The PDT Cocktail Book: The Complete Bartender's Guide from the Celebrated Speakeasy

To say that PDT is a unique bar is an understatement. It recalls the era of hidden Prohibition speakeasies: to gain access, you walk into a raucous hot dog stand, step into a phone booth, and get permission to enter the serene cocktail lounge. Now, Jim Meehan, PDT's innovative operator and mixmaster, is revolutionizing bar books, too, offering all 304 cocktail recipes available at PDT plus behind-the-scenes secrets. From his bar design, tools, and equipment to his techniques, food, and spirits, it's all here, stunningly illustrated by Chris Gall.

"Americans have always loved drinking, but in the past five years or so America has recommitted itself to learning to drink well! Jim Meehan has helped lead this joyful renaissance, but his specific influence has been to decouple drink perfection from pompousness. Quality drinking should be as unintimidating and fun as it is delicious and smart: that's Jim Meehan's doing. I'm so glad he's written this beautiful book -- shake yourself up an Applejack Rabbit, sit down, and read this like a novel".--Rachel Maddow, host of The Rachel Maddow Show on MSNBC

"I've imbibed every drink in this book; whether I can recall all the nights spent at PDT is another story. Jim Meehan has written a manifesto for aspiring drunks and bartenders alike." --David Chang, chef/owner of Momofuku