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How to Open Your Own Bar

11/5/2009 11:54:00 AM

Ever walk into a lounge or club, take a look around, and thought, ‘I could do this so much better?’ Before you even consider making a go of it in the nightlife industry, consider this: for every ten bars that open their doors, only three survive within the first three years. That means there’s a 70 percent chance yours could fail— unless you know what you’re getting yourself into, and who better to advise than Carey Rossi and Steve Johns, authors of The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Starting and Running a Bar. Here, they spill the ten most important things you need to know before taking your love affair with bars to the next level.

How to Open Your Own Bar: Make Sure You Have What It Takes
To be an entrepreneur of any sort demands drive and that you be a go-getter, but in the bar business this also applies socially. “Wallflowers aren’t always the best people to run a bar,” says Rossi. “You have to be very comfortable with yourself and comfortable with the decisions you’re making, because you’re also managing people. You can’t be wishy-washy.” More than being outgoing, there’s also something to be said about being the life of the party. “You’re promoting fun. If everyone sees in your personality that you’re a fun, outgoing person, then they’re going to enjoy themselves at your establishment,” notes Johns. “If you put out positive, you get positive back. That’s the energy and the nucleus of this business.” In other words, Debbie Downers need not apply.

How to Open Your Own Bar: Get Experience
In order to run and manage a bar, you need to know the ins and outs of how one operates, and the best way to do that is by getting on the job training as a bartender, cocktail waitress, or bar manager. “If you really want to be in this business, go work for somebody,” says Johns. “Experience is everything, so reach out to people in the business and see what it’s all about before you get into it.” This will also allow you to test drive the field to see if it’s something you really enjoy doing—or if your hopes and dreams were clouded by beer goggles.

How to Open Your Own Bar: Remember it’s Still a Business
Despite the fact that a bar is a place where people go to be carefree and have fun, as a bar owner your approach will be much different. “Some people get into [the business] for the wrong reasons,” says Johns. “They think of the glamour of it, but there’s more to it. On the other side of the bar, that being the business side of it, it is a business. You’re there to make money.” Remember, this isn't "Cheers." If you’re merely trying to escape the rigors of doing business, then maybe you should stick to taking shots at the bar—not calling them.

How to Open Your Own Bar: Do Your Homework
The most common reason bars fail is because the owners didn’t perform their due diligence. “There’s a lot of research involved in opening a bar,” says Rossi. “It all comes down to homework. You don’t want to be caught behind the 8 ball.” This means researching traffic patterns in the area you wish to open your bar, finding out what the demographic is and what kind of establishment (bar, pub, tavern, lounge, club) would do best based upon their needs. You also need to study the law and know how your state and municipality deals with noise levels, smoking, minimum wage, and, most importantly, alcohol. “It’s a controlled substance and there’s a whole host of issues that go along with that,” points out Rossi. “It’s easy to be a patron at a bar, all you have to do really is drink, but when you’re the person who’s serving the alcohol, there’s a lot of liability that goes along with that and you need to make sure you’re ready for that responsibility.”

How to Open Your Own Bar: Be Prepared to Work Hard and Work a Lot
True, being a bar owner makes you the man on top, but it doesn’t mean your only job is to boss other people around. “The bar business is not the kind of business where, as an owner, you get to sit back and let everybody work. You need to make some money and so you’re the one doing it all,” says Rossi on how to open a bar. Johns agrees that the bar owner wears many different hats when first starting out, which often requires 16 hour work days. As a result, he says, “this business takes a toll on your personal life. But it’s important to have your friends and family around for support.”

How to Open Your Own Bar: Be in Shape
No, not to impress the ladies who come to your establishment. Since you’re the one doing everything to make the business run smoothly, you need to be physically fit. “It’s a lot of running around outside the club, inside the club, lifting heavy cases,” says Johns. “There’s a lot of energy that goes behind setting up the bar and prepping it for the day.” Rossi also credits the long hours as a reason to hit the gym. “You want to work out and be healthy because honestly, your immune system is going to take a beating.”

How to Open Your Own Bar: Have a Game Plan
Even after you’ve done your research, you need to think of your long term goals and create a solid business plan. “Some people think, okay we’ll just buy the booze, we’ll get the liquor license, we’ll have a cool name, and off we go. There’s more to it. You need to structure the business just like any other business in the world,” says Johns, who equates having a plan as a measure of stability and success. “Stick to your plan and don’t stray from it. If you play your cards right and you have a business plan, you can continually grow your business.”

How to Open Your Own Bar: Know Your Liquor
Not only do you need to know the difference between scotch and whisky (hint: scotch is a type of whisky made in Scotland), but also the brands that will be most popular among your clientele. This is the type of on the job training you would receive working elsewhere first, but if you decide to forgo that route, many wine and high-end liquor stores offer tasting classes where you can brush up your booze knowledge.

