
drinkin’ on the job – at a westurn oasis
08 Tuesday Nov 2022
Posted drinkin' on the job
in08 Tuesday Nov 2022
Posted drinkin' on the job
in13 Tuesday Sep 2022
Posted drinkin' on the job
inThis month’s cocktailin’ experience took some planning! We’ve been intrigued by the much-buzzed-about euphoria – the food, wine and music-focused festival – taking place THIS WEEKEND (and each September) here in our fair city! The euphoria team rocks and gave us the chance to attend a couple of “teaser” events to see what all the buzz is about so that we could share it with you. We have a new event inked in on our September calendars…and you will too!
Tapas & Tinis…
We had the pleasure of attending Euphoria’s “Tapas & Tinis” event back in July and were totally impressed! We put on our dancin’ shoes and headed over to Zen on Main Street for some sipping, nibbling, and schmoozing. Chef Tony Schmidt of Performance Food Service supplied the delicious “through the decades” tapas (bite-sized Tuna Noodle Casserole and Chicken a la King for the 50’s, Sloppy Joes and Steak Ums for the 80’s) while Titos Vodka and Larceny Bourbon supplied the super-creative beverages. We tried ‘em all…and then some!
Not Your Childhood Lemonade…
Forget summer camp and the old sidewalk lemonade stand! This refresher was just as billed…not your childhood lemonade at all! Its balanced, citrus flavor with a kick of Tito’s added a pep to our step, encouraging us to get on the dance floor and shake our jelly jars to the incredible live music!
The Cosmopolitan…
This pretty, pink creation in a martini glass added elegance and delight to our experience. Slightly tart and slightly sweet, this upscale cocktail was a winner in our book! A perfect cocktail to enjoy while perusing all that is available at Euphoria. And there’s a lot! Just sayin…
The Kamikaze…
This was not the old college kamikaze! A much more refined version is what we savored as we enjoyed the party, the food and the fun – the very definition of Euphoria! We even witnessed another guest get a bit creative by requesting a combination of the Kamikaze and the Cosmopolitan, creating an amazing “Cosmokaze” – brilliant! Euphoria encourages creativity and imagination – so get in touch with your creative side at any or all of these events.
The Old-Fashioned…
Brown liquor is never a bad thing, and this take on the historic beverage did not disappoint. If you’ve never tried one, Euphoria might be the time to take a chance and notice how your taste buds will burst with delight. Trying something new and different is the name of the game. You’ll be surprised at how much fun it can be to satisfy your adventurous side – another reason to take advantage of all that Euphoria has to offer. Don’t be timid – just go for it!
doing good…
Euphoria’s mission is to promote tourism in Greenville by creating a destination event for food, wine, and music lovers, but they understand the importance of giving back. Heartwarming, right?! Since its beginning in 2006, proceeds from Euphoria have been distributed in the form of direct grants to over 40 Upstate charities through its non-profit organization, Local Boys Do Good (LBDG). These grants focus on sustenance for those in need (food that sustains life or health), music or performing arts education, or programs that aid children. Go to euphoriagreenville.com to check out the most recent deserving recipients and for more information on the grant application process for upcoming years.
don’t miss out…
This year’s festival takes place beginning this Thursday, September 15th and lasts through Sunday, the 18th – and as of press-time, there were still a FEW (very few) spots available for some of the more than 40 mouthwatering events. Named one of the “tastiest festivals in the Southeast”, Euphoria draws folks from far and wide to experience “perfectly seasoned with a pinch of southern charm” Greenville – and all of the euphoric events that bring them back year after year.
Eat. Sip. Listen. You won’t regret it!!
Euphoria . www.euphoriagreenville.com
By Alex Burgamy and Angi Einstein – www.therarebelle.com
21 Sunday Aug 2022
Posted drinkin' on the job
inThis month’s cocktailin’ excursion was a no-brainer! We simply spent the afternoon with the unbelievably friendly folks at our new favorite hang-out, the super casual, super authentic, 4 Tacos Locos on Augusta Road in Greenville. Ana and Benito are our new best friends – for good reason. They know a thing or two about REAL Mexican dishes and, of course, cocktails – and we are in awe!
a diamond in the rough…
4 Tacos Locos is refreshingly off the beaten path (no fighting the downtown traffic, no driving circles in a parking garage) and might not seem particularly fancy on the outside (no shiny, new building), but you know you have found a true gem as soon as you walk in the door! Happy, smiling faces, colorful banners and mouth-watering aromas are the perfect greeting for one and all!
