In the heart of Copenhagen, there is a bar unlike any other in Europe. Curfew Bar boasts three living pieces of bar history on its counter, all in perfect working order. Humberto Marques, the owner of Curfew Bar and a passionate collector of vintage pieces, proudly displays two hand-cranked Coles shakers, a Minneapolis Brass & Iron Mfg Co. Ferris Wheel drink mixer, and a hand-cranked Alaska ice crusher. These unique machines have been meticulously restored by Brandon Neal, known for his exceptional work on vintage pieces.
Marques emphasizes the significance of these vintage shakers, noting their rarity – few have survived over 100 years. The Coles shaker, originally used in apothecaries for milkshakes, found its way into saloons for crafting cocktails. At Curfew Bar, bartenders use the Coles shaker for the classic Ramos Gin Fizz, highlighting its ability to create a perfect emulsion for drinks containing cream and eggs. The Ferris Wheel drink mixer, dating back to the 1890’s, stirs cocktails gently and consistently, mimicking the “throwing” mix method. It is ideal for drinks like dry martinis, Vespers, Negronis, and Manhattans. Marques praises its uniqueness, noting that Curfew Bar is home to the only Ferris Wheel drink mixer in Europe.
The Alaska ice crusher, a popular tool in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, played a vital role in food preservation and beverage preparation before the advent of modern refrigeration. Its simple yet efficient design, with sharp blades operated by a hand crank, allowed for the easy crushing of ice into small usable pieces. Marques highlights the restoration process, including the application of a food-safe powder coating by Neal to address rust spots commonly found on unrestored Alaska ice crushers. Marques stresses that these vintage machines offer more than just aesthetic appeal.
Marques’s passion for vintage bar equipment goes beyond mere collection. He values these pieces for their historical significance and the opportunity they provide to showcase the art of cocktail-making to curious guests. By giving these machines a second life at Curfew Bar, Marques ensures that the legacy of these pieces of bar history continues to be appreciated and celebrated. The vintage shakers, drink mixer, and ice crusher at Curfew Bar are not just artifacts; they are windows into a bygone era of craftsmanship and innovation in the world of mixology.
The vintage bar equipment at Curfew Bar in Copenhagen serves as a testament to the enduring charm and allure of bar history. Humberto Marques’s dedication to preserving and showcasing these pieces is a tribute to the artistry and craftsmanship of a bygone era. As guests at Curfew Bar marvel at the Coles shakers, Ferris Wheel drink mixer, and Alaska ice crusher in action, they are not just witnessing history; they are actively participating in the rich tapestry of cocktail culture.