How to Open Your Own Bar: Pick a Name That Fits
Having a name that sounds good isn’t enough— it should also reflect the theme and appearance of your bar. You should also let the location and building you select guide the theme and name of your bar. For instance, if you want to create an ultra-lounge, but the site you chose resembles a dilapidated wharf, financially it makes more sense to use what you have and market that rather than try to create and convert something that’s not there. “If you put too much money into a place you might never see that money returned,” says Johns.

How to Open Your Own Bar: Study the Competition
Still think you can do one better than that overhyped lounge that you saw? Then you should start learning that place inside out. “If your concept is going to be the same as your competition, then you better be on your game because they’re not going to go away when you open up and they’re going to fight back,” says Johns, who recommends paying attention to their marketing plan and price point. “You get one chance to make a first impression in this business, so do it right.”

Cocktail of the Week: Coronela

11/4/2009 9:00:00 AM

If there’s one thing you must have in your bar at all times is orange juice. Forget the fancy glasses, too expensive shakers, or heavy duty muddlers. Freshly squeezed OJ is the key to creating some of the easiest drinks that’ll satisfy anyone, including the seductive Double Dare, thirst-quenching Breakfast Caipirinha, or the spicy Mari Mercedes. After all, who doesn’t love a quick pick-me-up? Orange juice is affordable and can add a breathtaking golden hue to any recipe with little effort. Even blood oranges can transform a bland martini into a ruby red treat that’s sure to light up any fiesta or dinner for two. Plus, orange juice tastes great any time of the year, so you don’t need to wait for a specific season to add some zest in your life. A frosty orange cocktail or a simmering number will also leave you feeling at ease after facing a harsh winter. If you’re looking for a tart, yet full-bodied drink that’s loaded in natural citrus juices, you’ll love the latest creation that’s a hit in Mexico.

The Coronela isn’t your typical orange cocktail and we couldn’t be more thankful for that. It’s reminiscent of a margarita all due to a light touch of salt to awaken your taste buds, along with smooth tequila to instantly relax you. On the other hand, it’s similar to a classic, sparkling Tom Collins because its usage of lemon juice and sweet, ripe cherries make it highly refreshing. The Coronela has three types of juices and it’s almost like having two cocktails without all the manual labor. Plus, using the right tequila will give the cool Coronela a luminous honey color with notes of delicate plums. Have it all tonight, this weekend, or any day (or night) of the year because when it comes to the Coronela, there’s never a wrong time to get your dose of vitamin C.

Coronela Recipe

Ingredients
1 ½ oz. Tequila (We used 1921 Reposado)
A pinch of salt
½ oz. Lemon juice
2 oz. Orange juice
5 oz. Grapefruit soda
1 Orange slice
1 Cherry

Preparation
Add each ingredient in a cocktail shaker and shake. Pour in a Collins glass with four ice cubes. Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry.

How to Throw a Proper Halloween Party

10/30/2009 10:00:00 AM

Halloween is just around the corner people, meaning you need to start decided A) what to wear, and B) what the hell you’re going to do! If you’re nightlife fanatics like us, you’ve probably already starting looking for the best parties at a nightclub, bar or lounge near you. But, there are also many of us who opt to stay inside. That’s why we’re here to help you. Don’t spend your Halloween indoors where kids will stop at nothing, pounding on your door, to get your candy. Instead, try throwing a kick ass Halloween bash! But there are certain things you need to be aware of prior to announcing your party, and we’re here to provide you with the ultimate Halloween Party Checklist. Get a pencil and paper out and prepare to take notes.

Decide On Your Costume Early On

One of the most important things you have to do when it comes to Halloween is decide what you’re going to dress up as. A Halloween costume is super important and will probably be one of the toughest decisions when it comes to your Halloween party checklist. After all, you do have to dress up if you’re going to throw a Halloween party. The last thing your guests want to see if their host wearing his usual jeans and t-shirt getup. For a Halloween party you really have to be unique. Why? Because you’re the host and you need to stick out to everyone! Try shying away from traditional costumes like vampires, werewolves, devils, angels, things that are common. Try to be unique and either A) create your own costume, or B) stick with something that may cost you a lot of money, chances are no one will have this costume and you’ll be the only one in the party wearing it. Remember, you want people saying, “Oh you’re looking for the host? It’s the only guy dressed as ________.”

Decorate Your House to The Fullest

Of course, when it comes to throwing a proper Halloween party, the most important aspect is decoration. Don’t just decide to throw a ‘Halloween Party,’ and have a bunch of drunken dressed up fools show up at your doorstep and walk in, only having them find your normal digs. Turn your pad into a dungeon, a layer, a ghost house. This is your chance to be creative and impress. Remember, the better the decoration, the bigger of an impression you leave on your guests, meaning they’ll definitely show up for future parties.

