02 Tuesday Oct 2018
Posted in bar belles, drinkin' on the job
Tags
cocktails, drinkin' on the job, Fork & Plough, Nathan Gray photography, Talk Magazine, TALKGreenville
Here is the latest installment of our cocktailin’ chronicles for TALKGreenville…
We visited Fork & Plough on East North Street in Greenville for quite the belle-ringin’ experience!
This cocktailin’ gig is the best!!
a&a
31 Friday Aug 2018
Posted in bar belles, what's ringin' our belle
Check out our latest contribution to TALKGreenville Magazine for a bit of Labor Day entertaining inspiration!!
Enjoy your holiday weekend, belles!!
a&a
20 Monday Aug 2018
Posted in bar belles, drinkin' on the job
Tags
cocktails, greenvilleonline, Husk Greenville, huskgreenville, Nathan Gray photography, Talk Magazine, TALKGreenville
Check out our most recent TALKGreenville cocktailin’ adventure at Husk in Greenville…
Pay Husk a visit sometime soon!! You won’t regret it!!
a&a
04 Monday Jun 2018
Posted in bar belles
We’ve been at the cocktailin’ again…at The Anchorage in Greenville’s trendy, up-n-coming West End. Check it out in the June issue of TALKGreenville!
An anchorage is something that provides a stronghold or connection…and this month’s cocktailin’ spot has done just that for the Village of West Greenville. This uber-cool arts district has become a hot destination these days with over 60 galleries, shops, restaurants, and services, and it’s thanks to early “inhabitants” like The Anchorage that folks are flocking in.
“Cocktail by Committee”…
When Beth and Chef Greg McPhee began hiring for The Anchorage, they focused on assembling a collaborative team. Relying on the collective experience of Mills and Chris behind the bar as well as practically all other employees, the whole “team” plays a part in what you see, taste, smell and experience. When a new or unusual ingredient piques someone’s interest, Mills might come up with some creative ways to use it, but it often takes the team coming together to find the perfect balance. They describe the process as “cocktail by committee”. We think their “committee” rocks!
Photo by Nathan Gray
The Zombie…
The staff at the Anchorage maintains a huge sense of pride with the product they serve both in the kitchen and behind the bar. No detail is overlooked. The Zombie is a perfectionist’s dream. The color alone is exquisite, but add some freshly picked mint & a silver straw and you have a work of art. Hand-crushed ice, a special blend of three rums, fresh fruit juices, a dash of bitters, and house-made cinnamon syrup come together to create the perfect concoction to scare the summer humidity away. Served from their nitro draft system, there is (conveniently) no long wait to quench your thirst. PSA- there’s a reason it’s called a Zombie
Photo by Nathan Gray
The Strawberry Manilow…
One of us took a really long time to get the riff on Barry Manilow…we aren’t saying who but it wasn’t the blonde…just sayin! But beyond its clever name, this one is worth ordering just to watch zee bartender hand-carve the ice for the glass. This is truly a bespoke cocktail, and we get excited just watching this kind of attention to detail! Rye, rum, house strawberry vinegar, rosemary and ginger beer are all part of this magic potion. And since vinegar has long been used to battle dehydration, we consider this the perfect answer to staying hydrated in the dog days of summer…so make sure you drink enough- just sayin
Simple-n-local…a winning combination
The food (and drink) philosophy at The Anchorage is focused on “eclectic simplicity.” In creating the always up-to-date brunch, dinner, and cocktail menus, they focus on local/regional ingredients that can be super-simple yet interesting all at once. In fact, the brunch cocktail menu features “The Michenada” which highlights the local Birds Fly South brewery’s “Anchorage Saison”…neighbors helping neighbors. We love it!
How it all began…
Just two short years ago, the McPhees were approached with an idea that started the ball rolling for this West Greenville gem. The budding arts district needed a night-time destination and Beth and Greg had the experience and expertise to make it happen. And did they ever! They took the old Brandon Mill Infirmary and worked their magic. Today, The Anchorage is a bustling hot-spot with both indoor and outdoor dining and a kick-ass cocktail menu that keeps folks coming back for more!
Open for dinner Tuesday – Saturday and brunch on Sunday, the Anchorage is anchored in and waiting to see you!
