Recipes 305

After a month of soft openings, Mar’Tae Kitchen & Cocktails in Trotwood is now officially open to the public, accepting reservations. Located at 5212 Salem Ave, the restaurant was previously home to Mr. Bourbon and John Anthony’s Southern Cuisine. While reservations are recommended, patrons without one can still enjoy the bar area.

The spacious 5,400-square-foot venue features an elevated dining experience, offering a variety of appetizers such as crab cakes, a deviled egg flight, and collard green dip. The menu includes enticing entrees like:

• Marry Me Chicken: Pan-seared chicken breasts in a sundried tomato cream sauce with garlic, herbs, and parmesan ($24).
• Southern Style Oxtail: Slow-braised oxtail in a rich gravy with southern spices served over yellow rice ($30).
• Grilled Steak Alfredo: Tender marinated steak strips over Alfredo pasta ($30).
• Whole Fried Red Snapper: Whole red snapper deep-fried with zesty Cajun creole sauce ($32).
• Lamb Chops: Herb-marinated lamb chops finished with a red wine demi-glaze ($30).

Sides include mac and cheese, southern candied yams, collard greens, and garlic parmesan truffle fries. The restaurant boasts a cocktail menu with unique offerings such as:

• Southern Sunset: Tequila, triple sec, peach schnapps, and fresh peach puree ($14).
• Blue Smoke Martini: Vodka, rum, blue curaçao, and pomegranate ($14).
• The Mar’Tae Reserve: Whiskey, maple syrup, lemon juice, and strawberry liqueur ($16).

Owners Tae Winston and her brother, Mark Lee, conceived the idea for Mar’Tae as a response to community needs during discussions about the lack of dining options in Trotwood. Their shared vision led to the establishment of a family-friendly restaurant.

Having collaborated with Anthony Thomas of Universal HB Solutions, they’ve transformed the space, which now includes two private dining rooms, a 15-seat bar, and a main dining area for up to 50 guests.

Winston expressed excitement about creating a welcoming atmosphere for the community. "I think Trotwood is community," she said, emphasizing the strong local support they have received throughout their journey.

Mar’Tae Kitchen & Cocktails operates from 4-10 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 4-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Reservations can be made through OpenTable. For more updates, check out the restaurant’s Facebook or Instagram.

Beverage innovation plays a vital role in responding to evolving consumer needs and driving growth within the industry. As consumers demand healthier options and unique flavors, brands are innovating to meet these expectations. This includes clean labels, low sugar alternatives, and eco-friendly packaging, as well as catering to cultural trends like mindful drinking.

Recently, several new beverage launches have showcased the industry’s focus on innovation:

New Mix Canned Cocktails

Brown-Forman has launched New Mix in the US, featuring Mexico’s leading ready-to-drink tequila cocktails. Crafted at Casa Herradura in Jalisco, these cocktails boast authentic flavors with the award-winning El Jimador Blanco Tequila. The initial rollout includes two flavors: Paloma, combining grapefruit and tequila, and Cantarito, a citrus-infused variant. Each 355ml can has a 5% ABV, priced at $10.99 for a four-pack, targeting states with a growing spirit-based RTD market.

Coconut Water Sparkling Cocktail

Nirvana, a Florida-based company, has introduced Chill, claimed as the first coconut water sparkling cocktail. This 5% ABV drink combines pure coconut water with premium spirits, crafted to satisfy the rising demand for authentic, functional beverages. Positioned as a high-end option, Nirvana plans to target coastal cities in the US and ultimately expand to the Caribbean and Latin America by 2026.

V8 Energy Pear Ginger

The Campbell’s Company’s V8 Energy has rolled out a limited-edition flavor: Pear Ginger. This blend offers a unique alternative to traditional fall flavors, incorporating pear and ginger with 80 milligrams of caffeine from tea. Each can also provides a serving of fruits and veggies without added sugar, aiming to energize consumers looking for something fresh this season.

RTD Spiced Chai Latte

Drink Me Chai is launching a ready-to-drink (RTD) Spiced Chai Latte in 250ml cans. This new product targets the grab-and-go market, offering a blend of aromatic spices and semi-skimmed milk. With a focus on Gen Z and Millennials, the RTD chai will appeal to the growing demand for convenient yet authentic beverage options.

Crossip Non-Alcoholic Spirits

Crossip, a UK-based brand, has expanded into India, responding to the increasing consumer interest in alcohol-free drinks. The partnership with DryDrnks aims to introduce Crossip’s bold and versatile non-alcoholic spirits to a market eager for mindful drinking experiences. This expansion leverages India’s vibrant cocktail scene, allowing bartenders to create innovative drink options across various strengths.

These innovative products illustrate the beverage industry’s commitment to creating tailored solutions that improve consumer experiences while adapting to market shifts.

Peach schnapps is a popular ingredient in many classic cocktails, enhancing drinks like the Sex on the Beach with its sweet and fruity profile. However, its lower alcohol content, typically around 15% ABV, and high sweetness can steer some drinkers away. Molly Horn, a Chief Mixologist at Total Wine & More, offers insight into effective alternatives for peach schnapps in cocktails.

When considering substitutes, Horn emphasizes that replacing peach schnapps with stronger spirits isn’t straightforward. For peach-flavored spirits, she suggests using a peach-flavored whiskey instead of vodka, as it provides a bolder peach flavor. If whiskey isn’t available, soaking peaches in bourbon is another option to achieve a similar taste profile.

It’s important to adjust not just the type of alcohol but also the proportions. Horn advises reducing the overall base spirit or splitting the base between a stronger peach spirit and rum or vodka. Adding simple syrup can help balance any reductions in sweetness, allowing the drink’s flavor to shine without being overpowered.

Some cocktails, like the Bellini, require the unique qualities of schnapps and might not benefit from substitutes. Instead, cocktails such as the Missionary’s Downfall or the Sex on the Beach can creatively incorporate the swaps Horn suggests, maintaining their rich flavors while elevating their alcohol content.

For those looking to explore new flavors, the key is to know your adjustments in both alcohol and sugar content for a well-balanced drink that satisfies your palate.

Bartenders recommend that using clear ice can significantly enhance your cocktails, both aesthetically and taste-wise. Here’s a simple guide on how to make clear ice at home.

Ingredients

• 36 oz. spring water
• 1 Dexas ice cube tray

Directions

1. Fill a directional freezing ice cube tray with spring water, following the mold’s instructions.
2. Place the tray in your freezer and let it sit overnight.
3. Before serving, remove the tray about 10 minutes in advance to allow the ice cubes to rest either in the molds or on a plate. This resting period is crucial as it prevents the ice cubes from cracking when liquid is poured over them.
4. You can also let the ice cubes rest directly in the serving glass before adding your drink. Keep in mind that any melting ice will dilute the drink slightly, but it won’t affect the flavor negatively.
5. Serve and enjoy responsibly!

By following these steps, you’ll be able to craft cocktails with professional flair right from your home.

You may find more information on how to upgrade your cocktails with clear ice.

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)