Recipes 337

Equal parts sweet and tart, strawberries herald the arrival of spring and summer, with this year’s crop in Georgia being particularly delectable. As they make their way into various food menus, bartenders are also making the most of these flavorful fruits, creating cocktails that embody the essence of fresh strawberries.

Salted Strawberry Negroni at Kimball House

In the Salted Strawberry Negroni, bartender Miles Macquarrie crafts a unique cocktail using a homemade strawberry cordial paired with a citrusy olive brine. The local Murrell’s Row Tulsi gin complements the strawberries beautifully, while Barolo Chinato enhances the drink’s jammy notes. This cocktail is perfect for sipping while enjoying the expansive patio at Kimball House, surrounded by lush greenery.

Location: Kimball House, 303 E. Howard Ave., Decatur. Phone: 404-378-3502

Petals & Juniper at O-Ku

Inspired by cherry blossoms, O-Ku’s Petals & Juniper features a clarified drink made with strawberry-infused Roku gin, dry vermouth, and black sakura tea syrup. It offers a savory and floral profile with subtle strawberry hints, perfectly complementing O-Ku’s celebrated sushi offerings.

Location: O-Ku, 1085 Howell Mill Road, Atlanta. Phone: 404-500-2383

Gambit and Rouge at Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours

Bartender Derek Fulbright gives a spring twist to the classic Vieux Carre in his Gambit and Rouge cocktail. This drink combines cognac, rye whiskey, and vermouth with a house-made strawberry-pepper syrup and bitters, showcasing a savory-sweet depth.

Location: Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours, 1133 Huff Road NW, Atlanta. Phone: 404-350-5500

Strawberry Fields Negroni at Palo Santo

Palo Santo’s Strawberry Fields Negroni takes a fresh approach by using strawberry-infused gin, complemented by fennel liqueur for a vegetal roundness. This cocktail reimagines a classic while embracing the flavors of the season.

Location: Palo Santo, 955 W. Marietta St. NW, Atlanta. Phone: 678-944-8783

Bad Gurls Klub at Little Bear

Jarrett Stieber, the chef and owner of Little Bear, creates a frothy, shaken drink called Bad Gurls Klub, incorporating ripe strawberries and honeysuckle into a coconut gin base. This cocktail exemplifies the magic of local strawberries this season.

Location: Little Bear, 71 Georgia Ave. SE, Atlanta. Phone: 404-500-5396

Red at Burle’s Bar

At Burle’s Bar, the seasonal menu includes the Red cocktail, bursting with berry flavor through a combination of Old Fourth vodka, Japanese shochu, and whisky, alongside strawberries, raspberries, and ginseng, creating an intriguing and complex drink.

Location: Burle’s Bar, 505 N. Angier Ave. NE, Atlanta.

Strawberry Fields at Minhwa Spirits

At Minhwa Spirits, the Strawberry Fields cocktail features the distillery’s signature soju, lemon and lime juices, and white peach tea topped with basil foam. This drink captures fresh strawberry aromas and presents a perfect balance of garden flavors.

Location: Minhwa Spirits, 2421 Van Fleet Circle, Doraville. Phone: 470-391-2840

Elevated Mule at Tesserae

Transforming the classic mule, Tesserae uses Vida mezcal to create an elevated version infused with strawberry flavor and combined with a strawberry-coriander syrup, ginger beer, and lime juice, offering a delightful beverage with rooftop views.

Location: Tesserae at Thompson Atlanta-Buckhead, 415 E. Paces Ferry Road NE, Atlanta. Phone: 470-600-3500

Seville Sunset at Gypsy Kitchen

As spritz season arrives, Gypsy Kitchen introduces the Seville Sunset, blending Bare Bone vodka with strawberry liqueur, lemon juice, and sparkling water to create a refreshing and sweet cocktail ideal for warmer days.

Location: Gypsy Kitchen, 3035 Peachtree Road NE, Atlanta. Phone: 404-939-9840

With such a variety of cocktails showcasing the season’s fresh strawberries, these bars and restaurants are making it easy to enjoy the first blush of summer in Atlanta.

Sitting down at a bar today is more like stepping onto a stage, where cocktails are crafted to be eye-catching and memorable. Drinks are no longer just beverages but elaborate experiences filled with vibrant colors, impressive glassware, and evocative garnishes. This trend has been driven by social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok, where patrons eagerly share their visually stunning drinks.

