We kicked off a new year of cocktailin’ for our TALK Greenville adventures at one of our favorite, relatively new spots right in the heart of downtown. With its lively and energetic atmosphere, O-Ku, the sushi-and-more restaurant at the corner of Main and Broad, is the perfect place to gather with friends or enjoy a romantic Valentines date night…and they really have it goin’ on in the boozy beverage department! The “team” behind the bar keeps it fresh and exciting with a seasonal selection of unique and creative cocktails, and the current line-up is not to be missed!

Jaedan, Travis and crew filled us in on their philosophy behind each of their creations…simplistic complexity. In keeping with the emphasis of Japanese cuisine, simple, clean, house-made ingredients come together to create absolute perfection. We sampled a few that we highly recommend…

 

Kissed by a Rose…

This pretty little thing is the perfect bev to kick off a romantic evening! Rich, dark, rhubarb and plum are combined in a house-made concoction that is lightened up and mellowed out with a splash of Prosecco. The tartness of the earthy, herby rhubarb and the sweetness of the plum create a harmonious balance of flavors, while the Prosecco adds the perfect touch of effervescence. Everything will be comin’ up roses after a couple of these beauties!

 

Lily in Bloom…

A cocktail that is sure to impress is one made with Empress Gin and Creme de Violette! Known for its vibrant indigo color, Empress adds a visually stunning element to any cocktail. When combined with the floral and aromatic notes of Creme de Violette and St Germain, the result is a cocktail that is a fragrant and flavorful feast for the eyes. The herbal notes of the gin are perfectly enhanced by the delicate floral notes of the violette and elderflower, resulting in an extra-sensory creation that you will want to sip and savor. Let the flavors transport you to a world of sophistication and indulgence!

 

Bourbon & Toffee…

This play on a whiskey sour is a real stunner! Visually fascinating and complex in taste, the Bourbon & Toffee is a rich combination of bourbon and house-made English toffee syrup with an unexpected port float. The sweetness of the toffee takes the edge off of the whiskey (no after-burn here!) while the port adds a touch of fruit-forward complexity. This dark, handsome, mysterious fella will get his arms wrapped around you and steal your heart in no time flat!

 

No matter the occasion (or weather) O-Ku has you covered! When the weather is nice, an outdoor table puts you right in the heart of the fun hustle and bustle of Main Street, but a cozy table for two (or more) inside is a great way to immerse yourself in O-Ku’s “omotenashi” – a Japanese expression of hospitality and mindfulness.

 

Whether you’re a sushi aficionado or simply looking for a great place to enjoy delicious cocktails, O-Ku is the perfect choice. With its buzzing atmosphere, exceptional sushi-and-much-more, and creative cocktails, it’s no wonder why it has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

O-Ku . 30 W Broad Street . Greenville . O-Kusushi.com . (864)326-4812

By Alex Burgamy and Angi Einstein