If you’re like me, you are really missing the vibe of an elbow-to-elbow bar and spirited conversation. But things being as they are, we can safely continue our cocktailing activity and keep things small and intimate within our own homes.
You can show your support to bars and restaurants while enjoying all the “amenities” of home like shorter bathroom lines and customized Netflix queues. Just add a couple of drinks to the take-out order you’re already placing and cozy up with some creative craft cocktails in the comfort of home.
My home bar set up includes key staples, but I’m not likely to infuse my own jalapeño tequila or crush Thai chiles to make the kind of cocktail I typically order off a great bar menu. And that, my friends, is why to-go cocktails are so genius!
Toast to a bright, shiny Cleveland new year with these cheery libations on drink menus now.
Spice Mango Margarita
It’s nacho typical marg (#sorrynotsorry) because this one packs some sweet heat of pureed mango and “rooster claw” Thai chiles. Don’t forget to rim your glass with fresh lime, salt and maybe some chile powder to heat things up just a little more.
Hope for Spring
Whether you're grabbing brunch or dinner from this endlessly charming taste of Paris in Cleveland, the Hope for Spring certainly hits the spot this time of year. The crisp effervescense of this aperol spritz will cut through the cold and brighten your spirit like spring sunshine in a glass.
Summer Lovin'
Head to Betts in the Schofield Hotel for even more seasonal spirits in the form of their Summer Lovin' cocktail, combining vodka with a blackberry-lavender shrub. Or, enjoy the light and crisp Afternoon Delight, featuring Hendrick's gin, fresh lime, cucumber and soda.
Sweater Weather
This Cleveland Heights hot spot is known for it's gorgeous and creative craft cocktails, with a menu full of seasonal specials and old standbys. The Sweater Weather is a warm glass of Patterson's cider with bourbon or rum that will definitely fight off the winter chill, while the Barrel 45 Manhattan is made from The Fairmount's exclusive single barrel Buffalo Trace Bourbon.
The Indigo
Nothing says “we’re having a good time” like a purple drink. The Indigo combines vodka, violette, lemon, lavender bitters and cava (a Spanish sparkling wine) into an aromatic and beautiful cocktail, befitting any kind of celebration. Whether you're dressed to impress, or just in your PJ’s, it’s all good, so enjoy.
Many more Cleveland bars are offering drinks to go, so check out what your favorite watering hole might have on offer and support local businesses when they may need it most.