Little Italy
A Manhattan variation featuring Cynar, adding artichoke-based bitterness to rye and sweet vermouth.
- 2 ozrye whiskey
- ¾ ozsweet vermouth
- ½ ozcynar
- Brandied cherrygarnish
Share this page
Audrey Saunders created the Little Italy at Pegu Club in New York City around 2005, naming it after Manhattan's historic Italian neighborhood. The cocktail adds Cynar—the artichoke-based Italian amaro—to a rye Manhattan, creating a more bitter, vegetal complexity. Saunders was exploring how Italian amari could enhance American whiskey cocktails, and the Little Italy proved that Cynar's distinctive flavor could complement rather than overwhelm rye's spiciness. The drink sits alongside the Red Hook and Greenpoint as part of the NYC neighborhood cocktail tradition, each offering a different take on the Manhattan by incorporating Italian bitter elements.
🛒 Tools for This Recipe
Everything you need to make a great Little Italy at home.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. These links help support Jigger & Joy at no extra cost to you. Learn more
🍸 Drink Responsibly: Alcoholic beverages should only be consumed by adults of legal drinking age. Never drink and drive. If you choose to drink, please do so responsibly. Excessive alcohol consumption can be harmful to your health. If you or someone you know struggles with alcohol, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357.
⚠️ Allergen Notice: Allergen information provided on this site is for general guidance only and may not be complete or accurate. Ingredients and formulations can vary by brand and may change without notice. If you have food allergies or sensitivities, always verify ingredients directly with manufacturers and check all product labels before consumption. Consult a healthcare professional if you have specific dietary concerns. Jigger & Joy is not liable for any adverse reactions resulting from the consumption of recipes on this site.
Disclaimer: Recipes are provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Nutritional information, ABV estimates, and other data are approximations and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods used.