Eight and Sand (The Central Station Hotel)

Located in The Central Station Hotel, Eight and Sand is a sophisticated cocktail lounge that exudes timeless charm. With its vintage-inspired decor and an impressive menu of handcrafted cocktails, it offers a refined drinking experience. Sip on a classic Manhattan or try one of their signature creations, like the Smoke & Mirrors, while enjoying the elegant ambiance and attentive service.

The Beauty Shop Restaurant

A quirky and vibrant spot, The Beauty Shop Restaurant combines delicious cuisine with creative cocktails. Housed in what used to be a beauty salon, this eclectic venue features a lively atmosphere and a menu that showcases both classic and inventive libations. Indulge in a refreshing Watermelon Mojito or their famous Grapefruit Margarita, perfectly complementing the restaurant’s diverse and delectable menu offerings.

Art Bar at Crosstown Concourse

Located in the bustling Crosstown Concourse, the Art Bar is a haven for music/art enthusiasts and cocktail lovers alike. This contemporary and stylish bar boasts an impressive selection of handcrafted cocktails, carefully curated wines, and local craft beers. Sip on a specialty cocktail while admiring the vibrant artworks displayed throughout the space, creating an immersive and culturally rich experience.

Hen House Wine Bar

For wine and cocktail enthusiasts alike, Hen House Wine Bar is a must-visit destination. Located in East Memphis, this cozy and intimate bar offers an extensive selection of wines from around the world. Knowledgeable staff will guide you through the menu, helping you discover new varietals and pairings. Enjoy a glass of your favorite wine or embark on a tasting journey, accompanied by delicious small plates and entrees! 

Beck and Call (The Hyatt Centric)

Situated in The Hyatt Centric, Beck and Call is a sleek and stylish rooftop bar that offers stunning panoramic views of downtown Memphis. Whether you’re savoring a handcrafted cocktail, indulging in a craft beer, or exploring their impressive whiskey selection, this rooftop oasis provides a sophisticated setting to unwind and take in the city’s skyline.

Soul and Spirits Brewery

Combining the best of both worlds, Soul and Spirits Brewery specializes in crafting soulful beers that reflect the city’s musical heritage. This brewery offers a unique experience, with a taproom that features live music and an inviting atmosphere. Sample their diverse range of brews, from traditional styles to innovative creations, all infused with the soulful spirit of Memphis.

Memphis truly has something for every drink enthusiast, from elegant hotel bars to vibrant neighborhood spots and unique brewery experiences. Whether you’re seeking a classic cocktail, a refined wine selection, or an inventive craft beer, these notable establishments offer delightful libations and unforgettable atmospheres. So, raise a glass and immerse yourself in the rich drink culture of Memphis, where the flavors and vibes of the city come alive.

The post 5 Memphis Spots Serving the Perfect Drink appeared first on We Are Memphis.

With Memphis having so many great breweries, distilleries, and food artisans, there are so many ways to give your cocktails some local flair. Check out our tips on recipes throughout the article!

1. Warm Tea-and-Cider Punch

INGREDIENTS

• 6 c. fresh apple cider
• 8 English breakfast tea bags
• 1 sliced lemon
• 4 1/2 oz. bourbon 
  • Make it Local: Use a bourbon from Blue Note!

Directions: 

Bring 6 cups of fresh apple cider to a boil in a large saucepan.
Reduce heat and simmer until cider is reduced to 3 cups, 30 to 45 minutes.
Remove from heat and add 8 English breakfast tea bags and 1 sliced lemon; steep for 4 minutes. Discard tea bags.
Stir in 4 1/2 ounces bourbon. Serve warm.

Courtesy of  countryliving.com

2. Holiday Sangria

INGREDIENTS

• 1Bottle sparkling apple cider
• 1Bottle red wine
• 1 cupBrandy
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 cups cranberries
• 1Orange, sliced
• 1Apple, cubed
• 2-3Cinnamon sticks
• 4Star anise
• 4Sprigs rosemary, plus more for garnish
  • Make it Local: Cane and Herb has so many great syrups to kick your cocktails up a notch. Add their Orange Infused syrup to this recipe!