Inside Decoration

When it comes to decorating your house for a Halloween Party the inside is obviously more important than the outside. Remember to stick with dark and spooky colors. The last thing you want is to make the place looks like an 80s prom. Fake cobwebs, black streamers, and plenty of black balloons. Right now it may seem like the black balloons seems a little corny, but if you fill around one to 200 of them with helium, next thing you know you have a black ceiling, and that’s something that’s very eye-catching. Halloween parties are all about setting a mood, and the mood you want to set should ALWAYS be a dark one. Also, remember to take down any posters, portraits and framed pictures of you and your granny. You really want to have people believing that they’re somewhere else, not at Joe Shmoes house.

Outside Decoration

Although you already know that decorating the inside of your house for your Halloween party is more important than decorating the outside of it, the outside is also crucial. Remember, you want to draw people in to the party. If they pull up in their cars to what looks like your normal pad, they’ll already start doubting the party. Put up signs, fake skeletons, skulls, cobwebs and most importantly fake blood on the steps leading up to the house. That will already have the guests to your Halloween party thinking, “Ok, now we’re in for something.” But remember, what’s going on inside HAS to be better than what’s going on outside. You don’t want people hanging out outside, you want them inside, where the real Halloween party is.

Smoke Machine

One very important piece of advice that we’ll give you is, if you can get your hands on a smoke machine, rented or not, get it! Smoke machines will really turn up the aesthetics of the Halloween party, giving it that spooky misty feel of a dream. You can either go with two forms of liquid for the smoke machine. The normal foggy smoke will fill up the air and at times can really make it hard to see what’s in front of you, adding more to the scary feel of the Halloween party. But then there’s the fog that sits low on the ground. Now this will set you back a little bit more, but it will give the Halloween party guests the feeling that they’re in a cemetery.

Halloween Cocktails Are Essential

If you’re going to a Halloween party, of course you’re going to expect there to be some drinks. But instead of opting for the traditional keg, why not make something that will interest the ladies as well. That’s why you need to concoct your own special Halloween cocktail. Try making a fruity red punch that’s super spiked, but has the look of blood. Make a giant bowl of it and throw in a few fake eyeballs, some plastic spiders, things that will really give your Halloween party that extra edge. The guys won’t think much of it, but the girls will love the cutesy thought, and enjoy the punch even more. Don’t get us wrong though, you should definitely still get the keg and numerous bottles of liquor. You never know when you’ll need more ammo.

Create a Soundtrack for the Party

When everyone thinks of a party, then automatically think of dancing and drinking. But when you think of a Halloween party, the music needs to take on a whole new persona. Try creating a special mix or soundtrack for the party. You know what we mean, throw in classics like "Thriller," "Monster Mash," "Ghost Busters," and "Paint It Black." The entire soundtrack doesn’t have to be strictly Halloween tracks, but you should definitely get these on there to liven up the mood and theme of your Halloween party.

The Extremely Important Halloween Invitation

Ok, so now you have everything in mind for your kick ass Halloween party, your costume, decorating your house, the Halloween beverages and Halloween songs to go with it. Last but not least comes the invitation. You want this to be a Halloween themed invite. If you want to be cheesy but funny, stick with the kiddie invites you can buy at your local Target. But if you want to be unique, try printing out your own invites but putting your own twist on it. Try using a special type of printing paper (rice paper) and thick red ink or finger paint. If you use red finger paint it’ll give the impression that it’s been drawn in by a man’s fingers covered in blood. That’s pretty unique and will add even more to the overall Halloween party points.

Be Specific

When it comes to your invite remember to be specific. Let them know that this is a “Costume Party,” and whether or not they need to pay a fee for the booze ($5 is pretty typical, and if you really want the girls to show don’t charge them at all). The more specific the invitation the better it is. BUT, don’t make it too long, your guests may get a bit annoyed if it gets to that point.

Don’t Sound Too Demanding

Never be too demanding in your invitation, that will only turn off potential partiers from coming to your Halloween par

Cocktail of the Week: Killer Halloween Booze

10/28/2009 9:15:00 AM

If there’s one holiday that gives anyone an excuse to dress up as their favorite superhero or villain, gorge on candy, dance the night away and watch scary movies with glee, it's Halloween. It may be known as the scariest day of the year, but it can also be the most fun, especially if you’re throwing a haunting Halloween party that will surely frighten the pants off any guest. To jumpstart the festivities, why not prepare some spooky spirits with ghoulish garnishes that are creepy and downright eerie? While our favorite Halloween cocktails are dangerously delicious, some are more menacing than others. However, each conjures up monsters from your nightmares and reveals tales of doom and gloom. Whether you’re looking to satisfy a vampire, witch, or zombie at your bash, here are the top Halloween cocktails that’ll have patrons howling from delight.

