When you think of a classic cocktail that embodies elegance and sophistication, the Manhattan immediately comes to mind. This timeless drink has been a favorite in upscale steakhouses around the world, and the version served at Prime Steakhouse in Las Vegas’ Bellagio is no exception.
Known for its perfectly balanced blend of robust whiskey, sweet vermouth, and a hint of bitters, the Manhattan is the ultimate companion to a rich, juicy steak. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, mastering this recipe will elevate your cocktail game and bring a taste of Vegas luxury right to your glass.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the best Manhattan recipe inspired by Prime Steakhouse Las Vegas Bellagio. With precise ingredient measurements, expert tips, and serving suggestions, you’ll be able to craft this iconic cocktail with confidence.
Let’s dive into what makes this Manhattan so special and how you can recreate it perfectly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Manhattan recipe is a celebration of balance and refinement. It brings together the warmth of rye whiskey or Bourbon, the sweetness of vermouth, and the subtle aromatic complexity of Angostura bitters.
Unlike many other versions, this recipe focuses on quality ingredients and proper technique, ensuring every sip is smooth and flavorful.
Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a home bartender, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. The cocktail is perfectly suited for pairing with hearty meats, especially prime steaks, making it an ideal choice for special dinners or high-end gatherings.
Plus, the garnished cherry adds a touch of classic elegance, making your drink not only delicious but visually stunning.
Ingredients
- 2 oz rye whiskey or bourbon (choose a quality brand)
- 1 oz sweet vermouth (preferably Carpano Antica Formula or Dolin Rouge)
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Ice cubes (for stirring and serving)
- Maraschino cherry (for garnish)
- Orange peel (optional, for garnish)
Equipment
- Mixing glass or cocktail shaker
- Bar spoon (for stirring)
- Jigger or measuring tool
- Strainer (Hawthorne or julep strainer)
- Coupe or martini glass
- Peeler or small knife (for orange peel garnish)
Instructions
- Chill your glass: Place your coupe or martini glass in the freezer or fill with ice water to chill while you prepare the cocktail.
- Add ingredients to mixing glass: Pour 2 oz rye whiskey (or bourbon), 1 oz sweet vermouth, and 2 dashes of Angostura bitters into the mixing glass filled halfway with ice.
- Stir gently: Using a bar spoon, stir the mixture for about 30 seconds. This chills and dilutes the cocktail just enough to bring out the flavors.
- Prepare serving glass: Remove your chilled glass from the freezer or discard the ice water, then strain the cocktail through a Hawthorne or julep strainer into the glass.
- Garnish: Skewer a maraschino cherry and drop it into the drink. Optionally, express the oils from an orange peel over the surface and rim the glass with it before adding as garnish.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy your perfectly balanced Manhattan alongside your favorite prime steak or as a standalone indulgence.
Tips & Variations
“Using a quality sweet vermouth and fresh bitters makes all the difference. Always stir, never shake, a Manhattan to keep the silky texture intact.”
- Whiskey choice: Rye whiskey offers a spicier profile, while bourbon creates a sweeter, smoother drink. Experiment with both to find your preference.
- Vermouth freshness: Vermouth oxidizes quickly once opened, so keep it refrigerated and use within a month for the best taste.
- Bitters alternatives: Try adding a dash of orange bitters or Peychaud’s bitters for a twist on the classic.
- Sweetener adjustment: If you prefer a slightly sweeter cocktail, increase the vermouth to 1.25 oz.
- Smoky Manhattan: Add a splash of smoky Scotch whisky for a unique depth and aroma.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per serving |
---|---|
Calories | 160 kcal |
Alcohol | 24 g |
Carbohydrates | 4 g |
Sugars | 3 g |
Fat | 0 g |
Protein | 0 g |
Serving Suggestions
The Manhattan shines brightest when paired with robust dishes. It’s the perfect match for a juicy prime steak, such as a New York strip or ribeye, especially when prepared with simple seasonings that allow the meat’s natural flavor to stand out.
For a full Prime Steakhouse experience, consider serving your Manhattan with sides like roasted garlic mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus, or a classic wedge salad. The cocktail’s bold flavors also complement rich sauces like bĂ©arnaise or peppercorn cream.
To complete your meal, explore other celebrated recipes such as the Las Vegas Cocktail Recipes for more drinks or indulge in decadent desserts like the Manny Randazzo King Cake Recipe.
Conclusion
Mastering the Manhattan, especially one inspired by the renowned Prime Steakhouse at the Bellagio in Las Vegas, is a rewarding journey into classic cocktail craftsmanship. This recipe balances the spice of rye whiskey with the sweetness of vermouth and the aromatic bitters to create a drink that’s both elegant and approachable.
Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or simply unwinding after a long day, this Manhattan recipe offers a taste of sophistication and indulgence. Remember, the key is quality ingredients and gentle stirring — these small details elevate the cocktail from ordinary to extraordinary.
For more inspiring recipes that complement your cocktail evenings, check out our Marzipan Challah Recipe and Magic Dough Recipe. Cheers to delicious moments and unforgettable flavors!
đź“– Recipe Card: Best Manhattan Recipe Prime Steakhouse Las Vegas Bellagio
Description: A classic Manhattan cocktail inspired by the Prime Steakhouse at Bellagio, Las Vegas. Rich, smooth, and perfectly balanced with rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
Prep Time: PT5M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT5M
Servings: 1 serving
Ingredients
- 2 oz rye whiskey
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 dash orange bitters
- Ice cubes
- Maraschino cherry for garnish
- Orange twist for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a mixing glass with ice cubes.
- Add rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, Angostura bitters, and orange bitters.
- Stir gently for about 30 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry and an orange twist.
Nutrition: Calories: 190 | Protein: 0g | Fat: 0g | Carbs: 2g
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