The Anchorage . 586 Perry Avenue . Greenville
(864)219-3082 . theanchoragerestaurant.com
Angi Einstein and Alex Ryan – www.therarebelle.com
13 Tuesday Mar 2018
Posted in bar belles, what's ringin' our belle
The latest installment of our TALK Greenville “drinkin’ on the job” adventures…
Photo from kitchensyncgreenville.com
Winter weary and ready for some “sunny & warm”, our cocktailin’ adventure this month took us to a cozy neighborhood place with farm-fresh fare and cocktails to lighten and brighten the spirits – Kitchen Sync on Laurens Road. Warmly greeted by Kathryn behind the bar and introduced to Kevin (co-owner Kevin Feeny), we quickly settled in and let the doldrums disappear.
Cookin’ with a conscience…
Photo from kitchensyncgreenville.com
Kevin and his sister, Karin Farrell, spent years pondering the possibilities of creating a conscience-driven neighborhood go-to that featured inventive, delicious scratch-made food. From the use of eco-friendly building materials and appliances to composting, planting gardens, and sourcing locally as much as possible…even partnering with an organization providing work to people trying to get on their feet after incarceration, they have certainly succeeded on the responsibility front. And as for that inventive, scratch-made fare…it speaks for itself!
Tequila Paloma
Tequilaaaaah! This delicious, not-too-sweet, brilliant alternative to the margarita features Jose Cuervo silver, fresh pink grapefruit and lime juices, and sparkling Pompelmo San Pellegríno – all beautifully poured into a very generous glass. It makes for the perfect mood enhancer! PSA: tequila is the only alcohol considered to be an upper and spirit-lifter…an old wives tale maybe, but these belles plan on believing it! Let the Paloma perk you up!
Jo Montana
The San Francisco belle among us couldn’t resist tasting this handsome libation named after one of her first crushes. It certainly didn’t disappoint. Just like her favorite quarterback of all time, the Jo Montana is strong, potent, delicious and not hard to look at! Comprised of local Dark Corner Jocassee Gin, St. Germaine, fresh lemon and lime juices, and fresh mint from the restaurant’s own garden, it’s the perfect sip of approaching spring!
Photo from kitchensyncgreenville.com
Although we had experienced Kitchen Sync for lunch and dinner on other occasions, this particular visit had us focused on the very happy “happy hour”. With special nibbles and libations offered each early evening, one could easily fall in the habit of just hangin’ out at the bar ad infinitum. But we do encourage you to venture out into the other nooks and crannies of this delightful establishment. You’ll find tables filled with families (yes…there is a kids menu), couples, chatty chicks out for ladies night…it runs the gamut. Grab a table and peruse the menu. We promise you will find something to ring your bell!
Kitchen Sync . 1609 Laurens Road . Greenville . (864)568-8115 . Kitchensyncgreenville.com
02 Friday Feb 2018
Posted in bar belles
Our latest TALKGreenville cocktailin’ adventure…
(photo from halloffamesportsgrill.com)
We fancy ourselves to be quite sporty…you just might not know it to look at us. We tend to favor heels over flats, “dressed up” over “dressed down”, and when accessorizing, we go with “more is more”! We look like girlie-girls, but we can get into a football game with the best of any manly-man! That’s why we dig a good sports bar. When any worth-the-bourbon game is on, a good venue with TV’s in every nook and cranny really rings our belle! And it’s a bonus when the drinks are flowing and delicious…and when the staff is like your best friend but you might have just met! Hall of Fame Sorts Grill…”a sports bar like no other”on Wade Hampton is just that place!!
(photo by Nathan Gray)
What color do you bleed?…
Gamecock or Tiger, Hall of Fame has just the drink for you…in the form of a grown-up slushy! Always at the ready, swirling with icy deliciousness in machines at the bar, these are a must-try for any die-hard fan. The garnet Gamecock is a bit like a raspberry margarita (but with vodka) and the Tiger is a blend of mango and orange. And for the family divided, they will gladly give you a half-n-half. How convenient!
(photo by Nathan Gray)
Deep Eddy in a Can
Believe it or not, we prefer simple over complicated…let the ingredients speak for themselves…and here they are singing in perfect harmony! Deep Eddy lemon vodka, club soda, triple sec, fresh mint and a splash of fresh lemon juice are served in a can of whimsy that is sure to keep this classic cocktail cool as the betting gets hot! We cheer for team Deep Eddy!
The Man Mosa
No better way to watch the Super Bowl than in a classy sports bar that pumps up the standard mimosa to a new level. You will, of course, find the usual champagne and oj in this one…but they add lemon vodka, gran marnier, and raspberry liquer for good measure (just in case you feel the need for more alcohol with your alcohol). This boozy beverage will have any fan cheering at full throttle. We are betting that this one will be a winner every time!
