Moscow Mule: Mandarin Hide, St. Petersburg

Don't miss Mule Thursdays, when each of the six versions is only five bucks all day long.

click to enlarge Moscow Mule: Mandarin Hide, St. Petersburg - KEVIN AND LISA TIGHE
KEVIN AND LISA TIGHE
Moscow Mule: Mandarin Hide, St. Petersburg


It’s the signature bevvie because: This refreshing blend of vodka, lime and ginger beer served in a copper mug was an instant hit for the stylish Central Avenue watering hole, and remains the Hide's most popular concoction. The Mule is so popular the bar now offers six versions; while the original is still the most requested, the rum-based Dark & Stormy and mezcal-driven Mezcali are both very much in demand as well.

The masterminds behind it: The Moscow Mule has its origins in early-’40s NYC, but found real popularity in Los Angeles soon after. Locally, the drink started to enjoy a bit of trendiness two or three years ago, but very few places serve as perfectly balanced a version of the drink as the Hide's.

Ambience: The warmth of the brick-and-wood interior tempers the almost-overpowering AC, and the staff maintains an aesthetic that’s more timeless than tragically hip. Ignore the TVs tuned to sports and talk about the bison head instead.

Best time to go: The place gets a lot of raucous walk-in business on weekend nights. Weekend afternoons and early weekday evenings are the best times for quiet cocktail contemplation.

Don’t miss: Mule Thursdays, when each of the six versions is only five bucks all day long. Try ‘em all! 

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