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the RARE belle

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Tag Archives: drinkin’ on the job

birds fly south…our latest bar-hoppin’ experience

04 Thursday May 2017

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ale, beer, Birds Fly South, drinkin' on the job, greenvilleonline, magazine articles, TALKGreenville

Our TALKGreenville adventures took us out to the hip side of town this month.  Birds Fly South Ale Project was quite the cool experience.  Click here for the published article…read on for the details…

drinkin’ on the job…somethin’s brewin’


We headed into Greenville’s hip West End Water Tower District for this month’s “drinkin’ experience”…landing with the cool birds at Birds Fly South Ale Project.  We could not believe how cutting-edge we felt as we pulled into this up-and-coming area that was all aflutter, much to our surprise and delight.  Owners Lindsay and Shawn Johnson welcomed us to their uber-chill nest of ale activity…and we nest-led right in.  You will want to do the same!

What’s brewin’… 

First, about the name.  Lindsey and Shawn, both with Southern roots, spent years on the fly with the Coast Guard but were always lookin’ to head back South.  When the opportunity presented itself, they flew right in and settled in Greenville…thank goodness!  Shawn’s passion for beer took root and the rest is history.  They make craft beer with a “throwback approach” saying, “we don’t make beer, we wait for the beer to tell us what it wants to be”. We were quite impressed with how smart beer is these days!

Sip and Savor… 

Our first foray into this ale-tasting was a surprisingly colorful array of brews.  After perusing the vast menu and making some picks, we were presented with a group of 4-ounce pours to sip and savor…giving us the chance to pick a fave or two.  Rustic Sunday was one favorite with its hint of rye and golden color, while Anchorage was perfect for a neutral, classic palate.  Other offerings ranged from a dark and earthy brew called Parachute to Joos Raspberry with a strong element of fruit (the wine spritzer of beers if you will).  Across the board, Shawn’s creations did not disappoint!

photo by Cindy Hosea

Brand New Eyes and Petite Blanc…

We had a tie for our “blue ribbon” award!  While this place had us looking at everything with new eyes, Brand New Eyes was a delight for our feminine tastes. Citrusy, mild, smooth and mellow, it’s the perfect sipping ale for a warm day. And Petit Blanc locked us in and kept us wanting more.  Because we are foodie-centric, we were particularly pleased with this wine-infused ale. Talk about elevating your average beer!

from mobilefoodnews.com

Keep on truckin’…

The Johnsons keep a steady schedule of local food trucks pulling in for their patrons’ nibbling pleasure, and they bring in live music to keep the crowds entertained (beyond beer, music is another of Shawn’s passions).  If it happens to be a quiet afternoon/evening, pick up a game (Cards Against Humanity, anyone?) and have some fun. Their “urban farmhouse” is designed to inspire conversation, exploration and sharing.

If you have not discovered the West End Water Tower District, let us fill you in.  The area is home to an old cotton warehouse now known as Hampton Station.  Birds Fly South, and their neighbors (which will soon include White Duck Taco) have taken the area up a notch or two.  Seems we had been missin’ out on where the cool kids hang out.  Now that we have found it, good luck keepin’ us in the city! 

Birds Fly South Ale Project . 1320 Hampton Ave Ext . Greenville . bfsbeer.com

a&a

 

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drinkin’ on the job…up on the roof

13 Thursday Apr 2017

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articles, cocktails, drinkin' on the job, magazine, TALKGreenville, UP on the Roof

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

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happily “Trapped”…our latest drinkin’ excursion

12 Sunday Feb 2017

Posted by theRAREbelle in bar belles, belles on the go

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cocktails, drinkin' on the job, Greenville SC, Talk Magazine, TALKGreenville, The Trappe Door

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
 

 

 

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drinkin’ on the job…puttin’ some south in our mouth

05 Thursday Jan 2017

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article, Biscuit Head, drinkin' on the job, magazine, Talk Greenville

We know, we know…it’s a pretty popular time to swear off the carbs and ramp up the workouts, but those resolutions can really cramp one’s style!  We decided to throw caution to the wind and partake in a bit of southern home cookin’ (and breakfast cocktailin’) at Biscuit Head in Greenville for this month’s TALKGreenville magazine drinkin’ on the job outing. Whether you are in the mood for a good old cup of joe on a weekday or a toddy to kick off a lazy Saturday morning, Biscuit Head has just the perfect liquid complement to star of the show…those cathead-sized biscuits.