(photo by Nathan Gray)
Sunday Bloody Sunday…
Sunday brunch without a bloody is a bloody shame! Well…Hall of Fame has some bloody good options to solve that problem. Choose from the revved-up “Spicy Southern 500”, the “Zesty Lemon Julious Pepper” version, or the “Mexican Futbol Ashtray” (while the name…ashtray…might cause pause, just jump right in. Trust us!) Sunday just got a lot more interesting!
With the Super Bowl looming, you might be trying to come up with a viewing game-plan. While you could always fire up your own grill, set up your own bar…and then do dishes all day on Monday, who wants all that hassle? Hall of Fame has the food, the drinks, the game, and the dishwashers! And speaking of the food…we are true fans of really good pub grub, and odds are y’all will agree that Hall of Fame hits it out of the ball park. From their wings, to their chicken fingers, to their tenderloin bites, there is something for everyone. And – weather permitting – you might get to enjoy their cozy outdoor patio for a bit of fresh air as well. All sports, all the time…Hall of Fame is the place to relax, watch, and enjoy.
Hall of Fame Sports Grill . 531 Wade Hampton Boulevard . Greenville
(864)609-4181 . halloffamesportsgrill.com
Angi Einstein and Alex Ryan – www.therarebelle.com
11 Thursday Jan 2018
Posted in bar belles
The latest installment of our TALK Greenville cocktailin’ adventures…
Photo from Basil – Greenville
Now that we are through the holidays, we are reflecting on our eatin’ (and drinkin’) habits. While we might have thrown caution to the wind for the last few weeks with lots of celebrating with friends and family, we have decided that a bit of discernment might be in order. Fresh, healthy food is on the agenda…as are drinks with a little somethin’ extra…some redeeming qualities if you will. We found just the ticket, folks…at Basil in downtown Greenville.
Options galore on the menu…
Vegan? Vegetarian? Pescatarian? Full-on carnivore? Basil is happy to accommodate! All of their dishes can be tailored to suit your needs and tastes. Even the “heat” can be adjusted. While it was confirmed to us that “Thai spicy” here in the states doesn’t really hold a candle to the heat you might get in Bangkok, they can tone it down for even the wimpiest of wimps when it comes to spice tolerance. Have it your way!
The Basil Lime Martini
Sleek, sophisticated, simple and sexy defines this beauty of a martini. If you are a martini connoisseur, then you’ve just discovered your holy grail…and it will rest deliciously in the winner’s circle every time. A mix of fresh basil, vodka and hand-pressed lime juice, this concoction is shaken at least twenty times to achieve the perfect balance of flavor and, of course, just the right amount of chill. #shook
Mix your metals…The Gold Rush and The Angry Mule
We belles are not afraid to mix our metals…in fashion or in our fortified drinks. The Gold Rush (of course, one San Francisco native belle loves this one) is a wickedly delightful combination of Bulleit Rye, Domaine de Canton (a ginger liqueur), and fresh lemon juice that will warm you all the way to your tootsies. And not to be outdone, The Angry Mule in its copper mug is the perfect order for those of us who might not be winter weather lovers. Let your winter grumbling dissolve as you sip and savor the saucy and spirited nature of this power-packed cocktail. Careful though…this donkey with an attitude just might kick your ass!
Photo by Nathan Gray
Pineapple…for that much-needed dose of Vitamin C…
Pineapple-infused Bacardi Limon Rum, fresh mint and lemongrass syrup become one of the best mojitos that we belles have ever tasted. This house specialty has been a Mojito Challenge winner several times over. And what a perfect way to start off the new year! The pineapple is a great antioxidant and reduces inflammation, the generous pour of vodka will kill any lingering germs, and of course…the mint will keep you feelin’ fresh. This drink falls in perfect line with all your healthy resolutions!
While brothers Henry and Chai Eang have hit it big in several cities with their “refined Thai cuisine” (with locations in Charlotte, Charleston, Columbia, Mt. Pleasant, and Ballantyne), each place has its own identity. You can’t miss the hundreds of elephants adorning the Greenville locale. And the “floating” lotus garden above the bar sets the tone for a truly impressive Thai experience. They are open for lunch Monday through Friday and for dinner every evening…and the happy hour specials are not to be missed! But they don’t take reservations, so just head on in…and tell ‘em the belles sent ya!