A margarita for any apetito…
We have had our fair share of margaritas -the bueno, the no bueno and the really no bueno! Until now, we have never had the most bueno marvelloso! Maybe it should be named after on of the owners, Benito. “Bueno Benito” has a nice ring to it- just sayin… Made with their house-made mix, it is plenty potent and delicious on its own, but if you’re feeling fiesta-like, feel free to add a floater. This delightful little hole in the wall will surprise you with its selection of upscale tequilas, so be warned, it will be fuerte! Available in small, medium and you better call an Uber, it meets everybody’s thirst level!
Jalapeño Margarita…
We were beyond delighted and thrilled by the spicy margarita! Si, they were so good we had two. and that rarely happens as we usually share well! Served in a jelly jar and sprinkled with fresh jalapeño and fresh cilantro, this is an absolute game-changer. It’s appropriately spicy at first but mellows on the back end. We would run with the bulls for this one! It’s by far the cocktail that you will continually crave…we certainly do and are fantasizing about one as we write! It also balances beautifully with everything on the menu. More about that in a momento.
The Michelada…
Since 4 Tacos Locos is open for lunch, which suits us as we have now gone multiple times, we have to talk about this south-of-the-border hangover cure which covers all needs without setting you back. A tub, yes TUB, of bloody Maria house-made mix blended with cerveza (beer for you gringos) is the Grand Patron of bloody marys. It will do ya right in the event you find yourself having been over-served the night before – a rookie move, but we all regress at times! #hangovercure
The happiest happy hour (or 3)…
While ANY time is a good time to visit, there’s a nice incentive to pop in for “Happy Margarita Hour”! On Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 4-7 pm, the margs in all sizes are super-specially-low-priced. No matter which size you choose, your temperature and mood will immediately chill!
And while we are slightly more cocktail-focused, 4 Tacos Locos doesn’t disappoint the staunch beer-drinker. They have all the usual suspects in the cooler, cold and calling your name, but the pièce de résistance for this hallmark of Mexican authenticity is the Corona Tradicional – hurra!!
Tacos, tacos, tacos, and soup…
We can’t say enough about the incredibly delicious treats coming out of this kitchen! The street tacos are epic! While they have the more typical tacos for those who want to stick to what they know, our favorites are the pork carnitas, the Alhambra (beef) and Mexican sausage, and the El Pastor which has a hint of sweetness with pineapple.
Another favorite is the Birria tacos, a slow-cooked short rib that is pulled and stuffed into tortillas then served with a side of consommé creating a gastronomic delight. We could eat the consommé alone, especially with Ana’s onion-cilantro creation and a squeeze of lime. One of us orders this every single time – even if she wants to try something else!
The sopa de pollo is the tastiest ever, the salads are compiled of the freshest of ingredients, and the guacamole de casera is beyond your wildest imaginations- we are not exaggerating! The hearty eaters in our lives dig happily into burritos, fajitas and enchiladas.
Ana is great at helping patrons navigate the wealth of choices on the menu and makes sure everyone is muy contenta. She and Benito deserve every accolade available in making the whole experience one you want to repeat over and over. Muchas gracias. Benito and Ana for giving Greenville a truly authentic Mexican experience!
Open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:30 am – 9:00 pm, Ana and Benito are ready and waiting to greet you!
4 Tacos Locos . 3400 Augusta Road . Greenville . (864)451-7804
09 Thursday Jun 2022
Posted drinkin' on the job
inTags
cocktails, drinkin' on the job, greenvilleonline, Parsley and Mint, Talk Greenville, Talk Magazine, TALKGreenville
Our TALK Greenville drinkin’ adventure this month took us into a Mediterranean oasis just off of Main Street, out of the hustle and bustle of the popular Camperdown/Main intersection where Liberty Bridge and Falls Park traffic converge with the ever-present stream of city strollers. Parsley and Mint Mediterranean Eatery is a bright, happy, full-service spot with flavorful, fresh, healthy, locally-sourced offerings – and a surprisingly-impressive adult beverage selection…a virtual magnet for these gals!
full-service with a smile…
Parsley & Mint is new to the downtown dining scene and is a winning addition to the full-service lunch, brunch and dinner options. While some might know and remember this particular location as a casual, line-service, “to-go” lunch spot, Parsley & Mint is much, much more! As noted, this particular location is full table service – in contrast to their “fast-casual” Furman outlet. The menu covers everything from small plates, soups, salads, sandwiches, and “bowls” at lunch to options like lamb kofta, airline chicken, and scallops on the dinner menu. Based on our sampling…we will be recruiting followers!
