Wine & Dine / Botanical Beverages
UPFRONT PLACES | PERSPECTIVES | HAPPENINGS
Garden Sips
ENJOY A GREEN-THUMBED APPROACH WITH THESE LOCAL DRINKS .
By CRAWFORD MCCARTHY
S pending time wandering the great outdoors is said to be good for both physical and mental health — but what about incorporating the beauty and bounty of nature in our drinks ? From botanical spirits to floral garnishes , garden-fresh beverages have begun to pop up all over town . Whether you opt for tea , coffee or a health-conscious cocktail , these local sips will have you breathing a bit deeper with a smile on your face as you delight in their fresh flavors .
The Limpia cocktail at Broadway by Amar Santana , which contains two types of mezcals as well as Damiana-infused agave , was inspired by a Mexican cleansing ceremony .
BROADWAY BY AMAR SANTANA The bar team at Broadway by Amar Santana are no strangers to weaving stories and meaning into their cocktails , and the Limpia is a prime example . Xicaru and Lopez Real Espadin mezcals , both infused with basil , blend with the earthy Salers Aperitif , lime juice , eucalyptus bitters and agave infused with dried Damiana to create a botanical beverage that sends the drinker on a journey . “ I link the garden element to traditional Mexican magic ,” says Broadway bartender Jade Bustamante . “… Damiana is an herb that ’ s been used for medicinal and ritualistic practices , and still is today . Eucalyptus , rosemary and basil are just a few ingredients used to bundle and sweep away the negative energies during a limpia —[ the cleansing ceremony for which the drink is named ]. These fresh ingredients … provide an earthy and herbaceous cocktail experience rich with culture and history .” ( 949-715-8234 ; broadwaybyamarsantana . com )
ZINC CAFE The bounty of the garden works well beyond boozy beverages , as proven by the offerings at Zinc Cafe . This airy , alfresco eatery , located downtown , is a master class in
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