Recipes 358

National Margarita Day, celebrated on February 22, is the perfect occasion for cocktail enthusiasts to indulge in this popular drink, typically made with tequila, triple sec, and lime juice. The origin of the margarita is traced back to Mexico, and it remains a favorite for many celebrations.

As the day approaches, various restaurants are preparing special offerings to celebrate. Taco Cabana, known for its delicious yet affordable margaritas, will introduce a limited-time Margarita featuring Big Red starting February 21. Customers can enjoy the margarita in both single servings and larger "Margarita Yard" sizes, available for in-restaurant dining, drive-thru, or online orders through their app or website.

Chili’s is joining the festivities with its $6 Strawberry Margarita, featuring Lunazul Blanco tequila and available throughout February. For those wanting to sample multiple flavors, BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse is offering a Margarita flight, allowing patrons to try four different kinds. This includes unique options such as a Spicy Mango Margarita and a White Peach Boba-Rita, with prices ranging for larger to-go orders.

Leo’s Mexican Restaurant is also a great spot to enjoy refreshing margaritas paired with traditional Mexican dishes. Meanwhile, Chuy’s restaurant will have all-day specials that include new drink options like Spicy Watermelon Tini and Frozen Raspberry Rita, along with affordable drink upgrades for their margaritas.

Carlos and Mickey’s, known for their "Texas-sized" margaritas, invite patrons to enjoy their various flavors, making it a festive space for celebrating National Margarita Day.

Here’s a brief overview of some of the participating restaurants for National Margarita Day:

• Taco Cabana: Special Margarita with Big Red.
• Chili’s: $6 Strawberry Margarita.
• BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse: Margarita flight with different flavors.
• Leo’s Mexican Restaurant: Delicious margaritas with meals.
• Chuy’s: All-day margarita specials, including new drink options.
• Carlos and Mickey’s: Variety of flavors in Texas-sized servings.

Whether you prefer your margarita frozen or on the rocks, this day offers an excellent excuse to enjoy this festive cocktail.

Ahead of National Margarita Day, representatives from Cielo Tequila have shared some key tips for crafting this iconic cocktail at home. This advice can enhance your celebratory preparations and ensure you create a delicious margarita, whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet evening.

For more details and cocktail recipes, you can check out Cielo Tequila’s official recommendations.

Elsa’s On The Park has established itself as a popular destination for locals looking to relax and socialize. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, the venue offers an impressive cocktail menu crafted by bartender Brian Kramp. Guests visiting can enjoy a selection of specialties that not only satisfy the palate but also encourage patrons to indulge in another round while enjoying the lively people-watching experience.

Valentine’s Day can feel overwhelming for those not in a romantic state of mind. For those who prefer to celebrate their independence rather than indulge in love-themed festivities, a selection of anti-Valentine’s Day cocktails might be just the answer.

Love & Murder

At O Bar in Oklahoma City, the Love & Murder cocktail combines Campari, green chartreuse, lime, simple syrup, and salt in a martini glass. It’s a drink to toast to being single while appreciating its bitter-sweet charm.

She’s A Lady

The She’s A Lady cocktail at The Family Jones Spirit House in Denver features a spirited mix of vodka, dry vermouth, pickled carrot, and celery bitters. This bold drink offers a refreshing take on the classic Dirty Martini, ideal for those who refuse to conform to romance.

Buy Yourself Flowers

At Parker Rooftop in Vancouver, the Buy Yourself Flowers cocktail mixes Bombay Sapphire Gin with elderflower liqueur, lime, thyme, and tonic. This drink is centered around self-love and the joy of treating oneself.

Bitter Lover

In Jersey City, Bitter Lover at 143 Social is a striking combination of star anise-infused tequila and Cynar Amaro, sweetened with blood orange agave and fresh lemon. It’s a sophisticated choice for bitterness.

Jazz Age Smolder

Tell Your Friends in Scottsdale serves the Jazz Age Smolder, a cocktail that fuses rich Scotch with amaro and maple, enhanced with cinnamon and citrus smoke to create a theatrical experience.

Dragon Of The Winds

At Blu on the Hudson in New Jersey, the Dragon Of The Winds cocktail harmonizes dark rum, amaro, maple syrup, and lemon for a bittersweet yet invigorating experience.

