The Raspberry Beret cocktail at The Drake , with a citrus-infused smoke bubble on top |
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F rom juicy strawberries and ruby red raspberries to plump blueberries , few things scream summer like fresh , flavor-packed berries . Elsewhere , you might pick them off the vine and pop them in your mouth before a relaxing day on the river . But in Southern California — where wild-grown produce and open natural spaces are a little more sparse — the best way to enjoy the flavors of summer is by dining at a local restaurant . |
Laguna eateries are embracing these seasonal flavors with dishes ranging from seafood plates , bowls and salads to fruity cocktails , ensuring that fresh berries are found all over town .
THE DRAKE Named for the Prince song “ Raspberry Beret ,” this unique , fruit-forward cocktail is the perfect complement to any dish on the menu . “ Like the song , it captures the essence of summer ,” says Matthew Timmes , director
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of operations at The Drake restaurant and music venue . “ It is … [ an ] eye-catcher — ethereal and mysterious — that ends with a true refreshing , light … flavor .” Ketel One Citroen vodka , Cointreau orange liqueur , lemon juice and fresh raspberry puree are placed into a shaker with ice , mixed , then strained into a martini glass . Perhaps the most interesting element is the citrus-infused smoke bubble placed atop the drink , which elevates the flavor of the cocktail . ( 949-376-1000 ; thedrakelaguna . com ) |
SARAH KING PHOTOGRAPHY |
32 LAGUNABEACHMAGAZINE . COM |