Hidden along Ludlow Street, Ligaw feels like a secret waiting to be discovered. Built on a foundation of love and intention, this Lower East Side newcomer opened its doors with a night that felt like stepping into someone’s story.
From the moment you walk through the doors, you can feel it. The freeness, the intimate joy, and the undeniable warmth of belonging. Every detail, from the soft lighting to the thoughtful menu notes, whispers that you are home. The space is designed as a speakeasy, creating an intimate, cozy atmosphere that invites connection and lingering conversation.
Ligaw, which means to court, to woo, to wander, is more than just a bar. It is the new bar from Katrina Sobredilla, crowned World’s Best Mixologist 2022, and her wife, pastry chef Leighann Sobredilla. Their menu celebrates Filipino and seasonal flavors, creating a narrative through both food and drink. SOULEIL, a female-owned French wine brand, will be the house wine, further emphasizing the thoughtfulness and curation behind every detail.
The drink that stood out was “First Kiss,” a playful and refreshing mix that tastes like a warm spark in a glass. This smooth, layered cocktail was made with cinnamon infused SOULEIL white wine, ice cloves, tobacco bitters, condensed milk, and cornflake milk, perfectly capturing the care and creativity behind its creation. Every ingredient tells a story, and every flavor carries meaning.
The food deserves its own round of applause. We sampled crowd favorites throughout the evening, but the Pineapple Pizza Bun was the star of the night. A sweet and savory bite served on a pineapple-crusted bun that perfectly captures Ligaw’s creativity and heart.
Even the menu carries depth. Printed beneath the drinks were thoughtful notes, ingredients, and short stories explaining the meaning behind each name. It is a beautiful touch that turns every cocktail into a conversation piece and adds another layer to the experience. Ligaw reminds you to slow down, sip with intention, and truly connect with the moment.
Ligaw is more than a bar for a night out. It is a space created for friends old and new, for moments that linger, and for love in all its forms. This is not just another Lower East Side hotspot. It is a place where connection, warmth, and celebration come alive.