Recipes 281

Thanksgiving is more than just a day of indulging in turkey and sides; it’s also an occasion for festive cocktails. If you’re looking to elevate your Thanksgiving dinner, here are some delightful cocktail recipes designed for both sipping prior to and during your meal.

1. Hot Caramel-Popcorn Bourbon Apple Cider

Thanksgiving wouldn’t be complete without spiked cider. This recipe enhances the classic drink by infusing it with bourbon that’s been mixed with caramel popcorn. The final touch includes a pat of butter for a rich, buttery finish.Get Recipe

2. Into the Woods

For those preferring a chilled drink, this holiday cocktail combines bourbon, ginger beer, and hard cider, served over ice with a splash of lemon.Get Recipe

3. Everything Nice (Spiced-Rum Coffee With Butterscotch Whipped Cream)

Revive your spirits post-feast with this spiked coffee featuring rum and a smooth homemade butterscotch whipped cream, providing a comforting boost.Get Recipe

4. Old Fashioned Cocktails

Prepare this classic cocktail in batches to save time on Thanksgiving. Just combine whiskey, simple syrup, bitters, and a touch of water to compensate for the ice dilution.Get Recipe

5. Brown-Butter Old Fashioned

Upgrade your Old Fashioned by fat-washing the bourbon with browned butter to add a toasty richness.Get Recipe

6. Old Timber (Rye Cocktail With Fernet)

This robust cocktail blends rye with fernet and triple sec, providing a warm, aromatic experience perfect for fall gatherings.Get Recipe

7. Drunk Uncle (Scotch and Cynar Cocktail)

This savory twist on the Boulevardier uses peaty Islay Scotch and Cynar, a bitter liqueur, creating a unique flavor profile perfect for the holiday.Get Recipe

8. Tangy Cranberry–Black Pepper Shrub Cocktail

A lighter option, this cocktail is made with sparkling wine, flavored with a homemade cranberry-black pepper shrub for a refreshing taste.Get Recipe

9. A Minnesota Good-Bye (Cranberry French 75)

This twist features a cranberry cordial, gin, and pink grapefruit juice topped with sparkling wine, creating a festive and fruity drink.Get Recipe

10. Sweater Weather Punch (Scotch and Cranberry Cocktail)

This big-batch cocktail combines cranberry juice with Scotch and marmalade syrup to produce a tart yet smooth drink, perfect for large gatherings.Get Recipe

11. Cranberry in a Can (Batched Rye-Cranberry Shrub Cocktail)

Prepare this simple cocktail ahead of time with a cinnamon-spiced cranberry mixer that can be quickly converted into a delicious drink.Get Recipe

12. Make-Ahead Fig and Cinnamon Punch

This rum punch recipe features dried figs and Madeira, allowing for an easy, make-ahead drink that will impress your guests.Get Recipe

These cocktails are sure to bring festive cheer to your Thanksgiving table, making your holiday gathering one to remember.

Here is the latest in dining news across San Diego County, featuring several pop-up events and special offerings for the holiday season.

Blitzen’s Bar at Omni La Costa Resort & Spa: This year, the resort has transformed its bar into a festive pop-up filled with holiday decorations. Guests can enjoy themed cocktails like an espresso martini and a vodka spritz while participating in gingerbread house-making workshops and movie nights. The Blitzen’s Bar experience runs from now through January 9. More details can be found here.

Ugly Sweater Christmas Pop-Up at Punch Bowl Social: This holiday pop-up, in collaboration with the Ugly Christmas Sweater Shop, features a festive cocktail menu and karaoke nights every Friday. Limited edition holiday cocktails come with a significant discount. The pop-up is available until December 28. Visit Punch Bowl Social for more information.

Miracle and Sippin’ Santa at Coastal Saloon: Located in Mission Beach, Coastal Saloon brings back its two pop-up bars. Guests can indulge in festive cocktails and purchase unique holiday mugs until December 31. More information can be found here.

