Taking over the former Ghostwriter bar space, Idle Hands brings a whimsical blend of art, music, and cocktails to Chinatown. Led by Jay Gray, the bar follows a “Keep It Simple Stupid” approach, using uncomplicated techniques and ingredients to let natural flavors shine. Patrons can enjoy drinks from the Sours & Highballs menu, like the American-Not, which features coffee, Campari, and dark rum, or from the Strong & Stirred menu, with options like the Mezcal-based Oxacca Hanky Panky. Low and No ABV options are also available, and customers with good recipes can even earn a spot on the bar’s coaster wall of fame.
Idle Hands, a new 14-seater hole-in-the-wall bar above Low Tide at 98 Club Street, marks Sago House co-founder Jay Gray’s return to the bar scene. The bar offers a straightforward, fuss-free experience stripped of pretension. Gray’s motto, “Keep It Simple Stupid,” means drinks are made with no more than three to four steps or ingredients and can be described in just one sentence. This approach ensures that each cocktail is straightforward and delicious.
The drink menus at Idle Hands include Sours & Highballs for fruit-infused concoctions, Strong & Stirred for boozier options, and NAB & LABV (Non-Alcoholic and Low Alcoholic) for lighter choices. Highlights include the American-Not from the Sours & Highballs menu, balancing bitter coffee, Campari, and dark rum with a refreshing red fruit soda, and the Oxacca Hanky Panky from the Strong & Stirred menu, blending mezcal and sweet vermouth.
