The craft cocktail scene in Astoria will soon have a new addition when The Last Word opens on Aug. 16.
The speakeasy-style cocktail lounge, located at 31-30 Ditmars Blvd., will be headed by Astoria resident Tommy Demaras, who also owns Maiella in Long Island City.
Demaras has partnered with bartender Padraig O’Brien, who has worked at The Raines Law Room and Park Hyatt New York, to offer classics and signature creations like the Rabble Rouser with rhum agricole, muddle raspberries, dolin blanc, rhubarb water, fresh lemon and sparkling water.
O’Brien said it has taken the group approximately one year to open the lounge but the concept is much older.
“The concept itself was 10 years in the making,” O’Brien said. “‘The Last Word’ is named after the gin-based prohibition-era cocktail – the cocktail that made me fall in love with the craft, and ignited this passion for bartending.”
Demaras, an Astoria native, had a lot of say in the design of the lounge and wanted to honor the Square Hardware store, which was a staple in the community for more than 50 years, and recently shut down. The owners have replicated the hardware store’s foyer and blocky, black and white storefront sign.
“There will definitely be a few people that come by thinking it’s really a hardware store, but I think they’ll be happy once they realize we’re mixing up some great drinks inside,” O’Brien said.
Offerings will include creations such as the Mumbai Daiquiri with white rum, Batavia-arrack curry syrup, lime and rose water and bar snacks such as Burrata Truffle Balls, house made jerky, local charcuterie, pickles and cheeses.
Prices will range from $13 to $16.
O’Brien said the menu will change four to six times a year to incorporate seasonal, local ingredients. A number of hot cocktails will also be included.
The 2,000 square foot, 60-seat venue will be decorated with plush seating, decorative light fixtures, vintage tin ceilings and a mix of antique and custom-made furniture. A 16-foot marble and oak bar will act as a center piece.
“At The Last Word, we wanted to create a space where people can come in and enjoy a high-quality, craft cocktail,” O’Brien said. “It doesn’t matter who you are, or what you’re doing – if you’re alone, on a date, with friends or family – this is the place to sit back and relax with a great drink in hand.”
The Last Word will be open Sunday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. and Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to 3 a.m.