Cellar Hand Orchard to Table Event: This special tasting event allows guests to sample various locally made ciders and meet their makers. Flights are available for a reasonable price, and the event is set for Saturday. Make a reservation at Cellar Hand.

Mama’s Pies Thanksgiving Bake Sale: In its 21st year, Mama’s Kitchen’s pie sale aims to provide holiday meals to clients in need. Each purchased pie helps contribute to these meals, with options like pumpkin and apple available for $35. Orders must be made before November 21, and details can be found at Mama’s Pies.

Switzerland Dinner at Mingei International Museum: As part of the Artifact at Night dinner series, enjoy a four-course meal highlighting Swiss cuisine, designed by Urban Kitchen Group. The event is scheduled for Thursday evening. Reservations and more details can be found here.

Wine Pairing Dinner: Held by Lucien and Robert Sinskey Vineyards, this communal dinner features a six-course menu crafted from local seafood and produce, paired with exquisite wines. This culinary experience is happening soon. For more information, visit Lucien.

Friendsgiving with a Latin Flair at The Bower: Celebrate at Coronado’s rooftop restaurant Dive, where a special holiday menu will be available featuring traditional holiday elements with a Latin twist. This offering runs until November 29. More details can be accessed at The Bower.

Bodega Kitchen and Cocktails, a beloved Caribbean-themed restaurant in Sacramento’s Pocket/Greenhaven neighborhood, is set to close its doors on Saturday night. The announcement was made via an emotional post on Instagram, where the restaurant expressed gratitude for the community’s support, stating, "It is with heavy hearts that we have to announce that our dear Bodega is closing its doors on Saturday night."

The closure marks the end of a brief but impactful journey for Bodega, which aimed to bring the vibrant flavors and culture of the Caribbean to the local community. Co-owners Rafael Jimenez Rivera and Chris Sinclair opened the restaurant with a mission to celebrate the diverse food traditions they cherished while growing up.

Located at 6401 Riverside Boulevard, Bodega featured a rich menu that included ceviche, Cuban sandwiches, Jamaican jerk chicken wings, and pan-fried prawns. For Rivera, who had previously organized Puerto Rican pop-ups, opening Bodega fulfilled his dream of establishing a neighborhood spot that highlighted Caribbean cuisine and fostered community connections.

As they prepare for their final night, the team at Bodega invites patrons to join them for one last taste of their culinary offerings, closing a chapter for a restaurant that brought a unique dining experience to the region.

For more details, visit Bodega Kitchen’s official website.

Kylie Jenner and her best friend, Anastasia Karanikolaou, celebrated Kendall Jenner’s 30th birthday on a tropical island, which turned into a memorable getaway filled with fun and cocktails. In a vlog posted by Karanikolaou, viewers catch a glimpse of their sun-soaked adventure where they indulged in various foods and exotic drinks.

The highlight of the trip seemed to be a signature cocktail known as Coco Loco, made from coconut water, tequila, gin, rum, lime, and vodka. However, the drink didn’t sit well with Karanikolaou, who struggled to keep a straight face after tasting it, describing the flavor as nearly indistinguishable from coconut water and rum.

As they celebrated, the group, which included Kendall’s family and friends like Kris Jenner, Kim Kardashian, Khloé Kardashian, Kylie Jenner, Hailey Bieber, and Justine Skye, partook in the festivities that saw Kendall looking stunning in a geometric print skirt and halter top. Kim even shared her own snapshots from the festivities on Instagram, showcasing a vibrant party atmosphere complete with fireworks, tasty treats, shots of her 818 Tequila, and a fantastic vintage-themed birthday cake.

Kendall turned 30 on November 3, and the celebration exemplified a joyous outing marked by laughter and unforgettable moments.

For more insights on the celebration, you can check out the full story on Reality Tea.

Dry January and Sober October have gained popularity as many seek to reduce alcohol consumption during the festive seasons. However, it’s worth exploring the option of moderation throughout the holiday season itself. Traditional choices often lie between high-alcohol cocktails and mocktails, but now there’s an appealing middle ground: low ABV (Alcohol by Volume) cocktails that still provide a festive touch without the risks of high alcohol content.