Biscuits here, biscuits there… 

from biscuitheads.com


This classically-southern-with-an-edge operation originated with Carolyn and Jason Roy in West Asheville and quickly became a local favorite.  Enough so that a second location followed, and this past July, it came to our neck of the woods…and its popularity has not subsided!  Although you might experience a bit of a wait now & then, it’s worth it.  We kid you not!

 

photo by Cindy Hosea

The Irish Coffee

Both of us being part Irish, we wholeheartedly support the tradition of spiking our coffee, and these biscuit people know their way around this warm, liquored-up blanket-in-a-mug. Strong, local coffee, Jameson’s, whipped cream and a hint of cinnamon are just the ticket to round out a hearty breakfast .

photo by Cindy Hosea


The Salty Kitty 

Fresh grapefruit juice (we all need our vitamin c right about now), Cat Head  vodka and a rim of salt make for a sassy wake up call.  This delightfully invigorating libation will have you ready to brave the harsh winter weather. Here, kitty, kitty!

 

Spreading the local love…


Biscuit Head strives to keep it local. Big believers in building strong communities where they operate, they also “get” the importance of keeping their carbon footprint as light as air…like those biscuits.  From meats and milk to coffee beans and beer, they bring in the very best available from as close as possible…all for our carb-loading enjoyment

from biscuitheads.com

Sip and Savor…

The array of biscuit toppings and fillings range from classic (like red eye gravy) to decadent (fried chicken, sweet potato butter, sriracha slaw with a poached egg).  But have no fear, our health-conscious friends.  There are “lighter fare” options like granola, fruits and salads to keep those resolutions in check (if you must).  As for us, this place is splurge-worthy.  We went for it (why do when you can overdo?). After all, if we decide to go into hibernation this winter, we might need those extra carbs! 

from biscuitheads.com


Biscuit Head – 823 S Church Street, Ste C – Greenville, SC – (864)248-0371 – biscuitheads.com

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drinkin’ on the job…after 5 in the ’05

01 Thursday Sep 2016

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cocktailin', drinkin' on the job, greenvilleonline, TALKGreenville, The 05


We didn’t stray far from home for our TALKGreenville cocktailin’ adventure this month. With summer coming to an end and school back in full swing, we thought sticking to our neighborhood might be a good idea. And – bonus – we had a new joint to check out! Open just a few short months, The 05 is a hot destination among the Augusta Road (and beyond…way beyond) crowd. And with Justin behind the bar with his quick wit and top-notch toddies flowing, we can see why there’s such a buzz!

Nibbles-n-Bites…





While we had drinkin’ on the mind, we couldn’t help but swoon over the creative eats at the 05! With an impressive selection of cheeses (of the cow, goat, and sheep varieties), charcuterie, and tapas (olives&almonds, Chorizo-stuffed dates, and a goat-cheesy focaccia to name a few), there’s a nibble to suit all tastes. For those in search of a bigger bite, the salads and flatbreads will not disappoint!

The cocktails…


Our faves…


The ‘05
A pretty little signature drink, “the 05” will take the edge off a long day for sure! Fresh-n-fruity with a bit of sting from the tequila, it will sweeten your attitude and give you a fresh perspective for the evening. A mix of Blanco Tequila, Grand Marnier, lime, raspberry, basil and mint, “the 05” is tasty enough to knock your socks off, yet light enough to keep you from falling off the barstool. You will want to put this one repeat!


