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Tag: Cocktails

  • Sip A Little Romance With The Best Valentine’s Cocktails

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    Sip a little romance with the best Valentine’s cocktails and discover simple, elegant drinks perfect for a memorable night in.

    Valentine’s Day has long been associated with flowers, candlelight, and indulgent dinners, but in recent years the holiday has evolved into a more personalized celebration of connection. Couples, friends, and even solo celebrants are turning to thoughtfully crafted drinks to set the mood. A romantic cocktail can be equal parts sensory experience and shared ritual — the clink of glasses, the aroma of citrus or oak, and the warmth of a carefully chosen spirit all contribute to the atmosphere of the evening.

    Whether you’re planning a quiet night at home or hosting an intimate gathering, easy yet elegant drinks can elevate the occasion without adding stress. From sparkling champagne to the smoky depth of whiskey, the right beverage can express affection in ways words sometimes cannot.

    Sip a little romance with the best Valentine’s cocktails. Each of the 5 with a touch of history, balanced flavor, and a recipe simple enough to prepare together.

    RELATED: Data Shows People Like Cannabis Before Intimacy

    Champagne Cocktail

    Few drinks are as synonymous with celebration as champagne. Originating in 19th-century France, the classic champagne cocktail became popular in Victorian-era love stories and grand toasts alike. Its light effervescence, gentle sweetness, and aromatic bitters make it both refreshing and sophisticated — perfect for a Valentine’s toast.

    Why it’s perfect: Sparkling wine symbolizes joy and new beginnings, making it ideal for couples marking milestones or simply savoring time together.

    Ingredients

    • 1 sugar cube
    • 2–3 dashes Angostura bitters
    • Chilled champagne or sparkling wine
    • Lemon twist

    Create

    1. Place the sugar cube in a flute
    2. Add bitters and fill with champagne
    3. Garnish with a lemon twist

    Old Fashioned

    The Old Fashioned dates back to the early 1800s and remains one of the most enduring whiskey cocktails. With its blend of bourbon or rye, sugar, and bitters, it highlights the spirit’s natural caramel, vanilla, and oak notes. For many, whiskey, bourbon, or Scotch is a love language — a shared appreciation for depth, patience, and complexity that transcends gender and tradition.

    Why it’s perfect: Its warmth and richness invite slow sipping and meaningful conversation.

    Ingredients

    • 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
    • 1 sugar cube or ½ tsp simple syrup
    • 2–3 dashes bitters
    • Orange peel

    Create

    1. Muddle sugar and bitters
    2. Add whiskey and ice
    3. Stir
    4. Garnish with an expressed orange peel

    Strawberry Margarita

    The Margarita’s origins trace back to Mexico in the 1930s–40s, with many stories crediting bartenders crafting the drink for glamorous patrons. The strawberry variation adds natural sweetness and a rosy hue, balancing tequila’s earthy agave notes with bright citrus.

    Why it’s perfect: Its vibrant color and fresh fruit flavor evoke romance and playfulness.

    Ingredients

    • 2 oz tequila
    • 1 oz fresh lime juice
    • 1 oz strawberry puree
    • ½ oz triple sec
    • Salt or sugar rim (optional)

    Create

    • Shake with ice
    • Strain into a rimmed glass over fresh ice
    • Garnish with a strawberry

    RELATED: How Marijuana Can Heighten Intimacy With Your Partner

    French Martini

    Despite its name, the French Martini was created in New York City in the 1980s during the cocktail renaissance. Combining vodka, raspberry liqueur, and pineapple juice, it delivers a silky texture and a blush-pink tone that feels tailor-made for Valentine’s Day.

    Why it’s perfect: Its smooth, fruity profile appeals to a wide range of palates and adds a touch of glamour.

    Ingredients

    • 2 oz vodka
    • ½ oz raspberry liqueur
    • 1 oz pineapple juice

    Create

    1. Shake with ice
    2. Strain into a chilled martini glass
    3. Garnish with a raspberry or lemon twist

    Chocolate Espresso Martini

    Espresso martinis emerged in London in the 1980s, famously created to “wake up” patrons while indulging their sweet tooth. Adding chocolate liqueur introduces a dessert-like richness that pairs beautifully with coffee’s boldness.

    Why it’s perfect: Chocolate is a Valentine’s staple, and this cocktail doubles as dessert in a glass.

    Ingrediants

    • 1 oz vodka
    • 1 oz fresh espresso (cooled)
    • ½ oz coffee liqueur
    • ½ oz chocolate liqueur

    Create

    1. Combine ingredients in cocktail shaker
    2. Strain into a martini glass
    3. Garnish with coffee beans or chocolate shavings

    This Valentine’s Day, the most romantic gesture may be as simple as crafting a drink with care. Whether you’re toasting with bubbles, savoring whiskey’s warmth, or sharing a chocolate-infused nightcap, these cocktails offer an easy way to celebrate love — one sip at a time.

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    Anthony Washington

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  • The Best Low Alcohol Cocktails For Damp January

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    A guide to the best low alcohol cocktails for damp January, featuring simple ingredients, classic origins, and lighter ways to drink well.

    Damp January is emerging as a popular alternative to Dry January, offering a more flexible approach to resetting drinking habits after the holidays. While Dry January asks participants to abstain from alcohol entirely for the month, Damp January encourages moderation rather than elimination. The idea is simple: reduce alcohol intake, choose lower-alcohol options, and be more intentional about when and why you drink. To help, here are the best low alcohol cocktails for damp January.

    The concept grew out of changing attitudes toward wellness and balance. Many people found Dry January too rigid, especially in social or professional settings where a complete stop felt isolating. Damp January allows for participation without deprivation, aligning with broader trends toward mindful drinking, low-alcohol cocktails, and alcohol-free spirits. Bars and restaurants have embraced the idea, expanding menus to include drinks that deliver flavor and ritual without the punch of high-proof liquor.

    RELATED: Immersive Events Redefine Millennial Nights

    Low-alcohol cocktails are central to Damp January. Often built around fortified wines, vermouths, sherries, amari, or beer, these drinks offer complexity, history, and sophistication while keeping alcohol levels modest. Here are five classic and modern low-alcohol cocktails well-suited to Damp January.

