The Vick offers creative specialty cocktails, a vibrant atmosphere and views of the city
Offering views of the University of Cincinnati and Clifton, those looking for a night out can head to Hotel Celare. Perched at the top, The Vick offers specialty cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere.
Named after Cincinnati-born Play-Doh creator Noah McVicker, the rooftop bar channels the fun, creative nature of the modeling clay. “For me, any sort of cocktail program would only make sense if it had some sort of playful nature,” says Gregory Innocent , Hotel Celare’s director of food and beverage. It was that spirit that guided the menu.
The cocktail menu features variations on classic cocktails like margaritas and martinis in addition to some playful originals. Visitors are sure to recognize these staples, yet be surprised when the Sophisticated Gentleman gives their old-fashioned a rich, brown butter twist or turmeric gives their Negroni an earthy edge with Golden Hour.
“These classics are great for a reason,” says Innocent. “But here is a small twist that some folks may have not thought of adding to that cocktail.”
Innocent highlights the Pisco Sour as a personal favorite and a chance for many guests to try something new. A staple of South American libations, the bar adds some tropical flare and nutty yet floral orgeat to make the Pisco Sour its own.
In addition to unexpected flavors, the drink presentation matches the colorful, fun atmosphere.
Drinks like the One of One come served with a miniature Uno card, adding to the playful charm. Meanwhile, Pear of Stilettos Will Do is a refreshing vodka-based cocktail served for two in a high-heel-shaped vessel.
Beyond mixed drinks, the wine and beer menu was also handcrafted with Innocent’s expertise Bringing in some beers that Cincinnatians may be less familiar with like Saucy Brew Love You Bye Imperial IPA and the Alaskan Amber Ale IPA, the draft menu only features four distinct pours. “We almost made it a little easier for the guests to see something different,” he says.
In addition to the bar, The Vick ups the ante with both a sweet and savory menu meant to accompany drinks. “We understand a lot of people will typically come before they go out to dinner or after dinner,” Innocent says. As such, the menu features classic lounge bites like charcuterie, duck rillettes and prosciutto-wrapped melon. On the sweeter side, ports and sherry flow while a blood orange tart adds some citrusy freshness and the strawberry pale ale cake highlights Rhinegeist’s Truth in its base.
“We really want to be a great social addition to the Cincinnati market,” Innocent says. “We really want to be that place that people you know find themselves enjoying for their birthdays and celebrations, and as it gets nice out to come enjoy the views in the nice weather.”
The Vick, 310 Straight St., Clifton. M-Th 5-11 p.m., F-S 5 p.m.-midnight. Su closed. 513-930-6580, thevickrooftop.com