Best Halloween Booze: Sour Witch

There’s no need to wave a wand to make the Sour Witch come to life. Made by cocktail guru Jonathan Pogash, this Sour Witch will leave you feeling as if you’re flying away on a broomstick, but beware, this elixir isn’t as sweet as Harry Potter. The Sour Witch is no laughing matter because it packs a powerful bitter punch, all thanks to tangy cherries that will leave you aching from pain and perhaps even pleasure if you’re brave enough to drink it all the way through. Don’t be fooled by its soft baby pink hue and elegant champagne flute glass, this drink features hypnotic absinthe that, according to legend, can cause hallucinations beyond your wildest imagination.

Ingredients
1 1/2 oz. Absinthe (We used Lucid)
3/4 oz. Almond Syrup
1/2 oz. Lime juice
3 or 4 Pitted sour cherries
Sparkling wine or champagne
Grated nutmeg

Preparation
In the bottom of a mixing glass, muddle the sour cherries in the lime juice and almond syrup. Add absinthe with ice and shake very well. Strain into a chilled champagne flute. Top with sparkling wine or champagne. Garnish with grated nutmeg for some added spice.

Best Halloween Booze: Goblin Ghoulade

Halloween is the only holiday of the year where you can scare your friends to death and let’s face it, tricks are for kids. If you’re looking for a unique way to frighten guests, don’t settle on spending hours learning how to apply plastic wounds from the 99 cent store. Goblin Ghoulade is so easy to make that it's mind boggling, especially because tart cranberry juice and sweet black raspberry liqueur can make any cocktail look like blood. For some added effect, an “eyeball” made of radish and blueberry is added on top, warning visitors of what can happen to them if they leave your party early. Do you dare to take the first taste?

Ingredients
1 oz. Vodka (We used Finlandia)
1 oz. Black raspberry liqueur (We used Chambord)
1 oz. Roses lime juice
1 oz. Cranberry juice
1 Radish
1 Blueberry

Preparation
Pour all ingredients in a cocktail shaker and shake. Strain drink into a martini glass. To create the eyeballs, peel 1 radish per glass and leave some red skin to form veins. Hollow out center of radish and place a small blueberry to form the eye. Serve eyeball floating or on a drink skewer.

Best Halloween Booze: Vampire Martini

Vampires are all the rage this season. From the tween favorite Twilight, to the steamy Jennifer’s Body, everyone is hooked on these blood-sucking creatures of the night, possessing ghost white skin that’s colder than death and mesmerizing crimson lips. Don’t miss your chance to quench your thirst with a bloody drink that drips red sugar into champagne, vodka and black raspberry liqueur. Party until sunrise with this delicious, sinful treat!

Ingredients
1 ½ oz. Chilled vodka (We used Finlandia)
1 ½ oz. Champagne (We used Korbel)
¾ oz. Black Raspberry Liqueur (We used Chambord)
Sugar
Red food coloring
Wax vampire teeth (Optional)

Preparation
Rim a martini glass with sugar dipped in red food color. You can also drop in a set of wax vampire teeth for a real surprise. Pour vodka and half of black raspberry liqueur in martini glass. Top with champagne and pour the remaining black raspberry liqueur over the back of a spoon to make it float.

Best Halloween Booze: Jack-o-Lantern Punch

No Halloween festivity is complete without a scary Jack-o-Lantern to warn guests of what can happen if the devil takes captive of your soul. This year, change things up by serving a delish (or shall we say devilish) rum punch right inside a pumpkin. Originally designed by mixologist Phil Ward of Mayahuel in New York City, the Jack-o-Lantern Punch can be prepared at home and then taken to your Halloween destination for a special treat. It’s as easy as pumpkin pie! Best of all, the right rum can unite hints of caramel and vanilla notes with cloves and apple juice, making the Jack-o-Lantern the ultimate Halloween party punch.

Ingredients
2 oz. Rum (We used Flor De Caña 7-year Grand Reserve)
4 Sugar cubes
3 oz. Club soda
2 Whole cloves
1 Pinch of nutmeg
1 oz. Lemon juice
2 oz. Apple juice
Toasted pumpkin seeds
Apple Slices
Cinnamon sticks

Preparation
Dissolve the sugar cubes in 1 oz. of club soda. Muddle the cloves with the sugar cubes. After the sugar cubes and cloves dissolved, add the rest of the ingredients one at a time and stir as added. Then, add ice once all of the ingredients have been added and stirred. After that, stir the punch until it is chilled. Strain the punch into a glass, punch bowl, or carved out pumpkin depending on the size of the portion. Top punch with 2 oz. club soda and garnish with apple slices, cinnamon sticks, and pumpkin seeds.