    The Sherry Cobbler

    The Sherry Cobbler dates back to the mid-19th century and was one of the first American cocktails to gain international popularity. It helped introduce the drinking straw and emphasized refreshment over intoxication.

    Ingredients

    Create

    1. Muddle the fruit with sugar or syrup in a glass

    2. Add sherry and fill with crushed ice

    3. Stir gently and garnish with additional fruit

    The Americano

    Invented in Italy in the 1860s, the Americano predates the Negroni and replaces gin with soda water, making it significantly lighter.

    Ingredients

    • Campari
    • Sweet vermouth
    • Soda water
    • Orange peel

    Create

    1. Fill a rocks glass with ice
    2. Add equal parts Campari and sweet vermouth
    3. Top with soda water
    4. Garnish with an orange peel

    The Vermouth & Tonic

    A staple in Spain, the vermouth and tonic has become a modern favorite as vermouth quality has improved and drinkers seek lower-proof options.

    Ingredients

    • Red or white vermouth
    • Tonic water
    • Citrus slice or olives

    Create

    1. Fill a glass with ice
    2. Add vermouth
    3. Top with tonic
    4. Garnish with citrus or olives

    RELATED: The Return of Nostalgic Snacks

    The Aperol Spritz

    The Aperol Spritz rose to global fame in the 2010s but has roots in Italian aperitivo culture, where light, pre-dinner drinks are meant to stimulate appetite, not overwhelm.

    Ingredients

    • Aperol
    • Prosecco
    • Soda water
    • Orange slice

    Create

    1. Fill a wine glass with ice
    2. Add prosecco, Aperol, and a splash of soda
    3. Stir gently
    4. Garnish with an orange slice.

    The Michelada Light

    A Mexican classic, the Michelada combines beer with citrus and spice. Using a low-alcohol or session beer keeps it firmly in Damp January territory.

    Ingredients

    • Light or low-alcohol beer
    • Lime juice
    • Hot sauce
    • Worcestershire sauce,
    • Salt

    Create

    1. Rim a glass with salt
    2. Add lime juice and seasonings
    3. Top with cold beer and stir lightly

    Damp January reflects a cultural shift toward moderation without sacrificing pleasure. With thoughtfully crafted low-alcohol cocktails, it proves that dialing things back does not mean giving anything up.

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    Anthony Washington

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  • The Best Merry Cocktails For The Season

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    Hosting this holiday or just hanging out? Here are the best merry cocktails for the season, including classic spirits and festive recipes

    The holidays are the one time of year when indulgence isn’t just allowed — it’s encouraged. From twinkling lights to clinking glassware, a truly festive gathering deserves cocktails that feel celebratory, cozy, and just a little decadent. These are not everyday drinks; they are the best merry cocktails for the season! They are designed to evoke warmth, sparkle, and seasonal cheer. Here are five crowd-pleasing holiday cocktails.

    RELATED: Frosty The SnowMan’s Life Lessons

    Maple Old Fashioned Cheer

    This winter-ready twist on the classic Old Fashioned leans into deep, warming flavors. Maple syrup adds seasonal sweetness while orange and spice keep it elegant and comforting — ideal for fireside sipping.

    Ingredients

    Create

    1. Stir bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters with ice until well chilled
    2. Strain over a large ice cube in a rocks glass
    3. Express the orange peel over the drink
    4. Garnish with cinnamon if desired

    Cranberry Cinnamon Margarita

    Bright, festive, and jewel-toned, this margarita brings holiday flair to tequila lovers. Tart cranberry balances citrus, while cinnamon adds subtle seasonal warmth.

    Ingredients

    • 2 oz tequila blanco
    • 1 oz cranberry juice
    • ¾ oz fresh lime juice
    • ½ oz orange liqueur
    • Cinnamon sugar rim (optional)

    Create

    1. Shake all ingredients with ice until cold
    2. Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice
    3. Garnish with a lime wheel or floating cranberries

    Mulled Holiday Red

    Few drinks feel as instantly seasonal as mulled wine. This slow-simmered classic fills the room with holiday aroma and delivers comfort in every sip.

    Ingredients

    • 1 bottle dry red wine
    • ¼ cup brandy
    • ¼ cup honey or sugar
    • Orange slices
    • Cinnamon sticks
    • Whole cloves

    Create

    1. Combine all ingredients in a saucepan over low heat
    2. Warm gently for 15–20 minutes without boiling
    3. Strain
    4. Serve warm in mugs or heatproof glasses

    RELATED: The VFW Stands Up For Marijuana

    Pomegranate Sparkler

    Elegant and celebratory, this cocktail is perfect for holiday toasts. The ruby hue and crisp bubbles make it visually stunning and refreshingly light.

    Ingredients

    • Champagne or dry sparkling wine
    • 1 oz pomegranate juice
    • Fresh pomegranate seeds

    Create

    1. Pour pomegranate juice into a flute
    2. Top with chilled champagne
    3. Garnish with a few seeds for sparkle

    Peppermint White Russian

    Decadent and dessert-like, this holiday version of the White Russian feels tailor-made for December nights. Creamy, minty, and indulgent, it’s pure seasonal comfort.

    Ingredients

    • 2 oz vodka
    • 1 oz coffee liqueur
    • 1 oz peppermint schnapps
    • Heavy cream

    Create

    1. Fill a rocks glass with ice
    2. Add vodka, coffee liqueur, and peppermint schnapps
    3. Float cream on top and stir gently before sipping

    Whether you’re hosting a lively party or enjoying a quiet night by the tree, these Merry Cocktails bring warmth, indulgence, and unmistakable holiday atmosphere to every glass. Cheers to the season.

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    Anthony Washington

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  • Parenting 101: 3 Ways to support local with 100% Quebec gifts this holiday season

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    Supporting Canadian businesses has never been more meaningful than it will be this holiday season. To help make it easier for Canadians to spot local businesses, the non-profit Canadian Internet Registration Authority (CIRA) is encouraging Canadians to keep an eye out for one simple sign: a .CA web address.

    Ginius – Produced by Ginius in Quebec, the GinKit Complete Set is your ticket to becoming a gin-artisan, featuring a bold blend of 17 premium botanicals that lets you brew, personalise and create your own unique, homemade gin in just 36 hours.

