Here Houston features ROOT in: cool summer drinks to lift your spirits
It’s totally time to COOL OUT this summer with a spirit or two to lift your spirit! You can try these original fruity blends at home, or better yet, head to some of these great restaurants to try their version. I’ve put together some of my favorites this summer from mixologists in good ole H-town and the Alamo City in case you’re in the mood for a weekend getaway.
Houston
Masraff’s
One of the true masters is Masraff’s – among my favorite restaurants anywhere, and the perfect location for a gal in Uptown to enjoy a cool cocktail. They have another winner on their hands with the new Romeo N Juliet (http://goodtaste.tv/recipe/romeo-n-juliet-cocktail/) martini; a gin-based martini with just the right combo of cucumber, lime and rose water. It’s spectacular. I’m usually not a fan of gin, but this drink is delicious … very refreshing! And don’t forget, Masraff’s is known for their fresh seafood so order up!
Martini mania continues at Masraff’s with this Lychee Martini (http://goodtaste.tv/recipe/masraffs-lychee-martini/.) It’s an Asian-inspired concoction whose Thai pepper garnish blooms into a beautiful flower! Just for a moment you’ll have visions of tropical beaches with swaying palm trees!
The Houstonian
Lounge in the lap of luxury poolside at the Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa (http://goodtaste.tv/2012/04/a-poolside-paradise-at-the-houstonian/!) Really recharge at the Gazebo in the center of the Houstonian’s Resort Pool complex with this succulent Pineapple Mojito (http://goodtaste.tv/recipe/pineapple-mojito/) — just one of many drinks, along with their Seawall Boulevard (http://goodtaste.tv/recipe/seawall-boulevard/), deserving of your attention. Also, don’t forget about my ultimate Houstonian Gourmet Getaway from Goodtaste.tv!
Anvil Bar & Refuge
Beat the heat and feel right at home at the sleek Anvil — Bar & Refuge, especially with their Savannah Deluge (http://goodtaste.tv/recipe/anvils-savannah-deluge/) cocktail, an appropriate ode to the South made with the aromatic Root liqueur and 1840 Cognac!
San Antonio
Zinc Bistro & Wine Bar
The River Walk is THE spot to peruse during tourist season. The river is rockin and rolling during the summer months! Zinc Wine Bar & Bistro calls the area home, and after tasting their Berry Berry Zesty Margarita (http://goodtaste.tv/recipe/berry-berry-zesty-margarita/) you may think twice about leaving yourself! It’s a new fav of mine. You might also nibble on awesome anticuchos from Chef Manny. You can’t go wrong here!
Boudro’s
Boudro’s boasts some culinary staples of their own: The super refreshing Prickly Pear Margarita (http://goodtaste.tv/recipe/boudros-prickly-pear-margarita/) is practically legendary in San Antonio, as is their Tableside Guacamole (http://goodtaste.tv/recipe/boudros-tableside-guacamole/.) It’s made with the freshest of avocados, chilies, tomatoes and onions — you guessed it, right in front of you while you dine! Now that’s service …
Aldaco’s Stone Oak
La Maestra Blanca Aldaco is known for her cocktail prowess. Visit her at the trendy Stone Oak location for Aldaco’s to try this Award-Winning Cucumber Martini (http://goodtaste.tv/recipe/blanca-aldacos-award-winning-cucumber-martini/) .. it’s a real eye-catcher! And it tastes so fresh. Her watermelon martini is not to be missed too. Afterall, Texas watermelons are in season.
For more great food and wine ideas, head to Goodtaste.tv. While you’re there be sure to sign up for a chance to win a free trip to Napa (http://goodtaste.tv/giveaways/enter-to-win-a-trip-to-napa/) on Southwest Airlines complete with a three night stay at the Westin Verasa and dinner at Brix Restaurant. Cheers to summer!
Tanji Patton writes about food and restaurants for HERE. Check out her website at goodtaste.tv. She may be reached at Goodtaste@ tanjipatton.com.
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