Absinthe 2.0

Botanica | Le Demon Vert

While Red Hook might be off most New Yorkers' radars when it comes to outer-borough drinking, this newish bar (slash art and performance space) is worth the visit, if only for their Le Demon Vert. This perfectly composed cocktail (translation: The Green Demon) features gin, absinthe and fresh lime, and is especially smooth to sip. Crushed ice chunks, which the beverage is shaken with, give it a subtle but lovely texture. A single star anise is left floating in the glass for both aesthetic and flavoring purposes (the longer one lets it soak, the stronger the taste of licorice).

Verdict: 5 stars. A perfect rating for a delicious, refreshing concoction that even anise-haters might enjoy. Bonus points for its good looks.

Botanica (220 Conover St. at Coffey St., 718-797-2297)