    Cocktail Bomb Shop – Handcrafted in Montreal and featured on Dragons’ Den, these festive cocktail bombs put a twist on the viral hot chocolate bomb trend, transforming any drink into an instant holiday cocktail with a burst of flavour and fizz that don’t require a shaker. 

    Happy Tears – The Happy Tears Family Edition bilingual conversation card game includes 100 fun and meaningful prompts that spark family connection, with 96% of Happy Tears products designed and manufactured in Montreal.

    – JC

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  • Recipe: Mulled Apple Cider, With a Secret Ingredient – Gardenista

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    Cold nights need warm drinks; the kind you can linger over. Olivia Rae James has been warming up her nights with a boozy, citrusy take on mulled cider. Spiked with red wine, this mulled cider gets a combination of sweet and spice from the addition of grapefruit, apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. We’re planning to keep a big pot on the stove this winter. And don’t be surprised if you see us taking an evening walk, thermos in hand. To warm the heart cockles, we say.

    Photography by Olivia Rae James.

    Above: Apples and grapefruit inspection courtesy of Olivia’s pup, Frankie.
    Above: Whole and ground spices.
    Above: Grapefruit and apple halves.
    Above: The ingredients combined and ready for heating.
    Above: Mulled cider, served and ready to be enjoyed.
    Above: Cider for two.

    Mulled Apple Cider

    Serves 6

    Ingredients:

    • 3 cups fresh-squeezed apple juice
    • 2 cups dry red wine
    • 1 grapefruit, thinly sliced (can be substituted for your citrus of choice)
    • 1 apple, thinly sliced
    • Cinnamon (whole and ground)
    • Nutmeg (whole and ground)
    • Cloves (whole and ground)

    Instructions:

    Combine apple juice and red wine in a pot over low to medium heat. Add sliced grapefruit, apple, and a handful of cinnamon sticks, cloves and nutmeg, according to taste. Let simmer for at least ten minutes. Add ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves (if necessary, to taste). Serve warm.

    For more cocktails ideas, see:

    N.B.: This post has been updated; it was first published November 2013.

    (Visited 904 times, 21 visits today)

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  • Japanese restaurant Morimoto opens a new lounge on the second floor

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    ByJalyn Green

    Monday, November 24, 2025 3:26PM

    Japanese restaurant Morimoto opens a new lounge on the second floor

    A new cocktail-forward lounge upstairs at Morimoto is a casual counterpart to the longtime dining destination from Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto

    PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — Morimoto has been a staple in Philadelphia for nearly 25 years.

    This fall, the restaurant added a casual lounge on the second floor with its own izakaya-style menu. Food items vary from wagyu skewers to a delicious shrimp and tuna roll.

    The cocktails, like the Melon Mizu, are perfect for sharing a night out with friends.

    The lounge offers a casual vibe with low seating, graffiti on the walls, and a beautiful view of the main restaurant below.

    Masaharu Morimoto collaborated with Steven Starr in 2001 to open Morimoto. The new lounge extends the restaurant’s mission to help guests experience Japanese culture in Philadelphia.

    Morimoto| Facebook| Instagram
    723 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106

    Copyright © 2025 WPVI-TV. All Rights Reserved.

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    WPVI

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  • Best Of Houston® 2025: Best Teahouse – Houston Press

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    Best Teahouse: Emma Jane

    Set in a charming house with neutral tones, floral accents, and a lush 6,000-square-foot back patio, his new Harlow District offers a relaxed and elegant English-style tea experience with brunch, afternoon tea, bubbly and cocktails. Guests can sip a curated selection of teas — from smoky blacks to floral honeysuckle fig — while enjoying chef-driven tea towers with globally inspired tea sandwiches, sweet and savory scones with housemade clotted cream, and pastries like curd- and crèmeux-stuffed cones. Brunch highlights include French omelets with caviar, short stacks with Earl Grey maple syrup, and classic niçoise salad.

    1226 West Clay 

    346-571-6961

    emmajanehtx.com

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    Houston Press

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  • Blue Rascal Distillery: Hammonton’s Fruitful Spirits

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    BySusan Lucci

    Tuesday, November 18, 2025 8:58PM

    Blue Rascal Distillery: Hammonton's Fruitful Spirits

    In Hammonton, NJ, Blue Rascal Distillery crafts spirits from local blueberries, sourced from McCree Brothers farm.

    Hammonton, NJ — In Hammonton, NJ, Blue Rascal Distillery crafts spirits from local blueberries, sourced from McCree Brothers farm.

    Founded by a husband-and-wife team passionate about distilling, the venture began as a hobby and grew into a business after three years of planning and education.

    Their lineup includes blueberry brandy, vodka, gin, and six fruit liqueurs. The tasting room offers seasonal cocktails like the blueberry Old Fashioned and espresso martini flights, showcasing South Jerseys freshest flavors.

    Blue Rascal Distillery
    8 West End Ave, Hammonton, NJ 08037
    (609) 878-3578

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    CCG

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  • Is the Bartesian Cocktail Machine Worth It? I Tried It to See

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    Right now the Barsys is making me an Oaxaca Old Fashioned, but it could have been any of literally 2,000 other drinks, if I only had the ingredients. Among “Oaxaca” drinks alone we potentially also have a “Flower,” a “Gold,” and a “Tail.” The Barsys promises nearly 50 takes on Old Fashioned, and more than 70 versions of the mule. (A third cocktail machine option, the Bev by Black + Decker, uses Bartesian’s capsules with a different device design. It is likely being discontinued according to reps, but is still available on Amazon.)

    It’s all very ridiculous, my friends assure me, when I send them videos of the Barsys aggressively spitting ingredients into a glass whose magnetic bottom spins the liquid inside into an icy, frothy whirlpool.

    “I am embarrassed to be watching this,” wrote my editor at WIRED.

    “That is so dumb,” echoed a friend, before adding, “You should definitely bring it over.”