Best Halloween Booze: Black Cat Martini

Now here is one kitty we wouldn’t mind passing by. While black cats have often been associated with bad luck, in some parts of the world they symbolize the opposite. With a drink like the Black Cat Martini, we can understand why. The Black Cat Martini is from Elegant Affairs, a five-star event planning service that works with countless celebrities and socialites. As a result, holding a Black Cat Martini means that you’re rich enough to host a star-studded Halloween bash that requires a password for admission. If you can’t even afford a white sheet to dress up as a ghost, no fear because this Black Cat will certainly make you feel lucky.

Ingredients
1 part Black vodka
1 part Chambord

Preparation
Shake ingredients over ice and strain into a martini glass.

Best Halloween Booze: Poisoned Apple

Double, double toil and trouble-that’s exactly what you should expect if you’re brave enough to take

Spooktacular Fiesta: The Top Halloween Parties

10/25/2009 2:48:00 PM

Halloween is known for its elaborate costumes and candy consumption. As kids, dressing up as our favorite princess or favorite superhero was our biggest concern. Now, as we’ve gotten older, things haven’t really changed. We still love dressing up but our newest concern is what parties to attend this Halloween weekend. Lucky for you, Halloween 2009 has some of the hottest fiestas happening in your ciudad.

:: : NEW YORK CITY : ::

Top Halloween Party in New York City: Halloween Bash @ Talay

Latinos, it’s time to celebrate the only holiday of the year that gives you an excuse to make fantasies come alive by wearing your craziest costume. Stir up your Halloween night with smooth house, hip-hop, and all the Latin beats that’ll have you on the dance floor until sunrise and beyond. Talay, the Latin-Asian fusion hot spot in uptown Manhattan, is recognized as the sexiest Latin venue in the entire city, so why miss out on all the fun? Enjoy Halloween 2009 at Talay! Costumes are mandatory, but those who’re at their most creative will receive a complimentary bottle.
Click here for more info and tickets.

Top Halloween Party in New York City: Halloween Boat Party @ Circle Line Cruises-Pier 83

How many times have you celebrated the scary season on a Manhattan cruise ship? Party with the city’s monsters while touring the entire island by sea. Not only will mingle, dance, drink, and enjoy majestic views of New York City, by comedian Aldo Marachlian will be delivering the laughs. The buffet is free and so is the after party, but ladies get a special treat: an all-male revue show! Trust us, this isn’t a trick, you read it right! In addition, enjoy club classics ranging from merengue to rock en espanol and who knows-maybe a full moon will bring out the beast in you on the dance floor
Click here for more info and tickets.

Top Halloween Party in New York City: Pre-Halloween Masquerade After Work Cruise @ Paddle Wheel Queen

Speaking of ships, jumpstart the Halloween festivities on Friday, October 30th by entering the multi-level climate controlled Paddle Wheel Queen on Manhattan’s east side. Right after work, grab a mask and meet other fellow Latinos while enjoying a sophisticated, European inspired masquerade bash. Show off your mysterious side while you enjoy the sexy night where all your dreams seem to suddenly come alive. Then again, why would you say no to partying for two straight days?
Click here for more info and tickets.

Top Halloween Party in New York City: The Haunted River Café @ Hudson River Café

Experience the new ultimate indoor/outdoor lounge in uptown Manhattan at the Hudson River Café, which will be transformed into a haunted house of mayhem in time for All Hallows Eve. This stylish Harlem eatery accentuates its city feel with spectacular views along Riverside, while providing patrons mouthwatering fusion dishes by Chef Ricardo Cardona, famous for making the former Jimmy’s Bronx Café one of the top hangout venues for Latinos in the city. DJ’s Blaze and Jinx Paul will spin all your favorite haunting electronic, pop, and R&B hits, but that’s not the main reason why you should stop by. The Haunted River Café will be hosting costume contests, giving creative attendees the opportunity to win over $1,000 in prizes.
Click here for more info and tickets.

Top Halloween Party in New York City: Halloween Haunted Hotel @ Room Service

Each year, New York City’s top party promoters unite to bring loyal patrons a delightfully frightening experience for Halloween and for this year, it’s no exception. For this holiday, enter a haunted hotel where anything goes at Room Service, located in Manhattan’s trendy Flatiron district. The honey-hued space is divided in 13 separate rooms-and we all know how horrifying this number can be! However, if you need someone to take your fears away, may we suggest the exotic dancers in attendance ready to please? Gents, this Halloween party is one that’s not to be missed!
Click here for more info and tickets.

