drinkin’ on the job – at a westurn oasis
08 Tuesday Nov 2022
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Tag Archives: greenvilleonline
drinkin’ on the job – experiencing euphoria
13 Tuesday Sep 2022
Posted in drinkin' on the job
This 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
drinkin’ on the job…goin’ loco for tacos (and margaritas)
21 Sunday Aug 2022
Posted in drinkin' on the job
This 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
drinkin’ on the job…in a Mediterranean oasis
09 Thursday Jun 2022
Posted in drinkin' on the job
Tags
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
drinkin’ on the job…keepin’ it neat
14 Thursday Oct 2021
Posted in drinkin' on the job
Tags
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
drinkin’ on the job…how sweet it is
31 Monday May 2021
Posted in drinkin' on the job
drinkin’ on the job…at Cork & Tap
04 Thursday Feb 2021
Posted in drinkin' on the job
Check out our latest cocktailin’ assignment for TALK Greenville – in the February issue on stands now…
drinkin’ on the job…bonjour et bonsoir!
03 Sunday Jan 2021
Posted in drinkin' on the job
Tags
Bonjour Crepe, cocktails, crepes, drinkin' on the job, greenvilleonline, Talk Magazine, TALKGreenville
New year, new TALK Greenville cocktailin’ adventure..
We are true fans of almost anything “française”, so Bonjour Crepe on Main Street has been on our “to-do” list for quite a while. We had visited for lunch and brunch to partake in their authentic, to-die-for crepes, but we had not given cocktail hour a try…and you know that’s our thing! We paid Mayra and her team a visit to get the scoop on what’s happenin’ behind the bar, and we were très content…even en extase! Read on for our faves and more…
Bonsoir mes amis…
Mama always said, “don’t judge a book by its cover”. Well, unless you are “in the know” (and consider yourself as such as of now), Bonjour Crepe might sound a bit like a daytime-only go-to, but don’t be fooled. The dinner menu at this lovely little place is truly divine!! Start with the charcuterie and then go for the scallops (in a saffron orange sauce – yum!), the peppercorn steak, or the très français Escargot Bourguignon…or any of the other outstanding dinner selections. Trust us, bells will be ringin’!
As for the behind-the-bar action…
The bubbly classics…Kir Royale & French 75 …
We started our tasting with two mainstays in the champagne cocktail arena. The Kir Royale is simple yet inspired in its elegance. Balance is key here, and these bartenders add just enough crème de cassis to achieve perfection. Created by the French as a festive cousin to the Kir cocktail with Nazi resistant wine, the Kir Royale will have you declaring “vive la resistance”! But the bubbles don’t stop there! The French 75 is another winner with the addition of gin, lemon juice and sugar. While the Italian aperol spritz has enjoyed more buzz in recent years, the French 75 is front and center here…and for good reason. Santé!
The French Martini…
We belles learned a little something on this adventure as we had never heard of a French martini – shocking we know – but we can all use some enlightenment now and then. This is where you see the alchemy behind the bar and a twist of creativity. Made with vodka, chambord and pineapple juice then filled to the brim with champagne this drink hits a new level of modernity. We loved the citric and floral aromatic elements of this magic potion. We are thinking you will too!
The New Fashioned…
Fondly known here as “Emilee’s finisher”, this boozy beverage might go down in history. As a twist on the basic old fashioned, this mouth-watering combination of Makers Mark, cherry liqueur and chocolate bitters will have both the experienced and novice bourbon drinker singing its praises. With its hint of chocolate added to the caramel notes of the bourbon, it makes the perfect last cocktail of the night -thus, the finisher
Never a dull moment…
Mayra and her team like to keep things interesting, so they are a threat to bring in a belly dancer or two! Guests love their “Arabian Nights” (that’s where the dancers come in), and they do “Boozy Bingo” on Sundays along with bottomless mimosas for brunch and “ladies nights” on the regular. Be sure to follow along on Facebook or Insta for details on what they have up their sleeves next!
Open every single day, this “crepery & more” is ready and waiting for you!
Bonjour Crepe . 20 South Main Street . Greenville . 864-509-1090 . @bonjourcrepegvl
Cheers! Alex & Angi
drinkin’ on the job…sippin’ sangriahhhhh
01 Monday Jun 2020
Posted in drinkin' on the job
Tags
cocktails, drinkin' on the job, greenvilleonline, Sangria, summer, Talk Greenville, Talk Magazine, TALKGreenville
Our latest TALK Greenville contribution – currently in the June issue…
Well…it has certainly been an interesting couple of months to say the least! “Social distancing” and “sheltering in place” caused quite a few unforeseen challenges – especially in terms of our drinkin’ habits! On one hand, we have been far less social lately with no big weddings, galas, or other shindigs to attend. On the other hand (for some of us), staying home with nothing else to do for weeks on end has driven us to drink a bit more than usual. A belle needs something to look forward to…just sayin’.
