The Blinker

HERBS & RYE - LAS VEGAS, NV

I’m gonna share a little Las Vegas locals tip with you: just because something isn’t on the Strip doesn’t mean it’s not just as good, if not better. Case in point, Herbs & Rye. Unfortunately for locals, due in part to assholes like me sharing trade secrets all over the internet, this hidden hot spot isn’t so hidden anymore. Pull up to the parking lot at 1am, and you’ll be waiting in line for a spot. I popped in around 11pm on a Saturday and snagged the only available seat at the bar. Yay for me! I prefer bar seating anywhere I go but especially at H&R because I want to be where the magic happens.

I told the gentleman “just make me something”. He turned and got to mixing without hesitation. At this particular place where craft cocktails are the thing and these guys are so well versed in spirits that they can do no wrong, a request like that is perfectly acceptable. However, if you come in my bar and ask me that, you’re getting a Jack and Coke. Just FYI. A few minutes later a crystal clear coupe glass was presented to me and the magnificence began to pour.

The Blinker dates back to the 1940’s, first appearing in The Official Mixer’s Manual in 1934. It is a whiskey based cocktail, made with rye (for its spicier notes), fresh squeezed yellow grapefruit juice, and housemade raspberry syrup. It’s no secret that I kind of despise whiskey in a big way, but I found this cocktail delightful. The pairing of the whiskey with the pungency of the juices mellowed it significantly and made for very easy sipping.

If you’re interested in partaking, you should note that H&R have happy hour every single day from 5-8pm and 12-3am which includes house wines, cocktails, and…50% steaks!!! Get the ribeye. You won’t be disappointed.

Herbs and Rye Las Vegas
3713 W Sahara Avenue
Las Vegas, NV 89102
(702) 982-8036
www.herbsandrye.com