Directions 

In a large pitcher (or punch bowl) combine all ingredients. Stir to mix, cover and set in the refrigerator overnight to allow flavors to come together. Serve over ice garnished with fresh rosemary sprigs.

Courtesy of themodernproper.com

3. Mistletoe Moscow Mule

INGREDIENTS

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• Ginger beer Q or Fever tree are ideal
• Garnish cranberries, lime & mint or rosemary
• Optional 1/2 tsp fresh ginger
  • Make it Local: Use one of Old Dominick’s vodka options!

Directions

Fill two copper mugs with ice. Pour 1-ounce vodka and 1/2 ounce lime juice over ice in each mug. Pour ginger beer into each cup until mostly full. Sprinkle with pomegranate seeds, crushed candy cane, and garnish with a whole candy cane and a mint sprig.

Courtesy of delish.com

4. Boozy Grinch Punch

INGREDIENTS

• 1 (0.13-oz.) packet Kool-Aid Lemon Lime mix 
• 4 c.  water
• 4 c. ice 
• 3 c. lemon-lime soda 
• 2 c. pineapple juice 
• 2 c. vodka 
• 1 c. ginger ale 
• Lime wedges, for rimming 
• Red sanding sugar, for rimming 

Directions 

Mix juice, vodka, and ginger ale in a large pitcher. Add Ice to cool.
Use a lime wedge to rim glasses and dip in sanding sugar to coat. Pour punch into glasses to serve.

Courtesy of delish.com

5. Hot Buttered Rum Batter

INGREDIENTS

• 1-1/2 ounces of butter 
• 1-1/2 ounces brown sugar
• 1-1/2 ounces confectioners’ sugar
• 1/3 cup and 1 tablespoon vanilla ice cream, softened
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Make it Local: Add in soft serve ice cream from a local shop like Jerry’s or Sugar Ghost!

Directions

Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Blend in brown sugar and confectioners’ sugar. Remove from heat, and whisk in the ice cream, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Pour mixture into a plastic container, seal, and freeze.
In a coffee mug, measure 1 tablespoon Hot Buttered Rum Batter and 1 fluid ounce of rum, then fill the cup with boiling water. Stir, and sprinkle the top of the drink with nutmeg. 

Courtesy of allrecipes.com

6. Holiday Punch

INGREDIENTS

• 8 oz pomegranate seeds
• 2 oranges
• 1 cup orange juice fresh squeezed if possible
• 16 oz pomegranate juice
• 16 oz 100% cranberry juice
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 20 oz 7Up or similar soda

Alcohol that can be added (optional):

• 20 oz Prosecco sparkling wine INSTEAD of 7UP
• 6 oz rum or vodka

Directions

Slice oranges into thin slices and cut the slices in half.
Combine orange slices, pomegranate seeds, pomegranate juice, orange juice, cranberry juice, and vanilla together in a punch bowl or pitcher. Mix and refrigerate for 2-3 hours.
Before serving, add soda and gently stir just enough to mix.
Christmas Punch with Alcohol:
Add rum (or vodka) at the same time as fruit and juices.
Add Prosecco right before servings.

Courtesy of willcookforsmiles.com

7. Homemade Irish Cream Liqueur

INGREDIENTS

• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup Irish whiskey, such as Jamison
• 1 tbsp Chocolate syrup
• 1 tbsp Vanilla extract
• 1 tsp Instant coffee granules
• 1 cup Heavy cream
• 1 tbsp Coconut cream

Directions

In a blender combine sweetened condensed milk, whiskey, chocolate syrup, vanilla, and coffee for one minute.
After the mixture is smooth, add cream and cream of coconut and pulse until combined. Shake before serving. Will keep up to 6 weeks if refrigerated.
Notes: 1 batch of this Irish cream yields 32 oz Irish Cream

Courtesy of themodernproper.com

8. Grapefruit Cardamom Gin Fizz

INGREDIENTS

• 2 oz Rosemary syrup (recipe below)
• 3 oz Cardamom infused gin (recipe below)
• 1/2 cup
• Grapefruit juice
• Splash of prosecco, chilled
• Rosemary sprigs
• Grapefruit peel, for garnish
  • Make it Local: Add in Old Dominick’s Gin!

