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drinkin’ on the job…we found the cure!

01 Friday Sep 2017

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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

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…takin’ in the view at Jianna

01 Saturday Jul 2017

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We’ve been hittin’ the bottle again!  Check out our latest TALK magazine cocktailin’ experience…out now in the July issue…


Table 301 seems to have done it again! They have another winner in downtown Greenville with Jianna, a “modern Italian Osteria” conveniently perched above Falls Park. Overlooking Liberty Bridge at the corner of Main Street and Falls Park Drive, Jianna has a window on the bustling world below. With a balcony reminiscent of The Big Easy, this corner oasis is perfect for dinner, drinks and whiling away a steamy summer evening. 

Why “Jianna”?…

Chef Michael Kramer once worked at a San Francisco restaurant owned by one of his culinary mentors, Marc Valiani. The restaurant was called Jianna, and Valiani’s wife often joked that Jianna was her husband’s “mistress”. Sadly, Valiani passed away in 2011. When Kramer was given the chance to help name this new establishment in Greenville, he immediately thought of Valiani’s lasting inspiration and requested permission to use “Jianna.” What a beautiful tribute to a worthy mentor!   

The Countess and her Counterpart…


Jianna’s beverage menu features Negroni-inspired cocktails, giving us a modern take on an old Italian classic. Two of these creations, in our opinion, go hand-in-hand…the Classic Negroni and the Countess (because every Countess needs a classic fella by her side). The Countess is light and refreshing, but might sneak up on you with her powerful punch. Crowned with prosecco, she is feminine, elegant and wholly deserving of her noble title. Meanwhile, the Classic Negroni deserves his own badge of honor. Not for the tender-palated, his slightly bitter edge is best for one who enjoys a stiff, bracing cocktail. …the perfect elixir to kick off an evening of fine dining. One of us has been called “the Contessa” since she was knee-high to a grasshopper…so of course she decided to claim as her own! Both will whet your palate and have you comin’ back for more. 

The Hinny… 


For those who might enjoy a touch of winter in July (‘cause who wouldn’t like at least a tiny escape from the sky-high temps?), the Hinny is the cocktail for you. An elevated take on the traditional mule, the frosty mug and mound of crushed ice combine to create an adult snow cone that will have you forgettin’ the steamy heat outside. The addition of fresh basil “frosted” with powdered sugar makes it just as pretty as it is refreshing. You’ve heard of herbal remedies right? Here’s the cure to all your hot weather hang-ups. Just cool your heels and enjoy the moment.

Indoor/outdoor…


Although it might be a bit toasty outside during the day, Jianna can take advantage of the cross-breeze as the sun sets…allowing patrons to enjoy some fresh air with indoor/outdoor bar seating and service. And what better place to try to catch the Fourth of July fireworks display?! Give ‘em a call…seats are bookin’ up fast!


Jianna’s bustling open kitchen cranks out modern Italian dishes using pastas made daily and seasonal, local ingredients. Add to that freshly-shucked oysters and “a refreshing selection of wines and spirits” and you have yourself a winning combination ”best celebrated with family and friends”. Open Tuesday through Sunday for dinner and lunch on weekends, there’s plenty of time to pay Jianna a visit. As they say, “vi diamo il benvenuti”, we welcome you!

Jianna . 600 South Main Street . 2nd Floor . Greenville . 864-720-2200 . jiannagreenville.com

drinkin’ on the job…strollin’ to stella’s

08 Thursday Jun 2017

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Our latest TALK Magazine contribution…

from stellasbrasserie.com

There’s a new kid in Hollingsworth Park…Stella’s Southern Brasserie… and Stella wants her new friends to come out and play! The spawn of the beloved Stella’s Southern Bistro in Simpsonville, this little brasserie has some sass. Owners Julia and Jason Scholz along with Chef Jeff Kelly and beverage director/face at the front Aimee Maher have created the perfect neighborhood spot for any time of day. With all kinds of eatin’ options and clean, classic cocktails, this is the perfect summer sortie.

from stellasbistro.com


About Stella…
Now this is a story that tugged at our dog-lovin’ heartstrings. Julia and Jason’s first love was a black lab named…you guessed it…Stella. When the time came to name their first restaurant, “Stella” was the winner hands-down. They wanted Stella’s qualities (boundless energy, full of affection, and always happy to see a friendly face) to carry over into the vibe of their establishment(s). We think they nailed it!

Not your grandpa’s gin & tonic…


The “House Featured” cocktail is a gin and tonic like no other! Choose your spirit from a vast array of clean, pure, refreshing gins that won’t flush your face or change your personality. It’s a collection that will have you earning your gin stripes in no time. And speaking of refreshing, the Citadelle and Tonic is exactly what you need to help you recover from the wilting heat. Made with Citadelle gin (merci Cognac, France!), scratch-made tonic (you’ve never tasted tonic like this…we are converts), and sprinkled with lavender, this refreshing beverage will put more spring in your step and have you imagining a cool breeze. This could be our go-to summer cocktail.