Here are five standout cocktails that not only satiate your thirst but also promise a captivating presentation.

Black Widow at On St. Elmo

The Black Widow ($16) resembles a potion straight from a witch’s cauldron, with dry ice bubbling away in a lilac-hued concoction made from Empress 1908 gin, lavender syrup, and lemon juice. Served in a coupe glass adorned with a lemon peel, this cocktail provides both visual and sensory delight. Sarah Rehman, co-owner of On St. Elmo, emphasizes that the drink offers an immersive experience. Other noteworthy options include the Cotton Candy Sparkling Rosé, which features a cloud of edible glittery cotton candy that dissolves into pink sparkling rosé.

On St. Elmo, onstelmo.com

Indigo Smoke Show at Turncoat

The Indigo Smoke Show ($22) captivates with its striking indigo color, crafted using Conniption Kinship gin, dry vermouth, and lemon juice. It features a large ice cube made from butterfly pea flower tea that changes color as it melts. The cocktail is presented under a cloche filled with smoking cherry wood chips, adding an aromatic touch to this already dramatic drink. Mel Woodham, the marketing manager for Common Plate Hospitality, notes that their focus this year is on creating memorable experiences through cocktail presentations.

Turncoat, theturncoatbar.com

The Perfect Storm at The Salt Line

The Perfect Storm ($30) is a brunch cocktail served in a ceramic tiki glass shaped like a lobster, showcasing a bloody mary enhanced with a double shot of vodka. It’s garnished with an extravagant array including a cocktail shrimp, oyster, crab claw, and a skewer of pickles and olives, resembling a mini raw bar platter. This towering cocktail can be specially requested any time if the ingredients are available.

The Salt Line, thesaltline.com

Brazilian Zombie at Hip Flask

Hip Flask offers the Brazilian Zombie ($15), a fan-favorite cocktail featuring fresh grapefruit juice, lime juice, cinnamon syrup, spiced rum, and cachaça. Served in a tiki glass, it’s garnished with a flaming cinnamon stick, creating a buzz among patrons who love capturing its spectacle on social media.

Hip Flask Rooftop Bar, hipflaskrooftop.com

Inflation at Gyuzo Japanese BBQ

Inflation ($13) at Gyuzo Japanese BBQ features house-infused matcha lemongrass gin, yogurt, lemon, and sake, with a unique twist—a burning replica of a $100 bill made of rice paper. This cocktail exemplifies Gyuzo’s commitment to eye-catching presentations, designed to entertain while also tantalizing the palate.

Gyuzo Japanese BBQ, gyuzobbq.com

For those looking to recreate the Brazilian Zombie at home, here’s a simple recipe to try:

Brazilian Zombie Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice
• 1 oz cachaça
• ¾ oz fresh lime juice
• ½ oz cinnamon syrup
• ½ oz spiced rum

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
3. Pour into a tiki glass filled with cubed ice and serve.

These cocktails reflect the growing trend of experiential drinking, elevating the cocktail culture in Bethesda’s vibrant bar scene.

The Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail is set to host an exciting new event called "Wine with a Twist" from May 2 to May 4. This event invites visitors to explore nearly 20 wineries nestled between Lake Michigan and West Grand Traverse Bay, right along the 45th Parallel, known for its distinct wine offerings.

During the event, participants can indulge in a unique tasting experience that pairs traditional wine pours with creative craft cocktails. Open from noon to 5 p.m. each day, wineries will offer various wine-based cocktails, from bubbly sangrias to rosé spritzers and bold red wine margaritas.

Tickets for the event are priced at $35 per person, which includes a tasting at each participating winery and $10 in "Cork Cash" that can be used for bottle purchases. For those wishing to attend only on Sunday, a reduced ticket price of $25 is available, including $5 in Cork Cash.

Andie Hobbins, managing director of the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail, emphasizes the importance of having fun and pushing the boundaries of traditional wine tasting. The event promises to be a delightful weekend adventure for both wine enthusiasts and casual explorers. Attendees are encouraged to gather their friends, plan their stay, and prepare to enjoy a fresh take on the region’s acclaimed wines.

For additional details and to purchase tickets, visit the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail’s website.

