Tag Archives: cocktails

drinkin’ on the job…takin’ in the view at Jianna

01 Saturday Jul 2017

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We’ve been hittin’ the bottle again!  Check out our latest TALK magazine cocktailin’ experience…out now in the July issue…


Table 301 seems to have done it again! They have another winner in downtown Greenville with Jianna, a “modern Italian Osteria” conveniently perched above Falls Park. Overlooking Liberty Bridge at the corner of Main Street and Falls Park Drive, Jianna has a window on the bustling world below. With a balcony reminiscent of The Big Easy, this corner oasis is perfect for dinner, drinks and whiling away a steamy summer evening. 

Why “Jianna”?…

Chef Michael Kramer once worked at a San Francisco restaurant owned by one of his culinary mentors, Marc Valiani. The restaurant was called Jianna, and Valiani’s wife often joked that Jianna was her husband’s “mistress”. Sadly, Valiani passed away in 2011. When Kramer was given the chance to help name this new establishment in Greenville, he immediately thought of Valiani’s lasting inspiration and requested permission to use “Jianna.” What a beautiful tribute to a worthy mentor!   

The Countess and her Counterpart…


Jianna’s beverage menu features Negroni-inspired cocktails, giving us a modern take on an old Italian classic. Two of these creations, in our opinion, go hand-in-hand…the Classic Negroni and the Countess (because every Countess needs a classic fella by her side). The Countess is light and refreshing, but might sneak up on you with her powerful punch. Crowned with prosecco, she is feminine, elegant and wholly deserving of her noble title. Meanwhile, the Classic Negroni deserves his own badge of honor. Not for the tender-palated, his slightly bitter edge is best for one who enjoys a stiff, bracing cocktail. …the perfect elixir to kick off an evening of fine dining. One of us has been called “the Contessa” since she was knee-high to a grasshopper…so of course she decided to claim as her own! Both will whet your palate and have you comin’ back for more. 

The Hinny… 


For those who might enjoy a touch of winter in July (‘cause who wouldn’t like at least a tiny escape from the sky-high temps?), the Hinny is the cocktail for you. An elevated take on the traditional mule, the frosty mug and mound of crushed ice combine to create an adult snow cone that will have you forgettin’ the steamy heat outside. The addition of fresh basil “frosted” with powdered sugar makes it just as pretty as it is refreshing. You’ve heard of herbal remedies right? Here’s the cure to all your hot weather hang-ups. Just cool your heels and enjoy the moment.

Indoor/outdoor…


Although it might be a bit toasty outside during the day, Jianna can take advantage of the cross-breeze as the sun sets…allowing patrons to enjoy some fresh air with indoor/outdoor bar seating and service. And what better place to try to catch the Fourth of July fireworks display?! Give ‘em a call…seats are bookin’ up fast!


Jianna’s bustling open kitchen cranks out modern Italian dishes using pastas made daily and seasonal, local ingredients. Add to that freshly-shucked oysters and “a refreshing selection of wines and spirits” and you have yourself a winning combination ”best celebrated with family and friends”. Open Tuesday through Sunday for dinner and lunch on weekends, there’s plenty of time to pay Jianna a visit. As they say, “vi diamo il benvenuti”, we welcome you!

Jianna . 600 South Main Street . 2nd Floor . Greenville . 864-720-2200 . jiannagreenville.com

drinkin’ on the job…strollin’ to stella’s

08 Thursday Jun 2017

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Our latest TALK Magazine contribution…

from stellasbrasserie.com

There’s a new kid in Hollingsworth Park…Stella’s Southern Brasserie… and Stella wants her new friends to come out and play! The spawn of the beloved Stella’s Southern Bistro in Simpsonville, this little brasserie has some sass. Owners Julia and Jason Scholz along with Chef Jeff Kelly and beverage director/face at the front Aimee Maher have created the perfect neighborhood spot for any time of day. With all kinds of eatin’ options and clean, classic cocktails, this is the perfect summer sortie.

from stellasbistro.com


About Stella…
Now this is a story that tugged at our dog-lovin’ heartstrings. Julia and Jason’s first love was a black lab named…you guessed it…Stella. When the time came to name their first restaurant, “Stella” was the winner hands-down. They wanted Stella’s qualities (boundless energy, full of affection, and always happy to see a friendly face) to carry over into the vibe of their establishment(s). We think they nailed it!