The Parisian Puppy…

photo by Cindy Hosea

The drinks here are concocted so you focus on the liquor and savor the simple. With the best ingredients and savvy bartenders, one doesn’t need a slew of elixirs, syrups, and tinctures to enjoy a good libation. The Parisian Puppy features Boyd and Blair vodka (au revoir Tito’s…this stuff is awesome), fresh pink grapefruit juice and a bergamot sugar rim defining its pure simplicity and balance. This cocktail is magnifique, mouthwatering, subtly sexy and so satisfying.


Have your way with the wine…
Aimee strives to maintain a wine list that combines classics with a few interesting “stretches” to expand patrons’ horizons. But no need for commitment phobia…the entire wine list can be ordered as a petite pour (perfect for a single), a fun pour (perfect for sharing with a friend without going overboard) and, of course, the bottle (for those who are ready to take the plunge). And the same goes for the brews. Order a “beer for one” or a “beer for fun”…also known as the “take one down, pass it around” approach.

from stellasbrasserie.com

Morning, noon and night, Stella’s Southern Brasserie has options galore. Enjoy fresh pastries and coffee served sun-up to sun-down, savor a classique lunch of Croque Madam (above), or move right on to the crispy duck leg on the ever-changing dinner menu (they shop, buy, and serve local as much as possible).  Really…you have no excuse for not finding a time to pay Stella a visit! Our favorite option…amble over to a patio seat on a summer afternoon, order one of Aimee’s “really delicious, well-made cocktails”, and savor the simple!

Stella’s Southern Brasserie . 340 Rocky Slope Road, Ste 100. Greenville
(864)626-6900 . stellasbrasserie.com

happily “Trapped”…our latest drinkin’ excursion

12 Sunday Feb 2017

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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
 

 

 

drinkin’ on the job…where the gringos go

04 Thursday Aug 2016

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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

drinkin’ on the job…packin’ a picnic

30 Thursday Jun 2016

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Our TALKGreenville cocktailin’ adventure this month took us in a slightly different direction. This time it involved less mixin’ and more easy, laid-back sippin’…perfect for this long, hot summer! We headed just outside of the confines of “downtown” to visit Mike Okupinski and Ed Buffington at The Community Tap where the beer gets its deserved attention, but the wine refuses to play second fiddle. We were pleasantly surprised!

 
Magnum, Jereboam, Methuselah…go big or go home…
While you can always grab your ho-hum-regular-sized bottle of vino for your everyday enjoyment, we get a little giddy at the idea of a super-sized bottle to share while entertainin’! We are thinking a giant Jeroboam (equal to 7 bottles of wine) would make an excellent bar center/conversation piece! TCT has you covered on all fronts.  

Leave the corkscrew at home..:
Imagine our surprise when the most talked-about wine in the place was in a…wait for it…can!! Koozie-friendly and “pinkies-down” casual, all three varieties (Rosé, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Noir) from Union Wine Company’s “Underwood” label are spot-on delicious! And with the loss of glass recycling in the city, it is practically our duty to promote these winning wines!

 
On tap…
How could we mention The Community Tap without shining a big spotlight on the TAP!?  The first retailer in the Upstate to offer “growlers”, TCT keeps twenty ever-changing taps of beer steadily flowing for their patrons’ enjoyment. Because many of the best craft brewers only produce small batches in kegs, the tap is the only way to sample those wares. Sit-n-sip or take a growler for your sippin’ pleasure at home.  

Truckin’ it… 
While TCT keeps a few, select nibbles on-hand (don’t miss the to-die-for Swamp Rabbit Cafe baguette – delivered fresh daily), Mike and Ed made the conscious decision to skip the food prep headaches in order to focus on what they do best…beer and wine. But never fear. Patrons have no excuse to leave hungry! These fellas schedule food trucks on the property every day except Sunday. Brilliant!

  
The Community Tap now has the two of us to count in their ever-growing fan base. We plan to return again and again for the super-cool-casual atmosphere (all of the wood in the place if from an old fertilizer plant in Pickens), a low-brow wine-tasting, or to simply relax on the deck. And when it comes to planning the perfect Fourth of July picnic off-site, how can you beat a delicious hunk of bread, some good cheese, a growler of cold beer, and a six-pack of wine? Easy. Convenient. Done!

 
Cheers!!

Alex Ryan and Angi Einstein – http://www.therarebelle.com

drinkin’ on the job…cheers to HOPE

01 Friday Apr 2016

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We decided to switch things up a bit with our cocktailing this month. Now that warmer weather is on the horizon, we’re getting excited about spring parties and celebrations. One such affair only comes along every other year, giving us something extra-special to attend. 