While the food is “all that”, Rion, the resident cocktail-master, enticed us with a few of his impressive creations…
The Maeday…
This beautiful beverage pays homage to the cocktail curator’s daughter…pretty in pink with a slightly mischievous side! This fruity, smooth beauty in a coupe delivers a hint of mischief with the Tito’s vodka, a spike of energy from the lemon juice, and a smidge of sweetness from the house-made raspberry-thyme syrup. Try the Maeday any day! It’ll do you right!
Amethyst…
True to its name, this lavender-colored concoction is easy on the eye. Gin, St Germaine, bitters and lime juice are topped with ginger beer to make a true delight of a drink. Even the reluctant gin-drinker will appreciate this cocktail as it is more herbaceous than medicinal – thanks to the creativity of the resident cocktail connoisseur. This drink is really more precious than the stone, so give it a chance, you’ll be hooked! # purplepotion
Dead Man’s Handle…
“Intoxicating”, “complex” and “umami” are the words that come to mind on this twist on an old classic. A potion anchored with tequila is supported by orgeat for a touch of elegance and Aperol for a touch of bitterness, then a bit of intrigue is delivered by the layering of harissa spices – the perfect finishing touch in our opinion. A cocktail for the ages, we think this one will stand the test of time! #backtothefuture
Bottomless brunch…
Get your mind out of the gutter…of course you have to wear pants!! Brunch is bottomless in a much less scandalous way on Saturday and Sunday at Parsley & Mint with non-stop menu items and non-top mimosas (several flavors) with a 2 hour limit, “ya drunks” 😉 Work your way through the menu and see how far you can get…they tell us many have tried, but few have made it all the way to completion!
Somethin’ special…
Open for lunch Monday – Friday and dinner Wednesday – Saturday, with brunch on Saturday and brunch on Sunday, there is plenty of time to fit in a visit to this hot-spot. But take a hint from the pros… Wednesday is a great night to give Parsley & Mint a shot because it happens to be half-price wine night! Rion has paid close attention to the wine list, ensuring some crowd-pleasing options and a great selection of half bottles for the lightweights
Try to snag an outdoor table one balmy evening or enjoy the indoor dining options (tables, bar, window seats…) soon. You won’t be sorry! Call or visit RESY to book your experience now!
Parsley and Mint Mediterranean Eatery . 600 S Main Street, Unit 101 . Greenville . (864)412-8199
parsleyandmint.com
By: Alex Burgamy and Angi Einstein – http://www.therarebelle.com
06 Friday May 2022
Posted drinkin' on the job
inHi, belles (and beaus)! It’s been a minute, but we are still at our “drinkin’ on the job” gig! Check out our latest adventure in the May issue of TALK magazine …
We always appreciate a good orchestrator…someone who can pull together an amazing space, a knock-out meal, and some total kick-a** cocktails with flair! We stumbled upon just such a “maestro” with all that and more at Maestro Bistro & Dinner Club in downtown Greenville. Owners Arielle & Sammy and house-manager Patrick sat down with us one recent afternoon and gave us a little peak into their Argentinian-infused, French-inspired, white-table-clothed space. We were thoroughly impressed!!
An unlikely pair…
The path to this sweet spot was quite different for this unlikely yet perfectly copacetic pair. While Arielle grew up in the U.S. riding horses and honing her French culinary skills, Sammy – amazingly – grew up in an Argentinian jungle and was a bona fide gaucho! At 15, Sammy found himself in Miami learning English from Jerry Springer and cooking shows, and his destiny was set…and the two were on course to combine forces!
