Recipes 352

Summer in New Jersey brings the heat, and what better way to cool off than with a delicious frozen cocktail? Here’s a guide to some of the top spots across the state where you can indulge in refreshing frozen drinks.

Rumba Cubana – Jersey City

Located at 235 Pavonia Ave, Rumba Cubana is renowned for its Cuban-style frozen cocktails. Their signature drink, the frozen daiquiri, features a burst of fresh fruit and rum. The establishment is frequently highlighted as one of the top places for frozen drinks in Jersey City.

Pier 13 – Hoboken

At 1301 Sinatra Dr N, Pier 13 is a stunning waterfront destination offering a variety of frozen cocktails, including the Pain Killer, Strawberry Daiquiri, and Frozen Marg. This spot is perfect for enjoying a drink while taking in views of the Hudson River.

The Archer – Jersey City

The Archer at 176 Newark Ave serves up "road iceys," a selection of frozen takeaway cocktails. Standout offerings include frozen palomas and negronis, as well as other creative blends like Missionary’s Downfall and Fearless Flyer.

Martell’s Tiki Bar – Point Pleasant Beach

This beachfront tiki bar, located at 308 Boardwalk, boasts a lively atmosphere ideal for summer revelry. Their Caribbean Colada and famous Tequila Sunrise, made with fresh-squeezed orange juice, are must-try options.

Palm Grill and Tiki Bar – Beach Haven

With panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean from 10 S Atlantic Ave, Palm Grill serves unique concoctions like frose and a jalapeno margarita, perfect for sipping on a sunny day.

Wet Willie’s – Atlantic City

This fun locale at 1133 Boardwalk #1a specializes in frozen drinks from their renowned machines. The menu includes goodies like White Russians and the Naked Willie, ensuring a lively experience by the beach.

Harry’s Ocean Bar and Grill – Cape May

Located at 1025 Beach Ave, Harry’s is the only oceanfront rooftop bar in Cape May. Known for its Miami Vice, which combines pina colada and strawberry daiquiri, it’s a top choice for enjoying summer drinks.

McCloone’s Pier House – Long Branch

Next to the beach at 1 Ocean Ave N, McCloone’s offers a rotating “Frozen Cocktail of the Day,” alongside a reliable favorite, Frosé, perfect for hot summer days.

Star Beach Bar – Wildwood Crest

At 402 E Rochester Ave, Star Beach Bar is a lively spot for frozen cocktails like Lava Flow and Watermelon Crush, catering to locals and tourists alike.

Asbury Ale House – Asbury Park

Known for its fun vibe at 531 Cookman Ave, Asbury Ale House serves creative frozen cocktails such as Frozen Aperol Spritz and Coco Colada, making it a vibrant stop during summer outings.

Judy and Harry’s – Asbury Park

This unique location features a giant vodka martini known as The Judy, perfect for sharing. It can also be ordered as a “BFM” (big f—ing martini), making it a fun and memorable choice.

Urie’s Waterfront – Wildwood

Situated at 588 W. Rio Grande Ave, Urie’s offers fun frozen drinks like the strawberry shortcake cocktail and Dirty Banana, perfect for a refreshing treat on a hot day.

Explore these fantastic locations to enjoy the coolest frozen cocktails this summer in New Jersey!

As summer unfolds, the excitement of social events and lively gatherings can take a toll on even the most enthusiastic party-goers. After a string of events filled with strong cocktails, I’ve found myself turning towards the refreshing idea of low-alcohol drinks.

Cocktails with a reduced alcohol by volume (ABV) are gaining traction worldwide, particularly among younger generations seeking flavorful yet less potent options. A 2023 survey highlighted that fewer adults aged 18-34 are consuming alcohol compared to previous generations, indicating a shift towards moderation in drinking habits.

Curious to explore this trend, I visited Arbor in Hayes Valley, which recently launched a low-ABV cocktail menu perfect for summer sipping. Arbor is a personal favorite, known for its delicious food and enchanting patio. The venue boasts a serene atmosphere with twinkling lights and lush greenery, offering a lovely escape from the urban hustle.