It’s the HOPE BALL, benefitting the Cancer Society of Greenville County, coming up on April 29, at the Hyatt in downtown Greenville. We thought it would be fun to use a bit of what we have learned over the last year, interviewing bartenders, mixologists, bar managers and the like, by helping to create a signature cocktail…the “Hope-tini”, for this much-anticipated event. 

 
The Color of HOPE…
If you have ever visited the Cancer Society of Greenville County, you might have noticed its distinctive purple front door. This bold choice of color is not accidental. Purple is recognized as the color of hope…exactly what every patient needs and experiences once inside. The lavender used in our signature concoction is no accident either. That hint of color is a nod to the hope we have for each and every life touched by the CSGC.

  

The HOPE-tini…
The “Hope-tini” is essentially a lavender-citrus martini. It might sound a bit feminine and dainty, but this is quite a powerful concoction! Healthy doses of vodka and limoncello combine with homemade lavender simple syrup and fresh lemon juice to create a citrusy-fragrant party in a glass. The lavender hits the nose as the citrus hits the tastebuds…and the vodka hits the spot.

  
Lavender Simple Syrup…
This little recipe could come in handy throughout the summer, so commit it to memory. You won’t regret it! Equal parts of sugar and water are brought to a boil, then 2-3 tablespoons of dried lavender buds per cup of water/sugar are steeped in the syrup for 5-10 minutes. Once strained, this sweet, fragrant elixir is ready to use in cocktails, lemonade, Italian sodas, over ice cream…the list goes on.

  

An elegant affair…
Widely known as one of the most elegant affairs in Greenville, one will want to dress the part…long gowns for the ladies, black tie for the gents. But wear your dancin’ shoes. You just might not be able to resist taking a spin on the dance floor after dinner!

Gettin’ down to the details, now. The Cancer Society of Greenville County (CSGC) is a local organization serving local cancer patients (over 4500 currently). All funds raised stay right here in Greenville to give hope where it seems hard to find. The HOPE BALL is coming up fast, so don’t miss out! You may call the Cancer Society of Greenville County at (864)232-8439 or click here to register online – website:  www.cancersocietygc.org. 

HOPE to see ya there…we’ll be the ones with the martini glasses! 

#yeahthathopeball

a&a

drinkin’ on the job…goin’ Irish

03 Thursday Mar 2016

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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

cocktailin’ across town

07 Thursday Jan 2016

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Our latest TALKGreenville installment…the January issue is now on stands (or in your home)!


Is it just us, or do the short, dark days of early winter make everyone a bit stir-crazy? Although the holidays keep us hoppin’ for a while, the dust finally settles, leaving us in need of some entertainment. And what better way to entertain ourselves than to get out of our usual stomping grounds for some cocktailin’? No need to travel far…we found just what we were looking by paying a visit to Jason Clark and Jeff King at Bin112 on Trade Street in Greer.

Feelin’ cheesy …

 

 …Of course, a little snack before starting this kind of “work” is a must. We were delighted to find quite an impressive variety of cheeses on the menu. Diners (or cocktailers) can choose one, two, or three for sampling, accompanied by pear, local peach chutney, wildflower honey and a balsamic glace. Score!

Our cocktails of choice…

    

The Cheerwine Manhattan

This signature drink is a true family affair. Jason combines his homemade Cheerwine syrup and his own brand of “Flying Pig” barrel-aged Manhattan (a winning combination of Bulleit Rye Whiskey, Rivata sweet and dry vermouth, and Fee Brother’s 1864 bitters aged 72 days in an oak barrel) then adds his dad’s house-brandied cherries to create absolute perfection. This culinary concoction of a cocktail is rich, oaky, elegant and thoroughly indulgent.


The Corpse Reviver

In the dead of winter we could all use one of these bracing beverages to awaken the senses. A perfect combination of Tanqueray Ten Gin (there’s that Gin again, folks), Cointreau, Lillet Blanc, fresh lemon juice, a smidge of absinthe and a note of orange, this creation is quite the reviver! This too is barreled for 72 days, emerging to create the perfect spirit-lifter.

Always leave ‘em asking for S’more …

 

from bin112.com


…Why not cozy up to a fire pot to melt those winter blues? Graham crackers, marshmallows (they should be tan not burnt, unless you want your fun taken away!) and Bin 112’s homemade chili-infused chocolate bar will surely warm you inside and out. We highly recommend a heavy dose before braving the cold, damp outdoors.

Jason’s vision of Bin112 was a wall of wine, an inviting bar, warm brick walls and a knowledgeable staff. We are happy to say that the atmosphere he has created is just that and more. Never complacent, Jason and Jeff meld the front and the back of the house with smashing success. Jason has fine-tuned the cocktail offerings over the years, carefully choosing and often creating his own libations while “hospitality king” Jeff plays to the crowd with ease. We were impressed. We expect you will be as well.

Cheers!

a&a