    No one really needs a machine to make a decent cocktail, of course. But you might want one anyway. I have a theory, the kind of big idea you hear sometimes in small bars. The promise of an automatic cocktail machine is not ease, nor necessity, nor even usefulness. It is, instead, excitement. It is fun. It is whatever will make today different from yesterday. It’s that little bit of dumb gee-whiz that makes your neighbor happy to come over, gives people something to talk about at a holiday party, or keeps your partner mildly entertained after a Tuesday that just kind of sucked the life out of her.

    As holiday party season arrives, here’s how to choose between two flawed but kinda fun cocktail machines. Machines that mirror the life they indulge.

    Best for Parties: The Barsys 360

    • Photograph: Matthew Korfhage

    • Photograph: Matthew Korfhage

    WIRED

    • Machine pours very precise measurements by weight
    • Phone app suggests any of 2,000 cocktails, depending on ingredients
    • It looks cool, doesn’t it?

    TIRED

    • Cleaning, flushing, and changing ingredients is a lot of effort
    • The app can be a little buggy, and hard to navigate
    • It’s a sloshy thing. Cleaning, again

    The Barsys 360 is a flashy machine, literally. Select your drink on the device’s phone app, and the machine will light up like a discotheque or a try-hard bowling alley. The Barsys pours in hard, aggressive squirts—impressively accurate to within three-hundredths of an ounce, by my measure.

    As it pours your drink, the device’s lights will change from white to blue to green when your cocktail is ready. And if you’ve also bought Barsys’ mixer glass ($45) with a magnetic spinner, the cup will now very rapidly swirl your drink, ice and all, as it spins your tropical diamond daiquiri into a green-lit froth. Whoopee! Glowing, spinning drink!

    We are firmly in party-trick territory here. And lord, it’s stupid. And fun. And stupid. If you keep it on your kitchen counter, the device may cause you to make too many drinks just because you can, and because you’ve filled the reservoirs anyway. This can be dangerous on a work night.

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    Matthew Korfhage

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  • Best Of Houston® 2025: Best Vibe Dining – Houston Press

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    Best Vibe Dining: Toca Madera

    Now in its second year at The Pavilion at The Allen, Houston’s hottest dining destination serves up fiery Mexican flavors with fire dancers, roaming guitarists and a vibe that’s equal parts luxe and sexy. Think dark and moody interiors with natural accents, an inviting lush patio, two bars, a new private speakeasy, and tableside flaming Tomahawks. Go for truffle quesadilla, crispy wonton tacos stuffed with tun and A5 Wagyu, Mayan prawns dripping in chipotle butter, aromatic cocktails hit with hibiscus, agave, serrano and smoke, and a full-sensory experience you’ll be thinking about long after you leave.

    1120 Dennis 

    281-888-5926 

    tagohtx.com

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    Houston Press

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  • Best Of Houston® 2025: Best Hotel Dining – Houston Press

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    Best Hotel Dining: Perseid

    You don’t need a room key to see why Perseid, anchoring Bunkhouse Hotels’ gorgeous new Hotel Saint Augustine in Montrose, is something special. Chef Aaron Bludorn and crew have turned the hotel eatery into a full-on culinary escape, offering Gulf Coast–inspired bistro fare that walks the line between approachable and adventurous. Pop by for caviar service and foie gras with biscuits and jam, squash blossoms with shrimp jambalaya and Creole aioli, and a house burger gone fancy with pickled veg and duck liver mousse. And don’t miss the perfect Bloody Mary, shrimp and grits, and citrus butter pancakes at brunch.

    4110 Loretto 

    832-915-2600

    bunkhousehotels.com/hotel-saint-augustine/eat-drink/perseid

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    Houston Press

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  • Best Of Houston® 2025: Best Restaurant – Memorial – Houston Press

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    Overview:

    We choose this year’s winner of the Best Restaurant in Memorial.

    Best Restaurant – Memorial: Bar Bludorn

    With a year under its belt, Bar Bludorn has settled right into Memorial like it was always meant to be there. From chef Aaron Bludorn (yep, that Bludorn), this neighborhood tavern nails the sweet spot between easy-going and luxe. Come for Sunday Brunch or Martini Happy Hour, stay for the crave-worthy dry-aged Tavern Burger and Country Ham Beignets that disappear way too fast. The hits keep coming with Lamb Ragu Pappardelle, Ora King Salmon in green curry and an Ice Cream Sandwich stacked with churro, cajeta and pecans.

    9061 Gaylord

    832-271-8264

    barbludorn.com

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    Houston Press

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  • A well-known restaurant team is bringing barbecue, upscale bites to Waxhaw

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    A new restaurant from a Charlotte-area team known for delectable brunch, burgers and pasta is opening this week in Waxhaw.

    Sip & Cinder has taken over the space recently occupied by Veggeez Plant Based Eatery. The standalone building shares space in the Old Hickory Shopping Center with Stacks Kitchen, El Vallarta, China II and Queens South.

    The doors will swing open at 4 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 12. And brunch service will begin Saturday, Nov. 21.

    It’s the latest concept from The Flipside Restaurant Group, which includes well-known spots in Fort Mill and Rock Hill: The Flipside Café, The Flipside Restaurant, Salmeri’s Italian Kitchen and Fortes Mill Eatery.

    With that much restaurant experience under the belt of chefs and owners Jonathan and Amy Fortes, it’s fair to expect good things. And good things are exactly what you’ll find.

    A portrait-style photograph of a man and a woman, who appear to be a couple, smiling at the camera. They are wearing black chef’s jackets. The woman on the left, Amy Fortes, has her hair pulled back and is wearing a silver necklace. Her jacket has “SALMO” in red text and “Amy Fortes Chef/Owner” in white text. The man on the right, Jon Fortes, has a beard and is wearing glasses. He has a dark gray apron over his jacket with a circular logo and “Jon Fortes” embroidered on it. The background is slightly out of focus with city lights visible.
    Charlotte-area restaurateurs Jon and Amy Fortes are opening Sip & Cinder in Waxhaw. Courtesy of Jon Fortes

    The food at Sip & Cinder

    While Sip & Cinder is the kind of place you’ll feel comfortable dining in jeans, the food trends more upscale. Case in point is the variety of small plates you can start with, offering smoked trout and crab dip, cherry-smoked burrata and PEI mussels.

