March 8th is International Women’s Day. It is a day to celebrate the achievements of women throughout history and across nations. Of course, when we ponder the achievements in the women’s movement, our thoughts turn to the fabulous Ada “Coley” Coleman. Ada Coleman, known to her friends and customers as “Coley,” is perhaps the most … Continue reading Toasting Bar Mistress Ada Coleman on International Women’s Day
Mardi Gras. Fat Tuesday. The last day to indulge, imbibe, and get intoxicated before midnight strikes and Ash Wednesday arrives. You can’t fully celebrate Mardi Gras without a cocktail in hand. And what cocktail is more fitting than the New Orleans Hurricane. Back in the 1940s, New Orleans bar owner Pat O’Brien faced an inventory … Continue reading Celebrating Mardi Gras with a New Orleans Hurricane
Alma Cocina, located downtown in the 191 Building on Peachtree next to the Ritz and just south of Hard Rock Cafe, quickly won my heart when they opened in December. I have to admit up front, I’ve never been much of a tequila drinker. I also have to say that I try to avoid the … Continue reading Cocktails and tequila shine at Alma Cocina
You can’t talk cocktails without giving a nod to the daiquiri. Granted, for years my “nod” was a shaking of the head in disapproval as I watched slushy mixtures of frozen daiquiris come out of machines, or being prepared with pre-made commercial mixes. Remember the Fat Tuesdays Daiquiri Bars with the slushy machines churning out … Continue reading Vintage Cocktail Project: La Floridita Daiquiri
I was required to take a physical education class in college. It didn’t take long for me to peruse the course catalog and decide that fencing was the sport for me. After all, as a theater major, who knew when I might need those mad fencing skills on stage. Unfortunately, my fencing career was brief. … Continue reading Vintage Cocktail Project: Lucien Gaudin Cocktail
This week the legendary Elaine Stritch turned 87 years old. In honor of her birthday, we take a look at a drink she helped regain some popularity – The Vodka Stinger. In 1970, Stritch took on the role of Joanne in Stephen Sondheim’s Company and delivered the big 11:00 number, “The Ladies Who Lunch.” Another … Continue reading Another Vodka Stinger?
During this week leading to Christmas, our thoughts lean toward family, presents, and celebration. To add a bit of sparkle to your celebrations this season or to forget that your are surrounded by family, we bring you a few more of our favorite holiday themed libations. For the back story to each cocktail, click on … Continue reading Holiday Sparkle with Cocktails
When Patti Davis (“Anatomy of a Dinner Party”) throws a party, she really throws a party – an out of this world party. And that is exactly what she did recently for her annual holiday bash, choosing the theme this year of “space.” The Davis house was transformed into the outer realms of the universe, … Continue reading Cosmic cocktails for black-tie holiday bash
Nicky and I first visited Woodfire Grill in 2009. Distracted by my infatuation with the talented Kevin Gillespie, I walked right past the bar, took my seat, and savored the chef’s tasting menu and wine pairing. It never even crossed my mind to think cocktails in a place so revered for food and wine. Who … Continue reading Enjoying cocktails at Woodfire Grill
The words I hate to hear: “I’m done with all my Christmas shopping. How about you?” Nicky and I are not ashamed to admit that we tend to procrastinate. I can’t even think about Christmas shopping until the turkey leftovers are long gone and we are well into December. As we recently began contemplating what … Continue reading Christmas shopping for the cocktail enthusiast
Our Libatious Nature 