We Spent an Afternoon Trying Cocktails at Pearl Alley. These Are the Three That We’ll Be Sipping All Summer.

Lower Manhattan has an abundance of spots for drinks enthusiasts seeking daytime getaways. Among them, Pearl Alley (89 South St.) offers literally three times the selection of any local watering hole. True story: The sprawling Pier 17 hangout is home to a trio of bars — the Waterfront Bar, the Pearl Bar, the Alley Bar — each with its own unique vibes and atmosphere. Guests who’re in the mood for a little nosh can always order up some savory snacks and raw bar offerings (steamed snow crab legs, anyone?), or stroll over to one of the indoor food trucks for a warm chocolate chip cookie or pile of mozzarella sticks. But let’s not lose sight of those cocktails, okay?

In fact, on a recent business day, some Alliance staffers pulled up a few stools at the Waterfront Bar — a decision made for no reason other than proximity. (It was the closest of the three bars as soon as we strolled through the riverside entrance.) We spent the afternoon conducting our own taste-test experiment, partaking in an array of eye-openers whipped up by affable barkeep David Moreno (above). Our conclusion? These were the three Pearl Alley cocktails we loved the most.

Captain’s Sipper

This ruby-red delight is a stiff combo of rye and bourbon with a splash of bitters and red currant — a snazzy pick for any hour one decides to take in those views of the Brooklyn Bridge and East River. And we truly mean whenever — big fans of the daytime-drinking getaway around here, if you haven’t gathered by now. 

Seaport Martini

If you prefer your dirty martini filthy, then little risk goes into ordering this busy albeit satisfying concoction. You’ll taste notes of fresh herbs and bright lemon bitters swirled with bracingly cold vodka and briney olive juice. 

Midnight Moon

This punchy mixture of tequila, passion fruit and orange-blossom chicory might as well be renamed “summer in a glass,” a sweet and sugary finish to the workday (or even a half-day).

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Pearl Alley is open Monday through Friday, 4 p.m. to midnight; Saturdays from noon to midnight and Sundays from noon to 9 p.m.