In January 2024, the acclaimed Paris-based Danico Bar unveiled its third edition of the innovative ‘Xplorer’ cocktail menu series, titled ‘Japan’. This latest installment continues the tradition of the series, which evolves biannually to reflect the diverse cultures and flavors from around the globe, inspired by the international travels of the bar’s renowned bartender and owner, Nico de Soto.
The ‘Japan’ menu is a tribute to de Soto’s serendipitous layover in Japan back in 2004, a journey that sparked his enduring fascination with the country’s rich culture and endless avenues for exploration and education. Together with Bar Manager Coco Gaudin and their talented team, de Soto has crafted a menu that not only celebrates but also educates guests on the intricate beauty of Japanese traditions through meticulously designed cocktails.
One of the standout creations, ‘SAKURA’, draws inspiration from Japan’s iconic cherry blossoms, combining Hendrick’s gin, Martini Rubino Vermouth, Campari, and umesha liqueur, all infused with cherry blossom to add a layer of bitter and floral complexity. Another highlight, the ‘CHANOYU’, pays homage to the ceremonial preparation and presentation of matcha, offering guests a sensory journey through its almond and matcha mochi accompaniment.
For a taste of summer, the ‘ZARU SOBA’ cocktail is inspired by the eponymous noodle dish, blending 3S barley shochu with wasabi and sesame distillates. This cocktail captures the essence of buckwheat and spices, rounded off with cucumber juice, tomato juice, lemon juice, togarashi spices, soy sauce, and soy milk for a harmonious balance of flavors.
Since its inception in 2016 by Nico de Soto, Julien Ross, and Alexandre Giesbert, Danico has quickly risen to prominence in the Paris bar scene. The bar’s location in the former Jean Paul Gaultier flagship store lends it a chic Brooklyn-style ambiance, complete with high ceilings, green velvet armchairs, and elegant black and white marble countertops. Ranking no. 51 in the World’s 50 Best Bars 51-100 list for 2023, Danico is celebrated for its exceptional, tailor-made cocktails that feature surprising combinations, explosive flavors, and a dedication to innovative mixology techniques.
Nico de Soto’s global travels and culinary inspirations are evident in each cocktail, with unexplored ingredients and modern distillation techniques like sous-vide and rotovap playing a central role in the menu’s development. Danico’s ‘Xplorer’ series not only showcases de Soto’s mixology prowess but also his commitment to creating an educational and immersive drinking experience for his guests, making Danico a must-visit destination for cocktail enthusiasts in Paris and beyond.
