Last week Bitter and Twisted debuted its 3rd Book O’ Cocktails. In it’s 3rd year in business, the downtown Phoenix craft cocktail bar offers great tasting and well balanced cocktails all while keeping things fun and down to Earth. With the design paying tribute to 8-Bit video games, the menu is a prime example of exactly what proprietor Ross Simon hopes to do with Bitter and Twisted. When asked his thoughts on what’s popular in cocktails, he will tell you that he isn’t a fan of trends.
A well balanced cocktail without the pretentiousness is always timeless. I don’t want to use things [in our cocktails] that no one can pronounce.”
We were recently treated to a preview of the new menu which features 21 new cocktails in addition to the classics and popular items that have remained from the previous 2 menus. A menu featuring over 60+ cocktails may seem intimidating, but truly there is something for everyone and the cocktail map has returned once again to the inside of the front cover. This guide helps new patrons find something suitable for their palate and can lead return visitors to a new favorite. Since this is the 3rd menu, we wanted to highlight 3 of our favorites. So here we go:
Bear Witness- Cleverly served in a bear shaped honey container, the Bear Witness was probably our favorite drink of the evening. Not only was it aesthetically pleasing but it was also delicious! It was made with: Kikori whiskey and shaken with grapefruit, lemon, yuzu marmalade (yes, you heard that right), and pink peppercorn honey syrup. It is also served with a bushel of dill sticking out of the top of the bear! This drink is a triple threat: looks good, smells great, and tastes even better! This drink is so good that it’s dangerous (one could drink several of these without much effort)!
Cocaine Cowboy- Who doesn’t love a boozy root beer float? This drink takes you back to childhood with Smith & Cross rum, Zubrowka vodka, sarsparilla, and vanilla cream. Not for the faint of heart, this drink highlights Bitter and Twisted’s commitment to keeping things light and fun. Seriously, how many craft cocktail bars have a boozy float on the menu?
Porn Star Martini- A gorgeous martini served with a shot of bubbles? Enough said. Really though, this maritini is featured on the Friends with Benefits (aptly named, no?) menu which is comprised of drinks created by friends of Bitter and Twisted from around the world. Created by London’s Douglas Ankrah and “considered by many to be the most famous contemporary classic in the world,” the Porn Star Martini deserves every bit of its accolades. It is made with house made vanilla vodka, fresh passion fruit and passion fruit liqueur. This cocktail is perfect for someone just getting into the craft cocktail scene with its bold but not over the top flavors.
It is also worth mentioning that in addition to awesome cocktails, Bitter and Twisted has a fantastic food menu as well. With the kitchen helmed by Chef Bob Tam, the Asian inspired menu features such gems as: Hurricane Popcorn, Betelnut Belly Buns, and “Dragon” Dumpling Burger. As popcorn lovers, this is THE popcorn! The popcorn features spicy rice crackers, nori, butter, garlic, sesame, and shichimi (a Japanese spice blend). We have tried duplicating it at home with little success. The Betelnut Belly Bun are a bao lovers dream come true! Served build it yourself style, they pair with just about any drink.
As if Bitter and Twisted couldn’t get any better, they will be hosting an 8-Bitters Party to help kick off Phoenix Comicon on 6/2! Bitter & Twisted will transform into an 8-Bit paradise. The 8-Bitters Party will include:
- Warp zone cocktail menu provided with drink specials for cosplayers and Phoenix Comicon fans.
- Photo bomber man available.
- Power-up prizes for best dressed.
- Bonus DJ music activation
For more info visit the event page here!
Bitter and Twisted is located at: 1 W. Jefferson St, Phoenix, Arizona 85003
*The Geeks participated in a media event in order to facilitate this write-up; However, opinions are wholly our own. View our Disclosure Policy for more info.