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the RARE belle

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Tag Archives: drinkin’ on the job

drinkin’ on the job…and needing an Encore

04 Thursday Apr 2019

Posted by theRAREbelle in drinkin' on the job

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cocktails, drinkin' on the job, Encore...a Gastrolounge, gastrolounge, Talk Magazine, TALKGreenville

Another TALKGreenville cocktailin’ adventure is on stands now in the April issue…

 

As luck would have it, a last-minute dining excursion with one significant other lead to this month’s cocktailin’ experience.  Driving down Main Street and trying to come up with something “new”, Encore…a Gastrolounge caught our eye.  We had seen it before, but had not had the chance to visit, so here was our chance…and we are so glad we took it!!  They had the hubby at “Lollipop Lamb Chops”.  Of course, they had this particular wifey (considering her cocktailin’ history and their mind-blowing craft cocktail menu) at “Hello”.  

from encoregreenville.com

Decisions, decisions…

When it comes to beverage options, owners Heather and Elizabeth aim to please.  From their extensive wine and beer options to the epic craft cocktail selection, they pretty much have your “beginning” covered.  But the fun doesn’t end there!  Flip the menu over to discover your “happy ending” options.  So…you have some decisions to make.  We did our best to sample as many as possible and to give you some guidance.  Tough job, but someone had to do it!

 

Photo by Nathan Gray

The Ruby Bell…

Being belles ourselves, we couldn’t resist this decidedly southern moonshine cocktail. The Ruby Bell features Belle Isle Ruby Red moonshine, a dash of Cointreau, a smidge of Parma pomegranate liqueur, a dose of fresh lime juice and a splash of soda served with a custom-created garnish of sugared dried pineapple so beautiful that we thought it was a flower. These gals know how to entice the eye as much as the palate – which inevitably creates an irresistible beverage!

Photo by Nathan Gray

There’s a reason they say “frosé all day” – because it’s really that good…and this establishment has upgraded it to another level!  Time to, as we like to say, practice some spring “adulting.” Tito’s, sparkling rose and strawberry simple syrup come together to create just the concoction you need to while away the days that are finally getting longer.

 

Photo by Nathan Gray

Drink your dessert…

And now for the “happy endings.” Cool your jets with some bubbly mixed with a scoop of housemade sorbet in the “Sorbogne”. This cocktail is a beautiful, boozy way to refresh your palate! And last but not least…the “Encore”!  This is a drink worth sipping and savoring. Housemade Nutella vodka and hazelnut liqueur create the most perfect chocolate martini…and the perfect ending to the evening. We believe there are a few occasions when it’s well worth drinking your calories and this is one of those times. Believe us when we say you won’t regret having to put in a little extra exercise the next day!

 

Photo by Nathan Gray

Two smart chicks and their gastro-hit…

Because this is not their first rodeo, Heather and Elizabeth know a thing or two about the food & beverage biz.  They call themselves “front-of-the-house bar people” (they also own on the Roxx – right next door), but they have honed their back-of-the-house skills as well.  We tasted the proof! From the Duck Fat Fries and brussels sprouts to the Roasted Duck Breast and aforementioned lamb lollipops, this was an epic gastro experience.  

 

Plan ahead so you don’t miss out…

Pop in for Happy Hour Tuesday-Friday for special drink pricing and half-off the Duck Fat Fries…and don’t miss Ladies Night on Wednesday (half-price wine) and the live music on Thursdays.  And whether your party is 2 or 10, they will reserve your table (see Open Table for more).  

Now that you have the 411, it’s time to plan your visit.  We are ready for our encore!

Encore…a Gastrolounge . 732 South Main Street . Greenville . 864-520-1618 . encoregreenville.com

 

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drinkin’ on the job…wining and dining at Foxcroft

04 Monday Mar 2019

Posted by theRAREbelle in drinkin' on the job

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cocktailin', cocktails, drinkin' on the job, Foxcroft Wine Co, Talk Magazine, TALKGreenville

Our latest TALKGreenville contribution has hit stands…

 

Photo by Lila Callum-Penso

We stumbled upon a new charmer…all handsome, warm and well-versed in our favorite fermentaitons…conveniently ensconced on Main Street.  Foxcroft Wine Company pretty much had us at hello!  We had been briefly introduced in Charlotte a couple of years back (owner Conrad Hunter has two locations there), but now that we can visit right here in Greenville on the regular, good luck luring us away!  

