THE ORLANDO CRAFT: MIXOLOGY IN THE CITY BEAUTIFUL
In arguably the oldest building still to be standing in downtown Orlando, Hanson’s Shoe Repair has become a highly talked about speak-easy (I know, ironic) in what was historically “Hanson’s Shoe Repair Shop” in 1894.
Call for a password (407-476-9446) and get there early, opens at 5PM and can be a little tight since it’s a small rooftop dwelling. If you find yourself at Hanson’s don’t ask for vodka-based cocktails, this place is a true flashback of prohibition, which pre-dates America’s love for vodka.
Like Hansons Shoe Repair, Mathers is set on the third floor of a vintage furniture store from the late 1800’s located on the corner of Magnolia and Pine downtown. Unlike Hanson’s, however, Mathers is huge!
The atmosphere encompasses the location’s history with antique artwork, furniture, music and even a small candy shop selling… you guessed it, vintage candy. Even the staff is dressed in a swanky prohibition era ‘mac’s’ and ‘dames” themes.
Expect all the typical craft cocktails like Mint Juleps, Manhattans, Old Fashioned’s etc. but many originals that are fantastic!
Tip: if it gets busy, it might be worth getting a decanter so you don’t have to continue waiting.
Hey, crafting a cocktail takes time!
Another gem tucked away in downtown Orlando located on Orange Ave, soon to be Winter Park, FL, an adorable little suburb ripe for a cocktail bar! They also give cocktail making classes!
Tip: Go around Halloween or Christmas for happy hour where they go all out (even the menu).
Army Navy Cocktail at the Guesthouse, Orlando
Located in the Mills 50 District (Orlando’s Brooklyn or Wynwood?), The Guesthouse & SunRoom are located right next to one another. One can day (or nite) drink at The Guesthouse and/or move into the SunRoom at night for almost anything, but they specialize in Tiki crafts. Beware: Tiki drinks are STRONG.
Tip: They also have a package goods store; need a special booze, syrup, clear ice or cocktails to go? Just ask!
If you’re new to Orlando or visiting… you’ll want to check out East End Market in the Audubon District anyways… get some crafted shaving lotion at Freehand Goods, a cookie from Gideons, coffee at Lineage, a breakfast sandwich at FarmHaus or dinner at Domu.
But… make your way upstairs to the Neighbors for locally crafted unique cocktails named after Orlando’s districts while shopping for fun locally crafted gifts & goods!
Tip: The owners often work the bar and register. Here, local is LOCAL.
Bon voyage, ladies & gents!
By, Brian McAleer
CEO & Co-Founder
Gent Life