Here are seven delightful low ABV cocktails to enjoy during the busy holiday celebrations:

Genji

Created at No Smoking Bar in Los Angeles, this cocktail features Nikaido Oita Mugi Shochu, Amontillado Sherry, French Sweet Vermouth, and Angostura Bitters. Ben Rojo, co-owner and bartender, describes Genji as an elegant drink with a blend of fortified wines, boasting complex flavors that enhance its low alcohol content.

Ono Spritz

At Live! By Loews Arlington, the Ono Spritz combines Ono Sake, St. Germain Elderflower, fresh lemon juice, and Fever Tree soda water. Megan Tiambing, Director of Outlets, emphasizes that this cocktail invites guests to slow down and savor their experience.

Mistletoe Spritz

Served at Bar Stilwell at Loews Kansas City Hotel, this cocktail is a festive mixture of Lyres Spritz (non-alcoholic), blood orange syrup, soda water, and Lunetta Prosecco. Bar Manager Ryan Barkalow highlights its bright flavors, perfect for comforting winter evenings.

Verde Oculto

Found at Clandestino in Chicago, Verde Oculto combines Green Chartreuse, Campari, and tonic, creating a cocktail that is balanced and refreshing, according to Gilberto Mendez, Beverage Director at Éxodo Hospitality.

Nutty Spritz

At Pen Top in New York City, the Nutty Spritz combines Disaronno, Prosecco, and Fever Tree Club Soda. Bar Manager Pierre Baysset describes it as a bubbly sip that balances nutty sweetness with elegance, making it ideal for aperitivo hour.

The Baron

Served at Circa 55 Rooftop at The Beverly Hilton, The Baron features a distinctive blend of whiskey, warm spices, and a hint of sweetness. This drink embodies the spirit of the holidays, as articulated by Ryan Patterson, Director of Sales and Marketing.

Botanical Blush

At Topside in Newport Beach, this cocktail combines Lillet Blanc, Italicus liqueur, grapefruit juice, lemon, honey, and rosemary, finished with Scarpetta Prosecco. Chef-Partner Riley Huddleston notes that its bright profile and complexity invite enjoyment without relying on high-proof spirits.

These cocktails exemplify how you can enjoy festive flavors while maintaining a moderate approach to alcohol consumption this holiday season.

In the vibrant culinary scene of Philadelphia, Mecha Noodle Bar has opened its latest location on Front Street. This expanding brand, which has grown to six states, originated from the college dorm experiences of childhood friends Rich Reyes and Tony Pham. "Mecha" translates to "mom and pop" in Vietnamese, serving as a tribute to Chef Tony Pham’s Asian-American heritage as his parents once owned a pho shop.

The menu features an array of comforting Asian dishes, including ramen, pho, baos, and dumplings, as well as a selection of drinks such as bubble teas and sakes. A unique aspect of their business model is their commitment to philanthropy; for every bowl of ramen sold, they donate fifty cents to a local charity. This initiative has led to over one million dollars being raised for charitable causes across their ten locations.

Mecha Noodle Bar
1700 North Front Street, Philadelphia, PA 19122
267-797-7577
Hours: Mon-Sat, 4pm-10pm (Sun until 9pm)

As the final season of Outlander approaches, fans are eagerly preparing for viewing parties to celebrate the conclusion of Claire and Jamie’s saga. While the exact premiere date remains unannounced, anticipation is high following the prequel series, Blood of My Blood, which kept fans entertained in the meantime.

Sam Heughan, who plays Jamie Fraser, has recently published a cocktail book, The Cocktail Diaries: A Spirited Adventure. This book is rich with cocktail recipes inspired by his travels and experiences while filming Outlander. In preparation for the watch party, Heughan shares three cocktails perfect for the occasion, complete with personal anecdotes.