    A high-angle, close-up shot of a dark gray, matte-finish plate holding a serving of bacon-wrapped dates. The dates are glazed and caramelized, piled in the center of the plate, and garnished with fresh cilantro microgreens and chopped nuts. The plate rests on a light wood-grain table.
    Bacon-wrapped dates with bourbon honey, candied pecans and cilantro microgreens at Sip & Cinder. Heidi Finley CharlotteFive

    Fans of the Fortes’ other restaurants will spot a few familiar — and highly popular — items, such as The Original Flipside Burger, The FM Eatery Smash Burger and The OG Shrimp & Grits. But as the Cinder half of the name indicates, there’s a big emphasis on smoke here.

    A high-angle, close-up shot captures a white plate piled with a barbecue-style meal. In the foreground, a small, black rectangular dish overflows with creamy macaroni and cheese. To the right is a large serving of dark, roasted Brussels sprouts, and in the background are a smoked sausage link, a piece of roasted chicken, and thick-cut toast.
    The Holy Trinity at Sip & Cinder comes with three meats and two sides, along with Texas toast, pickles and pickled onions. Here, it’s pulled pork butt, smoked chicken and smoked kielbasa paired with mac and cheese and sorghum Brussels sprouts. Heidi Finley CharlotteFive

    Pulled pork, smoked chicken, beef brisket, smoked kielbasa and dry rubbed St. Louis-cut ribs are teamed up with traditional barbecue sides such as mac and cheese, Southern green beans, braised collard greens and coleslaw. There are five sauces to choose from — Piedmont vinegar, Beale Street 901, Cheerwine chipotle, Alabama white and Carolina Gold — and they come on the side, so you can try more than one.

    Customers can also choose to branch out and get barbecue-style tacos, or give the blackened redfish or Fun Guy tacos with chimichurri slaw, poblano, griddled cotija and guacamole a try.

    A high-angle, close-up shot of two tacos resting in a metal stand on a gray plate. The taco on the left is filled with shredded pork, roasted corn, and topped with guacamole. The taco on the right contains dark shredded meat, cheese, pickled red onions, and microgreens. Blurred drinking glasses are visible in the background.
    Sip & Cinder’s pulled pork taco and brisket taco. Heidi Finley CharlotteFive

    Still more options to consider are its lineup of large plates, featuring house-rubbed smoked chicken, pecan-crusted Carolina trout, grilled NY strip au poivre and even a 24-hour braised beef short rib dish served with farro risotto and coal-roasted carrots.

    A high-angle shot displays three dishes arranged on a light-colored, wood-grain table: a black rectangular dish of collard greens in the foreground, a wire basket of french fries with a dipping sauce to the upper left, and a plate holding two tacos in a stand to the upper right.
    Sip & Cinder’s barbecue-style tacos, paired with collard greens and french fries. Heidi Finley CharlotteFive

    Sip & Cinder’s beverage menu

    The sip half of the Sip & Cinder name has been given just as much care. A full assortment of beverages incorporates “outside the box” Liquid Courage cocktails and “The Standards,” which are the restaurant’s creative takes on standard drinks.

    A close-up shot of a cocktail on a light-colored, wood-grain table. The drink, an amber-colored liquid, is in a textured, diamond-patterned rocks glass with a large square ice cube, and is garnished with a single cinnamon stick resting on top. The background shows a blurred view of the restaurant interior, including a chair.
    The Dutchie at Sip & Cinder is made with Knob Creek rye, fig and thyme syrup, cindered star anise, then garnished with a cindered cinnamon stick. Heidi Finley CharlotteFive

    “Dad beers,” mocktails and zero proof drinks, and wines including prosecco and non-alcoholic bubbly are also available.

    A close-up shot shows a hand with light-colored nail polish holding a tall, clear glass filled with a bright pink, icy cocktail. The background is completely blurred with soft bokeh lights.
    Sip & Cinder’s berry smash mocktail is made with fresh muddled berries, mint, cane syrup and soda water. Heidi Finley CharlotteFive

    To round out your meal, a menu of sweets and nightcaps offers a little end note.

    Among the dessert choices available are a house-made Moon Pie with cookie dough, chocolate custard and torched marshmallow, along with hummingbird cake and a root beer float. Nightcap selections include a hot buttered rum with cinnamon butter and melted ice cream, and the To Be Named Later beverage, with Averna amaro, cognac, Planteray dark rum, lemon, mole bitters and chocolate air.

    An eye-level, wide shot capturing the interior of a moderately busy restaurant dining room in the evening. Several groups of patrons are seated at various tables and booths, engaged in conversation. The room features a wood-grain floor, gray upholstered chairs and booths, large windows, and a dark ceiling with white decorative tiles.
    The dining room at Sip & Cinder. Heidi Finley CharlotteFive

    Location: 1325 N Broome St, Waxhaw, NC 28173

    Cuisine: American, barbecue

    Instagram: @sipandcinderwxw

    An eye-level, wide shot of the “SIP & CINDER” restaurant exterior at night during a light snowfall. A teal SUV is parked in the foreground on the left, and the building, featuring a lit sign and large windows, is on the right, with potted plants by the entrance.
    Sip & Cinder is located at 1325 N. Broome St., in Waxhaw. Heidi Finley CharlotteFive

    This story was originally published November 12, 2025 at 6:00 AM.

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    Heidi Finley

    The Charlotte Observer

    Heidi Finley is a writer and editor for CharlotteFive and the Charlotte Observer. Outside of work, you will most likely find her in the suburbs driving kids around, volunteering and indulging in foodie pursuits.

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    Heidi Finley

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  • What About A Cannabis Cocktail/ Holiday Party

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    Hosting a winter gathering? What about a cannabis cocktail/holiday party. It is the chic, hangover-free way to celebrate.

    As the holidays approach, dinner parties and happy hours begin filling the calendar — often with a predictable lineup of wine, cocktails, and morning-after regrets. But this year, a new trend is quietly taking over living rooms and lounges. What about a cannabis  cocktail/ holiday party? For adults looking to unwind without the hangover, low-dose cannabis beverages and mocktails are becoming the chic, health-conscious alternative to alcohol.