The Kentucky Derby is fast approaching, scheduled for Saturday, May 3. To help fans celebrate the event, TODAY’s hosts Craig Melvin, Al Roker, and Dylan Dreyer have introduced two delicious cocktails that viewers can enjoy while watching the race.

The first is the classic Woodford Reserve Bourbon Mint Julep, a favorite among Derby attendees, which offers a refreshing blend of bourbon, mint, and sugar. The second cocktail is the Woodford Reserve Spire, providing a unique twist for those looking to try something different. These drinks are sure to enhance the festive atmosphere of one of horse racing’s most prestigious events.

Spring is a season of vibrant blooms and fresh fruits, making it the ideal time to enjoy refreshing cocktails that embody the essence of the season. With an array of bright and bold flavors to explore, here are ten must-try spring cocktails that are perfect for any occasion.

Gin Raspberry Lemonade

This cocktail is an invigorating treat for lemonade lovers. The gin raspberry lemonade combines the zesty flavor of lemon with Limoncello, simple syrup, and raspberries, creating a delightful drink that captures the spirit of spring.

Here is the full recipe.

French 75 Cocktail

A classic Champagne cocktail, the French 75 features gin or cognac, simple syrup, lemon juice, and sparkling wine. It’s a celebratory drink that’s perfect for spring gatherings.

Here is the full recipe.

Cucumber Elderflower Gimlet

This elegant twist on the classic gimlet brings together fresh cucumber, sweet elderflower liqueur, and tangy lime juice, along with gin, making it a delightful choice for spring.

Here is the full recipe.

Gin Blood Orange Cocktail

Experience the seasonal flavors with this gin blood orange cocktail. It blends gin with blood orange, spices, rosemary, and prosecco, creating a fragrant and refreshing drink.

Here is the full recipe.

Rhubarb Mint Margarita with Jalapeño Tequila

This cocktail uniquely balances the sweet and tangy rhubarb mint syrup with spicy jalapeño-infused tequila, offering a refreshing twist on the classic margarita.

Here is the full recipe.

Frozen Strawberry Margaritas

For those who prefer frozen drinks, these margaritas made with all-natural ingredients and frozen strawberries are easy to whip up in just ten minutes.

Here is the full recipe.

Blueberry Mojito

This fresh take on the classic mojito incorporates blueberries, white rum, coconut milk, lime, and sparkling water, making it a refreshing and fruity option.

Here is the full recipe.

Strawberry Champagne Mojito

Nothing screams spring quite like a strawberry cocktail. This bubbly drink combines strawberries with mint and champagne for a festive touch, suitable for any occasion.

Here is the full recipe.

Hibiscus Paloma Punch

Bright and floral, this punch features hibiscus, grapefruit, and sparkling rosé. It’s a gorgeous drink that works beautifully for spring celebrations and transitions seamlessly into summer.

Here is the full recipe.

Gin Daisy

With a blend of herbal and floral gin, orange liqueur, and grenadine topped with soda water, the gin daisy is a simple yet delightful cocktail that embodies the fresh flavors of spring.

Here is the full recipe.

These cocktails not only showcase seasonal ingredients but also offer a refreshing way to enjoy the springtime. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying some downtime, these drinks are sure to elevate your experience. Happy spring sipping!

It’s becoming increasingly common to encounter menus at bars and restaurants filled with agave-based cocktails, extending beyond just traditional margaritas to a diverse range that includes mezcal. No longer confined to Mexican establishments, these drinks have taken over the cocktail scene.

The Transformation of Tequila

Tequila, once viewed as the rowdy party drink of choice, has evolved significantly. Once a staple for college celebrations, it is now appreciated for its complex flavors and quality, often showcased in tasting flights and lavish venues. Tequila is no longer just a shooter; it has transformed into a luxury item that celebrities endorse, mixologists celebrate, and consumers gladly savor.

Understanding Agave

Agave plants, common to the arid regions of the Americas, are essential for producing tequila, which has roots dating back to Aztec traditions. Early forms of this spirit, like pulque, were utilized long before the advent of modern distillation techniques. The first tequila factory was established in the 1600s in Tequila, Jalisco, and officially began adhering to stringent production rules in 1974, which stipulate that it must be made in Jalisco from blue Weber agave.

Agave vs. Mezcal

While tequila is strictly regulated, mezcal is more versatile, made from a wide variety of agave plants. This variability contributes to its complex flavor, typified by a smoky aroma distinct from tequila’s sweetness. In contrast, lesser-known agave spirits like raicilla, sotol, and bacanora offer intriguing alternatives, though they remain less accessible outside Mexico.