The 19th Hole
If a cocktail can cause a craving, “the 19th Hole” would be the one! Cool and complex with the pleasantly surprising taste of cardamom, it’s like a spa in a glass…conjuring images of a far off and exotic land. The blend of vodka, basil, cucumber, cardamom, celery salt and small batch tonic makes you want to keep sippin’…with your curiousity and craving growing with each taste. This libation will keep you cool and coming back for more!


Inside-n-out…
The indoor-outdoor setup at this trendy little spot will be hard to beat when the summer heat fades to fall. Step inside to grab a solo seat at the bar, grab a table with friends or make new friends at the community table…or step outside for your cocktailin’ pleasure. The whole place opens up to patios in front and out back for all to enjoy the great outdoors. A little fresh air will do ya good!

The ’05 is the perfect watering hole to meet with your gal pals or rendezvous with your significant other for a little date-night liquid concoction and a light bite. Fashion varies at this little oasis…anything from workout wear to cocktail couture is acceptable. The vibe is more about enjoying the atmosphere and savoring the company. Conversation and mood trump attire every time. How nice that it’s always five o’clock somewhere…and that somewhere is in our neck of the woods!

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drinkin’ on the job…where the gringos go

04 Thursday Aug 2016

Posted by theRAREbelle in bar belles, belle adventures

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cocktails, drinkin' on the job, greenvilleonline, Gringo's Cantina, Talk Magazine


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

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a Persian pearl of a cocktailin’ experience…

05 Thursday May 2016

Posted by theRAREbelle in bar belles

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cocktails, drinkin' on the job, Greenville, greenvilleonline, Main Street, Pomegranate on Main, Talk Greenville


Our TALKGreenville cocktailin’ adventure this month took us to a Persian pearl right in the heart of downtown Greenville. Pomegranate on Main has long been one of our favorite spots for fresh, flavorful, Persian cuisine…and we have always fully enjoyed the libations as well. But when we sat down with Mike at the bar one recent afternoon, our eyes were opened to just how varied the options are in this little gem. A master of the adult concoction, Mike aims to please with a talent for off-menu specialties. Just ask. He will make it!

Derby Days… 

Since May brings the “Run for the Roses”, we would be remiss in not mentioning Pomegranate’s nod to the southern mint julep…their Orange Ginger Julep. Hold onto those fancy hats, ladies…’cause this one will knock ‘em right off! And if the julep is a bit too involved for ya, Mike can serve up some Blanton’s bourbon for your derby enjoyment. Neat. Mic drop.

Pomegranate Martini 

A standard offering (it’s all in the name), the Pomegranate Martini does not disappoint. Don’t let the sweet pink color fool ya. It packs a significant punch! But you can feel good about consuming all those antioxidants. It’s practically a vitamin in a glass! Wink, wink.

The French Mule

The French Mule is a fresh and clean version of the classic mule found out-n-about. Cleverly mixing champagne with ginger beer and lime, this is a bubbly and crisp concoction that is not to be missed.

Desserts to die for…

 While Ali puts his Persian spin on the rest of the menu, his wife, Nancy, lets her southern roots shine through in the baked-goods department. Her chocolate cake is unparalleled…we’ve ordered it for countless birthday celebrations! Whatever your choice may be the dessert is not to be missed!

from dp3architects


Pomegranate is the perfect venue to savor a sultry evening out on the patio, and if one’s leanings are romantic, you can even bring a lock of love à la française. Live music and half-price wines add a wonderful perk to get you over the “hump” on Wednesdays. And while Sundays are usually a day of rest at this delightful little spot, Ali makes an exception a couple of times a year. One of those exceptions happens to be Mother’s Day…convenient, huh?
Time to make those reservations, folks!
a&a

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drinkin’ on the job…goin’ Irish

03 Thursday Mar 2016

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drinkin' on the job, High Street Hospitality, St Patrick's day, Talk Magazine, TALKGreenville, The Playwright


The ides of March may be upon us, but we have the perfect escape in Highstreet Hospitality Group’s upscale, classic pub, Playwright. An inviting mix of booths, tables and a magnificent bar provide the perfect euro-centric setting for enjoying a cold sip and a warm taste.  You will want to linger longer in this treasure of a pub, taking a break from a long winter’s day. It really is the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.