    RELATED: The History Of The Cocktail Party

    Think of it as an elevated gathering — literally. Instead of traditional cocktails, hosts are serving beautifully crafted “cannacocktails,” blending sparkling juices, herbal infusions, and precisely dosed cannabis tinctures or ready-to-pour THC/CBD beverages. The result? A relaxed, social buzz that’s mellow rather than messy, perfect for those who want to enjoy the season without derailing their wellness goals.

    “With so many people cutting back on alcohol or exploring the sober-curious movement, cannabis drinks offer a modern middle ground,” says Seattle mixologist Jordan Leary, who specializes in non-alcoholic bar programs. “They still feel indulgent and festive, but you stay clear-headed and connected.”

    Low dose is the key, most cannabis beverages today range from 2 to 5 milligrams of THC, about the equivalent of a single glass of wine in social effect. Many also include CBD for balance, producing a light body relaxation without impairing focus or energy. They’re now available in elegant packaging from brands like Cann, Wunder, and Artet, all designed for adults who appreciate design, flavor, and mindfulness.

    RELATED: Making Your Cannabis Dollars Stretch During The Shutdown

    Hosting your own cannabis cocktail party is simpler than it sounds. The key is intentional pairing and pacing:

    • Offer a mix of infused and non-infused mocktails so guests can choose their comfort level.
    • Start with lower-dose drinks (2–3 mg THC) and wait at least 45 minutes before offering refills.
    • Pair beverages with light bites — think charcuterie, roasted nuts, or spiced popcorn — to balance flavors and absorption.
    • Set a cozy vibe: soft lighting, seasonal playlists, and clear labeling for all drinks.

    And of course, safety first. Guests should plan transportation in advance, and anyone trying cannabis beverages for the first time should start low and go slow.

    Beyond just being a novelty, the cannabis cocktail party reflects a broader shift toward intentional celebration. People are rethinking how they socialize, and cannabis offers an inclusive, modern way to connect.

    So this holiday season, trade in the eggnog for an elderflower THC spritz, or a CBD ginger fizz. Your guests will thank you in the morning.

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    Sarah Johns

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  • Best Of Houston® 2025: Best Brunch – Midtown – Houston Press

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    Overview:

    We choose this year’s winner of the Best Midtown Brunch.

    Best Brunch – Midtown: Josephine’s Gulf Coast Tradition

    Brunch gets a refined, high-low twist at this Midtown standout. Laidback and welcoming, the spot pairs comfort food with playful surprises – think crawfish boil breakfast skillets with all the proper fixin’s, Rotel dip chilaquiles, and fried catfish and grits with hot sauce and spiced honey. Sip a Café du Lu topped with a micro beignet or a Bloody Mary with pickled okra, and you’ll see why this is the neighborhood’s top brunch pick. 

    318 Gray 

    713-527-8988

    josephinesgulfcoasttradition.com

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    Houston Press

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  • Best Of Houston® 2025: Best Cocktail Bar – Houston Press

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    Best Cocktail Bar: Diversión

    After shuttering its Spring Branch location, Diversión has landed in Montrose’s Harlow District, taking over a night-only perch in the Emma Jane teahouse and quickly winning a new wave of fans. Bold cocktails — tableside-brewed, caviar-topped, flamed, and featuring interesting flavoirs like smoky fig and pineapple-miso — share the spotlight with playful bites like wagyu & shrimp with hot custard and morel sunomono. Sip, nibble, repeat. This is cocktail hour on expert mode.

    1226 West Clay 

    diversioncocktails.com

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    Houston Press

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  • New bar to raise a glass with local spirits is now open in South End Charlotte

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    A new spot to drink locally made spirits is now open at The Winnifred in Charlotte’s South End neighborhood.

    Oaklore Distilling, which opened in Matthews in 2022, has been working for a while on opening Oaklore Bar & Bottle shop in partnership with the team at nearby Orosoko Sound Bar.

    “Oaklore Bar & Bottle Shop is here! We’re in our soft opening with full hours starting this week!,” the Oaklore team posted Tuesday on Instagram.

    Food will be available from Orosoko’s “O-ToGo” window across the street, with “East” and “West” Latin and Asian fare including smoked chile duck confit tacos, citrus buttered lobster, pork belly steam buns and firecracker shrimp.

    The Matthews distillery opened by friends Matt Simpkins and Thomas Bogan uses North Carolina grains to make a variety of spirits, including whiskey, vodka, rum and gin.

    “Enjoy craft and classic cocktails with Oaklore’s award-winning spirits, plus full bottles for purchase from the retail bottle shop, including whiskeys, vodka, gin, rum, cordials, bitters and mixers all crafted locally with care,” the bar’s Instagram said.

    The tasting room at Oaklore Distilling Co. in Matthews, N.C., on Tuesday, September 30, 2025.
    The tasting room at Oaklore Distilling Co. in Matthews. KHADEJEH NIKOUYEH Knikouyeh@charlotteobserver.com

    “We’re extremely excited to bring another refined, yet comfortable, concept to the neighborhood and introduce as many people to the Oaklore brand as possible. With the bar and bottle shop together, we not only serve cocktails featuring the distillery’s hand crafted spirits, bitters and mixers, but we can also sell a customer their favorite bottle to enjoy at home,” Solandra Hospitality partner Greg Pappanastos told CharlotteFive via email. “Construction will start on a private tasting room in the adjacent space in the next two weeks. The tasting room will also open up as an extension of the bar when not in use. A canopy with additional signage and an expanded patio with seating will be built by spring 2026,“ his message said.