Top Halloween Party in New York City: Llegamos Live! Halloween Edition @ LQ

Halloween isn’t all about things that go bump in the night. The fall holiday is also about having the time of your life and paying tribute to your inner child. So, why not laugh away your stress at The Royal Court of Comedy? Just for Halloween, Llegamos Live!, featuring famed comedian Paul Rodriguez and George Lopez are ready to entertain you and their tricks are indeed a major treat. The special Halloween edition comedy show takes place at LQ (Latin Quarter), a “midtown monster” that caters to those who don’t want to go too far downtown for a fabulous fiesta.
Click here for more info and tickets.

Top Halloween Party in New York City: Halloween Party #2 with El Prodigio @ Maracas

The best thing about Halloween 2009 is that it happens to fall on a Saturday, which means we still have Friday night to party all through the weekend! One show we won’t be missing this year is a Halloween concert with Dominican merengue tipico accordionist El Prodigio that’s happening one night only at Queens’ Maracas. Along with El Prodigio is DJ’s Smalls and Eli playing all your favorite reggaeton, salsa, and bachata singles. In addition, Latin boy band Geni Swing is also hitting the stage to swoon at the sexy ladies that’ll be visiting this local Latin favorite venue. Costumes are not necessary, which means you can save the hours of getting dressed for Saturday night-but what would be the fun in that?
Clic

The Art of Drinking Wine

10/22/2009 2:13:00 PM

Wine is not just for holiday dinners with the familia anymore. Unless you've been living under a rock, you've noticed the proliferation of wine bars throughout the country. Everyone is drinking the stuff, including college kids, your date, and even your boss. With tons of choices and lots of strange foreign words you’ve never seen before, many wine lists can be daunting enough to send you running home to a box of Franzia. Fortunately, ordering and drinking wine isn't as complicated as one may think. Put on your thinking caps and this handy wine guide will have you drinking like an enophile in no time...or at least doing a good job faking it.

#1 Drinking Wine Tip: Look at the Menu
No duh, you say? You’d be amazed how many people forego this crucial step. Unless you’re at the Chinese restaurant down the street, don’t just ask for a “house white.” Likewise, you’re not going to impress anyone by ordering a Bordeaux (that’s in France) in an Italian establishment.

#2 Drinking Wine Tip: Don’t Pretend.
If you don’t know the difference between chardonnay and sauvignon blanc, just ask. All decent servers and bartenders will be as happy to help you learn. If you pretend to know what you're talking about, expect to be secretly laughed at. Do you have a sweet tooth or are you looking for a nice glass to compliment your dinner steak? Let the bartender or waiter know and they'll offer you some selections to suit your personal needs.

#3 Drinking Wine Tip: Be Adventurous
It can be tempting to choose a wine because it’s the only name you’ve heard of before. Chianti is only one of hundreds of Italian reds, for example. In the meantime, did you know that aside from France, countries such as Argentina, Chile, and Mexico are also known for their delicious reds and whites? Either take a shot in the dark and hope for the best, or help your server pick something for you. Do you like something light and easy-drinking, or rich and full-bodied? Fruit-forward and tasty on its own, or more subdued and compatible with food? A long, lingering finish? A floral nose? Something sweet and meant for dessert? The more different wines you try, the more you’ll know what you like.

#4 Drinking Wine Tip: Play Along
The whole bottle presentation, opening, and tasting process isn’t just a fancy charade leftover from medieval times. It’s also not to see if you like the wine. It’s to insure that you won’t be drinking the wrong wine or, worse, a bottle of vinegar. First, look at the label. Is it what you ordered? Great. Once the server has poured you a taste, just take a sip, no swirling necessary. You don’t need a sophisticated palate to determine if the wine is corked or oxidized (both naturally and frequently occurring processes that make a wine taste varying degrees of “off”.) Remember, wine should never have “a kick.”

#5 Drinking Wine Tip: Drink!
This is where the swirling and the fun comes in. As long as your glass isn’t too full, grab it by the stem and swirl it around. This “opens up” the wine, allowing the aromas and flavors to stand out and harmonize. In addition to common notes like cherry, green apple, and leather, wine geeks officially recognize the essence of Band-Aids (no word if it’s just Johnson & Johnson brand), pencil shavings, and cannabis as wine descriptors. See what you can find. Or just drink and enjoy.

Cocktail of the Week: Sweet Treats

10/21/2009 10:00:00 AM

Whoever said children should have all the fun on the scariest holiday of the year? Halloween marks the time when we can live out our fantasies, dress up as our favorite heroes, and let’s face it, everyone loves an excuse to party until dawn! Sure we should celebrate the scary season by daring ourselves to watch horror flicks at midnight, but Halloween is also the day where you can savor some of your favorite candies guilt-free. We’re calling all chocoholics, social drinkers, and those who’ll easily surrender to their sweet tooth, because we have some sweet treats to take you to nirvana and channel your inner child without the use of any Ouija board. Tricks are for kids, so for this Halloween, celebrate with some of the top candy cocktails that your neighbors will never part with.

