The Cocktail You *Need* to Get at Toro Loco (Hint: It’s Not a Margarita)

“La Mañosa” translates to either a crafty one or, perhaps more directly, a thief. Sure enough, if you’re not careful, one or two of these signature cocktails — best enjoyed in Toro Loco‘s backyard on a warm city night — might steal your heart or encourage you to give yours away. 

Accessible through the tapas restaurant’s long dining room, the colorful, sun-dappled patio is located on the other side of Stone Street, a peaceful oasis amid the busier, if equally joyous maelstrom down the block. Here, you can dial into a relaxed south-of-the-border vibe, with elevated fare and compelling contemporary Mexican tunes providing the soundtrack, all of which combine to reinforce an unhurried and welcoming ambiance. 

On a recent warm spring evening, the beautifully presented La Mañosa provided the perfect accompaniment for a gracious patio experience. Made with pisco, cinnamon, passion fruit and egg foam, it was smooth, citrusy and spicy all at once. Consider it a delicious incentive to spend an afternoon and evening in Lower Manhattan while you leave the stress of your work week behind.

photo: Sara Kerens/AP