Je T’aime, Je Ne T’aime Pas

One K Miami presents the Je T’aime, Je Ne T’aime Pas cocktail, mixing Patrón Reposado with strawberry rhubarb and grapefruit soda. It embodies the turbulent nature of love.

Black Widow

The Black Widow at Red Lantern in Foxwoods blends Kraken Black Spiced Rum with pineapple and nutmeg, a perfect choice for those looking for warmth in their cocktails.

Blues for Breakfast

At 80 Proof in Jackson Hole, the Blues for Breakfast cocktail combines Laphroaig Scotch, orange juice, and honey syrup, influenced by the legendary figures of Winston Churchill and Bob Dylan.

Strawberry Heartbreaker

Seamark Seafood in Everett presents the Strawberry Heartbreaker, a smoky margarita crafted with tequila, mezcal, strawberry, and lime—designed for independent spirits.

Boy, Bye

In Detroit, Shift Kitchen & Cocktails offers the Boy, Bye, a cocktail that champions individuality with fresh flavors of watermelon and mint, perfect for celebrating one’s own company.

Bitter Hearts

Morimoto Asia in Disney Springs has the Bitter Hearts, featuring a blend of gin, shōchū, pomegranate, and lemon juice, providing a refreshing escape from Valentine’s Day celebrations.

No Strings Spritz

Sixty Vines presents the No Strings Spritz, a playful cocktail with gin, raspberries, and honey, representing carefree fun.

Saltbae Sour

Nusr-Et Steakhouse offers the Saltbae Sour, a contemporary twist on a classic sour using premium whiskey and spices for a memorable flavor.

I Can Love Me Better

Lastly, at The Stand in New York City, the I Can Love Me Better cocktail captures the essence of self-empowerment, mixing dark spirits with fresh flavors for a vibrant experience.

These cocktails not only celebrate the spirit of independence but also offer delightful flavors that encourage savoring the moment—whether alone or with friends.

It’s an exciting week for Phoenix sports enthusiasts, marked by the highly anticipated WM Phoenix Open. With concerts and practice sessions already underway, the main event at TPC Scottsdale kicks off on Thursday, making it a buzzing atmosphere in the Valley. To celebrate the festive occasion, various local bars and restaurants have developed unique drink specials to enjoy off the golf course.

Here are five standout drinks inspired by the "greatest show on grass":

The Global Ambassador – Le Par

Located at 4360 E. Camelback Road, The Global Ambassador is a luxurious hotel offering a special cocktail package for the tournament. One of their highlights is "Le Par," made with Ketel One Vodka, mint, honeydew, and Chandon Sparkling Wine, garnished with a cucumber and a golf tee. The Lobby Bar at the hotel will host a golf-themed takeover featuring live music and specialty cocktails available through Sunday.

Cheba Hut – Trash Can Hash Can

At multiple Cheba Hut locations throughout the Valley, the restaurant has introduced the "Trash Can Hash Can." Inspired by classic party drinks, this concoction blends rum, tequila, gin, vodka, Blue Curaçao, and housemade sour mix, topped with a full can of Red Bull and served in a unique trash can cup. This exciting drink is available until Sunday.

Pinnacle Brewing Co. – Golf Club IPA

Pinnacle Brewing Co., located at 15111 Hayden Road #100 in Scottsdale, has created "Golf Club," a West Coast IPA with a 6.9% ABV. This refreshing beer is infused with flavors of pine resin, bright citrus, and lychee and is available on draft or in cans for takeout.

Hash Kitchen – Call Me Caddy

At three Hash Kitchen locations in Gainey Village, Arcadia, and north Scottsdale, patrons can indulge in the "Call Me Caddy," which is served in a commemorative recycling bin cup. This cocktail mixes the classic margarita with Gin & Juice Citrus for a fun and festive drink, available until Sunday.

Kona Grill at Desert Ridge – Transfusion

Kona Grill, situated at 21001 N. Tatum Blvd., is also getting in on the action with a range of golf-themed cocktails. One standout is the "Transfusion," a mix of vodka, fresh red grape juice, lime, and ginger ale. Guests showing their Phoenix Open tickets can enjoy 20% off their food until Sunday.