Under the guidance of Daniel Torres, the general manager, I discovered the three new low-ABV cocktails. He noted the shift in drinking culture, stating that younger people are consuming alcohol differently than before.

The first cocktail I learned to make was the Bicicletta, inspired by an Italian classic. This drink is intended for casual sipping, featuring French Sauvignon Blanc and Aperol. Torres shared that the original Bicicletta was created for those who wished to enjoy a drink without the struggle of cycling home after too many.

Next was the Strawberry Cobbler, a cocktail designed to revive sherry’s popularity. Torres mixed Amontillado sherry with a homemade strawberry and balsamic syrup, serving it over crushed ice and garnishing it with fresh basil. This cocktail quickly became my favorite, with the sherry adding depth and spice, harmonizing beautifully with the sweetness of strawberries.

The final cocktail was an Adonis, combining Bodegas Hidalgo Amontillado and Cinzano Rosso vermouth, along with orange bitters. While not my personal favorite, I appreciated its familiar flavor profile in a lighter form, allowing for enjoyable sipping without the heft of a typical old-fashioned.

Torres is also experimenting with other low-ABV variations, hinting at future cocktails like cucumber gimlets. As I savored my Strawberry Cobbler on the sunlit patio, it was clear that Arbor’s new offerings cater perfectly to those of us looking for delightful yet easygoing drink options this summer.

Whisk & Whiskey, a popular bar and bakery in Park Slope, Brooklyn, is celebrating its four-year anniversary of providing a unique blend of baked goods, cocktails, and Trinidadian-Cambodian small bites. The establishment, co-owned by Chef Secoyah Browne and Chandra Touch, originally began as dinner parties during the pandemic. It officially opened its doors in 2021, taking advantage of New York’s regulations that required food to be served with liquor.

Located at 259 4th Ave., Whisk & Whiskey quickly became a beloved community spot, attracting locals looking for a place to enjoy delicious food and reconnect with friends. Browne’s vision has always been to run a bakery, while Touch has taken the lead in bar management and event sales, making their partnership a perfect fit.

The menu includes a variety of Trinidadian specialties, such as bakes—fried dough often filled with saltfish or shark—plantains, and doubles. Touch curates a special selection of cocktails and mocktails, while Browne crafts seasonal desserts and small bites. The duo chose Park Slope for their location due to the neighborhood’s need for diverse culinary options.

Browne remarked, “The community was really ready for some additional culture, some additional spice… Trinidad is definitely underrepresented food-wise, especially in this area, as is Cambodian food.” She emphasized the similarities in ingredients between the two cuisines, showcasing cultural connections through food.

In addition to their food offerings, Whisk & Whiskey hosts various events, including Trinidadian dinner parties and film screenings, fostering a sense of community among their diverse clientele.

Throughout their journey, Browne and Touch have learned to adapt, especially in light of recent tariffs that prompted them to raise prices. They’ve communicated transparently with customers regarding these changes.

Looking ahead, the owners plan to open another location in Brooklyn, allowing them to continue sharing their passion for community, bites, and cocktails.

For more information about Whisk & Whiskey, visit their official website.

New Jersey, known as the Garden State, boasts a rich distilling history that intertwines with its agriculture. Among its notable establishments is Laird & Co, the country’s oldest distillery. Recently, state lawmakers proposed a measure for a historic distillery license that could allow Laird to serve its own products on-site in Monmouth County.

As of 2025, New Jersey is home to approximately two dozen distilleries with tasting rooms, producing a variety of spirits and craft cocktails. Some newcomers, like Wheelhouse Distilling Company and Spirit of Lambertville, are preparing for their first summer season, many offering inviting outdoor seating.

While most tasting rooms welcome guests aged 21 and older, some are pet-friendly. It’s advisable to check ahead for availability and consider arranging transportation if planning to indulge.

Notable New Jersey Distilleries

• Asbury Park Distilling
  527 Lake Ave, Asbury Park, NJ
  Known for gin, vodka, bourbon, and more, their tasting room features cocktails like “The 67.”
  Hours: Wed to Sun (varied).