Top Candy Cocktail: Caramel Apple Martini

What’s one of the best things about the fall season? Juicy, ripe apples are ready for the picking. One way to enjoy this fruit is drizzling warm, rich caramel syrup on thick, chunky slices of golden, emerald, and ruby apples and slowly savoring the gooey goodness of this simple dessert for autumn. However, slicing apples and then dipping them in simmering caramel sauce can easily create an unwanted mess, which is why we’re going for a Caramel Apple Martini blended with two types of vodka, along with a light, apple spirit. The Caramel Apple Martini is so mouthwatering that it’s scary.

Ingredients
1-1/2 oz. Apple juice
1-1/2 oz. Apple vodka (We used Van Gogh Wild Apple)
1/2 oz. Caramel vodka (We used Van Gogh Dutch Caramel)
1/2 oz. Apple schnapps
1 Sliced apple
Caramel syrup

Preparation
Glaze the inside of a chilled martini glass with caramel syrup and place glass in the refrigerator until ready to use. Add all ingredients into a shaker with ice and shake vigorously. Strain into chilled glass glazed with caramel syrup. Float a thinly sliced apple round on top.

Top Candy Cocktail: Candy Corn Shooter

Any trick-or-treater can proclaim that every year they’ll receive a batch of tri-color kernels that are prepared to delight eaters of all ages for over a century. While candy corn isn’t a vegetable, it’s soft, chewy, and is usually served during Halloween only. Finding candy corn in one’s basket is like discovering treasure because it’s guaranteed to bring a smile to anyone’s face. Adults can now devour candy corn this year in a form of a shot that combines fruit flavored vodka, rum, and whip cream. Just don’t have too many of these because, like the real thing, your tummy will surely feel it!

Ingredients
Orange vodka (We used Van Gogh Vodka)
Banana liqueur
Coconut rum
Orange curacao
Whipped cream
Grenadine

Preparation
For one shot, combine 1 part orange vodka and 1 part banana liqueur into a mixer with ice. Shake and pour into the bottom of the shot glass. For another shot, combine 1 part rum, 1 part orange curacao, 1 part cream, and a dash of grenadine for color. Shake in mixer with ice and gently layer on top using a spoon. Top both shooters with whipped cream.

Top Candy Cocktail: Peppermint Pattie

Dark chocolate coated peppermint? The crisp, refreshing dessert with a generous layer of chocolate is like a miniature cake that leaves your breath, well, minty! It’s a combination that you’ll either love or hate, but those who can’t just have one Peppermint Pattie for a snack will adore the alcoholic version, which tastes exactly the same! Like the candy, the Peppermint Pattie cocktail contains chocolate, creamy mint, and more cocoa. Hold on to this drink tightly because you won’t be sharing.

Ingredients
1-1/2 oz. Chocolate vodka (We used Van Gogh Dutch Chocolate)
1/2 oz. Crème de menthe
1/2 oz. Chocolate liqueur
1/2 oz. Cream
1 Peppermint Pattie candy wedge

Preparation
Add all ingredients into a mixer with ice and shake vigorously. Strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with a Peppermint Pattie candy wedge.

Top Candy Cocktail: Peanut Butter Cup Martini

If there’s no wrong way to eat a Reese’s, then there’s certainly no wrong way to savor this creamy, lip-licking concoction. Pure, rich chocolate syrup is slowly drizzled at the bottom, followed by creamy rum made with Madagascan vanilla and roasted peanuts. Chocoloholics will instantly fall in love with this milky, heavenly number, especially since it has an added punch of chocolate vodka, cream, and an actual Reese’s. Can you say yum?

Ingredients
1-1/2 oz. Chocolate vodka (We used Van Gogh Dutch Chocolate)
1 oz. Peanut rum (We used Castries Crème)
3/4 oz. Chocolate liqueur
1/2 oz. Cream

Preparation
Drizzle chocolate syrup into the bottom of a chilled martini glass. Place the glass into the refrigerator until ready to use. Add all ingredients into a shaker with ice and shake vigorously. Strain into the martini glass and garnish with a peanut butter cup.

Top Candy Cocktail: Starburst Martini

Guys, if you’re looking to impress a special lady on Halloween, skip the gory costume and instead, order her a Starburst Martini, a candied, yet deceptively strong drink that’ll leave her breathless. Unlike the straight-up, dry martini, the Starburst Martini is slightly fruity, all thanks to a medley of apple vodka, watermelon schnapps, and banana liqueur. However, it skips the unnecessary sugar, which will allow your date to enjoy it without wondering whether she’ll regret it the next day when she tries on her favorite jeans. Share something juicy tonight!