    The bar’s planned list of flavorful cocktails includes:

    • The Gold Standard – Oaklore bourbon, Disaranno, Montenegro, lemon juice, simple syrup, egg white, Angostura bitters
    • Sage and Lore – Oaklore bourbon, Oaklore orange bitters, lavender syrup, Angostura bitters, sage leaf
    • Queen City Bloom – Oaklore gin, lemon juice, hibiscus syrup, egg whites, soda, dried hibiscus
    • Midnight Oak – Oaklore bourbon, creme de cacao, Montenegro, chocolate bitters, luxardo cherry
    • Ol’ Southender – Oaklore bourbon, Oaklore old fashioned syrup, Oaklore orange bitters, Angostura bitters, orange peel
    • Twin Barrel Smash – Oaklore bourbon, Oaklore rye, Oaklore Swizzle, honey ginger syrup, lemon juice, lemon wheel
    • Bodrum Smoke Show – Oaklore bourbon, Amaretto, orange juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, Aquafaba

    Location: 1425 Winnifred St #103, Charlotte, NC 28203

    Instagram: @oaklorebar

    Matt Simpkins, left, and Tom Bogan cheers before sampling a whiskey at Oaklore Distilling Co. in Matthews, N.C., on Tuesday, September 30, 2025.
    Matt Simpkins, left, and Tom Bogan cheers before sampling a whiskey at Oaklore Distilling Co. in Matthews, N.C., on Tuesday, September 30, 2025. KHADEJEH NIKOUYEH Knikouyeh@charlotteobserver.com

    This story was originally published October 30, 2025 at 5:30 AM.

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    Heidi Finley

    The Charlotte Observer

    Heidi Finley is a writer and editor for CharlotteFive and the Charlotte Observer. Outside of work, you will most likely find her in the suburbs driving kids around, volunteering and indulging in foodie pursuits.
    Support my work with a digital subscription

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  • Sip or Scream: Houston’s Best Halloween Bites and Events – Houston Press

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    Overview:

    We take a look at the Houston’s best Halloween food and drink happenings.

    It’s officially spooky season in Houston, and the city’s best bars and restaurants are conjuring up festive bites, creepy cocktails and ghoulishly good parties all month long. From pumpkin spice espresso martinis and blood-red cocktails to killer costume parties and even some Dia de los Muertos action, here’s where to eat, drink and celebrate spooky season across the city.

    Betelgeuse Betelgeuse, 2101 Washington, 4500 Montrose

    The fun-loving pizza and cocktail bar gets very into the Halloween spirit with decor and a featured cocktail menu. Highlights include the Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini, Monster Smash, and Blood-Soaked Nightmarish Hellscape, available in 10- or 20-ounce servings. 

    Black Lagoon Pop-Up, 2910 McKinney

    Spooky season means that Nickel City will once again transform into acclaimed Halloween pop-up Black Lagoon, rocking a darkly immersive atmosphere and brand-new cocktail menu from October 1–31. 

    Brasserie 19, 1962 West Gray

    Brasserie 19’s Halloween weekend is back with two days of chic celebrations. On Saturday, October 25 from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m., “The Haunting of Versailles” offers Marie Antoinette–inspired opulence, couture costumes and Moët Hennessy cocktails. On Sunday, October 26 from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m., “Le Spectacle de Merde” continues with a high-energy day-after brunch, DJ GFunk, Campari cocktails, and seasonal brunch specials. Reservations recommended.

    Brennan’s of Houston, 3300 Smith

    Brennan’s hosts a Witchy Brunch on Friday, October 31 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., inviting guests to don witchy attire and gather their covens for a festive Halloween feast. Reservations are recommended; $35 per person, plus tax and gratuity.

    Brenner’s on the Bayou, 1 Birdsall

    Brenner’s hosts “Boo on the Bayou” on Friday, October 31 starting at 5 p.m., featuring a live DJ, signature cocktails, late-night bites and a costume contest with prizes including a night at The Post Oak Hotel, dinner for four at Grotto and happy hour for six at Cadillac Bar. Free admission; reservations recommended.

    Caracol, 2200 Post Oak

    Get into the Halloween spirit at Caracol’s Noche de Brujas Party on Friday, October 31 from 7 to 11 p.m., featuring passed bites, food and dessert stations, a live DJ, and a costume contest with prizes. Each $85 ticket includes four specialty cocktails. 

    Coltivare, 3320 White Oak

    Executive chef Ryan Pera is bringing a childhood tradition to White Oak with fresh-baked sourdough pretzels available for diners October 30–November 1, featuring Italian-inspired dips like Mostarda and Pecorino beer cheese. On Halloween night, Pera and the crew are preparing a pretzel stand for passing families to enjoy.

    The Cursed Cauldron, 2031 Westcreek 

    Halloween pop-up The Cursed Cauldron has found a permanent home at Botonica, running  through November 2. Guests can explore multiple immersive realms while sipping apothecary-inspired cocktails like Coven’s Calling and Lilith’s Lullaby. Weekly activations include Movie Night with Pumpkin Paint & Sip, Tarot Tuesdays, Bewitched Burlesque and Saturday witch-craft classes. Reservations recommended via OpenTable. 

    Emma Jane, 1226 West Clay

    The teahouse hosts a Murder Mystery Dinner on Sunday, October 26 with seatings at 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Guests enjoy a three-course Paris Opera–themed Masquerade of Shadows, interactive gameplay with secret character roles and prizes for Best Detective and Best Costume. Tickets are $125 per person plus taxes and fees; reservations on OpenTable.

    Endless Bummer, 4500 Montrose

    This gothic tiki speakeasy is transforming into The Haunted Luau for October, serving spooky cocktails like the Be Still My Heart, Doomscroller and Pumpkinhead, each $19. Expect over-the-top Halloween vibes and tiki twists.

    Feges BBQ Spring Branch, 8217 Long Point

    Feges BBQ hosts its annual Halloween Spooktacular on Wednesday, October 29 from 5 to 8 p.m. The family-friendly event features a haunted house, costume contest with prizes at 6:45 p.m., candy giveaways, free kids’ meals and half-off select wine for adults. No reservations required.

    Goode Company Kitchen & Cantina, 2002 West Gray

    Goode Company hosts a ticketed Halloween soirée on Friday, October 31 from 7 p.m. to midnight, transforming its River Oaks cantina into a moody, candlelit haunt. Guests can enjoy  live mariachi, a DJ, costume contests and door prizes, plus elevated bites like lechoncito tacos and duck tinga memelas alongside craft cocktails including the Damn Goode Margarita and Flor de Muerto. General admission is $50, VIP tables available; 21+ with wristband required.

    Heights & Co., 1343 Yale

    Step into HalloweenTown with spooky-themed movies, a decadent S’mores Board and playful cocktails like the Blood Bag Cosmo, Grave Digger Espresso Martini and Witches Brew Margarita. Seating is limited, so reservations via Resy are recommended.