Basil . 9 North Laurens Street . (864)609-4120 . eatatbasil.com
Angi Einstein and Alex Ryan – www.therarebelle.com
06 Friday Oct 2017
Posted in bar belles
While we each tend to have our favorite cocktail (Mount Gay & soda…Blanton’s & water), we are up for trying just about anything! (All in the name of research for our TALKGreenville articles, of course)
That’s why this article from Liquor.com caught our eye. Since we are not necessarily scotch drinkers, we consider it a challenge to make this elixir a bit of a focus for this month…and because “Scotch-tober ” has a catchy ring to it!
One scotch that we will certainly try is Auchentoshan…because it apparently has the vanilla and caramel notes of a bourbon. Right up one belle’s alley! We will just sub it in and see what we think.
Another goal will be to find a couple of mixed concoctions that suit our tastes. A Manhattan or Old Fashioned mixed with scotch might be a hit.
(Image by Virginia Miller via Liquor.com)
Or how about something creamy and sweet mixed with Scotch??! This one uses yogurt, honey, chocolate, and habanero bitters. Who knew such a serious liquor could actually be fun??
(The Ichor & Glass at the Dewberry, Charleston, SC. Image by Virginia Miller via Liquor.com)
Or maybe we will head down to Charleston and hit up the Dewberry for this beautiful, rosy, scotch-based creation.
The possibilities are endless, belles!
a&a
05 Thursday Oct 2017
Posted in bar belles
Our latest TALKGreenville magazine contribution…
We decided to honor the 200+-year tradition of Oktoberfest for this month’s cocktailin’ adventure, paying a visit to our dear German friends at Schwaben House on Laurens Road in Greenville. This annual beer-party-and-more typically begins in mid-September and runs until the first weekend in October…meaning that you still have time to celebrate, folks! Schwaben House has you covered. Prost!
A proper pour…
Don’t be shocked by the impressive “head” on your German-poured beer. Although Americans tend to frown upon this frothy foam, a true German would disagree. We all know that taste is dependent on smell…and the smell is in that bubbly top! Without that proper head, you lose half of the beer-tasting enjoyment. And, any German will tell you…if your beer doesn’t have that foamy collar, your glass must be dirty or the beer is flat. Nicht gut.
Kiss on the Lips…
We certainly don’t promote inappropriate touching, but if you’re offered a kiss on the lips here…say yes! Served in a sugar-rimmed champagne glass and a healthy dose of sweet confetti, this concoction will have you begging for another. Comprised of vodka, raspberry sorbet and Sangue de Guida (an Italian wine with a touch of fizz) it’s sure to tickle your fancy.
It’s down right delectable, delightful and addicting….just like a good kiss on the lips! In fact, it will have you falling for more…just ask Angi!
The Washington Apple…
This fresh, crisp, fall-worthy drink tastes like you’ve been apple-picking without the labor but with all the reward! Bird Dog Whiskey is the main ingredient here and for good reason…it is one of the most intriguing whiskeys we’ve tried. We thoroughly enjoyed taste testing it neat! Add a touch of cranberry juice and some prosecco and you have yourself amazing taste thrill. Served in an artsy martini glass with a slice of fresh apple…well now you have autumnal perfection!!
It’s all in the glass…
Yes…the glass used for your beer does matter! Different beers require different classes. While a Weizenbock reqires a Weizen glass, others might require a pilsner, chalice, snifter, tulip, stein, flute, stange, pint, or even an oversized-wine glass. Do your homework, folks. Or maybe just go let Schwaben House do it for you!
With the weather finally on the brink of being decent, you might want to book a table on Schwaben House’s “biergarten” patio. This space is a German oasis just waiting for folks to enjoy a cold beer and das fressen (that’s chow, baby). And if you want our two-cents, we recommend you try the potato salad (made fresh every morning), the soups, and the salmon…and just about anything else that tickles your fancy. It’s all good, freunde!
Schwaben House . 1810 Laurens Road . Greenville . 864-329-8681 . schwabenhouse.us
18 Monday Sep 2017
Posted in bar belles, what's ringin' our belle
We were cocktailing poolside with a belle friend recently and she introduced us to a new favorite libation…
All you need is coconut water with pineapple, Mount Gay Rum, and large ice cube trays…
We got our ice cube molds here
Now fill the the trays with the coconut water and throw them in the freezer
Once they are frozen, get out your cocktail glass, put a cube in and top with a healthy dose of rum…if you want to add a little soda water to lighten it up, feel free.
As the ice melts, it muddles into the rum making a delectable concoction. Divine….
Cheers!
a&a
