Features
Mix the Five Princes cocktail in #ABiteToEat with The Berry & Rye in Omaha, Nebraska.
(Photography by Bryce Bridges)
How did you get started?
At the time when we opened in 2013, there were no craft cocktails spaces in Omaha that were solely dedicated to the drinks. Most were restaurants, and others may have live music or DJs from time to time. At our space, the event IS the cocktail, through and through.
Where are you located?
In the heart of Omaha's Old Market district, which is a type of Soho, before Soho existed in NYC. Brick streets, an old world charm, street musicians and plenty of side walk traffic keep things interesting.
What are your specialities?
Our focus is on quality spirits and the great cocktails you can make from them. Dictated by word of mouth, the Trinidad Smoke has undoubtedly become our signature drink. We bring together Zaya 12-year aged rum with a house made aromatic tobacco syrup, house made cinnamon & clove bitters, all wafting with a mist of aromatic pipe tobacco. We put a stopper on top of a beaker which carries the liquid mixture & smoke. Then the customer gets to pour the whole thing over one of our massive & clear ice balls, which we create with a Japanese ice press.
What's your personal favorite thing on the menu?
Definitely the Debonair Pear! Fire & foam come together over the honey lemon egg white topping, flamed with Green Chartreuse in our signature cocktail. The sweet, complex & fruit-forward sipper is rounded out with Bombay Sapphire gin, Cocchi Americano & Belle de Brillet.
What's on the stereo?
Our head bartender, Luke Edson, famously often puts on an Afro-beat playlist, of course heavy on the Fela Kuti. The ecstatic poly-rhythms & horn blasts work well with the conversational cocktail atmosphere.
Where else should we visit in your area?
Since we're talking cocktails, you have to visit the motherland, the first place to bring craft to Omaha, the Boiler Room restaurant, just a few short blocks away. We're on the verge of opening another craft cocktail space, known as the Wicked Rabbit, just on the outskirts of the Old Market. And if you're looking to ramp up your late-night experience, our also have a tie to House of Loom, where some of the best DJs play to an eclectic crowd.
Do you host any special events?
We always say that the cocktail is the event at Berry & Rye.
Is there anything else you'd like us to know?
Omaha's culinary & libation scene has flourished in the past five years. We encourage folks to find an affordable trip to Omaha and then spend their time eating their way through the city.
Do you have a favorite cafe, restaurant or bar in your town that we should feature? Send us a message!
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