Whisky Highball

This refreshing cocktail was inspired by Heughan’s trip to Japan while promoting Outlander Season 2. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 2oz (60ml) whisky (blended Scotch or Japanese whisky recommended)
• 4oz (120ml) soda water
• Lemon slice (for garnish)
• Ice (cubed)

Directions:

1. Fill a highball glass with cubed ice.
2. Add the whisky and top with soda water.
3. Stir gently to combine.
4. Garnish with a lemon slice.

Sassenach Cosmopolitan

For a twist on the classic Cosmopolitan, this recipe substitutes gin for vodka, providing a unique flavor profile:

Ingredients:

• 1½oz (45ml) Sassenach Wild Scottish Gin
• ¾oz (22.5ml) Cointreau
• ¾oz (22.5ml) cranberry juice
• ¼oz (7.5ml) cranberry syrup
• ½oz (15ml) freshly squeezed lime juice
• 2 fresh cranberries (for garnish)
• Ice (cubed)

Directions:

1. Chill a glass and set aside.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with cubed ice and add all ingredients.
3. Shake well to chill and combine.
4. Double strain into the chilled glass and garnish with cranberries.

Bee’s Knees

Particularly fitting for the final season, this cocktail ties into Claire’s role as a beekeeper.

Ingredients:

• 2oz (60ml) gin
• ¾oz (22.5ml) fresh lemon juice
• ½oz (15ml) honey syrup
• Orange twist (for garnish)
• Ice (cubed)

Directions:

1. Chill a glass and set aside.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with cubed ice.
3. Add gin, lemon juice, and honey syrup, shaking well.
4. Strain into your chilled glass and garnish with an orange twist.

With these delightful cocktails, fans are sure to elevate their Outlander watch parties, setting the right mood for the final chapter of this epic tale. For more cocktail inspirations, Heughan’s book is available where books are sold.

The complex flavor of lemongrass, reminiscent yet distinct from its lemon namesake, has made it a favorite among mixologists. While commonly used in cooking for dishes like stir-fries, lemongrass also shines in cocktails when prepared properly.

To incorporate lemongrass into your drinks, you can follow several methods:

Infuse Spirits with Lemongrass

Infusing spirits is an excellent way to add flavor without altering the cocktail’s texture. Vodka, white rum, or gin work best for this method. Simply cut the lemongrass stalks in half, slice them into inch-long pieces, and submerge them in the chosen spirit. In about 24 hours, you can start to taste mild flavors, but letting it sit for two weeks yields better results.

Create Lemongrass Syrup

Simple syrup can enhance cocktails by adding sweetness and flavor. To make lemongrass syrup, simmer two chopped stalks with equal parts sugar and water for ten minutes. This syrup can feature prominently in cocktails like a vodka gimlet or add depth to a Moscow mule.

Muddle Lemongrass

Muddling is effective with lemongrass due to its robust texture. Crushing the stalks releases their essential oils for a fresh, vibrant flavor. You can make cocktails similar to a mint julep or a mojito by replacing or combining mint with muddled lemongrass.

Use Lemongrass Tea

Preparing lemongrass tea involves boiling the stalks to extract maximum flavor. This tea can be utilized in tall, refreshing drinks like ginger coolers or a nice cocktail spritzer. It also serves well as a flavorful mocktail base when combined with other ingredients.

Garnish with Lemongrass

For a unique touch, lemongrass can be used as a garnish. Thin strips of lemongrass can add flair to your cocktail, and a whole stalk can function as a swizzle stick. To enhance flavor, bruise the stalk before using it in the drink.

By employing these techniques, lemongrass can elevate your cocktail game, introducing sophisticated, fresh flavors that are sure to impress.

Just like any other kitchen equipment, having the right bar tools can significantly enhance your cocktail-making experience. A cocktail enthusiast, who often engages in shaking, stirring, and muddling, realized that their bar tool collection was outdated—a mismatched array accumulated over the years that didn’t quite meet the mark.