While they are knocking it out of the park with pretty much everything that comes from the kitchen, we stayed in our lane with the cocktails. Addis, the resident lead mixologist, worked his magic with some real belle-ringers …
The Bee Sting…
It may be called the bee sting, but this beauty of a libation goes down smooth and easy! Hornitos Plata Tequila, lime juice, honey simple syrup and habanero bitters are blended masterfully to create a decadent delight. You won’t mind getting stung by this elegant and sophisticated cocktail!
The French Empress…
This is a very noble beverage and Maestro’s version of a champagne cocktail featuring Empress Gin, lemon juice, and a crisp brut. Pretty in pink is the look, joy in every bubble is the flavor, making this the perfect definition of happiness in a glass.
Chart de Ruin…
This cocktail is a true masterpiece, so much so that we came back for another! Roots of Ruin gin, Aperol, and a few other goodies combine to become a citrus, herbaceous and downright amazing concoction that sings on the palate. This cocktail demands an encore and a standing ovation! Its pleasure-inducing ability is beyond measure…just sayin’.
The Bloody Mary…
This should be called the “Bloody Maestro” as it is the most beautifully orchestrated one we’ve ever had! From the perfectly balanced liquid elements to the masterful adornments and painterly sweep of seasoning on the side, this is a cocktail to remember! It’s pretty much brunch in a glass!
The perfect addition to the scene…
While we are blessed to have a great variety of eating and drinking establishments right at our fingertips in Greenville, the white-tablecloth lunch is a bit more difficult to stumble upon. This place fits the bill for the business (or pleasure) lunch-to-impress! But, if you want to keep things toned down and casual, you still have options; just grab a seat at the bar or outside in the courtyard. Serving lunch and dinner Monday through Friday as well as Saturday brunch and dinner (with live entertainment many weekend evenings), Arielle and Sammy got it right…and then some!
Surprises to come…
Arielle and Sammy have another little something up their sleeves…hitting the scene this summer. Let’s just say it will be THE late-night ticket with an “on the down-low” vibe. Stay tuned…we will be sure to fill you in on the details!
Monday – Friday, lunch and dinner, Saturday brunch and dinner with live entertainment many weekend evenings
Maestro Bistro & Dinner Club . 104 South Main Street . Greenville . 864-248-0702 .
Maestrobistrodinnerclub.com
Angi & Alex😘
14 Thursday Oct 2021
Posted drinkin' on the job
inTags
bourbon, cocktails, drinkin' on the job, greenvilleonline, GreenvilleSC, Neat Bourbon Bar, Talk Magazine, TALKGreenville
Our October TALK Greenville article is online and on stands…so read all about it!
With one of us being a big brown-liquor fan…and the other quickly becoming a convert…it will come as no surprise that this month’s cocktailin’ adventure might have us set to become repeat offenders! We sat down with Sam and Tommy at Neat Bourbon Bar one recent afternoon and let them woo us with their whiskey-focused, triple-crown-worthy creations.
Kentucky comes to Greenville…
If you’ve ever paid a visit to the distilleries along Kentucky’s “bourbon trail”, you will be transported back to those iconic rickhouses as soon as you descend the steps into this cozy, underground spot. Barrel heads from the likes of Woodford, Four Roses and Old Forester greet visitors as they step off of Main Street, perfectly setting the scene of things to come as they escape the buzz of the city. From the red leather upholstery to the music playing at exactly the right decibel, this is the perfect place to relax, sip and chill.
The New Fashioned…
A smoky cube of ice gets the nose in the game from the very beginning of this “new” experience! Muddled fruit, Woodford Reserve, and Angostura bitters come together to create this rich, full-bodied refresher. The pièce de résistance here is the smoking of the bourbon ice cube prior to shaking and pouring the delightfully simple ingredients on top! A true delight for the senses, the New Fashioned has us questioning our devotion to any “old” stand-by!
The Classic Sazerac…
The Absinthe in the classic Sazerac has a long, sordid history of having hallucinogenic and psychoactive properties; but the truth of the matter is…it won’t do a thing to harm you! It does, however, add an herbaceous, almost medicinal flavor and aroma, making this a great drink for slow, interesting sips and relaxed enjoyment. Served in an ice cold glass awash with Absinthe and a good pour of Rye, the olfactory experience here is delightfully beyond compare. Frankly, the perfect tipple in our humble opinion.
