Beekman Bar & Books, Setting the standard for sophisticated hospitalityOctober 15, 2008
Beekman Bar And Books is the newest addition to the esteemed whiskey and cigar haven Bar And Books. Originally founded in 1990 in New York City by Raju S. Mirchandani, Bar And Books has set a new standard for cigar bars worldwide by redefining the concept of hospitality, sophistication and comfort. These premier and exclusive cigar bars are the first dedicated cigar bars in New York, offering a variety of over 150 whiskeys from Scotland, America, Ireland, Japan, India and New Zealand and a large menu of hand-made cigars from the Dominican Republic, Honduras and Nicaragua.
Upon entering Beekman Bar And Books, patrons are greeted by a cozy lounge area of leather clad seats and small round tables, all of which are surrounded by a library of antique books. Soft lamps created from the establishment’s signature antique wooden monkeys dress the bar as well as the leather crescent-shaped booths and chairs spread throughout the space. Black and white photos decorate the walls leading to a private cigar room tucked away at the rear of this stylish bar. Bar And Books prides itself on their unique form of entertainment; screening classic James Bond films on flat screen televisions played at each location every night. On Mondays, Bar And Books offers complimentary cigars for the ladies and on Tuesdays all whiskies are specially priced.
The philosophy is to create an inviting ambience with a style of service that is second to none, coupled with an elaborate selection of spirits from whiskies and brandies to classic cocktails, light fare, vintage ports, and fine wines. In addition to Beekman Bar And Books, New York locations include, Hudson Bar And Books and Lexington Bar And Books. Bar And Books has also become an international phenomenon with two Bar And Books locations in Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic.
Ben Scorah, Mixologist and Managing Partner of Bar And Books, began his career as a teenager in nightlife by working at the world renowned Hacienda night club as a bar back in Manchester, England. While attending England’s Leeds University to pursue a major in Business Management, he served as a bartender at the Warehouse Bar and Pu Na Na. After graduation he moved to London where he became a mixologist at Bodeca, a private members bar at the Flemings Rooms in Mayfair. There he was responsible for a cocktail list of over 50 signature drinks served to London’s elite. After almost 3 years of living in London, he ventured to New York City where he pursued a career in bar management and mixology at Barmarche in Soho for two years before becoming the Managing Partner of Bar And Books. Ben Scorah has won awards for his expertise in mixology from Theme Magazine, 42 Below Vodka, Belvedere Vodka, Rhum Clement, Glenmorangie Whisky and Glenfarclas Whisky.
