Big-rock mezcal Negronis

Where does one find the best mezcal Negroni poured over a big rock ice cube in NYC?

ASK FOUND

A: While it’s debatable whether a sole ice cube should be one’s preferred preparation for any Negroni, a very good version of the classic gin cocktail with said giant cube is to be had at Torrisi (Nolita), going $20 per. This places the restaurant in the mid-upper tier of the Negroni Index, below Monkey Bar’s $23.75 version but above La Pecora Bianca ($17) and Via Carota ($18).

But as to the single-cube mezcal Negroni:

• Per a FOUND correspondent, “Best big rock mezcal Negronis in NYC: Long Island Bar (Cobble Hill, $16). I think there has to be a one in Manhattan that can give it a run for its money but I have yet to find it.”

• Per another FOUND correspondent, “I’d say The Cabinet (East Village, $15) — amazing place for mezcal all around.” Indeed it is. A recent field investigation at 9th and Ave. C yielded the above mezcal Negroni, along with a knowledgeable bartender with lots to say on the matter. Bonus confirmation on the white mezcal variant (excellent) and the food (worth ordering).

→ FOUND: The Cabinet • 649 E 9th Street (East Village) • Resy.