The Barreled Vieux Carre…
French for “old square” (as in neighborhood not person), the Vieux Carre is anything but “old” or “square”! This is actually a beautifully well-rounded, house-made concoction. Sip slowly again here, though. It’s meant for savoring and settling into…not throwing back in one fell swoop. The spice of the rye blends with the sweetness of the brandy and vermouth, creating a flavor that is full, complex and aromatic…a cocktail for all the senses!
The New York Cherry Sour…
For the newby who wants to fit in or gently ease into the whiskey game, a red wine floater turns this delightful beverage into a fruity, refreshing, familiar concoction. Old Forester 100, Luxardo, lemon and sugar are topped with a Ben Marco Malbec float, creating a smooth, umami top with a citrusy, boozy zing on the bottom. This is an impressive drink with all the hallmarks of a classic…and what’s not to love about a classic?
The bourbon is not the only star…
While one might tend to get all caught up in the booze at such a liquor-forward place, let’s not ignore the creations coming from the kitchen (and…word to the wise…having a little something on the tummy helps an awful lot in the long-run when it comes to such focused imbibing…just sayin’). Whether you decide to nibble on the bacon popcorn with a friend, get stingy with the jumbo pretzel, or go all in on the bourbon & bacon mac & cheese, don’t miss the opportunity to let the kitchen flex its muscles!
Open Tuesday through Friday from 4 – 11 and on Saturday from 1 – 11, this “neat” experience is ready and waiting for you!
Neat Bourbon Bar . 109 N Main Street . Greenville . (864)609-4019 . neatbourbonbar.com
Angi Einstein & Alex Ryan for TALK
23 Thursday Sep 2021
Posted drinkin' on the job
in03 Tuesday Aug 2021
Posted drinkin' on the job
inTags
cocktails, Cutwater Spirits, drinkin' on the job, Talk Magazine, TALKGreenville, Village Kitchen
We took a short trip out to the ‘burbs for our cocktailin’ experience this month, and we’re thinking you will want to do the same when it’s all said and done! Village Kitchen at Hartness, the new urban village on Greenville’s Eastside, is attracting new residents and curious visitors alike. As the “hub” of the neighborhood, Village Kitchen is the new go-to place for a quick (or lingering) cup of coffee in the morning, an inventive lunch, or a relaxing dinner (with drinks, of course) after a long day!
Consistency is key…
General Manager Jonathan Brashier and his team at Village Kitchen put some thought into the beverage program and came up with a brilliant idea. Instead of doing all of the mixing and measuring themselves, they very thoughtfully came to the conclusion that Cutwater Spirits, a company out of California that distills their own spirts and creates some killer canned cocktails with ‘em, was a winner on all accounts. In blind taste-tests, the canned Cutwater cocktails consistently came out on top; and the ease and consistency for bartenders and customers alike made the decision a no-brainer
We enlisted the assistance of our friend, Courtney, to do some sampling and make some starter suggestions for ya…
The Bloody Mary
We sampled Cutwater’s Classic Bloody Mary and were immediate fans! Made with Cutwater vodka, this veggie-forward cocktail features a special blend of “exotic spices” to make it interesting without the spicy heat that you often find in other bloodys. (For those who need that heat, Cutwater also offers a “kicked-up, fiery version” in their Spicy Bloody Mary). We loved this slightly peppery classic as it allowed us to savor the richness of the ripe tomatoes with a little umami finish. This would be a great way to start just about any day!
The Tequila Margarita
A good ol’ Margarita is one of our fave summer cocktails, so we figured this would be a good one to give a try. The slight floral aroma of Cutwater’s tequila is the perfect complement to the tart lime, subtle hint of orange and pinch of pure cane sugar that come together to create smooth, refreshing perfection…just right for these dog-days of summer!
The Mai Tai
While travel to the islands has ticked up a bit recently with relaxed restrictions and passports itching to break out of the safe, some folks might not be ready to make that jump just yet. Well…Cutwater’s Tiki Rum Mai Tai brings the islands to the village! Tiki paradise is found in this taste of the tropics. Cutwater Barrel-Aged Rum and their Bali Hai Tiki Gold Rum which is blended with pineapple and coconut flavors are added to their unique citrus mix to create the perfect tropical cocktail. Mai Tai, take me away!
