Phil Ward

  • Happy National Punch Day

    Punch originated in India but quickly gained popularity amongst European sailors who took advantage of the abundance of Caribbean sugar cane. Sugar was perfect ingredient for their new drink of choice. Hindi for “five,” a true punch is composed of five main components: sugar, water, citrus, spice, and alcohol. When punch arrived in the new world, many drinkers relished the taste, texture and simplicity of the drink, and enjoyed sharing it in large quantities. “It’s … Read more

  • Mayahuel: Agave-Lovers Paradise

    I was doing some research on tequila and mezcal, and one bar was consistently mentioned with raves: Mayahuel in New York.

    Tequila has often gotten a bad rap, due to its associations with spring break, hangovers, and the whole “eat the worm” thing. But it’s a very versatile spirit, as is its often-ignored cousin mezcal.

    Mayahuel bartender Phil Ward loves the agave spirits, as evidenced by this great quote from his interview with BlackBook:… Read more