Not your grandpa’s gin & tonic…


The “House Featured” cocktail is a gin and tonic like no other! Choose your spirit from a vast array of clean, pure, refreshing gins that won’t flush your face or change your personality. It’s a collection that will have you earning your gin stripes in no time. And speaking of refreshing, the Citadelle and Tonic is exactly what you need to help you recover from the wilting heat. Made with Citadelle gin (merci Cognac, France!), scratch-made tonic (you’ve never tasted tonic like this…we are converts), and sprinkled with lavender, this refreshing beverage will put more spring in your step and have you imagining a cool breeze. This could be our go-to summer cocktail.

The Parisian Puppy…

photo by Cindy Hosea

The drinks here are concocted so you focus on the liquor and savor the simple. With the best ingredients and savvy bartenders, one doesn’t need a slew of elixirs, syrups, and tinctures to enjoy a good libation. The Parisian Puppy features Boyd and Blair vodka (au revoir Tito’s…this stuff is awesome), fresh pink grapefruit juice and a bergamot sugar rim defining its pure simplicity and balance. This cocktail is magnifique, mouthwatering, subtly sexy and so satisfying.


Have your way with the wine…
Aimee strives to maintain a wine list that combines classics with a few interesting “stretches” to expand patrons’ horizons. But no need for commitment phobia…the entire wine list can be ordered as a petite pour (perfect for a single), a fun pour (perfect for sharing with a friend without going overboard) and, of course, the bottle (for those who are ready to take the plunge). And the same goes for the brews. Order a “beer for one” or a “beer for fun”…also known as the “take one down, pass it around” approach.

from stellasbrasserie.com

Morning, noon and night, Stella’s Southern Brasserie has options galore. Enjoy fresh pastries and coffee served sun-up to sun-down, savor a classique lunch of Croque Madam (above), or move right on to the crispy duck leg on the ever-changing dinner menu (they shop, buy, and serve local as much as possible).  Really…you have no excuse for not finding a time to pay Stella a visit! Our favorite option…amble over to a patio seat on a summer afternoon, order one of Aimee’s “really delicious, well-made cocktails”, and savor the simple!

Stella’s Southern Brasserie . 340 Rocky Slope Road, Ste 100. Greenville
(864)626-6900 . stellasbrasserie.com

drinkin’ on the job…up on the roof

13 Thursday Apr 2017

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Our most recent TALKGreenville contribution…


Well folks, it’s official. Our beautiful little city is growing “UP”…as in UP on the Roof. High atop the spanking new Embassy Suites in downtown Greenville, this über-cool spot will knock your socks right off! From their creative team behind the bar (with oh-so-clever bottled cocktails for efficiency and consistency) to the fresh, locally-sourced eats, the experience is truly top-notch. 
What they are cookin’ up… 

sample menu from winter 2017

 

Whether you are up for just a bit of grazin’ or ready for the full meal deal, UP has you covered. Serving a wide variety of items “From the Farm”, “From the Ranch” and “From the Sea”, they have something for every palate…even the finicky ones! We were lucky enough to get to sample the “Humpty Dumpties” (their daily deviled eggs) while we sipped. One word…egg-cellent!

And as for the libations…

The folks at UP have it figured out!  Seeking consistency and speed, they decided to bottle their signature cocktails!  Just order, and watch them pop and pour.  Brilliant!  


The “My Tie”…

As rum fans, we were literally fighting over this drink! Mount Gay Eclipse and Black Barrel rums are blended meticulously with Cointreau, hand-squeezed lime juice, simple syrup and orgeat syrup. We can’t even begin to describe the tantalizing taste thrill that this bev produced. Let’s just say we drained the bottle and wanted more!


Bo’s Point of View…

If a classic is more to your liking, then an elevated classic is the way to go. This divine concoction will be right “UP” your alley! Woodford Reserve, black walnut bitters, pink grapefruit juice and honey simple syrup will have you appreciating this taste thrill of “panoramic” proportions! Truly a point of view you will embrace!! And the classic coupe had us at first glance. Just sayin’


While one might expect such an “uppity” place to be a bit “high-brow” (get it?), the vibe here is cool and relaxed. Although one would feel quite chic and fit in perfectly all dressed up for a night on the town, the more dressed-down folks will feel right at home as well. You do you…and just enjoy the view!

from eatupdrinkup.net

We encourage you to go Up and go often as the bar and kitchen teams are always creating somethin’ fresh and new. We wouldn’t want you to miss out on the latest and greatest! As they say at UP, ”take in the great views…and our team will take care of the rest”. These mixologists really “raise” the bar, and their skills are “above” and beyond. Go ahead and enjoy this new version of the “mile high” club…we did!   