 

Jig-worthy fare 

Renowned chef, Adam Cooke, has created and tweaked a menu that is off-the-charts mouthwatering. From the corned beef brisket croquettes to the lamb and guiness pie, there is something for everyone. By the way…we highly recommend the scotch egg (a taste thrill if there ever was one!)

 The Stokers Mule

The Stokers Mule is the ideal beverage to stoke the fire and warm the body right up. Playwright puts its Irish twist on the classic mule with a perfect balance of Irish whiskey, bitters, “2 gingers” ginger beer and an orange slice (a touch of vitamin C to keep the sniffles at bay).

 

 The Dubliner

If you haven’t noticed, gin is making a comeback…something we don’t mind one bit! This particular concoction puts an Irish slant on the typical gin and tonic with its color…green, of course! Made with Hendricks gin, Jack Rudy tonic, and a cucumber garnish, it’s crisp, fresh, and just what the doctor ordered to cure the winter doldrums.

 

 Drinking dessert is our favorite!!

While Playwright’s dessert menu is swoon-worthy (“Cast Iron Irish Oatmeal Chocolate Cookie”…shut the front door!!), we can be quite happy with a cocktail as the final course (‘cause cocktailin’ is what we do). The “Kilkenny’s Revival” fits the bill perfectly with coconut vodka, Baileys, amaretto, Frangelico, and a cinnamon-maple sugar rim. Sweet!

  

As if Playwright didn’t already have enough to offer, we would be remiss to not mention three more bits of interest. First, the “Library”…a private whiskey room…is the perfect spot for an intimidate whiskey tasting (their whiskey menu is epic) or a private party for wining and dining. Second, the folks here are in-tune with the theater crowd. They know the importance of making it to the play on time (Shakespeare would be proud). Finally, “Sunday, Bloody Sunday” takes on a whole new meaning with the “Irish Rebel” (a bacon-laced bloody mary)…one of the stars of Playwright’s Sunday brunch. If you aren’t Irish, you will want to be by the time you’ve finished here, folks.

Erin go Braugh!

a&a

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drinkin’ on the job…comin’ home to “roost”

06 Thursday Aug 2015

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cocktails, drinkin' on the job, Roost

Our latest “on-the-job reporting” for TALK Greenville…

As the long, hot summer forges on, we are delighted with any excuse to do some cocktailin’…a girl has to stay refreshed one way or another! Our most recent search for just the right cocktail(s) to suit our summer tastes came with a “fresh-n-local” bonus at Roost in downtown Greenville. The bar-folks there are quite creative with their offerings…and they keep it real with things like small batch, South Carolina-made bourbon, house-made mixes and all-natural sodas…giving visitors and locals alike a taste of what this great place we call home is all about.

roostrestaurant.com

It was quite a challenge to choose just a couple of cocktails from their extensive, creative list!

Our first cocktail of choice – The Roost Cool & Spicy Margarita. Now, this is a drink worth crowing about! Freshly-muddled cucumber and cilantro along with house-made sour mix combine to strike the perfect balance to green chili tequila. This breezy blend will have you feeling like cock of the walk or fresh as a daisy.            

Our next choice – the Pecan Bourbon Whiskey Smash is Kevin’s pride-n-joy. Usually, we are happy to share, but this one is a “get your own” kinda cocktail! Pecan bourbon and lemon juice are added to muddled mint and lemon, creating a sweet southern sipper with a crispy citrus on the end. It’ll make you want to nest for a while.

roostrestaurant.com

Expect to see it all during your “roost” at the bar. The afternoon brings everything from golfers looking to cool off after a round, business-types looking to unwind after a long day, and folks like us…just lookin’ to enjoy a refreshing beverage and chit-chat. The attire is hip-business-casual and excalates as the evening unfold.

roostrestaurant.com

Roost has far more than just cocktails to offer…no shocker there! With that fresh-n-local focus, the menu offers a little something for everyone. And, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy the live music on Thursday and Friday evenings throughout the summer in NOMA plaza. They are set up to accommodate groups of all sizes for dinner…no crowd is too large…so, whether you are out with the girls for a bit of a “hen party” or out with a fella who likes to “rule the roost”, they have you covered!

