Hidden drinking places or what we call speakeasies are a surefire dime for those seeking atypical and classier ways to enjoy some hooch, post-work or on weekend nights. It might sound like we’re being “titos and titas” but truth be told, you reach a point in your life when you would trade deafening and chaotic dance clubs over low-key atmosphere bar. I don’t know about you, but personally, I’m in that limbo at the moment. Thus the beginning of my search for Metro Manila’s speakeasies and the longing to be in the know.
Once you step inside this dimly lit room you will be greeted by a vintage globe and a pair of towering Chinese guardian lions on pedestals. On both walls are glass shelves housing top-notch and rare whiskey finds and all stored in cigar wineadors. Walk a few more steps and you’ll find lounges and nooks that are a throwback to the elite and vintage gentleman's clubs of years gone-by and just like a scene straight out of a dapper Mad Men set with leather seats, brass fixtures and opulent antique interior. The leather couches is as intimate as ever, but the stools encourages a more laid-back, hang-at-the-bar type of feel. Here, guests can mix and mingle in a personal atmosphere that screams nothing but class.
Wistful boozers can seek solace on Mandalay’s extensive line of whiskey from all over the world and carefully curated libations. Inside, a team of barkeeps offer thoughtful cocktail. The staff is happy to talk you through any drink on the menu, or suggest one that would suit your boozy preference. This is the kind of dedication that makes getting into any speakeasy worth the effort despite the higher prices of drinks compared to your usual bars. Mandalay also offers several brands of cigars and the lounge serves as the entire establishment’s smoking area, so if you’re not a smoker but don’t mind smelling like smoke or being a second hand smoker, then come right in.
As an eager beginner whiskey drinker, I gushed and giggled like a school girl (as evidenced by the video) at the sight of a 30 year old Macallan and was astonished to see a 60-year old one. The faceted crystal decanter of The Macallan Imperiale "M" is 28 inches tall and holds 6 liters of whisky. The bottle is a hand-blown decanter created by a French glass company named after the Roman emperor Constantine that took 17 craftsmen over 50 hours to complete. And how much does it costs? Well just around a couple of millions, NBD right? Not! But for its rarity, it’s no surprise at all. One of the bartenders even told us that when this was transported, the handlers needed to wear gloves. Just read between the lines.
Mandalay also offers Asian and European cuisines to pair with your drinks and opening hour starts at 6:00 pm. Furthermore, nights of jazz classics are often held, I just don’t know for sure with regards to the schedule. I promise myself to go back asap, with friends in tow, for a full speakeasy experience and try some whiskeys or whiskey mixes to satisfy my all golden-age yearning, space-time shuffling and completely lose track of time, as the case may be.
MANDALAY WHISKY AND CIGAR BAR
100 Don Carlos Palanca St.,
Legaspi Village, Makati City
Contact No: 02 6258818
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