The Citiblog

Yawning Cobra Awakens the Senses in NoHo
October 22, 2024, 12:55.59 am ET

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Photos: Cititour.com

Tucked away beneath 356 Bowery, Yawning Cobra offers an intimate cocktail experience that combines creativity with a touch of mystery. This 42-seat speakeasy, with the tiniest of signs, is easy to miss but well worth the discovery. Look for a discreet digitized snake near the entrance. The bar’s playful nature is reflected in drink categories such as Game Is Loading, Fighting the Big Boss, and Pause n Chill, evoking the excitement of an arcade—but with a more refined touch.

Descending a dark staircase, visitors are welcomed into a moody, subterranean lair where a unique cocktail menu awaits. Led by bartender Sota Kandaka, who brings his expertise from high-end bars in Tokyo and Beijing, the drinks at Yawning Cobra push boundaries with bold flavors and unexpected ingredients.

Standouts include the Raining in the Woods, an earthy mix of gin, tarragon, parsley, and sage with a light egg white foam, and Tao Pie Pie, a warming blend of whiskey, apple, cinnamon, and smoked cream. For those seeking something more adventurous, the Say Cheese—featuring vodka, whiskey, bacon, black pepper, and lots of parmigiano reggiano piled on top—is a bold choice.

The menu also features intriguing concoctions like Into the Oasis, a passion fruit and vodka mix that carries a subtle briny taste from dried scallop, and the smoky Green Grass of Home, which pairs whiskey and rum with matcha and red bean, finished with a touch of gold leaf.

To accompany the drinks, a small selection of bites provides flavorful support. Highlights include Cobra Cukes, Cobra Fried Chicken with soy and garlic, and Wagyu Wontons with assorted condiments. Even the vegan (Not) Crab Rangoon, made with tofu and asparagus, impresses with its light, crispy texture.

Yawning Cobra, owned by hospitality veterans Ying Ye and Claire Li promises to become a go-to spot in NoHo’s vibrant nightlife scene. Just look closely for the cobra near the entrance.

For more information, visit yawningcobranyc.com



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