As Cinco de Mayo approaches, Long Island boasts many establishments that expertly craft tequila and mezcal cocktails, from timeless classics to innovative creations.

Notable Places for Agave Cocktails

Besito: Classic Margarita

Located at 402 New York Ave., Huntington, Besito offers an authentic taste of Mexican cuisine alongside its traditional margaritas, renowned for their freshness. More information can be found at besitomexican.com.

T-Bar: Jalapeño-Cucumber Margarita

T-Bar, a chic venue at 1363 Old Northern Blvd, Roslyn, combines a vibrant atmosphere with a daily happy hour and a variety of margaritas, perfectly suited for any palate. Visit tbar.li for more details.

Ixchel Mexican: Cielo

At 130 Old Town Rd, Setauket-East Setauket, Ixchel offers a unique cocktail experience with options inspired by Mayan culture, including the refreshing Cielo cocktail. Check out ixchelmexicancuisine.com for their full menu.

The Green Door: Smoked Pineapple Mule

This upscale cocktail bar at 121 N. Wellwood Ave., Lindenhurst, is known for its inventive drinks, including the Smoked Pineapple Mule, which can be customized with mezcal. More information is available at thegreendoorlindenhurst.com.

Ruta Oaxaca: Tequila and Mezcal Flights

With locations in Patchogue and Woodbury, Ruta Oaxaca features an extensive selection of over 150 tequilas and 175 mezcals, offering educational flights and creative cocktails. Learn more at rutaoaxacamex.com.

Long Island’s cocktail scene is thriving with agave-based options that elevate the drinking experience, showcasing both tradition and innovation.

Nearly 100 bars in Center City will be participating in the return of Center City Sips, offering happy hour specials beginning June 4 and running every Wednesday through August 27. Throughout this season, from 5-7 p.m., patrons can enjoy $7 cocktails, $6 wines, and $5 beers at participating locations, along with half-price appetizers.

The lineup includes various offerings, with many establishments expected to announce their Sips menus closer to the start date. Customers can look forward to deals on seasonal drafts and popular selections such as rosé and margaritas. Notable options include $7 oysters and croquettes at Harper’s Garden, $6 "personal nachos" at Cavanaugh’s, and $10 select pies at Pizzeria Vetri.

To celebrate its 21st season, Center City Sips will kick off with a birthday party on May 21 at Dilworth Park, featuring an early 2000s theme. Admission is free, but guests can purchase ticketed upgrades for more perks.

For further information, visit the official Center City Sips page here.

This collection features 19 refreshing cocktails, each showcasing Cointreau in unique ways. From the classic Corpse Reviver No. 2, which replaces Lillet with Cocchi Americano for a zesty twist, to the Cointreau Spritz, a simple mix of sparkling wine, Cointreau, fresh orange juice, and club soda, ideal for brunch.

Among the highlights are:

• Sangria: Steeping the mix for at least an hour allows the fruit to boost flavor.

• Frozen Margarita: A customizable blend perfect for hot days, just add your favorite frozen fruits.

• Whiskey Daisy: A twist on the whiskey sour that substitutes simple syrup with Cointreau, enhancing sweetness.

• Mai Tai: This tropical delight promises fun and refreshment, perfect with just a brief shake.

• Blackberry Margarita: Combines fresh lime juice and orange liqueur with muddled blackberries for a fruity flavor.

• Classic Margarita: Stresses the importance of quality triple sec for a balanced drink.

For full recipes and more engaging cocktail ideas, visit Epicurious.

Toast to Mother’s Day with delightful cocktails featuring liqueurs that capture the spirit of spring. These refreshing drinks are easy to prepare, low in alcohol, and perfect for any gathering during this special celebration.

Juliette Liqueur

Originating from southwest France, Juliette Liqueur is an artisanal peach-flavored liqueur made from heirloom peaches harvested specifically in July. The Juliette Signature Cocktail combines one ounce of this liqueur with five ounces of Brut Champagne for a rosy glow.

St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur

This elegant French liqueur, made from fresh elderflowers, offers a delicate floral flavor. The St-Germain Spritz incorporates 1.5 ounces of St-Germain, two ounces of Prosecco, and two ounces of soda water, garnished with a twist of lemon peel for a refreshing finish.

