A new restaurant, Second State, opening Tuesday in Washington D.C., will charge customers an additional dollar for a single ice cube added to their drink. The ice, referred to by the restaurant as a “hand-cut rock,” will only be subject to the surcharge when a drink is ordered without ice as a standard component.
A Premium on Purity
Second State, a Pennsylvania-themed restaurant located at 1831 M St. NW, is set to become the first establishment in Washington D.C. to list an ice surcharge on its cocktail menu. Most bars currently absorb the cost of ice or incorporate it into the overall drink price. However, Second State will be sourcing its ice from Favourite Ice, a local boutique ice company founded by Owen Thomson and Joseph Ambrose.
According to bar manager Phil Clark, the ice is “crystal clear” and made from purified water, eliminating any “minerally taste.” Bartenders will shape the ice by chipping off its eight corners to create a more spherical form.
Customer Reaction and Potential Impact
The decision to charge separately for ice has already drawn strong reactions. One commenter from Washington City Paper stated, “F*ck this times infinity.” It remains to be seen how this pricing strategy will be received by a wider customer base.
Other restaurants in the area could potentially follow suit, adopting similar surcharges for specialty ingredients or preparation methods. Alternatively, Second State’s approach may remain an isolated case, serving as a unique differentiator in the D.C. dining scene.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Second State open?
Second State is scheduled to open on Tuesday, October 21.
Where is Second State located?
Second State is located at 1831 M St. NW in Washington D.C.
How much will the ice cost?
Customers will be charged one dollar for each “hand-cut rock” added to their drink.
Will consumers embrace a more detailed breakdown of costs within the dining experience, or will this trend be met with continued resistance?