• All Points West Distillery
  73 Tichenor St, Newark, NJ
  This distillery adds a modern American twist to traditional spirits like whiskey and gin.
  No walk-ins; tastings must be pre-booked.

• Bellemara Distillery
  2 Clerico Lane, Building 5, Hillsborough, NJ
  Offers grain-to-glass spirits and highly recommended tasting experiences.
  Closed Mon-Tues, hours vary on other days.

• Blue Rascal Distillery
  8 West End Ave., Hammonton, NJ
  Famous for their blueberry vodka and locally sourced spirits.
  Closed Mon-Wed, limited hours on weekends.

• Claremont Distillery
  3619 Route 94, Hamburg, NJ
  Uses local ingredients to produce a range of spirits, available for tasting by reservation.
  Open Tue-Sun with different hours.

• Colts Neck Stillhouse
  304 Route 34, Colts Neck, NJ
  Offers MuckleyEye Spirits and a seasonal cocktail menu.
  Closed Mon-Tue; open Wed-Sun.

• Dismal Harmony Distilling
  77 Morris St, Morristown, NJ
  Features a unique selection, including herb liqueurs.
  Closed Mon; hours vary through the week.

• Nauti Spirits Distillery
  916 Shunpike Road, Cape May, NJ
  Specializes in a variety of spirits with farm-to-bottle practices.
  Open daily with specified hours.

These distilleries, along with others throughout the state, enhance New Jersey’s reputational tapestry of craftsmanship and culture in spirit-making. Whether indulging in cocktails on a patio or sampling unique drinks, the state’s burgeoning distillery scene offers plenty of choices for spirit aficionados.

Cocktails for a Cause is an anticipated evening of drinks and networking hosted by the Sid Jacobson JCC’s Nikki Schwartz Memorial Community Needs Bank. Scheduled for Wednesday, June 25, from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., this event not only aims to bolster food security on Long Island but also seeks to educate attendees about the organization’s efforts.

Susan Berman, the associate executive director of community engagement at Sid Jacobson JCC, emphasizes that the night will blend fun and philanthropy, encouraging guests to make monetary and food donations to support the Needs Bank. The organization is always in need of shelf-stable, non-perishable food items to cater to the customized needs of its clients.

This marks the fourth year of Cocktails for a Cause, which originated from a suggestion to host birthday celebrations at the Needs Bank. Peter Janowsky, managing director at Ryan & Janowsky Financial Strategies Group, was one of the first to volunteer his birthday event, which gradually evolved into a larger networking gathering.

The event not only focuses on celebrating the communal spirit but also aims to break down barriers, making the Community Needs Bank more visible to locals unfamiliar with its services. Berman states, “We don’t want to be the hidden gem that we were… this networking event is a perfect example of engaging the community in a way that’s social but also educational.”

Participants will have the chance to tour the Needs Bank and witness the invaluable work being done to support the community. As Berman puts it, “We want to celebrate [Janoswky’s] birthday with this great, impactful evening and get us from being a hidden gem to being a great resource in the community.”

Summer drinks offer a refreshing escape from the heat, and this collection of cocktails ensures there’s something for everyone—whether you’re aiming for a classic vibe or a modern twist. Here are eight superb cocktail recipes to celebrate the season:

BA’s Best Piña Colada

Get transported to a tropical paradise with this creamy blend of coconut cream, fresh pineapple, light rum, and lime juice. For an extra kick, consider adding an optional float of dark rum.

Recipe: BA’s Best Piña Colada

Breakfast Martini

This cocktail whimsically suggests breakfast with its orange marmalade ingredient. A mix of gin, orange liqueur, lemon juice, and marmalade makes it perfect for any time of day.

Recipe: Breakfast Martini

Caribbean Ember

Combining dark rum, pineapple juice, and ginger beer with rye whiskey and Angostura bitters, the Caribbean Ember merges tropical flavors with an old-fashioned twist, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy complexity in their drinks.

Recipe: Caribbean Ember

Cucumber Basil Margarita

This refreshing variant on the classic margarita combines summer staples, basil and cucumber, with a touch of elderflower liqueur and blanco tequila, offering a deliciously herbaceous option.