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bacon and booze…cocktailin’ with the brothers

02 Thursday Apr 2015

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

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bacon, Bacon Brothers Public House, cocktails, drinkin' on the job, Talk Greenville

IMG_2727We’ve been up to the cocktailing again, and this time we upped our game with a bit of bacon as a bonus! We headed out to Bacon Brothers Public House to sample their already legendary menu of creative cocktails…and they did not disappoint. This place is reeling with enthusiasm and a real passion for what they are doing behind that buzzing bar. These bartenders (they don’t like the pretentiousness of the term “mixologists”…big points there) all create, share, and have input on the fine details of the libations. They make their own bitters and shrubs (see our description below) daily, letting inspiration, spontaneity, and creativity guide them. We reap the rewards. Holla!

The Bacon Brothers cocktail menu...see what we're talkin' about?

The Bacon Brothers cocktail menu…see what we’re talkin’ about?

We tried the “Gin Shrub Fizz” and the “Fog Cutter” (perfect the San Francisco native), and we were quite happy with our choices!

Made with Damrak Gin, fruit shrub (spiced-apple in this case), and sparkling wine, the “Gin Shrub Fizz” kept us effervescing for a bit…a quality we love! It’s a nice balance of fruity and crisp…a cool, calm, collected sort of drink. This particular concoction will change as the shrub flavors change, so it might be worth a try every couple of weeks!

The “Fog Cutter”, made with rum, gin, brandy, byrrh (pronounced “beer”), allspice dram (again…we will explain this in a minute), and a touch of kumquat, is a strong, swarthy sort of cocktail. The citrus of the gin balances the bitterness found in the byrrh which is made with quinine, said to aid with digestion…a healthy bonus! Kumquat is apparently the next trend in cocktails. We are all aboard!

Now…to explain the “shrub”, which beats anything you’ll find in the yard! Used to flavor cocktails or sodas, this kind of shrub is a blend of fruit, sugar and vinegar. The recipe dates from 15th century England but is enjoying quite a revival. Gabriel, the brilliant Bacon Brothers beverage manager, uses in-season fruits to create a new shrub every couple of weeks.

And as for that “dram”…a dram can simply be a small portion of something to drink. However, the allspice dram used in the Fog Cutter is made with highly-spiced rum. We have discovered that allspice dram is apparently hard to come by, so Bacon Brothers is in the know!

"The Burger"...need we say more?

“The Burger”…need we say more?

And one should never cocktail-it-up without a nibble or two! We sampled the pimento cheese with bacon jam with house-made saltines…wow! We would have licked the bowl if our mamas hadn’t taught us right…(besides it was too crowded to get away with it!). And had we not filled up on the snack (mama lost the battle here…we ruined our dinner!), we would have sampled the heavenly burger the waiters so bravely brandished about! They need to watch their step…we might just decide to grab one and run next time!

On a follow-up visit, the belle with the son who’s pretty much all about bacon discovered that we are quite partial to the Bacon Caramel Popcorn…IMG_2728Lord, have mercy!
It’s a real winner…a must-try!

As far as what to expect of this fine establishment if you haven’t ventured over there just yet, Bacon Brothers is a relaxed, casual kind of place…so anything goes. The décor is rough-hewn with cozy lighting, exuding warmth and comfort…like your favorite pair of jeans. And the food is as creative and authentic as the cocktails!

So, belles…we suggest you make your reservations now! When (not if) you go, plan to step out of your box and experiment with options you won’t have just anywhere. Save the Pinot and suds orders for less creative establishments. Let these guys show you what they can do. You won’t regret it!

a&a

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