About the founder
The Hands That Shaped the Flavor.
Bratislav “Braca” Glisic is a bartender with over two decades of shaping the cocktail landscape in New York City and beyond. Known for his inventive spirit and mastery of flavor, he played a key role at the award-winning Employees Only NY.
His journey later led him to Panama City, where he co-founded The Strangers Club and first felt the need for the high-quality bitters he was used to in NYC, sparking the beginnings of Bitter Companion. Now back in New York as the owner of Dear Strangers bar in the West Village, Braca channels his experience, creativity, and pursuit of balance into every bottle of Bitter Companion bitters.
About Bitters
Bitter Companion cocktail bitters are crafted to bring depth, aroma, and structure to cocktails. Rather than relying on shortcuts or artificial intensity, the bitters are built through thoughtful layering of carefully picked botanicals, and careful selection of base spirits that enhance their character. The result is a collection of bitters that are vibrant, potent, and designed to elevate both classic and contemporary drinks.
Production
All production takes place just north of New York City in Yonkers, where Braca oversees every step personally. Two spirit bases form the foundation of the blends: a clean, neutral corn-based spirit and, for select warm-toned expressions, a high-proof, four-year-old Venezuelan rum. Botanicals are steeped for about a month, allowing their flavors to fully develop before the blends are filtered and balanced. This slow, intentional approach ensures consistency and depth—bitters that reflect true craftsmanship and the experience of someone who has spent a lifetime behind the bar.
The Story Behind the Jester
” Once you step behind the bar, you change your clothes, and with them, your mood and your persona. Your personal life stays behind, and you become the Jester: the performer, the host, the entertainer, ready to give your best to every guest.”
Bratislav Glisic