 

Photo by Nathan Gray

A wine shop with some major bonuses…

Foxcroft offers a plethora of ways to enjoy the juice.  Looking for a great bottle for your drinking pleasure at home?  Take a stroll through the place and pick a bottle or two (or go all in with a case).  Want to enjoy a bite and a bottle?  Grab one off the shelf, have a seat, order a nibble or two, and enjoy…sans the typical restaurant mark-up.  Can’t make up your mind?  They have 40+ wines on tap, ready for some sippin’!  You can choose to have just a taste, or a half-glass, or go for a full glass if one really tickles your fancy.  

 

Photo by Nathan Gray

The Chappellet “Mountain Cuvée”…

This particular vin is a beautiful blend of Cabernet, Merlot and Petit Verdot which – if you ask us– is practically perfect in every way…the Mary Poppins of wine! It is smooth and well-rounded on the palate and has some weight without being too heavy. This one is a great choice to sip while enjoying some of the fabulous nibbles Foxcroft has to offer.

Photo by Nathan Gray

Crémant de Bourgogne… 

We are always downright delighted to sip on some bubbles. This sparkling gem left us wanting more…so we did…just sayin. A flirty, frisky, fresh option that is not too sweet and just the right amount of dry, the Cremont was the perfect glass of fizz.  We would pick this bubbly when it’s time to celebrate something special…but, frankly, we would pick it when celebratin’ nothing at all!  It’s a winner any which way you look at it!

Photo by Nathan Gray

Frank Family Chardonnay… 

We are sending a most appreciative thank you out to the Frank Family for creating this delightful white wine. While a Chardonnays can often be acidic and have too much of a “tooth”, this one has the exact opposite taste. It is creamy, mild and buttery, making it the perfect option for an easy afternoon beverage.

Photo by Nathan Gray

One of everything please…

Here’s the real bell-ringer…Foxcroft is far more than just a “wine company.”  The menu is to-die-for!  We were blown away by the choices coming out of the kitchen and had a heck of a time deciding what to try.  We went for the ricotta and truffle fries (our guilty pleasure), but could have ordered one of everything.  And the beautiful part of it all…the menu is especially designed to be enjoyed with just about any bottle in the place…no special pairings needed.  Their philosophy – “eat what you like, drink what you like”. 

Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am – 11 pm, and on Sunday from 5-10 pm, Foxcroft is ready and waiting for you!

Foxcroft Wine Co . 631 S. Main Street . Greenville . 864-906-4200

foxcroftwine.com/Greenville/

 

 

 

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drinkin’ on the job…over at the Bourbon Barrel

03 Sunday Feb 2019

Posted by theRAREbelle in drinkin' on the job

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Bourbon Barrel Beef and Ale, drinkin' on the job, Haywood County TDA, NC, Talk Magazine, TALKGreenville, Waynesville

from BourbonBarrelBeefandAle.com

Our TALKGreenville cocktailin’ excursion this month took us to the most perfect little neighborhood spot in the Hazelwood area of Haywood County, North Carolina…”the Gateway to the Smokies”.  Ashley Owens, owner of Bourbon Barrel Beef & Ale, graciously welcomed us to her delightful establishment with cocktails ready for sippin’ and nibbles ready for nibblin’.  “Blown away” would be a very mild way to describe our experience!

 

photo by Brindley Faile, Haywood County TDA

Bourbon, bourbon, and more bourbon…

No surprise here…with bourbon in the name, there’s pretty much a guarantee you’ll find some interesting brown liquor drinks on the menu!  While the fine stuff is so often enjoyed neat, Ashley isn’t afraid to toss a shot of Basil Hayden or Bulleit into a killer cocktail.  In fact, all three of our featured libations have a healthy dose of the brown stuff.  That’s right up our alley!

 

photo by Brindley Faile, Haywood County TDA

The BB Bloody Mary

The first in this trifecta of bourbon concoctions is a real taste thrill…a Bloody Mary made withBasil Hayden! Spiced up a bit with a touch of Absolut pepper vodka and garnished with bacon, pickled okra and olives, this bloody is a belle’s sure cure for a crazy Saturday night…or a good start to any easy Sunday morning. #nobetterbloody

photo by Brindley Faile Haywood County TDA

The Classic Old Fashioned…

A classic is never a bad idea, and this one is genius in its simplicity. Bulleit Bourbon is the anchor in this strong, consistent, reliable comfort-in-a-cup.  Need something you can count on? The old-fashioned is your answer.  Just sayin’ #bourbonistheanswer

photo by Brindley Faile, Haywood County TDA


The Blackberry Bourbon Smash… 

If you have a hankerin’ for a beautiful beverage inside and out, the smash is the coveted elixir in this threesome. Knob Creek bourbon is the star of the show here; however, the fresh muddled blackberries, orange zest, sparkling water and a garnish of fresh mint and blackberry certainly earn their spots for best supporting ingredients. #smashitlikebourbon