    Hungry’s, multiple locations

    This Halloween, kids in costume eat free at Hungry’s, with family-friendly seasonal specials at locations in Rice Village, 2356 Rice, Memorial/NextDoor, 14714 Memorial, and Spring Branch, 5750 Woodway. Adults can join the Halloween Party at NextDoor Memorial at 7 p.m. for themed cocktails, a DJ and costumes.

    Jethro’s Cocktail Lounge, 95 Tuam 

    All October, Jethro’s transforms into Dead Man Manor, a Victorian Gothic Halloween pop-up with themed décor, seasonal cocktails and nightly events from singles mixers and karaoke to movie nights and Tarot Tuesdays. The month culminates with a Halloween Bash on October 30–31, featuring DJs, dancing and festive drinks, followed by a Día de Los Muertos celebration November 1–2 with a community ofrenda. All events are free and open to the public.

    The Marigold Club, 2531 Kuester

    The Marigold Club goes full spooky-chic this Halloween on October 31 at 5 PM. Dress to impress for the costume contest, sip on seasonal cocktails, and soak up a night of playful frights and festive surprises.

    Messina Hof, 4545 Old Reliance

    Over in Bryan, Messina Hof celebrates the season with two spine-tingling experiences on Friday, October 31. Join the “Murder Mystery Dinner: Chamber of Screams” from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. for an interactive whodunit paired with a Halloween buffet and wine. Or, take the “Spooky Cellar Tour” from 6 to 7:30 p.m., featuring ghost stories, four wine tastings, and a souvenir glass—costumes encouraged. Tickets required for both events.

    Montrose Cheese & Wine, 1618 Westheimer

    The cheese and wine shop is inviting guests to bring their pups in costume for the annual dog costume contest, running from Friday, October 24, through Halloween at 5 p.m. The winner, announced on Halloween, will take home a 6-pack of wine plus a bag of Olympia Provisions dog treats for their furry friend.

    Októ, 888 Westheimer
    Októ hosts its first-ever Vampire Ball this Halloween with a DJ spinning at 8 p.m. and a lively, costume-friendly party atmosphere. Guests can sip on spooky-themed cocktails and enjoy dinner with regular reservations.

    Picos, 3601 Kirby 

    Picos celebrates Día de los Muertos with its 2nd Annual H-Town Agave Fest on Saturday, November 1 from 4 to 8 p.m., featuring tequila tastings, cocktails, a DJ, street foods from tacos to elote, face painting and more. The Ofrenda has returned for guests to honor loved ones with photos, and Picos will remain open through the end of the year with more festive events.

    Pier 6 Seafood & Oyster House, 113 6th

    Pier 6 brings back its epic Halloween bash on Friday, October 31, rocking spooky décor, all-night happy hour, candy for kids, beats by DJ Ebonix and a cash prize for the best costume. The themed bash is family-friendly and reservations are strongly encouraged.

    Pizaro’s Pizza, 11177 Katy Freeway, 1000 West Gray

    Pizaro’s is getting spooky with Halloween treats like the Triple Treat Monster Cannolis ($8) and the savory Nightmare on Gray Street white pizza ($24 medium/$34 large). Both locations will serve Halloween specials through October 31.

    Zanti Cucina Italiana, 1958 West Gray

    Zanti celebrates Halloween with themed cocktails and events all month. Pre-Halloween Brunch is Saturday, October 18 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and the “Midnight in Milan” party follows Saturday, October 25 from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m., featuring roaming entertainers, signature cocktails and a costume contest. Reservations recommended.

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    Brooke Viggiano

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  • Golf And Drinking Are America’s Favorite Duo

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    Autumn Is in the air and cuffing season is around the corner – can cannabis help?

    Golf has long had a reputation as a gentleman’s game — quiet, slow, and, for some, a little too proper. But lately, something’s changed out on the fairways. Golf is getting younger, looser, and a lot more social. Today, golf and drinking are America’s favorite duo.

    RELATED: The Science Behind Cannabis And Happiness

    According to the National Golf Foundation, participation in the sport has grown steadily since the pandemic, with more than 26 million Americans hitting the links in 2024 — the highest number in two decades. What’s more surprising is who is showing up. Millennials and Gen Z now make up nearly half of all golfers, drawn by the sport’s mix of sunshine, leisure, and, increasingly, lifestyle appeal. For many, golf isn’t just about chasing par — it’s about the vibe.

    States who drink the most on the golf course

    And nothing fuels that vibe quite like the drinks cart.

    The “19th hole” — the clubhouse bar — has been a staple since the game’s early days in Scotland, when rounds often ended with a whisky toast. But the modern drinks cart, trundling between holes with coolers of beer, seltzers, and cocktails, emerged in the mid-20th century. Country clubs realized that golfers didn’t want to wait until the end of the round to unwind — they wanted the bar to come to them. By the 1970s, the mobile bar-on-wheels had become a defining feature of American golf culture.

    Today’s carts are often mini craft bars, stocked with canned cocktails, local brews, and even espresso martinis. Some courses — especially resort and public ones — now market their “signature cart drinks” as part of the experience. Social media has only amplified the trend, with golfers posting videos of their “cart girl” cameos, boozy birdies, and “swing juice” rituals.

    RELATED: Celebrate With These Simple Classic Cocktails

    Critics might argue that mixing alcohol with a precision sport is a contradiction. But for many, that’s the point. The rise of casual nine-hole rounds, music-playing carts, and golf simulators at bars like Topgolf and Five Iron Golf has blurred the line between sport and social outing.

    In short, golf has become less country club and more clubhouse party. Whether you’re there for the swing or the seltzer, it’s clear: golf’s new golden age comes with a buzz — on and off the course.

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    Anthony Washington

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  • The Manhattan Cocktail Is a Magical 3-Ingredient Combination

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    The sharp, full-bodied combination of aged American whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters was likely first minted sometime in the latter half of the 1800s, most likely at the Manhattan Club in New York. Its exact origins are unknown, but clearly the bartender who created the Manhattan was on to something, because this drink has truly stood the test of time.

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    Roger Kamholz

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