Smooth. Bold. Legendary. The Manhattan is a cocktail that never goes out of style. With a rich blend of whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, it's the drink of choice for anyone who appreciates depth and tradition—especially in a city as style-driven and cinematic as Los Angeles.
From art gallery receptions in Downtown LA to private dinners in Brentwood, the Manhattan cocktail continues to shine as the signature cocktail for upscale occasions and discerning guests.
Ingredients (One Serving)
- 2 oz Rye Whiskey (or Bourbon)
- 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
- Ice
- Luxardo cherry or orange twist (garnish)
- Coupe or Nick & Nora glass
LA Local Tip: For added local pride, try using small-batch whiskeys from R6 Distillery (El Segundo) or Greenbar's Slow Hand Whiskey (DTLA)—Los Angeles-made, flavor-forward, and party-tested.
How to Make the Perfect Manhattan Cocktail
- Chill the glass.
Place a coupe or Nick & Nora glass in the freezer or chill it with ice water while you prepare the drink. - Mix ingredients in a mixing glass.
Pour 2 oz rye or bourbon, 1 oz sweet vermouth, and 2 dashes of bitters over ice. - Stir, don't shake.
Stir gently for 30 seconds to blend the flavors and chill the drink without over-diluting it. - Strain into the chilled glass.
Use a fine strainer to maintain a smooth, elegant texture. - Garnish.
Add a Luxardo cherryfor classic appeal or an orange twist to brighten the drink's edge.
Why the Manhattan Stays Strong in LA
In a city that constantly reinvents itself, the Manhattan Cocktail offers a nod to tradition. It brings instant credibility to any bar menu and is the ideal cocktail for late-night conversations, first impressions, and classy send-offs.
We frequently serve Manhattan cocktails at:
- Fundraisers in Beverly Hills
- Wedding receptions in Pasadena
- Brand launches in Hollywood
- Book signings in Los Feliz
It's a favorite among Los Angeles professionals, creatives, and high-end event guests who want a bold drink with history and weight. This is why The Manhattan Cocktail is such a great choice, but so are many others.
FAQs
Rye or bourbon—what's the difference?
Rye offers a spicier, drier finish, while bourbon brings a smoother, sweeter edge. While Rye is more traditional. Party Shakers lets you choose your base or offer both.
What vermouth works best?
We recommend Carpano Antica, Cocchi Vermouth di Torino, or Punt e Mes—all available at top-tier LA liquor stores. Our bartenders always use premium options.
Can this be made in batches for events?
Yes. The Manhattan cocktail is ideal for batching. We stir or bottle it in advance, chill it thoroughly, and pour it directly into pre-chilled glassware at your LA event.
Make the Manhattan cocktail the Centerpiece of Your Next LA Event
Few drinks say elevated like the Manhattan. Whether it's a cocktail hour, VIP suite, or intimate rooftop affair, Party Shakers brings the tradition—and the execution—to perfection.
✅ Available across all of Los Angeles County: Santa Monica, Culver City, Burbank, Long Beach, and more
✅ Custom garnish bars, whiskey flights, and barrel-aged versions available
✅ Elegant bar setup with professional mixologists
✅ Add-on options: paired hors d'oeuvres, cigar lounges, or jazz-themed service