Though we have gone heavy on the bourbon here, we can safely say that even a non-bourbon drinker will be delighted with the other options available on the cocktail menu.  In fact, Ashley has gone to great lengths to call attention to her other specialties with “Margarita Monday”, “TiniTuesday”, “Wine Down Wednesday” and the ale-focused “Throwdown Thursday”.  Cheers!

photo by Brindley Faile, Haywood County TDA

About those nibbles…

All this drinking can get your appetite up, and we were more than delighted to try some of the local fare. Amazing is an understatement- elegantly plated, delightfully portioned and only the freshest ingredients make the dishes worthy of any gourmet’s palate. The fried oysters were heaven and the French onion soup was magnifique. Not to be outdone, the firecracker shrimp and fried green tomatoes were positively scrumptious, and we are still dreaming about the roasted pepper, artichoke and feta dip as we headed back down the mountain!

 

from the Haywood County TDA

We were quite charmed by this little neighborhood as well as the greater Waynesville/Haywood County area!  Nestled in the mountains with the Blue Ridge Parkway weaving through, there is an abundance of mountain-inspired activities to keep the whole family busy.  And at only an hour-and-a-half from downtown Greenville, it’s just a hop and a skip.  Well worth the visit in our opinion! Take a peek at what the Haywood County Tourism Development Authority has in store for you! #haynow

Bourbon Barrel Beef &Ale . 454 Hazelwood Ave . Waynesville, NC . 

828-452-9191 . bourbonbarrelbeefandale.com

 

 

 


 

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drinkin’ on the job…with some “boom magic”

04 Tuesday Dec 2018

Posted by theRAREbelle in drinkin' on the job

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cocktails, drinkin' on the job, Tacozzini, Talk Magazine, TALKGreenville

 We are still at the cocktailin’! Here’s our latest contribution to TALKGreenville …

There’s a new kid in town…and she brought some boom magic with her! Tacozzini is the new happenin’ spot in the heart of the Augusta Road area that by all accounts is both “awesome and unexpected”…owner Amy Rinkowski’s definition of “boom magic”. It’s the perfect spot to duck in after some holiday party-hoppin’ for a relaxing end to a hectic day (or maybe you need a mid-day pick-me-up…a respite from all the shoppin’…just sayin’).  While Amy has had her hands in the restaurant biz for quite a while, this is the first “baby” of her very own…with a menu created in her very imaginative head where tacos and pizza sit side-by-side, and hand-crafted cocktails get their own unique spin. We like where she’s goin’ with this!

And speaking of those hand-crafted, inventive cocktails, these folks are adamant about a full 2 ounce pour with the spirits and carefully–measured ingredients to ensure a consistent product every time!  We just love precision in cocktailin’!

 

photo by Nathan Gray

Buchi Hibiscus Tea

All of the handcrafted cocktails here are simply divine. They use only the highest quality ingredients, insuring that you can get a simply-done, tasty beverage without all the fluff that masks any inferior product. With the holidays upon us, it’s vastly important to look out for ourhealth and the Buchi Hibiscus Tea will save you from all the excess of holiday partying. Made with Buchi peach and ginger kombucha (which all by itself is a taste thrill…just sayin’), Tito’s vodka and a hint of hibiscus, this is the perfect answer for all those into health and well-being. You just can’t go wrong with this one!

 

photo by Nathan Gray

The Spinster 

Amy and her husband married in Belize, and on the marriage license he is identified as a bachelor while Amy is documented as spinster (defined as an older woman well past the suitable age for marriage – which by the way is a hoot, as there is nothing old or unsuitable about this firecracker of a gal!) She decided to pay homage to this quite hysterical Belizian memory with this bit of R&R in a glass. Rum Haven coconut rum (which is made with coconut water) is blended with fresh pineapple juice, a hint of bitters and a dash of simple syrup creating the ideal cocktail to melt the stress away.

