On this installment of Behind the Bar, we talked to Imani Danielle of Harp & Crown, Michael Schulson’s dual-level spot with a roomy bar, a bowling alley, and pastoral touches. Danielle, who grew up in South Jersey and moved to Rittenhouse three years ago, chatted with us about straws, Harp & Crown’s signature drinks, and her post-Sips recommendations.

 

Imani Danielle (ID): Harp & Crown has a bit of a speakeasy vibe with its downstairs bowling alley, and I think it’s sexy, unique, and comfortable all at the same time. Our cocktail list uses a ton of fresh ingredients, and you could come here on a date, with your family, or anyone.

 

ID: Continental Midtown, P.J. Whelihan’s, and Assembly Rooftop. I also work at Scarpetta!

 

ID: Here, especially, I feel like people want to order whichever drink comes with a “show,” like our flaming Old Fashioned (the Dying Declaration). People want an experience.

 

ID: Using straws is a trend I wish would die, for sure. They aren’t good for the environment. I also can’t stand stuck-up pretentious bartenders.

 

ID: More farm-to-table cocktails, and more fresh ingredients.

 

 

ID: It brings people out in the middle of the week!

 

ID: I always have a plane ticket booked somewhere. I like having something to look forward to and I’m always looking to escape the city.

 

 

ID: Any Belgian tripel.

 

ID: Gin. I like Botanist, specifically, to drink and to work with.

 

ID: I’m really into Negronis, and I like to change up the gin depending on the season.

 

 

ID: Be respectful of your bartenders, who are working really hard to make sure you have a great evening.

 

ID: A first time guest who knows nothing about Harp & Crown, so I can give them the full show, tell them about the bar, and really wow them. I love starting with a blank slate and on a positive note.

 

OD: Gin, Campari, bourbon, St-Germain, and sweet vermouth.

 

 

ID: Go to a spot that offers a discount and try something new!

 

ID: I like going to Assembly Rooftop to visit Dorothy Rondomanski, the head bartender, who experiments with ingredients in her backyard to try out for new cocktails. She’s super creative.

 

Rosé Sangria (rosé, tequila, citrus, raspberry)

 

ID: Always wear a smile - you’re more approachable when you greet a guest warmly. You can change anyone’s mood by being genuinely friendly.

 

ID: I’d like to have a Negroni with Anthony Bourdain. He once said it was the perfect cocktail, as far as he was concerned.