Rated by
Thomas
A very serious review of unserious things
Locations/Antwerp/Dogma

Dogma

Antwerp, BelgiumVisited July 2026
Nocturne No. 5
“Crystal clear, vibrant, incredibly sexy color.”
What I drank   /   01

Nocturne No. 5

Ingredients

Mezcal · Fino Sherry · Verjus · Clarified Beetroot Cordial · Sage · Rosemary Spray

The profile

Bright cherry color. Singular sage leaf garnish.

My thoughts

Sophisticated. A velvety feel on the tongue. Dry and smoky with a pop of apple and beetroot flavor. The sage and rosemary provide a great herbal undertone.

This felt like a unique use of Mezcal, and one I really enjoyed. I really couldn’t get over the color of this drink. Crystal clear, vibrant, incredibly sexy color.

Would be a great drink to accompany a steak dinner while on a date.

Mezcal Manhattan
“Not all dealer’s choices work in your favor.”
What I drank   /   02

Mezcal Manhattan

Ingredients

Mezcal · Sweet Vermouth · Angostura Bitters

The profile

Coupe glass, no garnish.

My thoughts

After drinking the Nocturne, I wanted to keep with Mezcal. With no other options on the menu, I asked the bartender to surprise me, and this was what he made.

I do enjoy a Manhattan, but it is no doubt better with rye/whisky. With no other ingredients present, I don’t love the pairing of Mezcal and Sweet Vermouth. Of course, very spirit-forward.

Not all dealer’s choices work in your favor.

The Space

When you walk in, you are greeted with a long bar with plenty of seats, and further in, a lofted area with couches and chairs. Small bites/snacks are also served here. Wood, exposed beams, a hybrid of rustic and upscale.

I, of course, had a seat at the bar where I was able to watch all the drinks being made. Unfortunately, the bartender seemed consumed in his work and wasn’t very chatty. Something I have come across more often in Europe than in the US. I think it has to do with bar culture, but also tipping culture.

With that said, the atmosphere was good and the drinks pretty tasty.

My Verdict
6.6 / 10Taste
6.2 / 10Atmosphere

Taste reflects what I drank. Atmosphere reflects the bar experience.