Up On the Roof . 250 Riverplace . Greenville . eatupdrinkup.net

drinkin’ in dreamland…the Peddler

03 Friday Mar 2017

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Our latest TALKGreenville article…on stands now:

from The Peddler


We headed “out of town” for a warm-n-cozy cocktailin’ experience this month. The Peddler on Poinsett Highway, just past Greenville’s downtown sprawl, sits in a little holler where time seems to stand still. Many locals grew up visiting The Peddler for family outings, and many continue the tradition, enjoying that famous salad bar and certified Angus beef.  No wonder it’s still goin’ strong!

images from The Peddler


A rustic dreamland retreat… 

from The Peddler

Stone gathered from the property holds this humble hostel standing proudly even after all these years.  Originally built as a private residence around 1918, the home stood above “Dreamland…the people’s park” about three miles outside Greenville’s city limits.  Folks came from all over to enjoy swimming, dancing, picnicking and more. While the old lake may be overgrown and the Dreamland sign retired, the appeal remains. 

The Scofflaw… 

image by Cindy Hosea – Talk Magazine

Woodford Reserve, vermouth, orange bitters, lemon and grenadine ensure you won’t be scoffing at this liquid elixir. There should be a law that makes this beverage mandatory for all who enter! Antoine, a 12-year veteran Peddler family member and bartender extraordinaire, likes to call it the “lady of Manhattans”.  So embrace those great curves, folks! 

The Rusty Nail…

image by Cindy Hosea – Talk Magazine

This drink isn’t too strong or too delicate, not too sweet or too bitter. Take a sip before squeezing the lemon…delicious! Now try a dose of the lemon and watch the flavors pop. Mellow or brazen, you can have it your way!  We can all relate to feeling rusty right about now, but the Rusty Nail will keep your bones from creaking when you leave.

Fun and games… 

from The Peddler

With walls covered in nostalgia and memorabilia, much donated over the years by regulars, The Peddler remains a place to enjoy some R&R. Guests play checkers and cards or simply lounge by the fire with a cocktail, visiting with friends old and new. You just can’t help but enjoy yourself!

 

from The Peddler

 The Peddler is a place to linger longer, so don’t come if you are in a hurry.  Established and run by locals, this haven is full of familiar faces (just ask the “Wednesday irregulars”).  The Schneider family (Deborah and sons) and their super-loyal staff have managed to keep a local legacy alive and well.

We encourage you to venture “outside the box” for a truly unique drinkin’ and dinin’ experience.  As they say, “no one ever wants to leave The Peddler”.

The Peddler . 2000 Poinsett Highway . Greenville . thepeddlersteakhouse.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

happily “Trapped”…our latest drinkin’ excursion

12 Sunday Feb 2017

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We stepped out in downtown Greenville in search of just the right Valentines-celebratin’ spot for our latest TALKGreenville article.  Read on…


Just a few steps off main street and under the radar (as in underground), The Trappe Door feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle.  Located in a cozy little spot underneath Barley’s, we are thinking this might be the perfect spot to escape the crowds for a cozy little one-on-one with your sweetie (remember, fellas…Valentine’s Day is upon us).  You’re welcome.

from trappedoor.com

 

From the “flavors of the land”…

The cuisine at The Trappe Door is authentically Belgian (as in…you will find a vast array of flavor influences from around the world – as in…you WILL find something to absolutely DIE over!)  Sweet sits alongside spicy and savory.  Seafood sits alongside lamb, duck, ribs…you name it, you’ll find it.  Our fave?  Almost any one of the FIVE flavors of Moules Frites. Every one is a must-try!

photo by Cindy Hosea


The Nicholas Sage

While it might not be every girl’s dream to have Nicholas Cage as a BF, we can all agree on the “Nicholas Sage”!  Pure perfection in its mix of Bulleit Rye, Lemon-Sage and Grapefruit Cordials, Lime juice, Sage and bitters, a girl can happily spend an evening with this handsome rogue of a cocktail..

photo by Cindy Hosea

 

The Apple of My Eye

Maybe treat the apple of your eye to this cocktail! Lovingly created by Dan during our recent visit, this one had not quite been named…so we took the liberty of choosing a moniker ourselves.  Ask Dan for his brilliant concoction of Apple bitters, spiced syrup, gentian root, Asbach brandy and ginger beer.  You won’t regret it (ya know what they say about an apple a day!)