photo by Nathan Gray

The Mango Habanero Margarita 

We haven’t tasted a margarita this good in a long time…maybe ever! The flavors are subtle – muddled mango, just a hint of habanero, plenty of lime and Lunazul tequila (which is very good –  100% blue agave – but you can get “top shelf” if you prefer). Even those with tender tastebudswill appreciate the nuances of this well-balanced, muy deliciosa cocktail!


photo by Nathan Gray

tacos-n-pizza…a marriage made in foodie heaven

These aren’t the pizzas you get in Italy or the tacos you get in Mexico…trust us!  These are mind-blowin’, foodie versions that kick the old classics out of the water!  With a focus on flavor and freshness, every bite is a feastin’ fiesta (or festa in italiano).  And, just to one-up your basic pizza once again, Amy found the very best cauliflower crust as a nod to her gluten-free guests, but – to her surprise – it’s flying out the door faster than the regular crust.  We are hard-core fans!

photo by Nathan Gray

Open for lunch and dinner every single day…yes, even Sunday and Monday…Amy might get tired of seeing us!  It’s just too easy to belly up to the bar to enjoy our favorite beverage alongside our current obsession, the Greek Street pizza, or perhaps something off the “not-so-secret secret-menu” (you MUST ask!) and call it a day.  

A resident of the neighborhood herself, Amy wanted a casual, kick-back kind of place where locals could gather, visit, watch a game, and grab a bite & a beverage without an ounce of pretense. Mission accomplished!  #boommagic

  

Tacozzini . 1818 Augusta Street, Suite 120 . Greenville . 

864-568-9289 . tacozzini.com

 


 

 

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drinkin’ on the job…at Hare & Field

02 Friday Nov 2018

Posted by theRAREbelle in drinkin' on the job

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cocktails, drinkin' on the job, Hare & Field, hareandfield, Nathan Gray photography, Talk Magazine, TALKGreenville, Travelers Rest

Photo by Nathan Gray

We took a quick little trip up to Travelers Rest for this month’s TALK Greenville magazine cocktailin’ excursion…and hit the jackpot at Hare & Field!  Not only did we come away with four new favorite cocktails created by Tara, the resident liquid master; we pretty much ate our way through the menu as well…thanks to sweet Melissa (“directory of culinary creations”)!  Chris & Katie Williamson began their culinary adventures in TR with Farmhouse Tacos, but they quickly realized the need for something more…somewhere to “get a good, hot pretzel and a beer”.  Well, they hit the nail on the head – and beyond – with this little gem of a gastro-pub!

 

What’s in a name…

You might wonder where such a name might have originated…we asked the question and got the answer!  The “hare” is a nod to the Swamp Rabbit Trail which happens to run right past their front door.  The “field” refers to the abundance of fields supplying the local and “gamey” fare found on the menu…from fresh produce to duck, rabbit, quail, and more!  Clever!

Photo by Nathan Gray

“The Last Word”…

They’ve picked the perfect name for this cocktail as it really raises the bar – enough said. Served in a stemmed glass with a slice of dried lime, it’s a beautiful sight. A bit of egg white adds a touch of frothiness and an element of viscosity. A bit of salt to counteract the sweetness and some pepper to spice things up a bit create the perfect balance. The chartreuse adds a lovely complexity (it contains 130 herbs after all) really making this the umami of cocktails.

Photo by Nathan Gray

The “Barrel-Aged Sazerac”…

This full-bodied libation will have you feeling autumn in every way. It’s the perfect sipping drink, simple and straightforward with an orange peel garnish. The flavor of the absinthe shines through, and even the color reminds of a beautiful fall day.  So make a game-time decision and order this drink…it’s a sure winner!  BTW…did you know the Sazerac is alleged to be the oldest known cocktail?  Classic!

Photo by Nathan Gray

“The Salty Pumpkin”…

Move over Starbucks with your pumpkin spice latte…it’s time to get a boozy version, and Hare and Field is just the spot to place your order. This beverage features Six and Twenty Carolina Cream, vodka, Paradox coffee, and salted caramel…and is topped off with a chocolate cigarette (no nicotine here!). It would even make the perfect dessert drink. So lighten up and liquor up!

Photo by Nathan Gray

all hot & twisted…

We couldn’t NOT talk about the pretzels!!  Katie and Chris wanted a place to get a good pretzel, so they created it…and searched high and low until they found the perfect Bavarian pretzel to fit the bill.  Beautifully browned on the outside and heavenly on the inside – with just the right amount of salt – these twisted little beauties come with a side of house-made beer cheese and the best mustard ever!  Forget your carb restrictions just this once…they are worth it!

