Conversation With A Barman at Four Seasons, CottoCrudo Bar Praha, Czech republik

Tómas and I were in sync when he was reaching into “RAM” for the name of the Paris bar,  <<where you have to go thru a Mexican kitchen>> … <<Candelaria>> said I. <<Yes>> said he.

That started off an evening of education and training for me. It, as always, typically included taste testing. But first this seasoned barman wanted to know where we’d been and where are we going. I reviewed the list of cities and Christkindlmarkts that were to be explored. For certain, a visit to Schumman’s Bar in Muenchen, he indicated. We talked. While my girlfriend was enjoying her ”Road to Sky” cocktail, Tómas wanted to know what she thought. Then, turning to say he’d be back, he headed back to the bar, returned with a new drink which he  presented to my date - a “Czech Me Out” cocktail. Nice foam on the top, I indicated, wondering if it was egg whites. Tómas indicated not. And then began my education.

Tómas indicated that an alternative to using egg whites, for the reason of persons with immune issues, is to use gelatin. He went on to explain that actually he has the kitchen prepare the foam. The recipe is simple enough …. gelatin, St. Germaine Elderflower Liqueur, lemon juice combined in whipping cream syphon. When needed, just shoot it out. Lasts maybe a week. And your cocktail is taken up a notch or two with the lovely foam and scent as you take the drink.

Tómas is a character, talking of wishing to compete in the New Orleans Barman's competition. If I recall correctly, he’d been to a competition in the Far East during his stint at Singapore’s Four Seasons.

This CottoCrudo Bar at  the Praha, otherwise known as Prague, Four Seasons certainly is a locals hangout. For certain, as we observed “culturally inappropriately” costumed Indian Chief, Indian squaw very noticeable in the short skirt, and others celebrating Saint Mikulus Day. Certainly, the food and the environment are conducive to an entertaining evening in Stare Mesto as the old towne is known. Accompanied by the knowledge of an accomplished Barman.

 

Boite – Road To the Sky Cocktail

Becherovka liqueur, 50 ml

Cointreau, 15 ml

Lemon juice, 15 ml

Maraschino syrup, 20 ml

Angostura bitters, 2 dashes

Combine and shake. Top with Limoncello Elderflower foam and top with rose peppercorn flakes.