Beat the heat at local restaurants and bars with these cool concoctions
Good morning! Today is Tuesday, June 28, and you are reading today’s section of Examiner+, a digital newsmagazine serving Westchester, Putnam, and the surrounding Hudson Valley.
Next time you get together for drinks on a warm summer night, try one of these delightfully seasonal options. We’ve rounded up some delicious libations from Westchester and Putnam for your next night out.
bartaco Port Chester
Tequila and pineapples make for fine friends in the tropical, South America-inspired Pineapple Express from bartaco. The frothy drink evokes lazy days on the beach. Fresh pineapple juice and a homemade pineapple syrup bring the sweetness while Libélula joven brings citrus and grassy aromas, with subtle notes of vanilla and spice. “A touch of yellow chartreuse adds a depth of herbaceousness in taste and aroma. In the moment, freshly squeezed lime cuts through the sweetness and balances the margarita-inspired cocktail.,” says Nicole Quist, beverage director at bartaco. “We love dipping the pineapple chip in the cocktail froth for a burst of pineapple flavor.” bartaco.com
Dubrovnik Restaurant New Rochelle
If you like drinking summer in a glass, try the Minty Melon cocktail at Dubrovnik. This Croatian restaurant is all about fresh fish, tender meats, and quality ingredients—just like the family’s home country. Seasonal watermelon, fresh muddled mint, fresh lime juice, Elderflower liqueur, and, of course, premium vodka make this delightful drink. “Fruity and very refreshing cocktail, perfect for the hot summer days,” says Matija Zarak, general manager. Snag a seat at one of their café tables on the outdoor patio for the ultimate summer experience. dubrovnikny.com
Emma’s Ale House White Plains
Sometimes you want to go, where the food is comforting, the drinks are tasty and the company is relaxed. Head to Emma’s this summer for their Emma-Tini. They start by soaking pineapples for a week before it’s ready to serve, using pineapple-infused vodka. Have it straight up, on the rocks, or as a nice cold shot. “We’ve been told it’s addictive,” says Catherine Deluca, manager. emmasalehouse.com
For those of us who practically live on fresh basil in the summer, this one is right up our alley. The Gumad is on the menu at all three of Fortina’s Westchester operations for a refreshing take on this season’s favorite herb. It’s your choice of gin, tequila, or vodka paired with limoncello, fresh lemon, and fresh basil. “Stocked with effervescence, this cocktail packs the perfect punch to defeat that summer heat!” says Samantha Melisi, director of operations. It pairs great at happy hour with a pizza or opt for the branzino or ribeye for dinner. fortinapizza.com
Miku Sushi Greenwich, CT
It isn’t every day that a cocktail is inspired by a store, but this summer Dabney Lee, a lifestyle brand and design studio in Rye, is teaming up with Miku Sushi in Greenwich, CT, to offer up a fun and colorful menu that reflects the brand’s just-wanna-have-fun attitude. Everyday Brighter is a blend of pink guava juice, Japanese Haku vodka, lime juice, and ginger beer. “Having frequented Miku, sometimes on a weekly basis, I was ecstatic to bring my bright and cheerful brand to a portion of the unique menu,” said Dabney Lee Woglom, the shop owner. “We came up with items that give customers the opportunity to enjoy the menu at the restaurant or at home alongside other Miku favorites,” adds K Dong, co-owner of Miku Sushi. The goal of the collaboration is to entertain customers with something new and fun.” mikugreenwich.com
Inn at Pound Ridge Pound Ridge
Refreshing and cool, the cucumber martini at the Inn at Pound Ridge is a combination of Hendrick’s gin, cucumber, and mint. Expect fresh, seasonal ingredients and inventive combinations from the menu at The Inn at Pound Ridge helmed by Chef Jean-George Vongerichten, internationally acclaimed chef and restaurateur. After cocktails, try the steamed black bass with spring peas and ginger scallion condiment. theinnatpoundridge.com
The Roosevelt Beacon
If you like your bar lively and your drinks icy, tart, and sweet, try this blend of Ford’s gin, lime, kiwi, simple syrup, and Goslings ginger beer at The Roosevelt Bar. Part of the Hudson Valley Food Hall endeavor, the Roosevelt Bar is known for its locally brewed beers, craft cocktails, and spirited nightlife. Look for the dog-friendly outdoor patio seating and, on some nights, live music. Foodies will love the Food Hall options available to them. instagram.com/therooseveltbar
Vega Mexican Cuisine Hartsdale
Mojitos and summer go hand-in-hand in our book. The extensive menu at Vega and authentic ingredients aren’t the only draw when you’re craving Mexican on a warm Friday night. The vibe here is relaxed and social with a modern aesthetic. Be sure to try the strawberry mojito: rum, homemade simple syrup, fresh lime, mint, and strawberry served over ice. “Pair it with guacamole, Cancun calamari, or any of the classic items like tacos and burritos,” says owner Jeevan Pullan. vegamexican.com
Kristan Sveda is a graduate of the Columbia School of Journalism with 20 years of experience in journalism writing for local publications in and around Westchester. When she isn’t writing, she’s toting her three boys to baseball or basketball games, tackling the humongous weeds in her backyard, or binging on Canadian television.
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