Ester

The bar's concept is built around Middle Eastern motifs. Each drink, crafted by head bartender Yaroslav Kindzersky, features notes of various spices, herbs, fruits, and traditions.

The Ester bar, located in the basement of building 22/2 on Bolshaya Nikitskaya Street, is a project by restaurateur Svetlana Drobot. The menu, cocktail list, and interior design all incorporate Middle Eastern elements. Interior Design: The architectural firm SAGA is responsible for the aesthetic minimalism of the space. The entrance to the restaurant is marked by a sculptural wall that references the modernist architecture of Tel Aviv. Inside, you'll find a warm space with finishes including various types of stone, historic brick, plaster, and concrete. Notable architectural features include a marble prism in the center of the room, a fountain with drinking water in the bar area, and a chandelier inspired by Alexander Calder's mobiles. A terrace is open during the summer months. It features the same elegant atmosphere as the bar itself, with comfortable seating, vintage furniture, and a unique, sophisticated charm. Cocktail List: Head bartender Yaroslav Kindzersky is the mastermind behind the drinks. He respects classic recipes, is always open to experimentation, and creates unconventional combinations. For example, he uses the cold brew method for the classic Middle Eastern coffee and cardamom combination, and complements it with a Sauvignon Blanc. He mixes cachaca with tarragon (known as "dragon's herb" in Israel), plum and cardamom cordial, and dry tonic. Tequila is infused with Bulgarian peppers, and sherry is paired with watermelon and aloe cordial. The spicy liqueur "Tubi 60" is served with a cordial made from black lemons. However, the geographical scope of the drinks extends beyond the Middle East. The bar's selection includes a variety of interesting alcoholic beverages from around the world, such as Spanish craft gin Mare with olive extract, Hungarian plum distillate Polinka, Serbian apricot brandy, and more. Menu: Chef Sergey Nosov is in charge of the kitchen. He skillfully combines culinary traditions from the East and the West. Dishes like hummus, labneh, preserved lemons, pita, khachapuri, tahini, bottarga, and seafood are all prepared with a delicate and harmonious touch.