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