Cardamom Infused Gin and Rosemary Syrup

• 1 cup Gin
• 6 Cardamom pods
• 1 cup Sugar
• 1 cup Water
• 2 Rosemary sprigs

Directions

In a small jar with an airtight lid add gin and cardamom pods. Seal and store for 24 hours.
To make the rosemary simple syrup, bring sugar, water, and 2 rosemary sprigs to a simmer in a small saucepan until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely. Remove the rosemary and use it right away, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
To make the cocktail pour rosemary syrup, infused gin, and grapefruit juice over ice in a cocktail mixer and shake to combine.
Using a strainer, divide the mixture into two glasses filled with fresh ice.
Top with prosecco and garnish with a sprig of rosemary and a grapefruit peel. Cheers!

Courtesy of themodernproper.com

9. Adult Hot Chocolate

INGREDIENTS

• 4 cups Whole milk
• 2 tbsp Sugar
• ½ Vanilla bean or 1 tsp vanilla
• 6 oz Dark chocolate (60%)
• 1 tsp Sea salt
• 4 oz Bourbon
• 2 oz Frangelico
• 2 oz Irish cream
• Marshmallows

Directions

In a small saucepan heat milk, sugar, salt, and vanilla over medium-low heat until sugar and salt are completely dissolved. Make sure the milk does not come to a boil. Add the chocolate in pieces, whisking until completely incorporated. Remove from heat.
Once removed from heat, stir in bourbon, Frangelico, and Irish cream. Serve immediately with marshmallows.

Courtesy of themodernproper.com

10. Homemade EggNog

INGREDIENTS

• 4 large eggs, separated
• 1/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1-pint whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/4 fluid ounces bourbon
• 1 1/4 fluid ounces dark rum
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

Directions 

In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat together the egg yolks and 1/3 cup sugar until the yolks lighten in color and the sugar is completely dissolved. Add the milk, cream, bourbon, rum, and nutmeg and stir to combine. Move mixture to a medium mixing bowl and set aside.
Place the egg whites in the bowl of the stand mixer and beat to soft peaks. With the mixer still running, gradually add the remaining 1 tablespoon of sugar and beat until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the mixture. Chill and serve.

Courtesy of altonbrown.com

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“BBQ lovers unite: Memphis is the ultimate destination for your cravings”

The post A Local Spin on Holiday Cocktails! appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Fall is here! That’s right sweet summer children of Memphis, the official first day of fall was Tuesday, September 22 (and the weather will soon be catching up and cooling down). What better way to celebrate our coming Autumn equinox, than to craft a few incredibly special Fall inspired cocktails!   We’ve searched high and low, and here are our picks for the 5 best Fall inspired cocktails!

BONUS: Movie Pairings! – Once your drinks have been mixed and mastered, take these tastes, and sit down with our movie pairing suggestion! Both experiences will be better by enjoying them together!

 1. The Fantastic Hot buttered Rum

Kicking off our Fall cocktail list, is Hot Buttered Rum. This is a perfect pairing for the cool autumn nights that have more than just a slight hint of the season in the air. 

INGREDIENTS LIST

•   1 teaspoon cinnamon
•   1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
•   1/4 teaspoon cardamom
•   1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
•   1 stick unsalted butter, soft
•   2 cup dark brown sugar

Directions:

1. Cream together the butter, sugar, and spices. Stir liberally. You should be able to roll this into a log. Cover completely and refrigerate or freeze.
2. Find your favorite mug and add a tablespoon of the butter mix.
3.   Pour in the 1/2/3 ounces of rum along with about ½ a cup of hot water.