This special event in Phoenix combines the thrill of golf with creative culinary offerings, making it an unforgettable weekend for sports fans and food lovers alike.

Mitch McConnell was taken away in a wheelchair after falling twice on the Senate steps. During the incident on Wednesday, the 82-year-old senator was surrounded by colleagues who hurried to assist him. His falls sparked immediate concern among staff and security personnel as they quickly gathered to help him regain his footing.

Reports indicate that McConnell stumbled not just once but twice, with one of the falls occurring on stairs leading outside the Senate chamber. The display of concern from his colleagues, including Senators Steve Daines and Markwayne Mullin, highlights the gravity of the situation.

While there has been no official statement regarding McConnell’s condition after the falls, the event has raised questions about his health, given his age and previous incidents.

For more details, you can check the full article here.

The Big Game is just around the corner, drawing attention not only for the action on the field but also for the viewing parties—symbolic gatherings filled with laughter, cheering, and, most importantly, delicious cocktails and snacks. Below are some standout offerings to elevate your game day experience.

Pork Ribs With Cleveland BBQ Sauce

At Mabel’s Bar & Q in Las Vegas, enjoy succulent smoked pork ribs drizzled with tangy Cleveland BBQ sauce. Chef Michael Symon emphasizes that even if you can’t eat there, they provide takeaway options for home enjoyment.

The Coin Toss

Head over to Printer’s Alley in New York City for "The Coin Toss," a cocktail that features a tajin rim and dried pineapple for a refreshing and subtly sweet taste, hinting at a smokey mezcal twist. The bar invites you to enjoy Super Bowl LIX with this flavorful drink in hand.

Hurts So Good and The Ironhorse

For a match-up inspired by the teams, the Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas offers two themed cocktails: Hurts So Good, made with VSOP and fresh lemon juice, for Eagles fans, and The Ironhorse, a bold rye whiskey drink for Chiefs supporters. Bartenders take pride in crafting cocktails that resonate with the passion of fans everywhere.

Touchdown Tea

A blend of Russell’s Reserve Bourbon with lemon, green tea, and a hint of honey syrup shines at Commons Club inside Virgin Hotel New Orleans. This refreshing cocktail elevates the game-day atmosphere with its zesty yet smooth flavor.

The Big Easy

At Time Out Market New York, dive into "The Big Easy," combining the rich flavors of Remy Martin 1738 with Citadelle gin and orgeat syrup, embodying the vibrant spirit of New Orleans—a fitting tribute given the Super Bowl’s location.

Touchdown Tower

The Cove Club in West Palm Beach serves up the Touchdown Tower, a visually spectacular two-tier meal featuring crispy chicken tenders, cheeseburgers, and lobster rolls—an indulgent feast designed to keep your energy high.

Sticky Ribs

At Social Kitchen + Craft Bar in Costa Mesa, savor sticky ribs seasoned with hoisin dynamite sauce, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and spice. Continuing with Kansas City-style barbecue traditions, they serve it with house-made pickles and coleslaw for a complete experience.

These culinary delights will ensure your Super Bowl viewing party is not just memorable, but a true celebration of sportsmanship and flavor. Enjoy the game!

For more inspirations, visit:

• Palms Casino Resort
• Printer’s Alley NYC
• Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas
• Virgin Hotel New Orleans
• Time Out Market New York
• Cove Club
• Social Kitchen + Craft Bar

Valentine’s Day is fast approaching, leading to the excitement of planning Galentine’s celebrations. As you explore various pink and rosy cocktails to serve your friends, consider offering a diverse selection to cater to all tastes. The following cocktails blend balanced ingredients and feature a range of flavors from sweet to smoky, while showcasing romantic hues from ruby to coral.

World On FireInspired by a genuine love story, bartender Javelle Taft from Death & Co created this lively twist on a French 75. The cocktail features herbal notes from gin and pear brandy, brightened by zesty sumac.

• Ingredients:

  • 1 oz Monkey 47 gin
  • 0.5 oz Clear Creek pear brandy
  • 0.75 oz lemon juice
  • 0.75 oz sumac syrup (one part sumac to one part water)
  • 0.5 tsp Jukes 6 shrub
  • 1 dash Vegetal Chartreuse Elixir
  • Champagne

• Method: Shake all ingredients except Champagne with ice. Strain into a Champagne flute and top with Champagne.

