Introduction
At the heart of Val d'Isère, IMA does more than serve exceptional Levantine cuisine. Our bar has developed a signature collection of unique cocktails that embody our philosophy: transforming Mediterranean culinary traditions into modern, creative creations. Each cocktail is an invitation to journey, a moment of sharing around an artisanal creation designed with passion.
In an environment where mountain meets Mediterranean, our mixologists have crafted cocktails celebrating Levantine flavors with sophistication. These creations are more than beverages; they tell stories, evoke cultures, and create memorable moments. From the first sip to the last, each IMA cocktail offers a complete sensory experience.
Whether you're enjoying an aperitif before dinner or extending your evening at the club, IMA's signature cocktails accompany you throughout your experience. Discover our flagship creations, the ingredients that make them unique, and the artistry behind each recipe.
The Levantine Inspiration Behind Our Cocktails
Levantine cuisine and culture have inspired every aspect of IMA, from the dishes served at the counter to the cocktails we celebrate at the bar. The Levant, a historic region encompassing Lebanon, Syria, Palestine, and beyond, possesses undeniable culinary richness. This heritage manifests itself in the cocktails IMA celebrates.
The signature ingredients in our cocktails reflect this inspiration. Pomegranate, a symbol of fertility and generosity, brings brilliant acidity and stunning ruby color. Orange blossom and rose water, essential to Oriental pastry, offer delicate, enchanting floral notes. Za'atar, this blend of spicy herbs, and sumac, with its natural acidity, bring unparalleled gustatory complexity.
Candied citrus—lemon and orange—evoke traditional Levantine preserves, while cardamom, cinnamon, and Mediterranean herbs like fresh mint enrich our creations with layers of flavor. These ingredients, typically used in cuisine, transform at IMA into key elements of revolutionary mixology. The result? Cocktails that surprise, educate, and enchant even the most discerning palates.
Our Flagship Creations
Each of our cocktail creations has been meticulously developed by our mixologists, emphasizing balance between tradition and innovation. Here are IMA's signature cocktails that have captivated our clients and become bar essentials.
Le Beyrouth: Tribute to the Pearl of the Middle East
Le Beyrouth is more than a cocktail; it's a tribute to a mythical city where East and West intertwine. This creation combines premium vodka, fresh pomegranate juice, rose water, and a delicate touch of cardamom. The result is a harmony of flavors: pomegranate's sweetness, rose water's floral character, cardamom's spice.
Served long over ice, garnished with a slice of candied orange and pomegranate pearl, Le Beyrouth offers spectacular visuals and memorable taste. This cocktail embodies the urban sophistication and Mediterranean allure of Beirut, transformed into delicate, complex liquid.
Le Beyrouth
A tribute to the Pearl of the Middle East. Premium vodka, pomegranate, rose water, cardamom, candied citrus.
Rose du Levant: Mediterranean Delicacy
Rose du Levant is an exploration in softness, celebrating the floral and fruity flavors that define Levantine cuisine. Combining premium spirit with house-made orange blossom syrup, pink grapefruit juice, and a touch of fresh lemon acid, this cocktail achieves perfect balance between sweet and acidic.
The finish is delicate: a trace of rose syrup, an edible flower garnish, and crystalline ice create an Instagram-worthy presentation. At first sip, you discover how orange blossom dialogues with grapefruit, creating a sensation both light and rich. This cocktail is particularly enjoyed during aperitif hour, the ideal moment to savor its delicacy.
Rose du Levant
Mediterranean delicacy. Premium spirit, orange blossom, pink grapefruit, fresh lemon.
Sunset sur Val: Alpine Levantine Essence
Sunset sur Val embodies the very heart of IMA: the fusion of alpine mountain with Levantine flavors. This transcendent après-ski combines Caribbean white rum, citrus liqueur, fresh orange juice, and a drop of oriental spice syrup (cardamom, cinnamon, coriander). Served long with ice and a fresh orange spiral.
The name rings true: this creation evokes Val d'Isère's spectacular sunsets, with golden and red hues reflected on snow-capped peaks. Upon tasting, Sunset sur Val offers honeyed sweetness followed by subtle spicy complexity. This cocktail is perfect after a day of skiing, when light is fading over the resort.
Sunset sur Val
Alpine-Levantine fusion. White rum, citrus, Oriental spices, house-made syrups.
Le Za'atar Sour: Bold Spice and Brilliant Acidity
For those who love bold creations, Le Za'atar Sour redefines what a classic sour means. Beginning with premium whiskey, this cocktail incorporates freshly pressed lemon juice, egg white for creamy foam, and the true differentiator: a trace of house-made za'atar syrup. A subtle finish of sumac powder sprinkled creates a spectacular presentation.
This cocktail isn't for the timid. Za'atar's spicy and herbal notes pair with lemon's brilliant acidity and whiskey's complexity, creating a three-dimensional flavor explosion. The egg white's white foam gently softens the ensemble, creating silky texture. Le Za'atar Sour is a favorite among cocktail aficionados, those seeking the authentic and audacious.
Le Za'atar Sour
Audacious spiced creation. Whiskey, fresh lemon, egg white, za'atar syrup.
Golden Pomegranate: The Ruby Gold of Levantine
Golden Pomegranate is a reimagined classic, a modern take on a timeless theme. Using premium cognac, artisanal pomegranate cordial, fresh lemon juice, and a trace of pistachio-infused honey, this cocktail offers notable gustatory richness. Served in a coupe, it's garnished with a gelled pomegranate pearl and a slice of edible gold.
