To say that the summer of 2016 has been a scorcher would be an understatement. Whether on the patio at a restaurant, in the backyard, or in the comfort of air conditioning, a refreshing drink has been essential these last couple of months.
Refresh yourself with seven of our favorite cocktails from Detroit area bars and restaurants that are keeping us cool this summer.
Grey Ghost (Detroit) — Grandma’s Garden
The level of freshness and bright aromatics of the Grandma’s Garden cocktail at Detroit’s Grey Ghost can’t be summed up by mere mortals, so give it a try for yourself. This crafty cocktail is made with vodka, St. Germain, cucumber, mint, lime, and rose.
Motor City Gas (Royal Oak) — Gas n’ Ginger
Motor City Gas in Royal Oak is one of our favorite places to grab a drink in the Detroit area. The distilling operation and tasting room are under one roof, creating a unique environment for enjoying whiskey.
Comprised of Royal Oaked Rye, house-made ginger ale, and lime, Gas n’ Ginger is one of our favorite summertime cocktails. Be forewarned: They go down easy!
Vicente’s Cuban Cuisine (Detroit) — Mojito
It doesn’t get any better than sipping a classic Mojito on the patio at Vicente’s Cuban Cuisine in downtown Detroit. Order a few Tapas for the table — Camarones Cubita Bella and Meson Especial are our favorites — and enjoy life.
54 West (Clawson) — Gin & Jam
Had 54 West in Clawson existed in the early-90’s, perhaps Snoop Dogg’s classic “Gin & Juice” may have been named “Gin & Jam.” Although it’s highly unlikely, we’re amused just thinking about it.
Gin & Jam is a tantalizing combination of gin, strawberry jam, simple syrup, fresh lime juice, basil leaves, and ginger beer. We haven’t tasted anything quite like it before.
Jim Brady’s Detroit (Royal Oak) — Cucumber Basil Gimlet
The Cucumber Basil Gimlet at Jim Brady’s Detroit is a magnificent Michigan-centric cocktail featuring Traverse City Vodka, fresh cucumber, basil and lime juice. If you like your cocktails light and invigorating, this one’s for you.
The Peterboro (Detroit) — Skeleton Key
As refreshing as it is beautiful, the Skeleton Key is a phenomenal cocktail available at The Peterboro in Detroit. Featuring bourbon, St. Germain, ginger, and lemon with a dash of bitters, this cocktail pairs great with one of their small plates.
Republica (Berkley) — Watermelon & Grapefruit Caipiroska
One sip of Republica’s Watermelon & Grapefruit Caipiroska and we were in heaven. This killer cocktail features Smirnoff vodka, all natural grapefruit, fresh watermelon, and lime. The cocktail menu at Republica changes seasonally, so enjoy this drink before it’s gone.