The StrawbreezeA delightful mix of cognac and strawberry creates a refreshing crimson cocktail.

• Ingredients:

  • 1.75 oz Rémy Martin VSOP
  • 0.75 oz strawberry syrup (or simple syrup with muddled strawberries)
  • 2/3 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 1/3 oz egg white

• Method: Shake with ice, strain into a highball filled with crushed ice, and garnish with a fresh strawberry and mint.

METAXA Sweet ValentineThis easy cocktail requires just three ingredients, making it perfect for teaching friends.

• Ingredients:

  • 1.4 oz METAXA 12 Stars
  • 1 oz white chocolate liqueur
  • 0.7 oz cream

• Method: Shake with ice and strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with grated dark chocolate and a rose petal.

The Kinky CoupeWith a playful name, this cocktail features vegetal notes from piquillo pepper.

• Ingredients:

  • 1.5 oz Ketel One vodka
  • 0.5 oz Ancho Reyes
  • 0.5 oz piquillo pepper syrup
  • 0.75 oz lemon juice

• Method: Shake with ice and strain into a chilled Nick & Nora Glass, garnished with piquillo powder.

Spicy Raspberry MargaritaThis batch cocktail is perfect for girls’ nights and can easily be made non-alcoholic.

• Ingredients (8 servings):

  • 1 cup spicy tequila
  • 0.5 cup orange liqueur
  • 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 0.5 cup water
  • 0.75 oz raspberry simple syrup

• Method: Mix all ingredients in a pitcher, chill, serve over ice, and garnish with raspberries and jalapeños.

Clover Club de MezcalThis variation adds a subtle smokiness to a classic cocktail.

• Ingredients:

  • 2 oz Fósforo Mezcal Ensamble
  • 0.5 oz lemon juice
  • 0.5 oz raspberry syrup
  • 1 egg white

• Method: Dry shake all ingredients, then shake again with ice. Strain into a coupe glass, garnished with raspberries.

Chocolate NegroniCombine chocolate with a classic bittersweet cocktail.

• Ingredients:

  • 1 oz gin
  • 1 oz sweet vermouth
  • 1 oz Campari
  • 1/3 oz créme de cacao
  • 4 to 6 dashes of chocolate bitters

• Method: Stir ingredients with ice, strain into a lowball glass, and garnish.

Tequila BlossomA balanced tequila cocktail with a fruity twist.

• Ingredients:

  • 2 oz Clase Azul Tequila reposado
  • 0.5 oz prickly pear syrup
  • 4 oz sparkling pink grapefruit
  • Chile salt and grapefruit slice for garnish

• Method: Prepare a salted rim, add ingredients to the glass, stir, and garnish.

Cowboy ValentineSimple and vibrant, this cocktail is easy to make for a crowd.

• Ingredients:

  • 2 oz Brush Creek Bourbon
  • 6 oz blood orange soda

• Method: Pour bourbon over ice in a highball glass, top with soda, and stir. Garnish with an orange peel.

Chocolate Raspberry MartiniThis cocktail is sweet with a refreshing zing.

• Ingredients:

  • 2 oz Baileys Chocolate Liqueur
  • 1 oz blanco tequila
  • 0.5 oz simple syrup
  • 5 raspberries
  • 2 dashes bitters

• Method: Shake all ingredients with the raspberries, strain, and garnish.

CosmoA quintessential cocktail that fits perfectly into any Galentine’s gathering.

• Ingredients:

  • 1.5 oz vodka
  • 0.75 oz Cointreau
  • 0.75 oz cranberry juice
  • 0.5 oz lime juice

• Method: Shake all ingredients with ice, strain into a chilled martini glass, and garnish with lime.

Whether your Galentine’s Day celebration is an intimate gathering or a larger party, these cocktails will surely impress your friends and create a memorable atmosphere.

Apres ski, a French term meaning "after ski," refers to the cherished tradition of unwinding post-slope with drinks and music, often while enjoying fondue. This culture thrived during the 50s, 60s, and 70s, but many cocktails from that era have since been forgotten. While drinks like Irish coffee and Pabst Blue Ribbon remain staples, some unique cocktails have faded from modern après ski menus. Here, we explore three classic drinks, each representative of a decade from this vibrant period.

