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drinkin’ on the job…sippin’ the summer away

03 Thursday Aug 2017

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Our latest TALKGreenville article is out (click here for the online version…or read on…)

photo by Nathan Gray


We took a steamy stroll to get to our cocktailin’ destination this month, ending up at one of our favorite little downtown spots, Passerelle, ”the casual French bistro in the park.” With a French-influenced menu and a perfectly paired beverage list, this little gem never fails to satisfy our craving for an afternoon or evening à la française.

What’s in a name…

When Table 301 landed in this spot at the Main Street end of the Liberty Bridge in 2012, they took a while to get to know the territory. They watched as folks ambled along the bridge and meandered through Falls Park, and street musicians began to draw a laid-back crowd. A classic French bistro seemed to be a perfect fit! And when it came time to assign a name, the French word for “footbridge” was a no-brainer. Passerelle. Voilá!

 The French 75… 

photo by Nathan Gray


Since we fancy ourselves aficionados in this particular elixir, we are always up for trying a classically elegant French 75 if it is featured on a menu. So to find the most delectable version right here at home…merveilleux!! Typically made with gin and champagne along with a touch of citrus, sugar, and often some type of brandy, Passerelle changes it up with a touch of Cointreau. This nosetickling mosaic melds together to encourage celebration and maybe even a bit of mischief. It’s summertime after all!  

The Lemon Ginger Bourbon Fizz… 

photo by Nathan Gray

For all you bourbon drinkers, this might become your go-to cocktail for the summer. Perfect for brunch, yet ideal for anytime, this lightened-up refresher will please even those who are not quite into the brown liquor. The rich sweetness of the bourbon pairs perfectly with the tart lemon and the bracing ginger, creating a truly refreshing concoction. The addition of ginger ale perfectly integrates all the flavors to truly make this a great option for those sultry summer nights. 

 About that view…

photo by Nathan Gray


While one of our favorite things to do is sit at the bar and watch Chef Steven Musolf work his magic, we often can’t resist a patio seat on a beautiful day with a cocktail and that stunning view of Reedy River Falls. Because Passerelle drew its name and vibe from the “little footbridge” and the surrounding park, they feel strongly about doing their part to keep it lookin’ pretty. A percentage of all revenue generated at Passerelle is donated to the Falls Park Foundation. Kudos!

from downtowngreenvilletoday.com


Passerelle has been a go-to for park-goers, Main Street strollers, and eager diners for over four years now (they celebrated their birthday on July 14th – Bastille Day…approprié, non?) Guests are treated to Chef Steven’s take on traditional French dishes like Cassoulet, mussels, Ratatouille, frites & remoulade (yum!) and many more. As he describes the menu…it’s “a little French, a little European, and a LOT local.” And with options for almost any time of day (brunch, lunch, mid-day, and dinner), how can one resist? If you haven’t been lately, we think it’s time you paid “the little French footbridge” a visit! Merci, Passerelle…salut!

Passerelle Bistro . 601 South Main Street . Greenville . 864-509-0142 . passerelleinthepark.com

 

 

 

 

 

drinkin’ on the job…up on the roof

13 Thursday Apr 2017

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Our most recent TALKGreenville contribution…


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

sample menu from winter 2017

 

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

And as for the libations…

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


The “My Tie”…

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


Bo’s Point of View…

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


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

from eatupdrinkup.net

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

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

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

05 Thursday Jan 2017

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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

drinkin’ on the job…a Stellar experience

01 Thursday Dec 2016

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Our most recent cocktailin’ experience for TALKGreenville magazine…


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

via stellarwinebar.com



Farm to table…

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

  

photo by Cindy Hosea

Underneath the Stars  

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

 

photo by Cindy Hosea

Your Customized Wine Flavor profile… 

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

via stellarwinebar.com

Wine and dine…

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

Make new friends but keep the old…

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

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

stellarwinebar.com