The first sip reveals depth: cognac brings noble warmth, pomegranate luxurious fruit, pistachio honey an unprecedented creamy sweetness. Each element plays a role in a harmonious whole. It's the ideal cocktail for exceptional dinners, for marking a moment, for creating memory. Golden Pomegranate transforms simple ingredients into liquid gold.
Golden Pomegranate
Gustatory excellence. Cognac, pomegranate, fresh lemon, pistachio honey.
The Mixologist's Art at IMA
Creating an excellent cocktail is art and science. At IMA, our mixologist team has not only studied classic mixology techniques; they've internalized and transformed them. Every creation begins with deep ingredient understanding, respect for traditions, and willingness to push boundaries.
Our mixologists spend hours developing syrups, infusions, and house-made tinctures. Pomegranate syrup isn't purchased; it's prepared from fresh pomegranates, reduced with sugar and delicately spiced. Orange blossom syrup is infused in-house, capturing light, perfumed floral essence. Za'atar syrup is created by combining authentic herbs with sugar, forming a spiced base for our most audacious creations.
Presentation is also a key element. Each cocktail is served with intention: the garnish is never random, but carefully chosen to complement flavors, add visual depth, and create an Instagram-worthy moment. From aromatic sugar crystals to edible flowers, from citrus spirals to delicate sauce trails, every detail matters.
But what truly distinguishes IMA's mixologists is their commitment to continuous learning. They participate in mixology competitions, visit the world's best bars, and return to IMA with new inspiration, new techniques, and renewed passion for their craft. This dedication reflects in every glass.
The Bar, Beating Heart of IMA
IMA's bar is not merely a counter where drinks are served. It's a theater, a stage where mixologists perform their art before a captive audience. The atmosphere around the bar is energetic, sophisticated, and welcoming. From 7 PM, the bar welcomes aperitif clients, offering gentle transition from meal to relaxation.
As evening progresses, typically from 10 PM-11 PM, the bar's atmosphere transforms progressively. The restaurant yields to the club; lighting dims, music intensifies, and energy becomes palpable. The bar becomes a social anchor, a meeting point for exchanges. Already remarkable cocktails take on new dimensions under dimmed lights and pulsing music.
IMA's bar architecture facilitates this transition. The bar counter, clad in marble and copper, offers direct view of cocktail preparation. Bar seating, comfortable and elegant, allows easy interaction with mixologists. Clients can observe techniques, ask questions, and learn. It's immersion learning, made possible by our team's openness and expertise.
Cocktails are never rushed. Even during peak periods, each drink is prepared with care. Mixologists know quality cannot be compromised, and clients deserve particular attention. They remember each person's preferences, adjust recipes for individual taste, and sometimes create custom cocktails on request.
When to Taste Our Cocktails
IMA operates from 7 PM to 4 AM, 7 days a week, offering multiple occasions to savor our cocktails. Each moment in the evening offers unique experience, adapted to your preferences and mood.
7 PM-9 PM: The Sophisticated Aperitif
These hours are ideal for a quiet aperitif before dinner. The restaurant shines, atmosphere is refined yet relaxed, and cocktails perfectly complement unhurried conversation. This is the ideal moment to discover Rose du Levant or Le Beyrouth, creations that don't demand intense energy but charm with sophistication.
9 PM-11 PM: Dinner & Dine
During the main meal, our cocktails become culinary companions. Some clients choose a different creation for each course, others remain loyal to one favorite throughout dinner. Sunset sur Val works particularly well with mezze and lighter dishes, while Golden Pomegranate perfectly complements richer plates.
11 PM-4 AM: The Club Comes Alive
Once night is well established, the bar becomes an attraction center. Music intensifies, energy builds, and cocktails become celebration accessories. Le Za'atar Sour, with its bold profile, shines particularly during these hours. Clients return for a second glass, then a third, progressively exploring our menu.
Happy Hour & Specialty Cocktails
Check our website or call for happy hour hours and specialty cocktails. Our mixologists regularly create ephemeral cocktails, available only for a few weeks, taking advantage of seasonal ingredients and current inspiration. These limited creations add excitement and exclusivity to your visit.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signature ingredients in IMA's cocktails?
IMA's cocktails celebrate Levantine flavors with signature ingredients: fresh pomegranate and pomegranate syrup, orange blossom and rose water, candied citrus (lemon and orange), za'atar and sumac for spicy finishes, cardamom, and Mediterranean herbs like fresh mint. These ingredients, typically used in cuisine, transform at IMA into key elements of revolutionary mixology, pairing with premium spirits to create unique and memorable cocktails.
When can you taste IMA's cocktails?
IMA's cocktails are served throughout the evening, from 7 PM to 4 AM, 7 days a week. The aperitif period (7 PM-9 PM) offers a refined and relaxed atmosphere, ideal for discovering our creations in a calm setting. From 10 PM-11 PM onwards, the atmosphere gradually transforms and the bar becomes the vibrant heart of the club. Check our website or call for current specialty cocktails and happy hour offerings.
Are IMA's cocktails suitable for all tastes?
Absolutely. Our cocktails cover a wide spectrum of flavors: Rose du Levant offers delicate floral and fruity notes, perfect for those who prefer a sophisticated approach. Le Beyrouth balances floral and fruity with a spicy touch. Sunset sur Val brings honeyed sweetness. Le Za'atar Sour explores bold spice. Golden Pomegranate delves into luxurious richness. Everyone will find a creation matching their palate, and our mixologists are always ready to propose personalized adaptations.