Recipe: Cucumber Basil Margarita

Dirty Spritz

Enjoy the light, refreshing quality of a spritz without the alcohol with the Dirty Spritz. This mix uses tonic, olive brine, and a nonalcoholic aperitivo to create a delightful drink that captures the essence of summer.

Recipe: Dirty Spritz

Garibaldi Granita

This icy treat combines orange juice, Campari, and vodka, then is frozen for a delightful fluffy drink that straddles the line between cocktail and sorbet. Simply scrape to serve!

Recipe: Garibaldi Granita

Gin Gimlet

A classic cocktail, ideally made with gin, melds botanicals with lime juice and simple syrup for a refreshing experience. The simplicity of this drink is what’s truly captivating.

Recipe: Gin Gimlet

Yazoo Street Scandal

Combining bourbon, hibiscus syrup, ginger syrup, lemon juice, and cold black tea, this powerful cocktail is perfect for gatherings—simply multiply the recipe for larger crowds.

Recipe: Yazoo Street Scandal

Enjoy mixing up these cocktails this summer to make each warm evening a little more special. Whether lounging by the pool or hosting a backyard barbecue, these drinks will surely impress your guests.

More than 100 educators, parents, and community leaders gathered on June 10 at the Harbour Club for "Cocktails for a Cause," an event focused on addressing the literacy crisis in Charleston and South Carolina. With nearly two-thirds of students in the state struggling to read proficiently, the need for effective teaching methods in classrooms has become urgent. A report by the National Council on Teacher Quality indicates that teachers typically receive less than two hours of training in their preparation programs specifically for reading instruction.

The evening highlighted successful initiatives, particularly the Lowcountry Literacy Project, which trains educators in the Orton-Gillingham (OG) approach—a research-based, systematic method aligned with reading science. Featured panelists included educators and literacy leaders who shared their experiences and insights, focusing on the transformative impact of this training on student outcomes.

One poignant moment came from Christi Ascue Kershaw, who recounted her struggles in finding effective reading intervention programs for her daughter, illustrating the personal stakes involved in literacy education. Catherine Hagberg presented data showcasing the effectiveness of the OG interventions, where 97% of students at a partner school achieved their English Language Arts growth goals, with over half of those students coming from poverty-stricken backgrounds.

Lindsey Ballenger, Co-Founder and Board Chair, emphasized the importance of investing in educators to ensure that every child has the opportunity to become a confident reader, regardless of their background.

The event was moderated by Octavia Mitchell, an award-winning anchor, and also featured a trailer for an upcoming documentary that captures the essence and achievements of the Lowcountry Literacy Project. The full documentary is expected to premiere in the fall.

The Ideal Life Foundation sponsored educator tickets, prioritizing the inclusion of those closest to the grassroots literacy efforts. One of the event’s highlights was a group photo of the dedicated educators at the forefront of this movement in Charleston County.

For further information, visit the Lowcountry Literacy Project here.

In a recent wave of protests across the United States, demonstrators have voiced their concerns about various social and political issues, including immigration and police violence. Notably, protests centered around the immigration policies have gained momentum, particularly in Los Angeles. Activists have organized gatherings to rally against these policies and support affected communities, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and unity.

The protests in Los Angeles have drawn considerable attention as activists strive to create awareness and promote change. A detailed map illustrating the areas affected by the demonstrations reveals that while the protests have spread across the city, only certain neighborhoods have experienced significant activity.

This unrest is not confined to a single region; protests have occurred nationwide, with many connecting their activism to broader concerns regarding law enforcement practices and community rights. These actions highlight a growing movement among citizens determined to challenge systemic issues and advocate for justice and equality.

Amidst these protests, various figures, including politicians and activists, have spoken out, drawing significant media coverage. The situation remains dynamic, with ongoing developments and updates related to protests, public responses, and potential political ramifications.

For the latest updates on the protests, visit the following linked resources:

• ICE Protests Updates
• Map of L.A. Protests

Snively’s Lounge, a new cocktail bar located in Historic City Hall on 132 E. Superior St., officially opened its doors on June 1. The establishment is the latest addition to the Brewhouse Family, which includes notable venues like Fitger’s Brewhouse and The Oliver Inn.