1950s: Vin Chaud

According to ski historian Seth Masia, the 1950s saw the emergence of an alcohol-infused après ski culture. Favored beverages across regions included schnapps, brandy, and various mulled wines, known in French as "vin chaud." The concept of spiced wine dates back to ancient Rome, making this drink a longstanding tradition among winter sports enthusiasts.

While its popularity in Wyoming is unclear, a 1956 Casper Star-Tribune review indicated that locals enjoyed cocktails deeply. It described an era when cocktail hours in Jackson Hole began at 5 PM and could stretch indefinitely, fueled by laughter and camaraderie.

How to Make Vin Chaud:

• 1 quart of red wine
• 1 cup of sugar
• 1/3 ounce Cointreau
• 1/3 ounce vodka
• 1/3 ounce brandy
• 1 1/3 ounce orange syrup
• 2/3 ounce lemon syrup
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 4-5 cloves

Simmer these ingredients for 10 minutes, then garnish with orange slices and a cinnamon stick. Serve in heat-resistant mugs.

1960s: The Broken Leg

In the winter of 1967, the Jackson Hole Guide advertised a "Broken Bones Party" at the Seven Levels bar, supporting the National Ski Patrol. This event featured a drink called the Broken Leg, created in partnership with Old Crow Bourbon, which had launched a nationwide safety campaign during this decade.

The Broken Leg cocktail quickly became a trendy choice, marketed for après ski enthusiasts.

How to Make a Broken Leg:

• 1 part (1.5 ounces) Old Crow Bourbon Whiskey
• 3 parts hot apple juice
• 4 raisins
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 slice of lemon

This concoction is made by combining the ingredients and garnishing it creatively.

1970s: The Green Hornet

By 1972, the Jackson Hole News encouraged non-skiers to join the après ski scene, offering tips like wearing stylish ski gear and not lingering too long in any single establishment. The competition among bars was fierce, reflected in the variety of offerings during the era.

Among these offerings was The Green Hornet, a drink inspired by a popular television show and characterized by its vibrant green hue, reminiscent of the popular Hexcel skis of the time.

How to Make a Green Hornet:

• 0.75 ounces whiskey
• 0.75 ounces vodka
• 0.75 ounces gin
• 0.25 ounces creme de menthe
• Sour mix
• Sparkling lemonade

Combine these ingredients over ice in a highball glass, stir, and serve chilled. For a twist, adventurous drinkers sometimes added chartreuse, lemon juice, and an egg white, shaking it until emulsified for a creamy finish.

These cocktails are not just nostalgic for their flavors but also serve as a reminder of the social fabric of skiing culture during its peak.

As the holiday season approaches, indulging in cocktails can often take a sweet turn. However, with a little guidance, you can integrate chocolate into your drinks without overwhelming their flavor profiles.

Chocolate is renowned for its versatility, bringing rich, complex flavors that can enhance many recipes. Mixologist Lynnette Marrero suggests using high-quality dark chocolate, specifically with 70% cocoa or higher. This variety provides an intense flavor with low sugar, making it an ideal choice for balancing cocktails.

There are numerous ways to incorporate chocolate into drinks. Options include chocolate bitters or crème de cacao, but Marrero also recommends using high-quality chocolate powders or cacao nibs for infusion. To infuse your spirits, simply mix a quarter cup of cacao nibs with several cups of your chosen alcohol, allowing it to steep for a few days to achieve the desired flavor strength.

Whether you’re looking to sweeten a classic cocktail like a mint julep with chocolate-infused bourbon, or exploring unique recipes like a chocolate martini, the key is to maintain a balance. The right amount of chocolate can elevate the drink without overshadowing it, allowing you to enjoy the delightful addition of this rich ingredient.

For those intrigued by the endless possibilities of chocolate in cocktails, trying a straightforward chocolate martini might be the perfect starting point. The mix of vodka and cacao flavors emphasizes chocolate without letting it be too dominant.

For a deeper dive into creating chocolate cocktails, you can refer to recipes and more detailed guidance through various cocktail websites. Happy mixing!