Walking into the Hotel Indigo almost seems like you’re going into the wrong place. I thought we missed the entrance, until I saw the small placard saying “Mr. Purple, 15th Floor”, as if you are just finding a secret part of New York City.
Once you are past the security guard, you take an elevator bathed in a sickly green light to the 15th floor, where everything changes. The patios were open, people were lounging in the pool, and a warm summer breeze welcomed us to Mr. Purple. We were sat at a low table and cushioned bench out on the deck, under an umbrella, overlooking the LES, and dominated by Freedom Tower. Off the bat, the view gives Mr. Purple a leg up from all the Midtown roof top bars that are surrounded by other skyscrapers and high-rises.
We began with the Mr. Purple (casamigos reposado tequila, cranberry liquer, allspice dram, apple, lemon, served punch style), and, my new favorite drink, the Stormy Mule, a blend of a Moscow Mule and a Dark and Stormy (brugao anejo run, ginger beer, fresh lime). Perfect for anyone who likes ginger beer.
Everything seems to be a plate to share, even though the menu is organized into starters and mains. We had the Oysters with a Shallot Mignotte and Tomatillo Hot Sauce, the Beecher’s Cheese and Charcuterie, the Prosciutto Flatbread with mozzarella, parmesan and roasted garlic, and their delicious Fries. The plates they gave us were not needed, and the finger food added to the laid back but energized air. The food was very tasty overall, and left a great impression of the need to engage with the people you are with due to the food being so sharable. And, despite the crowd, I never had to strain to hear anyone speak, or feel like I was being crowded in.
I would definitely recommend anyone trying out Mr. Purple this summer and beyond, as it really is such a great and chilled atmosphere, with some scrumptious drinks and food to compliment the beautiful scenery. For more information, check out Mr. Purple’s official site.