The Manhattan cocktail is a classic cocktail that has been popular since the late 19th century. Its origins are somewhat disputed, with several stories and legends surrounding its creation.

Another story suggests that the Manhattan was created in the early 1870s by a bartender named Black at a bar on Broadway near Houston Street. According to legend, a customer requested a drink made with whiskey, vermouth, and bitters, and Black mixed the ingredients together to create the first Manhattan.

Regardless of its origin, the Manhattan quickly became a popular cocktail in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It was often enjoyed by politicians, businessmen, and socialites, and it became a staple at formal events and cocktail parties.
One of the most popular stories suggests that the Manhattan was created in the late 1800s at the Manhattan Club in New York City. It was said to have been invented for a banquet hosted by Lady Randolph Churchill, the mother of Winston Churchill. The cocktail was an instant hit, and it quickly became a staple in bars and cocktail lounges throughout New York City.One of the most popular stories suggests that the Manhattan was created in the late 1800s at the Manhattan Club in New York City. It was said to have been invented for a banquet hosted by Lady Randolph Churchill, the mother of Winston Churchill. The cocktail was an instant hit, and it quickly became a staple in bars and cocktail lounges throughout New York City.
During Prohibition, the Manhattan continued to be popular, as it was a great way to mask the taste of bootlegged whiskey. It also became a symbol of rebellion, as people would gather in speakeasies to enjoy a Manhattan and socialize.

In the 1950s and 1960s, the Manhattan experienced a decline in popularity, as tiki culture and tropical drinks became more popular. However, in the 1980s and 1990s, the Manhattan experienced a resurgence in popularity, thanks in part to the rise of the craft cocktail movement.

Today, the Manhattan remains a beloved cocktail, and it is often considered a “bartender’s drink” due to its complexity and versatility. It can be made with a variety of different types of whiskey, including rye, bourbon, and even Japanese whisky, and it can be customized with different types of vermouth, bitters, and garnishes.

Despite its popularity, the Manhattan has also been the subject of much debate and controversy over the years. Some purists believe that a true Manhattan should be made with rye whiskey, while others prefer bourbon or another type of whiskey. Additionally, there is much debate over the proper ratio of whiskey to vermouth, with some preferring a more vermouth-forward cocktail and others preferring a stronger whiskey flavor.

In conclusion, the Manhattan is a classic cocktail with a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. Despite its simple ingredients, it has remained a popular drink throughout the years, and it has evolved to include new variations and ingredients. The Manhattan is a testament to the enduring popularity of classic cocktails, and it continues to be enjoyed by cocktail enthusiasts around the world.