Open for lunch and dinner Tuesday – Saturday and for Sunday brunch, you have lots of opportunities to pay H&F a visit.  Take a bike ride out to TR on the Swamp Rabbit Trail for a day visit…or drive out for a less “active” experience for an evening out.

Hare and Field . 327 South Main Street . Travelers Rest . hareandfieldkitchen.com

 

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drinkin’ on the job…at Fork & Plough

02 Tuesday Oct 2018

Posted by theRAREbelle in bar belles, drinkin' on the job

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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

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drinkin’ on the job…droppin’ anchor

04 Monday Jun 2018

Posted by theRAREbelle in bar belles

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cocktails, drinkin' on the job, Talk Magazine, TALKGreenville, The Anchorage

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

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Drinkin’ on the job…and perfectly in sync

13 Tuesday Mar 2018

Posted by theRAREbelle in bar belles, what's ringin' our belle

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cocktails, drinkin' on the job, Kitchen Sync, Talk Magazine, TALKGreenville

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

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drinkin’ on the job…an Oktober adventure

05 Thursday Oct 2017

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cocktails, drinkin' on the job, greenvilleonline, Scwaben House, Talk Magazine, TALKGreenville

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

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drinkin’ on the job…we found the cure!

01 Friday Sep 2017

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cocktails, drinkin' on the job, greenvilleonline, Talk Magazine, TALKGreenville, The Common Cure Bare + Grill

We’ve been hittin’ the bottle again for TALKGreenville…check it out in September’s issue!!

from thecommoncure.com


If you’ve been around Greenville for a while, you might remember Campbell’s Pharmacy…where prescriptions could be filled but the soda fountain treats did a far better job of perking you up than any ole pharmaceutical could! If you never had their orange-ade, well bless your heart. But, that old location has a new occupant, The Common Cure Bar + Brill, with lots of “over the counter remedies” to cure what ails ya. 

Our kind of cleanse…


The “Cleanser” is not to be missed! We tasted the Rum Haven coconut rum as one of us has claimed she’s not the biggest fan of coconut-flavored liquors. Well, a girl can change her mind. It was so clean, crisp, and refreshing we’d drink it on its own! But why do that when you can actually “cleanse” with it? Layered with flavor, this concoction combines the Rum Haven with cucumber juice, strawberry, soda and a float of Myers Rum. A cleanser a day keeps the doctor away…just sayin.

The Pusser’s Painkiller… 

 

Back-to-school doldrums be gone. This cocktail is the perfect remedy. This is a true painkiller…just like in the islands…as it’s made using Pusser’s Rum (a must for it to even tout the name). Add a bit of pineapple juice, orange juice and cream of coconut…almost there! The sprinkle of nutmeg floating on the top assures all your summertime vacations and island-hopping memories stay fresh while you adjust to back-to-school reality. This liquid concoction wants you to feel no pain…so sip slowly. You don’t want to be overprescribed!

The Common Cold… 

 

A spoonful of sugar may help the medicine go down, but ice cream and bourbon make it a whole lot easier to swallow! September can be rife with those pesky summer colds and can also still be sizzling hot…but this grown-up treat sooths and cools you in just the right way. A classic vanilla milkshake so thick it hurts your cheeks trying to get it through the straw along with a healthy dose of Bulleit Bourbon and crumbled bacon make this the perfect answer when you need to keep your cool. 


DCD…


While perusing the menu at The Common Cure, one might be curious as to how the DCD Burger got it’s name. No…it’s not an acronym for certain ingredients (like a BLT). There’s only one “D” ingredient…and that’s the Dragon sauce. We got the scoop for ya. It’s a special burger concocted by a group of dads who have been dubbed the “Dark Corner Dads”. They are regulars who tend to gravitate to the corner booth when they are in residence. So try their burger (it’s awesome), but don’t try to take their seat!


The “Cure” truly is a “come as you are and bring the kids” kind of place…no high brows to be found. And there is something to please everyone on the menu. Choose from a long list of starters (try the “Hog Wings”…smoked pork shanks), a wide variety of sandwiches and salads, and a “fry” to satisfy almost any craving (waffle fries, shoestring fries, sweet potato fries, and onion rings). Trying to lay off the carbs? Any sandwich can be served as a lettuce wrap. Low-carb heaven! We are glad to say that this place is in our very own ‘hood. But even if it weren’t, it would be worth the trek. 

The Common Cure Bar + Grill . 15 Conestee Avenue . Greenville . 864.520.2118 . thecommoncure.com

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