The old town of Constance is full of old school wine places. You’ll find a somewhat mixed crowd with tendency to silver hair drinking local wines from the early afternoon on. It gives the town a flair, that is best described with the unique German word gemuetlich (cozy, but that’s not really it). Though I really love wine, a classic cocktail is a must from time to time. As a single girl always on the move, I prefer bars with style, classic drinks and a counter, where I can chat with strangers. And I found just the perfect place: The cocktail bar Blauer Engel.
Classic Style in a Location with History
A classy bar in a location with history: An old cellar that for years was home to another famous Cocktailbar, called simply Die Cocktailbar. It’s located just behind the old Munster in a quiet old town alley, easily overlooked by passersby. Descending the stairs, you find the old cellar lit by chandeliers in Belle Epoque style, velvet lounge furniture and a long well equiped bar. The crowd is rather young, more in their twenties than in their thirties. But there is always some mix going on. No shortage of occasions for a chat.
A Frenchman in the deep south
I was quite surprised to find this cellar of alcoholic pleasures here. The establishment is run by Pascal Delolmo. He is originally from the south of France and came to Constance two years ago. I’m not so sure why one would leave the south of France for these grey lands. Pascal doesn’t seem to miss the sun so much. In 2000 he came to Paderborn, a very German city. That means it is slightly boring and much more grey than Constance. In his time there, he managed five bars and around 80 employers. Amongst them the original Blauer Engel. As a well travelled man he knows his business and his drinks. Before settling down in Germany he travelled a lot for pleasure and work. Thus, he knows the variety of tastes this blue planet has to offer. It’s always a pleasure discussing the perks of Japanese whiskey with that witty Frenchman, who has a passion for science-fiction and owns a whole library of books.
Philosophy and Mixology
That bar is by no means a one man show. The guys behind the counter are of Constance’ finest. No wonder you find yourself discussing quantum physics with Patrick and after another Martini diving into the deep ends of logic with Aron, a philosopher turned bartender. Aron is the kind of guy who uses philosophy on his drinks and might as well develop his very own philosophy of mixology. If you want to know how logics and taste combine, he’s your guy! And I mean it can get kind of embarrassing, when those Martinis kick in, while your mixologist is a as sober as it gets. But obviously those guys are fun!
Drinks with a Twist
The drinks come with a sophisticated twist, too: You’ll find the classics like a badass Martini or my absolute all time favorite Mezcal Sour. But there are also fun creations like Basil Instinct or a Pink Lady. That one is by far not as girly sweet as it sounds. And don’t miss out on the great selection of Whiskeys, Rum and Gin. The cocktail in the next pic is called Division Bell, Mezcal with a tangy note of lime juice, Maraschino liqueur and Aperol: A nice combination of smoky flavors with a hint of orange. This one will definitely light up your mood on grey winter’s night in Constance!
Leave a Reply