The Art of Cocktails

This charming volume is a reissue of the legendary mixology guide by Frank Meier, the iconic Jazz Age barman at the Ritz Hotel in Paris. Originally self-published in 1936 and offered only to a select group of friends and favorite guests, this edition is enhanced by stylish, specially created vintage-style illustrations. With over 300 drinks, this is Meier’s personal mixology Bible.

While all the classics are here, it includes several of Meier’s own creations such as the Bees Knees (a gin sour where honey replaces the simple syrup) and the Seapea Fizz (which is actually named for Cole Porter, the cocktail name spelling out his first two initials). In addition to cocktails, it includes all manner of libations sours, toddies, flips, egg nogs, slings, fizzes, coolers, rickeys, juleps, punches, some nonalcoholic drinks as well as extensive coverage of wines, eaux de vies, and even stylish sandwiches. Typical for its era, it also includes Meier’s wit and wisdom, life lessons, etiquette tips, and invaluable advice on a range of topics from the correct way to partake of a snakebite to how to succeed at betting on horses.

Frank Meier built his reputation as a barman in New York but left for France due to Prohibition. He became a celebrated fixture in the Paris nightlife scene and was especially popular with US visitors including Hemingway, Fitzgerald, and Cole Porter. He even served martini aficionado Franklin Roosevelt.