The French 75 is one of those drinks that seems too fancy for me, the amateur bar enthusiast, to order.  But behind the shroud of mixology lies a simple classic: gin, champagne, lemon juice, and sugar.  And it is delicious.

Named after the French 75mm field gun, this liquor combo packs a potent punch.  There is some debate over whether cognac or gin should be used.  The first printed recipe appears in 1930 in the Savoy Cocktail Book, presumably based on the original creation in 1915 at Harry’s New York Bar in Paris, and gin was the order of the day.  The cognac seems to be an unnecessary excuse to French things up even more.  Feel free to enjoy your French 75 (with either spirit) as you Frenchify your way around NYC at these spots:

Sebastian:  French with a Moroccan flair.  After you’ve tried the French 75, you can move onto their house whiskey.

Pastis: The grande dame of French bistros in the city – you’ll feel like you’re in France… except you’re in Meatpacking.  Still, worth it even if just for the people watching.

Millesime: Classy art deco dining with live music and $1 oyster happy hour.  More on the pricey side but excellent quality food.

Image Credit: Blue Kitchen

Leah Alexander