Mr. Boston: Official Bartender's and Party Guide

While there are better books on the subject, this is the standard reference, or must have for anyone wanting to tend bar, as this contains the traditional/old fashioned recipes that are all the latest fad due to the MadMen craze (which is a great show). I remember my Dad looking over his copy of Mr. Boston in the early 60s when it was his turn to host the latest cocktail party, and he would get all his bar gagets ready to go, the jigger, ice strainer, shot glass etc.

An oddly titled book, with even odder contents, "Mr. Boston" has been around since Leo Cotton first published it in 1935. (This edition was updated and revised by Chris Morris and Renee Cooper.) The book is unapologetically commercial and quaintly old-fashioned (and we're not talking the drink). Bright color pictures of branded liquors decorate the pages, and there are illustrated bar tricks ("BOTTOMS UP BAR TRICK" !)that must be many decades old. The last page reveals that the picture were paid for by--get this--"responsible advertisers." I also love the sloppy editing; here's the opening: "Welcome. You are holding in your hands the 65th Edition of the definitive guide to mixing perfect drinks." Two paragraphs down, one reads: With this, our 64th Edition..." Whatever edition, this one has a revised format, "organizing recipes into section by the primary liquor in the drink." I found that highly useful, although one may not always know the primary liquor. For example, is a Martini under gin or vodka? Mr. Boston answers, "gin," and there are 6 recipes with "martini" in the title, and many more variations (and a one page blurb on "Tips for Perfecting the Perfect Martini"). The book has hundreds of recipes, and an index containing all the drinks. This edition also features new sections on flavored vodkas, "new" margaritas, "distinctive whiskeys," and "fine cigars," All this conspicuous consumption could give Playboy a run for its bourgeois money. Drink recipes include the following categories: Bourbon, brandy, gin, rum, scotch, tequila, vodka, whiskey, cordial and liqueurs, shooters, frozen drinks, hot drinks, eggnogs and punches, beer, wine, and low- and non-alcohol drinks. The book covers party planning, bar tools, and measurements, as well as the drink categories listed above.

It keeps getting better every time. newr recipes always show in the new editions. keep up the good work. Could use a way for us, the consumers, to help update the book.

Best bar guide I've read; concise, excellent variety. What I especially like is that the recipes are from scratch; no powder or liquid mixes. It does list liquor ingredients by Mr. Boston brands but one can easily substitute one's favorite liquors. Also gives good basics on barware, glasses, measurements and more.

I have used Mr. Boston's official bartenders guide for years. I have been teaching its contents to bartenders that are now working all over the world. Mr. Boston, Thank you for making my job easier.