The heart of downtown Austin's nightlife just pulsed a bit stronger with the opening of Brass Poppy, a new cocktail lounge nestled within the chic confines of Hotel Van Zandt. Unveiled to the public on Friday, September 13, the bar boasts a refreshingly nostalgic drink menu that's inspired by the overlooked treasures of the '70s, '80s, and '90s. It's the latest project for lead bartender Curtis Janto, who is no stranger to Austin's bar scene, having honed his skills at the likes of Roosevelt Room and Equipment Room, as reported by Community Impact.
According to Eater Austin, enthusiasts of finely crafted libations can revel in Janto's creative spins on classics, like a Grasshopper served with house-made crème de menthe, or a sophisticated Rusty Nail characterized by beeswax-rested scotch. Janto champions the bygone eras of cocktail culture with reincarnations tailored for contemporary tastes.
"At Brass Poppy, we’re not just serving cocktails; we’re crafting experiences," Janto said in a statement. "Each cocktail is a nod to our history, with a fresh perspective. We’re all about pushing boundaries," as stated by Community Impact.
The lounge's culinary offerings are under the leadership of Executive Chef Sergio Ledesma, expanding diners' palates with internationally influenced bites. The menu, which Ledesma orchestrates for the entire hotel, brings together small plates like vegetable and fruit nigiri, and a French onion layer dip with layers of unexpected elegance. Meshing with the lounge's vibe, the dishes are "both familiar and unexpected," according to Ledesma in an interview with Community Impact. "Much like Austin itself, the offerings at Brass Poppy are creative yet approachable—a perfect blend of innovation and comfort, promising something to delight every palate."