 

 It’s not just about the beer in here…

While the tag line at this cozy spot is “beer that knows no boundaries”, we would be remiss in not mentioning the by-the-glass wine board.  At any given time, there are 10 bottles of wine being offered by the glass…and they are listed on a board on the wall for all to see.  Once a bottle is finished, it comes off the list and you might be the lucky one to choose the next shining wine-star!

Casual and über-chill, The Trappe Door is the perfect spot for lunch or dinner with friends or that special someone.  The focus is on the food, the drink, and the “one you’re with”.  Remember…no windows equals no distracting people-watchin’.  He or she will only have eyes for you (and maybe that wine board…just sayin’). 

The Trappe Door Restaurant & Bar . 23 W. Washington Street . Greenville
 

 

 

drinkin’ on the job…a Stellar experience

01 Thursday Dec 2016

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Our most recent cocktailin’ experience for TALKGreenville magazine…


Twinkling lights really tickle our fancy…and there is no shortage of twinklin’ at this month’s cocktailin’ locale.  Stellar Restaurant and Wine Bar is a shining star perched in an oh-so-perfect spot overlooking Main Street in Greenville.  From the sparkling lights in the trees below to the fiber-optic constellations on the bar (you MUST check this out), this place really sets the mood for a festive yet laid-back evening.

via stellarwinebar.com



Farm to table…

The menu at Stellar is an ever-changing mix of fresh, farm-to-table finds with something to satisfy even the most discriminating diner.  From seafood to select meat cuts, fondue to fritters, there is something for everyone!  Just be prepared to switch it up a bit with each visit…no two experiences are the same!

  

photo by Cindy Hosea

Underneath the Stars  

This moody, magical elixir is a delightful combination of Van Gogh blueberry vodka, PAMA liqueur, pomegranate and pineapple juices and a float of sour mix to balance the sweet.  This frosty and fresh libation may be cool and crisp on the tongue but will warm you right up.  Shoot for the stars with this beauty.

 

photo by Cindy Hosea

Your Customized Wine Flavor profile… 

With over sixty bottles of wine on the “by the glass” list, it is understandable that one might have a bit of trouble choosing just one…or two.  Why not sit back and let the pros guide you?  Stellar is always happy to offer a taste of any wine that sparks your interest, but your best bet might be to have a conversation about your fave characteristics in a wine and let them design a “flight” suited to your tastes.  Talk about customer service!

via stellarwinebar.com

Wine and dine…

While one might walk in off the street and challenge the staff to a quick tutorial on a few select wines, Stellar offers monthly wine dinners for a more in-depth experience. With a guest speaker, an occasional guest chef, and plenty of good food and wine to discuss (and sample), you will leave with a noggin full of knowledge. Don’t miss out…add yourself to their email list (check their Facebook page) and you will be notified of upcoming dinners.

Make new friends but keep the old…

The Stellar staff prides itself on its friendly atmosphere and loves to welcome newcomers into the fold.  They live by the motto “good service, good product, good time”…and they do not disappoint!  And while the vibe is friendly and casual, you might want to spiff up a bit…especially this time of year.  “Tis the season, after all!

Stellar Restaurant & Wine Bar . 20 N Main Street . Greenville, SC . 864.438.4954

stellarwinebar.com
 

 

what’s ringin’ our belle…round 80

15 Tuesday Nov 2016

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Ringin’ belles this week…


This kale and quinoa salad…had it a couple of weeks ago…making again soon!


A cranberry-champagne cocktail for Thanksgiving celebrations (via FoodNetwork)

from the powerofhappy.com

Nailing this birth order quiz (kinda…one of us who is supposed to be a “middle” is awfully close to being an “oldest”!)