Savor the simple…
Chef Tanner Marino, Hartness’ Executive Chef, has worked to create a menu that is simple, fresh and fast, while being made from scratch each and every day. Featuring specialty coffee and breakfast options in the morning and transitioning into a fresh, farm-to-table, Southern-influenced menu for the rest of the day, the kitchen is cranking out some real winners in our book! We pretty much inhaled the Chicken and Waffles (featuring a to-die-for cornmeal waffle) and couldn’t get enough of the Fig and Pig Flatbread.
We have a feeling that we will be headed back out to the ‘burbs soon and often!
Village Kitchen . 2000 Society Street, Suite 100 . Greenville . 864.686.7900
Angi Einstein and Alex Ryan
10 Saturday Jul 2021
Posted drinkin' on the job
in23 Friday Apr 2021
Posted drinkin' on the job
inTags
AC Hotel, cocktails, drinkin' on the job, Juniper, Nathan Gray photo, Talk Magazine, TALKGreenville
Just when we think our fair city has reached its pinnacle with new and interesting drinkin’ establishments, another one comes along and knocks our socks off! It seems that while we were all squirreled away in our covid bubbles, the building and the booming downtown didn’t take a break. And now that we are on the brink of full quarantine release (please…we are optimistic), we have found the perfect place for bustin’ out! Perched high above our old Greenville News stomping grounds, Juniper – NOW OPEN on the top floor of the brand new AC Hotel – is about to be the “next big thing”!
A little something for everyone…
No matter the mood, the crowd, or the appetite, Juniper has it covered (or uncovered). This rooftop spot offers every kind of seating imaginable…bar, table, indoor, outdoor, quiet, buzzy…with cocktails and nibbles to match. Let Baileigh, lead mixologist extraordinaire, work her magic behind the bar with one of her cocktail creations and let the kitchen wow you with one of their shareable plates, then just take in that view and let the magic begin.
Risk it for Hibiscus…
While immersed in this upscale, vine-covered oasis with a view like no other, it would only be right to sip on an equally intoxicating cocktail. Inspired by a memorable hibiscus olive oil cake that Baileigh baked in culinary school, this tequila-based beverage is as tasty as it is beautiful with edible glitter, hibiscus sugar rim and a cloud-like topper. Maestro Dobel Silver tequila, house made hibiscus simple syrup, lemon juice and a blood orange olive oil come together perfectly to create a divine flavor and texture -and the foam is actually made from aguafaba, a vegan alternative to egg whites – who knew? This stunner is like sipping on a beautiful sunset!
All She Wrote….
This elixir is a take on The Last Word, and this take is clearly an elevated version! An herbaceous St. George gin is mixed with Chartreuse, lemon juice and Italicus Bergamotto liqueur (bergamot is a very sour lemony orange and is a main ingredient in Earl Grey Tea – fun fact) and finished with a spritz of Absinthe on the glass. And just when you think it can’t get any better- hand-spun cotton candy tops it off creating a magical experience as the colors turn from green to blue as it slowly dissolves. The heady, aromatic flavor and smooth, velvety finish create the ultimate sensory experience.
Kings & Jokers….
Named after a college drinking game, this beverage will bring back fond memories and create some really fun new ones! Havana Club Anejo Blanco rum, Chinola passion fruit liqueur, butterfly pea flower infused rum (for color), and lime are combined and blended with a house-infused papaya shrub (a healthy drinking vinegar) to create a unique and adventurous experience. This one will kickstart your tastebuds in the best way possible!
Hop that trolley….
Now, we have seen our share of table-side “shows”…guacamole, Caesar salads, the occasional Baked Alaska…but a cocktail trolley?! Be still our hearts!! Juniper will delight guests with special table-side mixology sessions with a brilliant Gin Trolley featuring (of course) every imaginable gin along with the accoutrements to create mind-blowing bespoke cocktails. Now, if that trolley could only add our streets to its route!
The old Greenville News home place…with a giant upgrade…
Although it was bittersweet to see the old, iconic Greenville News home-place go, we could gush on about this place…and the space. The artwork alone (featuring some of our favorite local talents) is a sight to behold. And stay tuned for more on “The Press Room”, a speak-easy with a clever nod to our iconic employer.
Make your reservations now…Juniper is calling your name!
Juniper. 315 South Main . Greenville . junipergvl.com . 864-720-2950
Angi Einstein and Alex Ryan. http://www.therarebelle.com