The lounge occupies a spot that formerly housed Wasabi sushi restaurant, which closed down earlier this year after six years. Following Wasabi’s departure, the Brewhouse Family decided to invest in renovations rather than search for a new restaurant tenant. The area has been transformed to include cocktail seating, maintaining the vintage ambiance and enhancing the space with natural lighting from large windows. A new outdoor patio is planned to be added soon, pending new furniture.

Named after Samuel F. Snively, Duluth’s longest-serving mayor (1921-1937), the lounge has a cozy capacity of up to 45 guests. According to Brewhouse Family’s Marketing Director, Dan Grew, Snively’s Lounge provides a warmer, more casual atmosphere compared to its lower-level counterpart, The Rathskeller. It features live music on select nights from a mix of genres including jazz and folk, enhancing the lounge’s laid-back vibe.

The drink menu, crafted by manager David Thompson III, features a selection of “cocktails of the era” inspired by Duluth’s history, including options like the Edmund Fitzgerald and North Shore Mule. In addition to these creative cocktails, the menu also offers fresh-squeezed drinks, house-made botanical infusions, craft beer from Fitger’s, and non-alcoholic choices.

Snively’s Lounge will also offer a charcuterie selection from the nearby Rocket Deli, further diversifying its options for guests to enjoy pairings with their drinks.

The legacy of Mayor Snively continues to be honored through the bar’s name and its commitment to community engagement. He was instrumental in developing scenic park drives in Duluth, enhancing the city’s natural beauty and tourism appeal.

For more about Snively’s Lounge, visit Snively’s Lounge.

Now that we’re well into June, it’s officially grilling season, a warm-weather tradition closely tied to Father’s Day. As families fire up their grills, they often reach for classic beverages like beer and soda. However, cocktails can elevate the grilling experience, complementing the smoky flavors of barbecued meats superbly.

Here are ten refreshing cocktails that are not only easy to make but will also delight any father figure during the grilling season:

1. Charred Citrus Margarita

This large-format Margarita serves four, blending blanco tequila, Cointreau, fresh lime juice, and grilled citrus juices for added depth. A chili-lime salt garnish enhances the drink’s savory and smoky flavors. Get the recipe.

2. Godfather

A simple blend of blended Scotch whisky and amaretto, this cocktail has a smoky aroma that pairs wonderfully with grilled foods. Get the recipe.

3. Ranch Water

This refreshing drink from West Texas combines tequila, fresh lime juice, and sparkling water. It’s a light and simple composition that complements grilled foods. Get the recipe.

4. Stinger

A classic two-ingredient cocktail made with cognac and white crème de menthe. This refreshing drink offers a minty, light flavor while still retaining its strong alcohol content. Get the recipe.

5. Wild Gin & Tonic

A bold twist on the classic Gin & Tonic, this version incorporates Szechuan peppercorns for a spicy flavor that stands out during a cookout. Get the recipe.

6. 50/50 Martini

Combining equal parts dry vermouth and gin, this low-ABV martini is perfect for a sunny afternoon. Prepare it in advance and chill it for an extra refreshing experience. Get the recipe.

7. Jungle Bird

For a tropical twist, this cocktail features dark rum, Campari, lime juice, pineapple juice, and simple syrup, providing a balanced flavor ideal for summer barbecues. Get the recipe.

8. Coffee Old Fashioned

A modern take on the classic Old Fashioned, this recipe combines rye whiskey, coffee liqueur, and orange bitters, pairing well with rich grilled meats. Get the recipe.

9. Bloody Maria

This tequila-based variation of the Bloody Mary amplifies the savory flavors with earthy agave and citrus notes, making it a zesty option for brunch and grilling. Get the recipe.

10. Whiskey Smash

A historic cocktail combining bourbon, sugar, lemon, and fresh mint. This vibrant drink is highly versatile and can be adjusted based on seasonal ingredients. Get the recipe.

These cocktails are a fantastic way to enjoy grilling season and celebrate Father’s Day, adding a flavorful twist to your backyard gatherings.

Read the original article on Food & Wine.