A little blurb about you:
My name is Dan McMahon, I’m the bar manager at Chang Thai Cafe in Littleton New Hampshire. I specialize in coming up with original cocktails, fruity delicious cocktails, as well as spirit forward drinks like Manhattans and Negronis. My favorite thing is for a guest to challenge me to make them a one off drink. It’s so fun to be creative and try and think about different flavor combinations that would work well together. When I’m not bartending I’m an avid hiker and photographer. I love going to swimming holes in the rivers here in the White Mountains where I live, and spending time with friends going to breweries. And I’m a massive movie and video game fan when I want to just relax and unwind.
What do you think is the most underused bar tool?
The most underused bar tool has to be the humble strainer. It’s such a perfect way of creating the smoothest drinking experience possible. At Chang Thai Cafe we use chili paste to add a spicy and slightly sweet flavor to several cocktails, and double straining will take out all of the particulates and ice chips and leave you with just the delicious spicy and sweet flavor. It’s the best way to create a unique Hot and Dirty Martini.
Favorite cocktail?
My favorite cocktail is absolutely the Thai Blossom Tea. I infused the Tamworth Distilling Thai Chili Gin with hibiscus tea leaves and it gives it a delightful fruity twist with a mild spicy finish that compliments it beautifully. It’s a very simple cocktail that uses the tea infused gin, elderflower liquor, lemon juice, and simple syrup. It’s so drinkable while still being spirit forward.
Favorite thing to do when not behind the bar?
My favorite thing to do when not behind the bar is absolutely hiking in the White Mountains. Nothing better than being up on a gorgeous mountain ridge, especially on a summer or fall day. I will usually bring my camera with me and combine my love of photography with hiking and it makes for an incredible day off!
How many years have you been bartending?
I’ve been bartending for six years now. I love it because every day I can learn something new and grow in my work, while meeting new and interesting people all the time.
Favorite place in NH to visit?
My favorite place to visit in New Hampshire would definitely be the beach! If I’m not spending time in the mountains I want to be by the ocean. Hopefully I can finally pick up surfing soon. I’ve always wanted to learn.
Favorite Tamworth Distilling Spirit?
My favorite Tamworth Distilling spirit would have to be the Dunce Bourbon. Its grassy vanilla notes and drinkability make it to a perfect spirit to mix with. I particularly enjoy making whisky sours with it, as well as using smokers with it to give it a new level of complexity. It’s also amazing just to sip on neat.
Signature Cocktail:
Cherry Wood Smoked Dunce Whisky Sour
2 1/2 oz Dunce Bourbon
3/4 oz Lemon Juice
1/2 Simple Syrup
Egg White
Angostura Bitters heart garnish on the foam.
Located in Littleton NH and run by chef/owner Emshika Alberini, Chang Thai Cafe believes that fresh ingredients sourced locally in New England leads to more flavorful food while sustaining the local economy. Featured in Food & Wine, Forbes, and on Food Network, see for yourself why Chang Thai Cafe is know for blending the best of Thai cuisine with a dash of contemporary flair.
Visit Chang Thai Cafe to learn more!