However, a recent discovery of the Caraway Complete Bar Set has transformed their cocktail-making game. Launched in late October, this comprehensive nine-piece set includes a 16.9-ounce insulated cocktail shaker, muddler, wine key, strainer, bar spoon, and jigger, all designed for functionality and style. The thoughtful inclusion of a wooden storage base and a color-customizable fabric-wrapped backer brought aesthetically pleasing organization to the bar space.

Crafted from stainless steel, most tools are dishwasher-safe (excluding the wine key), ensuring ease of maintenance. The standout piece, the cocktail shaker, boasts a robust design that guarantees a secure closure, eliminating messy spills—a significant upgrade from previously used, thinner metal shakers. Additionally, its size is perfect, accommodating two cocktails at once while remaining easy to handle.

The jigger’s innovative design, featuring internal measurement markings, simplifies the process of measuring ingredients, a feature that makes it more user-friendly than traditional jiggers. The other tools—a bar spoon, muddler, and strainer—are high-quality as well, with the muddler offering an ergonomic design and dishwasher-friendly convenience.

The entire set enhances not only functionality but also the visual appeal of the bar area, with color options for the storage backer allowing personalization to fit existing decor. This arrangement promotes efficiency, giving easy access to essentials for cocktail hour without the hassle of digging through drawers.

For those looking to elevate their cocktail crafting, the Caraway Complete Bar Set is currently available for $245, reduced from the original price of $315.

• Caraway Complete Bar Set

This fall season, as the weather cools and the leaves change color, it’s the perfect time to gather with friends and family around a punch bowl. Whether you’re cozying up by a fireplace or hosting an autumnal gathering, the right beverage can enhance the mood. Here’s a selection of seven big-batch cocktails ideal for fall, featuring a mix of traditional flavors and innovative blends.

Gaelic Punch

This warm Irish punch, crafted by cocktail historian David Wondrich, showcases Irish whiskey. It incorporates classic elements like spirit, sugar, citrus, and spices, creating a comforting drink perfect for chilly evenings. For the best results, use a young Irish whiskey and pre-warm the serving bowl to maintain the drink’s temperature.

Get the Recipe

Nonalcoholic Cranberry-Pomegranate Punch

M. Carrie Allan developed this vibrant zero-proof punch, which combines cranberry and pomegranate juices with a tea-infused simple syrup. To elevate its festive spirit, top this refreshing drink with a non-alcoholic sparkling wine. For those who prefer an alcoholic version, you can easily substitute with a dry prosecco or cava.

Get the Recipe

Sparkling Cranberry-Ginger Punch

A delightful blend of tart cranberry juice and spicy ginger ale, this low-alcohol punch leverages frozen cranberries to keep it cool. You may want to have extra sparkling wine handy for guests to enjoy a top-off throughout the evening.

Get the Recipe

Sparkling Pear Punch

In this effervescent punch, chef Mashama Bailey celebrates the flavors of pear through pear brandy, pear nectar, spiced liqueur, hard cider, and fresh slices. A hint of lemon juice adds brightness, making it perfect for both fall and winter festivities. You can prepare the basic mixture a day in advance and just add the sparkling cider on the day of your event.

Get the Recipe

Pomegranate-Tequila Punch

This festive punch merges blanco tequila with pomegranate juice, ginger tea, maple syrup, and lime juice for a perfectly balanced sweet-sour taste. It can be batched up to three days before serving, making it a convenient option for holiday gatherings.

Get the Recipe

Anjou Punch

Crafted by bartender Leo Robitschek, this punch combines Cognac, pear liqueur, cinnamon, citrus juice, and Champagne. Its rich flavors and festive spirit make it an excellent choice for fall and winter celebrations, serving up to 12 people.

Get the Recipe

Cranberry Punch with Sumac

Another refreshing creation by chef Mashama Bailey, this punch features a bright base of frozen cranberries combined with sugar and tart sumac, topped off with sparkling water. The preparation is simple and produces a drink that captures the essence of seasonal flavors without the alcohol.

Get the Recipe

These large-batch cocktails not only provide variety for guests with different tastes but also set a warm and inviting tone for your fall gatherings. Happy mixing!