TINI Bigs With Finlandia Love

It was our last night in Seattle and it turned out to be one of those nights that is so perfect you couldn’t have ever attempted to plan it. Just one of those, wow- really nights.

It began simple enough- we did the tourist thing and took lots of photos, eating our way throughout the city (yum yum oh incredibly yum on another note!). On a great recommendation from a particular cigar smoking man, we decided to end our visit with a night at the famous TINI BIGS Lounge.

We had a red eye to catch back home, so it would be a night at the bar, some walking around, and then on to the airport for the flight back home. We walk in to this lovely little bar fairly early at about 5:15 in the afternoon or so. It was already dark, the time change does some wonders on that doesn’t it? So we were ready for some drinks. The bartenders were very friendly and introduced themselves as they welcomed us in. One of them asked if we would like to order, but if that we decided to wait five minutes drinks would be free.

… excuse me?

That’s right… apparently, and for this evening only, they were celebrating their official sponsorship of Finlandia Vodka. The international ambassador for Finlandia had flown in for the event and everything- so from 5:30 until about 8:00 any drink with Finlandia Vodka in it in any way was complimentary. Wow, how beautiful is that!

I must admit, when I first walked in and saw the drink list there were numerous bourbon and gin based drinks that had caught my attention- but how could I refuse complimentary drinks especially when there was a celebration to be had for the bar itself? It would be just rude.

The drink above was the favorite of the evening, the Pop 5. It contains Finlandia wild berries, midori, white grape juice, sweet n’ sour, and sparkling wine. It has quite the refreshing twist and pop- lovely drink! The Grapefruit-Tini pictured just below was also quite scrumptious with Finlandia Grapefruit vodka, campari, Cointreu and orange juice. These drinks were the features of the evening and so we felt it was appropriate to order them. Yum.

I will have to venture into the other drinks the next time I visit, and there will certainly be a next time.

As for their food menu- the mac and cheese is heavenly- crisped on top and creamy in the center- cheesy perfection. Definitely a must for the evening as well!

Next time I am going to go for La Bicylette and for the Aloe Martini (Bombay Saphire, Aloe juice, lemon and lime- yum).

Marvelous Margarita Perfection

Yum! So the other day we had an unexpected and delightful brunch with some friends. It kind of came together at the last minute but worked out beautifully.

It was such a gorgeous day- sunny with a nice cool breeze, the kind of weather you dream about, and we enjoyed ourselves sitting outside on the patio. We kept seeing tables nearby order these delicious looking drinks and so we could not help but also indulge. When we saw the description about it on the menu as part of a review, we were instantly sold.

“The perfect blend with the perfect ingredients, Herradura Silver, Cointreau & fresh lime juice, served straight up, or on the rocks.”

Within one taste we were in love and ordered more for the table. The balance with the lime was just perfect, especially for an early afternoon drink. It made the day even more pleasant.

They call it “The Perfect” and it is perfectly delightful. No nonsense, just yummy.

IZZE, A Yummy Little Drink

I have seen the name and brightly colored box for some time now, but always avoided it thinking it to be one of the many energy drinks. After all, the can size matches them and even with its bright colors it blends in with the others.

Now I know, though! While grocery shopping, I noticed them with their own little side display and picked it up when I saw the “Clementine” flavor. It caught my curiosity, and I wanted to see what it was all about.

Looking at the ingredients, I was pleasantly surprised and had to give it a try- I love it! It is so refreshing and absolutely delicious. Simply fruit juices and sparkling water, no preservatives or other nonsense. Not to mention it is the perfect size- not too much, just a great taste.

We have since tried three other flavors from them and continue to look for more. So far the sparkling grapefruit is probably my favorite, and the sparkling clementine a close second.

I am curious to try the apple and blueberry next! I have been very pleased with all of them so far. What a delightfully unexpected treat!

On another note- I bet it would taste GREAT mixed with vodka, especially the sparkling grapefruit. Will be trying that sometime soon, too! This could definitely lead to some great cocktails. Yummy.

Fabulous Framboise Lambic Belgium Beer

MMmmm, simply marvelous! From its rich velvety texture to its luscious fruit flavors, sometimes I just have to indulge into my Lambic cravings.

Now, I’ll admit I am a bit bias in my admiration for Belgium Beers, it is in my family name after all. But this one is a love even for the non beer drinker.

I was craving dessert this evening, something in a beverage but not quite a martini- when suddenly I ran into it and remembered the lambics. Seen here in raspberry, this malty beverage comes in many fruit filled flavors (Lindemans carries black currant, apple, cherry, strawberry, you name it and they are all quite wonderful).

It is a good balance that comes together beautifully.

I don’t know what it is with me and beers with corks, but somehow it seems to be a recurring theme! This one in particular actually has a cap on top of the cork which is quite rare. It is all covered with a richly colored foil that best matches its fruit flavor.

It is made from local barley, unmalted wheat, and wild yeast. Raspberries are added after spontaneous fermentation creating a secondary fermentation which yields exceptional flavor and complexity in this beer.

It is a must try for anyone!

Flirtatious French Martini Madness

The little taste of chambord from my Kir Royal has left me with a curious craving for more. What better way than in another delightful drink of choice- the French Martini.

Now, this one is a bit more tropical and thus a playful and fun drink (and far different from the sophisticated simplicity of the Kir Royal). Ingredients are few and simple- vodka, pineapple juice, and chambord. The pineapple definitely adds that tropical value, and the chambord sweetens the deal beautifully.

I have seen the drink as a French Cosmo as well- and you can really play it up as much as you want to. For me, simple is best and divine.

