hit. When I heard about The Fireman Group’s newest addition, Florian Cafe, located in Gramercy, I knew I had to check it out! As I was leaving the restaurant after another delicious meal, complete with the vanilla ice cream, the bar caught my eye. The words “Bespoke Negroni Bar” were splayed on the bar’s mirrored backsplash.

What had I found? Only New York City’s finest (and only) Bespoke Negroni Bar. So what the heck is a Bespoke Negroni Bar?

I had the opportunity to sit down with house bartender (and suave Italian), Francesco, to discuss the origins of the Negroni, why Negronis are making such a comeback, and to find out what this special bar was all about. And, of course, I did a little tasting!

RECIPE:

Classic Negroni 

2 oz. Gin
2 oz. Vermouth
2 oz. Campari
orange wedge

Combine ingredients in cocktail shaker. Stir generously with ice for 10-15 seconds. Pour into a rocks glass. Garnish with orange wedge.

Pamela’s Bespoke Negroni

2 oz. Vodka
2 oz. Souza
2 oz. White Vermouth
Splash of Elderflower liqueur

Combine ingredients in cocktail shaker. Stir generously with ice for 10-15 seconds. Pour into a rocks glass. Cheers!