In its heyday, the Pump Room charged 50 cents for most cocktails. Among them, the Manhattan reigned as the archetypal short mixed drink - one that was typically improved by the use of ordinary whiskey, rather than the gentler, smoother varieties. It was originally made with rye, a harsh spirit that has generally fallen from favor, but which shows some signs of returning. These days, most recipes call for using blended or Canadian whisky.