Despite the limitations of its layout, the admirable Hotsy Totsy is always looking to try out new ideas – acoustic Americana sets by Codiac, for example. The bar also takes part in the global Bacardi Legacy cocktail competition, themed weeks and drinks presentations.
As of this month, there’s a new concept: Hotsy’s Bar Crossover. The Budapest bar scene is friendly and intimate. After their shifts, mixologists tend to meet their counterparts at other venues, relax and talk shop. Based on the cross-pollination of drinks ideas floating around in this post-work banter, the idea is for Hotsy Totsy to lend two of their drinks to a bar of similar professional standard and for a couple of outside cocktails to feature here on Síp utca. The exchange lasts a week, during which time regulars at either place can get to know new styles and spirits.
Crossover also refers to the staff themselves, who undertake a night’s mixing at the partner bar every Wednesday, thus attracting a different crowd. The first such event threw together Hotsy Totsy and the Bar Pharma, on Kazinczy utca, close to the Gozsdu Udvar party hub.
Bar Pharma’s John the Baptist and Secret Garden featured at Hotsy, one a creamy combination of the potential explosive whisky and absinthe, the other gin-based with a touch of rose and lemon. Round the corner at Bar Pharma, Tamás Kocsis from Hotsy Totsy mixed My Gran’s Botanic in honour of his grandmother, combining basil leaves and rose petals with the green melon kick of Midori. Jack’s Smokey Negroni proved to be more masculine drink, Negroni twisted with bitters, mezcal and a little smoke. It’s a brave, crazy combination – and typical of Hotsy Totsy’s mix master.
In weeks to come, Crossover crosses over with Tuk Tuk, the High Note Sky Bar, the Good Spirit Bar and Boutiq’ Bar. Clear your Wednesday diary.
Hotsy Totsy District VII. Síp utca 24
Open: Mon-Wed 10am-midnight. Thur-Fri 10am-2am. Sat 6pm-2am