A little twist and playfulness is always fun though- and this drink delivers it just right.

Much love, xx

Kir Royal, A Luxurious Delight

I love my cocktails- I really do. One that I particularly cherish is the Kir Royal.

That bubbly black currant combination always brings a smile to my face- how can you not be happy and relaxed?

There’s something delightful about having a late breakfast on a Saturday or Sunday and pairing it with this beautiful drink.

I love to sit at a French Bistro and watch the world go by, nibbling on some rich appetizers and sipping my Kir Royal.

Its lovely in the evenings, too- of course. Any beverage is, but there is just something special about it in the day that I cannot help but indulge in.

Prepared quite simply and not to be fussed with:

Creme de Cassis … and

Champagne

Garnished as you like, though little is needed for this delightful drink. Who needs an excuse to enjoy a little champagne anyway? Make your own little celebration for your pretty self.

Cafe Gourmet Luxury

I have spent the past few years living in Miami and began a habit of ordering cafe cubanos, cortaditos, and cafe con leches without so much the flinch of an eye. Having moved to Texas and wandering into the local coffee shop I suddenly find myself in a bind. My normal and what was quite quick and easy drink order has become an ordeal.

Cafe Cubanos are a special wonderful delight- raw sugar and espresso grounds are brewed together to create the strong sweet concoction that has just the right balance. Occasionally with some milk- as in the cortadito standard a 50/50 or 25/75 espresso to milk ratio, also a splendid delight. They are strong and just sweet enough, small in just the right amount. There is genuinely no turning back either, as those who have enjoyed them all too well know.

I have found myself ordering a “cafe cubano machiato” for those who know it, and even then its not quite right. If you are able to find it- you must have it. It is a strong burst that will get your day going and with that much needed spark. If at home, simply add the sugar to the coffee grounds and then brew the coffee through your espresso device. The key is having them brewed together. The stronger the better as far as I am concerned, Cafe Bustelo is quite popular and consistently nice. Add some evaporated steamed milk and you have a delicacy in the works. Don’t let this pleasure pass you by.

The Pear And Its Delicious Appearances

So beautiful and so delicious, how many ways can it continue to marvel and delight? An absolute refreshing treat on its own, when brought to the dessert table it transforms to another beautiful demon. Poached pear is a favorite of mine, and when it can be prepared in multiple ways its even more delightful of a venture. From white and red wines to champagnes, touches of honey or vanilla, its absolutely up to you where you wish to take it.

Even the restaurants are more than happy to show their turn on it. Presentation is always a beautiful thing, and even more so when the textures and tastes meld perfectly as well. The crisp with the soft, the right amount of warmth and bite and fragrance- that is what it is all about.

Maybe this is more than I would do at home, but it certainly makes my mind move to new ideas of what I may do. When dining out, however, I will absolutely be more than happy to try such ventures.

Much like my other favorite fruits- wonderful by themselves and even more so when introduced to vodka, the pear is no exception. Funny how things work out like that. Who am I to argue, I much prefer to drink and observe.

With lime juice, pear vodka, or even pear nectar- this is truly a delight! If the sweetness turns you off- try a mix of pear vodka, disaronno armaretto, and maybe a splash of lime juice- absolute heaven. Like biting into a bosc pear, so delicious.

Key Lime And Vodka Luxury

Key Lime Martinis- not only a lovely drink but from my favorite hotel in Miami Beach, The Delano. It combines the two things I miss most since having moved away from Miami. My love of key limes and my love of the Delano.

Vodka is always a pleasure of mine, as are the drinks it inspires such as the lychee or in this case key lime martini. Its great on its own, but if you are going to mix it then mix it well.

If ever the chance you have to be in South Beach, relax by the Delano Pool (make a day plan and an evening plan) and relax with a luxurious drink. Locals and tourists alike mix comfortably in the beautiful designs the Delano brings, and the atmosphere is like nothing else.

Bring a little of Miami to your home with the Key Lime Martini- and make it your own. Use key lime juice, or even a flavored vodka if you prefer, and keep it simple or make it fun. I’ve seen variations with coconut or pineapple in the mix that all sound lovely. Even a little bit of vanilla can make for an interesting twist.

The point is to have fun and bring in a little luxury. Finding the recipe that works best for you is only the beginning of the fun, and experiment to create your own. The key lime pies of Miami are one of my favorite treats- and its not surprise to see it turning up on the drink menu.

Make it sweet or make it sour- make it your own and enjoy.

Lychee Litchi Delight in a Drink

Absolute favorite of all favorites when it comes to drinks and and exotic fruits is the Lychee- and a martini especially. I used to bring a bowl of frozen lychees with me when I would lay out on the beach, a favorite luxury of mine. Great anywhere, too- not just out in the sun, and should be often practiced. But I cannot help but involve another love of mine: vodka. They work so beautifully together with just the right balance of smooth and delicate hint of sweetness.

Oh the lovely wonders of the lychee, or litchi depending where you may go. A friend of mine from Japan recognized the fruit as the litchi rather than lychee. She loved them too, and I do not think you could ever eat too much.

Making your own at home is quite simple, provided you can find the lychee- fresh is most desirable, however the canned version are an alright substitute. You can use the juice they are kept in for the drink as well. Maaza provides a great Lychee juice that is delicious on its own.

Look for the lychee next time you are out and about-sorbet, martini, juice, or the fruit alone are all a delightful indulgence.

If its appearance alarms you- worry not, you don’t eat the red pointy shell, only the delicate fruit inside. There is no intense acquired taste about it either, I have yet to find anyone who doesn’t enjoy them- even the pickiest of eaters.

Bring a little luxury into your drink.