Finding a good Negroni in New Jersey is harder than you might think. . But at Upstairs Bar and Restaurant in Upper Montclair you certianly can. Another great place that is now gone. But memories of the drink live on.

The Gin: Beafeater London Dry Gin

The Vermouth: Carpano Antica

The Amaro:  Cynar

I did request these specific ingredients, as should you.

You see, in New Jersey, the thing is that, any bar will have an adequate gin. Most will have Camapri, not our favorite Amaro, but perfectly suitable. Where most places fall down is in the vermouth. Most will only have a cheap variety of both red and white.

The difference between a good vermouth and the stuff you find in most bars is remarkable.  Vermouth

Upstairs in Upper Montclair wins on all counts, a great selection of Gins, two very good vermouths, Carpon Antica and Punt Mes as well as Amari Cynar and Campari, maybe others..

At upstairs they serve many original cocktails that are all very good, the atmosphere is very cool and service excellent.

We usually sit at the bar and enjoy cocktails or wine and some of Upstairs’ delicious small plates.