Preparing for the Thanksgiving table…with a little help from House Beautiful


Feelin’ feathery with some help from Jocelyn at Intermix

Ring-a-ling!

a&a

what’s ringin’ our belle…round 79

08 Tuesday Nov 2016

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Ringin’ our belle this (election) week…


How to hardboil lots of eggs all at once


A comforting pasta recipe via Flourishing Foodie


How to leave a party gracefully…early exit style (photo via Pinterest)


How to drink more water….great tips, belles! (photo via Pinterest)

Gettin’ ready for cooler weather and drier skin…


Our new favorite hand Cream…available at Sephora

And, to wrap it up…who needs a drink to get through Election Day??  We do!


Check out the election cocktails at Liquor.com (guess which one is “the Donald”!)

Cheers…and may we all have peace tomorrow!!

a&a

time for some sangria sippin’…

04 Friday Nov 2016

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We found this sangria recipe, did some tweaking, and served to rave reviews for a recent shindig.  Thought we would share (as all good belles do)…

The key elements to a good, traditional sangria…fruit (apples & oranges), a liquor (we went with Grand Marnier), orange juice, and a fruity, dry Spanish red wine (a Tempranillo or Rioja)

The process is quick and easy.  Cut your fruit…

take a moment to muddle the oranges with your liqueur… 

 do the rest of your mixin’ and you’ll be sippin’ before you know it!!

Belle-ringin’ Sangria

1/2 apple, cored and chopped

1 orange, sliced into small pieces 

2 T sugar

1/4 c Grand Marnier

3/4 c orange juice

1 bottle dry Spanish red wine (Tempranillo or Rioja)

Ice

1 orange, sliced, for garnish 

Place apple and orange pieces in pitcher and add sugar.  Muddle well.  Add Grand Marnier and orange juice and muddle again.  Add red wine and stir well.  Add ice and stir to chill.  Serve in wine glasses garnished with orange segments.  

Aclamaciones!

a&a


drinkin’ on the job…where the gringos go

04 Thursday Aug 2016

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We slipped on our gringa hats for this month’s TALKGreenville cocktailin’ experience…stopping in at Gringo’s Cantina in downtown Greenville. Just a few steps out of Falls Park, this delightful space has been transformed into an authentic Baja-like oasis! 

kate larch murals – via instagram


The décor (Robert Graves artwork and Kate Larch murals), the libations, and the nibbles make it easy to forget you’re in the heart of the south, so be ready for a true South-of-the-Border experience!

infused tequila – via instagram


Te-qui-lahhh
Gringo’s isn’t just your run of the mill cantina. With over 150 labels of tequila on the shelves, it pretty much blows the sombreros off the competition! And they don’t stop there. Jeremy likes to keep things interesting with house-infused tequilas…like the watermelon-rosemary-honey-lemon we had the chance to sip-n-savor. Excelente!!


The Gringo-rita
Like a salad in a glass with super-refreshing cucumber and cilantro, this generous pour of upscale tequila added to house-made sour mix is a muy bien libation. This potion balances sharp, tangy, vibrant and refreshing with a hint of sweetness…and the salted rim is the perfect finish. If you are not a salt fan, at least try it on half…you will be happy you did. And your tastebuds will be crying gracias!


The Strawberry-lemon Margarita
This little lovely seems fruity and mild…but don’t be fooled. Tequila is tequila, folks…no matter how sweet and innocent she might seem! As with their food, nothing is canned, packaged or premade – so this concoction boasts fresh strawberries and freshly squeezed lemon for a smooth, summery, light and breezy elixir. It’s perfect for an afternoon beverage which may or may not lead to an afternoon siesta.


Givin’ back…
Ya can’t say a gringo doesn’t take care of his own. Twice each year, Gringo’s spearheads the Greenville version of the “running of the bulls”…a charity event with loads of laughter and libations. Essentially a bar crawl with a “bull” bringing up the rear, the real focus is on giving back. Each participating bar donates $1 per drink to a chosen charity. (registration is $10…link on the website or on instagram @gringosgreenville)

Of course, one needs more than just “aperitivos” to remain upright around all that tequila! Although we could eat our weight in their “guacam-olé” one of the best we have ever had…and we are judgy) and super-fresh salsa (so fresh-n-frisky it’ll make ya want to salsa with your neighbor), we highly suggest digging a bit deeper into Gringos’ fresh fare. The Baja fish tacos are pretty much what started the whole shebang…why not start there?!  


And if it’s fun-n-games you’re after, Jeremy keeps things hoppin’ with fun monthly events (like a BYO pool party in the parking lot…scavenger hunts…and foosball tourneys).

Olé!!

a&a