The legendary Prague American bar Bar & Books Týnská has launched a new signature menu, proving that classics can still feel fresh and surprising. Under the skilled hands of experienced bartender Michal Ďuriník, a collection of cocktails has been created that combines precision craftsmanship, distinctive flavours and elegant details – from fruity foams to the noble bubbles of champagne.
In the heart of Old Prague, just a few steps from Týn Cathedral, Bar & Books Týnská has long been one of the places where classic bar culture runs deep. This stylish establishment, inspired by the tradition of American cocktail bars, has been built on years of precise craftsmanship, a strong selection of spirits and an atmosphere that immediately slows guests down. The new cocktail menu confirms this philosophy – and takes it a step further.
The main credit for the current signature menu goes to the bar’s leading figure, experienced bartender Michal Ďuriník. He is one of the most respected professionals on the Czech bar scene, and his signature style is clearly evident in the new menu: classic drink structure, clean flavours and modern details that never feel self-serving.
Classic with a modern touch
Bar & Books Týnská continues to retain the character of a classic American bar. The interior is built around dark wood, a massive bar counter, and comfortable leather armchairs and chairs, while the subdued lighting gives the space an almost club-like intimacy. It is an environment where a cocktail is not just a drink, but part of a ritual.
The new signature menu perfectly complements this feeling. One of the most interesting drinks is Pear of the Year, based on Brugal rum in the Brugal 1888 variant. The combination of elderflower, apple and lemon creates a fresh, slightly floral profile with delicate acidity. The drink is topped with fluffy pear foam, which adds aromatic fruitiness and a velvety texture. The result is an elegant cocktail with a light, almost spring-like character.
Strawberry Snowman is similar, again with Brugal 1888 rum. This time, the flavour profile is more tropical: the coconut component creates a creamy base that is balanced by fresh lime. The drink is topped with strawberry foam – aromatic, delicately sweet and light – allowing the cocktail to open up with fruity notes from the very first sniff.
The Chelsea Rose has a distinctly different character. It is based on Tanqueray gin, which is combined with raspberry and elderflower. The drink is finished with champagne, which gives it a delicate, elegant effervescence and lightness. The raspberry fruitiness blends with the floral aroma of elderflower and the dryness of gin, while the champagne brightens the whole cocktail and adds a festive character.
Rum journey to the Dominican Republic
In addition to the main menu, there is also a short themed menu called From the Dominican Republic. It is dedicated to Brugal rum and offers four cocktails that work with its character in various classic forms. Guests will find, for example, an Old Cuban, Passion Brugal, B-Negroni or an Old Fashioned.
We had the opportunity to taste the latter. The rum Old Fashioned is again based on Brugal 1888, complemented by chocolate bitters and sugar. The result is a deep, warming cocktail with notes of cocoa, caramel and light wood. The rum is full-bodied and elegant, while the chocolate bitters add a subtle bitterness and aromatic depth. It is a drink that fits perfectly into the evening atmosphere of the bar.
A bar where you can be sure of a good time
Bar & Books Týnská has long been one of those places where guests know exactly what they will get: a precisely prepared cocktail, a strong spirit base and an old-school bar atmosphere. The new menu only reinforces this impression. Under the leadership of Michal Ďuriník, a collection of drinks has been created that is modern, yet firmly rooted in classic bar tradition.
And that is perhaps the greatest strength of this place: the ability to innovate without losing the elegance and tranquillity that define a true American bar.