 Movie Pairing: The Fantastic Mr. Fox

 2. Autumn “Colors of the Wind” Sangria

Just because it’s cool outside doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy a cold, refreshing, fizzy, and fantastic Sangria.

INGREDIENTS LIST

• 2 tart apples, Pink Lady or Braeburn, thinly sliced
• 2 Anjou pears, thinly sliced
• 6 tangerines, thinly sliced
• 2 cups unfiltered apple juice
• 1 ½ cups orange liqueur, such as Cointreau
•  2 750-ml bottles sparkling wine, Prosecco or Cava, chilled

Directions:

1.  In a large pitcher or glass jar, combine sliced fruit, apple juice and orange liqueur.
2. Stir and taste multiple times, just to make sure.
3. Chill for 30 minutes in your refrigerator. (not you! The Sangria!)
4.  Top with chilled sparkling wine and stir (again) and taste (again)
5.  Pour heavily into a large glass and enjoy!

Movie Pairing: Disney’s Pocahontas

3.  The Irish(man) Coffee

Sometimes, you just need a little “something” in your glass of coffee to get you through the day, or this incredibly long and complicated movie. But, just like the film, The end result will have you thinking about things a little differently. (and that’s the point!)

INGREDIENTS LIST

• 6 oz Hot Coffee
• 2 oz Baileys Original Irish Cream
• 1 oz Irish Whiskey
• 1 DOLLOP Whipped Cream (optional)

Directions:

1. Brew a cup of your favorite (premium) coffee
2. Add 2 oz’s of Baileys Irish Cream
3. Pour in 1 oz of Irish whiskey (or more depending on how cold it is outside)
4. Top with Whipped Cream (just because you deserve it)

 Movie Pairing: The Irishman

4.  The Sleepy Orange Tyme Old Fashioned

This Cocktail combines the tastes and feeling of Autumn with an old Fashioned sense of adventure…

INGREDIENTS LIST

• 2 oz. bourbon
• 1 tbsp. Orange-Thyme Simple Syrup
• 1 dash Angostura bitters
• Ice
• Orange-Thyme Simple Syrup (Combine 4 strips orange zest, 3 sprigs thyme, and 1 cup each sugar and water in a small saucepan. Simmer until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and cool; strain.)
• 4 strips orange zest
• 3 sprigs thyme
• 1 c. sugar
• 1 c. water

Directions:

1. Make the Orange-Thyme simple syrup
2. Place bourbon, Orange-Thyme Simple Syrup (recipe below), and Angostura bitters in a cocktail shaker top with ice.
3. Shake vigorously until shaker is cold, 10 to 20 seconds. Strain into a glass with a large ice cube.
4. Serve with a strip of orange zest and a thyme sprig.

Movie Pairing: Sleepy Hollow

5. Spiced (and Spiked!) Mexican Hot COCO

Come back to life again with this spiked and spicy version of a Autumn Classic! It’s… to die for?

 INGREDIENTS LIST

• 4 c. whole milk
• 2 c. half-and-half
• 1/2 c. dulce de leche
• 2 Cinnamon sticks
• 10 oz. 70% dark chocolate
• 2 tsp. pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp. Kosher salt
• 1/2 c. bourbon

 Directions:

1. Whisk together milk, half-and-half, dulce de leche, and cinnamon sticks in a large saucepan.
2. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat; cover and let stand 10 minutes.
3. Return mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Gradually whisk in finely chopped 70 percent dark chocolate, whisking until melted and smooth.
4. Remove from heat and stir in pure vanilla extract, kosher salt, and bourbon, if desired. Discard cinnamon sticks. Serve warm.

Movie Pairing: Pixar’s COCO

You might also be interested in: New Restaurants in Memphis!

The post 5 Fall Inspired Cocktails appeared first on We Are Memphis.