The Gibson Unveils its Summer Cocktail Menu

In the Prohibition era, speakeasies were a necessity. But now, they’re a novelty to indulge in.

In the U Street neighborhood, there resides right next to Marvin restaurant a 21^st century speakeasy. The Gibson is only marked by a 2009 address number, but if you’re in the know, the dark and secretive atmosphere is a welcome change to the norm.

The Gibson changes its cocktail menus very frequently, but currently, the establishment is celebrating the dog days of summer. At a special sneak preview earlier this week, mixologist Ted Freeseman (at right) explained to invited guests the who, what, and why about the mixes they were drinking. His storytelling included tales of competing bartenders… and a story about his brief childhood in the South.

“The names of the drinks come from very special places,” he said.

As Freeseman regaled his audience with his finely crafted stories, the drinks that were presented during a preview night took the drinkers on a flavorful journey. The voyage started with No Apologies, which packed a citrusy punch. Playing Dirty and The Shotgun Shack played on the palate with vegetable flavors. Door to the Left (of Marvin) included floral notes with orange flower water. However, the final drink of the night, Summertime, epitomized summer flavors with the addition of fresh mint.

The summer menu will be available to the public in less than two weeks. Can’t wait that long? Check out the bar on a Tuesday, where the bartender likes to introduce new drinks!