The place
Ever since flinging open its doors on the young side of summer, Bar Reyna has been wooing Yorkvillians with its unique brand of Mediterranean charm and magical back patio. For owner Nicki Laborie, creating a place with both addictive eats and cocktails was an absolute must.    

The mixologist
On the cocktail side of things, bartender Mana Moghadam (Little Sister, Blowfish) has whipped up a list of libations that includes original creations alongside classics (think Old Fashioned or Negroni).

Moghadam — who recently took home the top prize in a Grey Goose cocktail competition — has crafted a series of boozy house beverages that look to Mediterranean flavours as a guide and are optimal for pairing with snacks like eggplant byaldi and zucchini fritters.

The Libation
Of the cocktail collection, the true showstopper is the so-called Her Royal Highness ($30).

“It’s a Mediterranean take on a tiki drink,” Moghadam says.

The tipple starts off with Absolut Elyx vodka layered with Mount Gay XO — an extra old amber-hued Bajan rum. 

“There are lots of Mediterranean flavours in there,” notes Moghadam, referring to the saffron, rosewater, cardamom bitters and house-made cardamom syrup. Orgeat — a traditional almond syrup — rounds out the flavours along with a citrus blend of fresh grapefruit, lemon and lime. “It’s a tiki-style cocktail because of the layered spirits, the tropical flavours and the orgeat,” Moghadam says.

Served in a copper-coloured pineapple, this super-refreshing — not to mention handsome — drink is ideal for sharing during the dog days of summer.

Bar Reyna, 158 Cumberland St., 647-748-4464