Gabriel Boudier Creme de Cassis

Produced in Dijon, France, this blackcurrant liqueur adds a sweet berry flavor and a stunning color to drinks. A classic Kir Royale mixes it with Champagne, or you can use Prosecco or Cava for a more budget-friendly option.

Italicus Calabrian Liqueur

Dubbed "The Drink of Kings," Italicus is a clear, complex bergamot liqueur. An Italicus Spritz can be enjoyed by mixing one part Italicus with two parts Prosecco, garnished with green olives.

Savoia Americano Rosso

Crafted in Turin, Italy, Savoia Americano offers a bittersweet profile with a complex herbal character. The Savoia Spritz consists of equal parts Savoia and dry Prosecco, garnished with grapes for a refreshing touch.

Disaronno Originale

Celebrating its 500th anniversary, Disaronno is a sweet almond amaretto liqueur known for its smooth taste. The Disaronno Fizz combines 1.5 ounces of Disaronno with sparkling water and a squeeze of lemon, served over ice.

Pallini Limoncello

Hailing from Amalfi, Pallini Limoncello is made from hand-picked lemons. The Pallini Spritz combines two parts Limoncello with three parts Prosecco and sparkling water, garnished with an orange or lemon slice.

Alternatives for Stronger Cocktails

For moms preferring something with a bit more punch, options include G.D. Vajra Barolo Chinato, an aromatic wine infused with spices, or Pio Cesare Vermouth, known for its aromatic and herbaceous qualities.

With these unique liqueurs and cocktail recipes, make this Mother’s Day a memorable occasion for the special moms in your life. Cheers!

Crafting the perfect cocktail for Mother’s Day can elevate the occasion, making it festive and memorable. Here are some delightful liqueurs that can transform your celebrations into something extraordinary, offering fresh and vibrant drinks that are both low in alcohol and easy to enjoy.

Juliette Liqueur

Produced in small batches in southwest France using heirloom peaches harvested in July, Juliette Liqueur adds a touch of sweetness to cocktails. The Juliette Signature Cocktail, combining one ounce of this liqueur with five ounces of Brut Champagne, creates a beautiful rose-colored drink.

St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur

This French liqueur, made with handpicked elderflowers, offers a floral aroma and exquisite taste. The St-Germain Spritz, combining 1-½ ounces of St-Germain with two ounces of Prosecco and soda water, garnished with lemon peel, is both refreshing and elegant.

Gabriel Boudier Creme de Cassis

Hailing from Dijon, France, this blackcurrant liqueur lends a rich berry flavor to cocktails. The Kir Royale mixes this liqueur with champagne, while a still wine variant is simply called a Kir.

Italicus

Reviving the traditional Rosolio category, Italicus is a clear bergamot liqueur with complex citrus notes. The Italicus Spritz, made with one part Italicus and two parts Prosecco, garnished with green olives, is a refreshing choice.

SAVOIA Americano Rosso

Crafted in Turin, this bittersweet liqueur infuses cocktails with a rich flavor. The Savoia Spritz, made with equal parts of Savoia Americano Rosso and dry Prosecco, offers a vibrant ruby red hue.

Disaronno Originale

This sweet amaretto liqueur celebrates its 500th anniversary and is cherished globally. The Disaronno Fizz, combining 1.5 ounces of Disaronno with five ounces of sparkling water and fresh lemon juice, makes for a delightful drink.

Disaronno Velvet

For those who enjoy a smoother taste, Disaronno Velvet combines well with coconut water in the Disaronno Velvet Batida, delivering a refreshing snow-white cocktail perfect for warm weather.

Pallini Limoncello

Crafted from hand-picked Amalfi lemons, this liqueur is both natural and refreshing. The Pallini Spritz combines two parts Limoncello with three parts Prosecco and a splash of sparkling water for a bright lemon-yellow drink.

Alternatives for Stronger Tastes

For mothers who prefer bold flavors, consider:

• G.D. Vajra Barolo Chinato, an aromatized wine perfect for sipping.
• Pio Cesare Vermouth, an aromatic wine from Piedmont, Italy, ideal for sipping with lemon zest.

These liqueurs and cocktail recipes create a delightful way to toast your special day together, ensuring that every sip is as memorable as the moments shared.