We thought we would share what we have found to be an excellent way to drink up any wine you might have left in the cellar…with the potential to serve a crowd (if we ever get to serve a crowd again!). And – it just happens to be perfect for those hot summer days to come. Sangria!
First – a bit of history…
Sangria started out of necessity centuries ago as wine, fruits, and spices were mixed into bacteria-filled water. That little touch of alcohol made the water safe to drink…and the fruits and spices made it tolerable. The Spanish named it “sangria” (blood) because of the red wine they were using. These days, under European law, all sangria must be made in Spain or Portugal – but the very best sangrias are made right in your kitchen!
Red, red, sangria…
This is perfect for those who might be trying to avoid too much sugar (can you say quarantine 15?). This particular version uses lemon, lime and orange juices along with agave nectar to add just the right amount of sweetness with a bit less guilt. It sits it the fridge overnight – or you can keep adding to it for weeks on end so that you never run out! Raspberries and sparkling water are added at party time for a surprisingly balanced sweet, savory & fruity elixir.
- 1 bottle red wine
- 1 lemon (cut into wedges)
- 1 lime (cut into wedges)
- 1 orange (cut into wedges)
- 1 cup raspberries (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup agave nectar
- 2 cups sparkling water (club soda)
- Pour the wine into a pitcher. Squeeze the juice from the lemon, lime and orange wedges into the wine. Toss the fruit wedges into the pitcher (leaving out the seeds if possible). Add the nectar and stir well. Chill overnight. Add sparkling water and raspberries before serving over ice.
Everything’s coming up rosé…
It’s actually hard to drink rosé ALL day – well, for some, but not all of us! This sangria might make it a bit easier! Simply pour a bottle of dry rosé into a pitcher and add lime juice, sliced strawberries, lemon-lime soda and a bit of sugar. Cut several mint leaves into thin strips and add to the pitcher for a savory, herby touch. The result is a crisp, slightly sweet refresher that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser (again…if crowds are a no-no, just pretend you have friends around and down the whole thing yourself – no one would blame you!)
- 1 bottle dry Rosé
- 1 cup strawberries (sliced)
- 4 cups lemon-lime soda
- 3 limes (squeeze juice of two limes, keep one lime thinly sliced)
- 2 – 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons mint (fresh)
- Gather the ingredients. Place sliced strawberries, lime juice, sliced lime and rosé in a pitcher. Cut the mint into thin strips and add to the pitcher. Add the sugar and soda, stir, and serve.
Instant sangria…
In these crazy times, we sometimes need a cocktail that is immediately available to wet our whistles and calm our nerves. This delightful instant sangria only needs a few ingredients and a little freezer time to be ready at a moments notice. Simply freeze blended fruit and ginger ale in ice trays and keep them on hand. Drop them in your favorite red or white wine, stir for a quick bit, and you are well on your way to a refreshing respite from this other world we’ve been living in. And bonus points here…the kiddos can enjoy the little ice pops right from the freezer!
- 1 lemon
- 1 lime
- 1 orange
- 1 cup raspberries
- 1/2 cup strawberries
- 1/3 c sugar
- 2 cups ginger ale
- 1 bottle wine (red or white)
- Peel the lemon, lime, and orange, removing the seeds. Put the citrus fruits into a blender with the raspberries, strawberries, sugar, and ginger ale. Blend all of the ingredients (except the wine) together, until it is “slushy.” Pour the slush into ice cube trays and freeze. When the mixture is completely frozen, pop the cubes into a plastic freezer bag and keep frozen. At drinkin’ time, pour yourself a glass of wine and plop 3 to 5 Sangria cubes into the glass. Stir and enjoy!
Grab a pitcher and a bottle of wine (your choice) and get busy! We are here for you, belles!!
a&a
drinkin’ on the job…savoring summer
31 Friday Aug 2018
Posted in bar belles, what's ringin' our belle
Check out our latest contribution to TALKGreenville Magazine for a bit of Labor Day entertaining inspiration!!
Enjoy your holiday weekend, belles!!
a&a
the RARE belle 