The Bird Cage
Figure 1. Gin Tonic with a special twist
The Bird Cage bar in Yerevan, Armenia surprised me with its amazing and unique drinks. Before visiting Armenia, I wasn't aware of its vibrant bar scene. My experience at this bar sparked my interest in exploring more about the bar scene in Yerevan one day if I visit again.
Many cocktails are named after North American birds from John James Audubon's “Birds of America,” a famous ornithology book. I found out that it was one of the most ambitious printing and publishing project ever achieved, with each image etched in copper and hand-colored with watercolor.
The first drink I tried at this bar was the gin tonic (Figure 1), which was my favorite cocktail in Yerevan. I wish I remembered exactly what twist they did to it because it was just better than the typical gin tonic I had. From what I do slightly remember is it was most likely a celery infused gin with a tomato as garnish.
Figure 2. Parula (left) and Nightjar (right)
Figure 3. Pomereya
We also tried the Parula (Figure 2), made with tequila, chipotle, fresh citrus, cucumber, and cilantro. The flavor was unique, and we loved it.
Nightjar (Figure 2) consisted of Amaro Di Angostura, roasted almonds, lemon, lime, strawberry, mango foam with dried flowers on the top. This cocktail was also unforgettable for it’s fruity, nutty, and sweet flavor.
Pomareya (Figure 3) is made with vanilla-infused Beefeater gin, pomegranate and ginger syrup, lime, and thyme. In Armenia, pomegranate is a well-known symbol of the country, representing fertility and good luck in its mythology.
Again, I just recommend checking this bar out if you would like to experience drinking very unique cocktails consisting of ingredients, drink styles influenced by Armenian culture.