Ingredients
1-1/2 oz. Apple vodka (We used Van Gogh Wild Appel Vodka)
1/2 oz. Watermelon schnapps
1/4 oz. Banana liqueur
Cranberry juice
1 Lemon

Preparation
Add all ingredients into a mixer with ice and shake. Strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with lemon cutout in the shape of a star.

Top Candy Cocktail: Liquid Snickers Bar

What can one do when we’re grumbling for some grub at our favorite hot spot, but the selections are less than appetizing? Grab a Snickers! Wait, now you’re facing another dilemma, aren’t you? You really want to sink your teeth into that thick, luscious, milk chocolate bar coating peanut butter nougat, roasted peanuts, and oozing caramel, but a few bites will leave your stomach still unsatisfied. Grab a Snickers, we meant it the first time! The Liquid Snickers Bar contains the same finger licking goodness, except it includes the added treat of chocolate liqueur, caramel vodka, and cream for some whipped up heaven.

Ingredients
1/2 oz. Baileys
1-1/2 oz. Caramel vodka (We used Van Gogh Dutch Caramel Vodka)

Nightlife Romance: Learn to Read the Signals

10/15/2009 10:00:00 AM

The intricacies of human body language have been one of the most widely studied concepts during the last 100 years. Like it or not, people say more with a glance and a smile than they could ever get across with even the most absurd Tucker Max* pickup lines. A simple nod with a smile and a three second visual connection with the girl across the dance floor could mean anything ranging from “Come talk to me,” to “Let’s skip the conversation and grab a bottle of wine on the way back to my flat!” A simple sultry and suggestive glance in return, while she draws attention to her lips with the straw placed oh so conveniently in her vodka and cranberry, and the next step in the brilliant dance continues. Now it’s time to make out the most direct route to her through the sea of passers by and fellow romance seekers all while attempting to seem nonchalant and direct at the same time! Gives you a headache just thinking about it doesn’t it?

Don’t fret love (or lust) seekers! It’s not that hard to understand! We’ve been programmed since kindergarten (thank you social streamlining!) to respond correctly to these cues; it’s just a matter of being aware of (and mastering) your own body language and using a little common sense and creativity to reign, react and respond to the signs and signals from across the nightclub dance floor. Here are a few suggestions and obvious signs that nocheLatina has compiled to translate the language of silent seduction! Enjoy!

1. One glance means nothing. Two glances could lead to something. Three glances and it’s on! The rule of threes. Why three? She has to make damned sure that the light didn’t hit you just right to make you look like David Beckham, and you are actually available and into it. The first glance is for scouting. As she scans the horizon of half lit dance floor possibilities finding her way to you, momentary eye contact means… well absolutely nothing. She might have really been into the art on the wall, or even worse, the guy standing right behind you, but if she notices you long enough to think about it, you might have a chance. The second glance (usually accompanied by a smile and slightly prolonged eye contact) is almost more important than the third due to the fact that this is the exploratory and decision making glance. She wants to know what she’s getting herself into, how good you actually look, and the obviousness of your availability all while making you notice her at the same time. The third time is the closer. Generally accompanied by a glance that screams “Come and buy me a drink now, you have five seconds to react or loose me forever.”

2. If you gesture “hello” and she doesn’t respond, move on to the next girl. The truth hurts, and sometimes being completely ignored is even worse. But it is the easiest and most obvious sign to interpret and respond to in the language of movement. Have you ever waved, smiled, stood next to, or tried to talk to a girl who reacted colder than the AC that engulfed the nightclub before anyone arrived? That’s a bad sign. What she is trying to say without being rude is, “Listen I don’t see you right now because you do not currently and most likely will never exist in my world. Don’t bother, I don’t care that you claim to be a brain surgeon with a private Lear jet, a villa on Star Island and an invitation to Diddy’s New Year’s Party.” Time to move on to the next possibility.

3. If you’re surrounded by your friends and she is looking your way, make sure it’s you she wants and not your boy. Communication is key on this one. So is being honest with yourself. If you’re in a wolf pack and she’s looking over in the general direction of EVERYONE you’re surrounded with, do not automatically assume she’s into you. There is an easy way to get around this, however, and discover the truth. Take a lap! Get a new perspective on your prospect away from your boys and start the dance on the solo. If she is obviously looking your way for the second glance (while the boys are off scouting for themselves) then there is not a question as to who she’s staring at. It was you the whole time anyway!

4. If you notice the dancing gap closing, Make a move. Moving with the music and closing in on each other are completely different things. If she is moving with the rhythm, bringing herself closer to you with each turn to the point where you can smell the Vodka and Redbull on her breath and the vanilla perfume she spritzed herself with, then there is an obvious and literal attraction bringing you closer with each bass drop. Don’t fight it, she sees how you move and wants to, at very least, share a dance.

5. Don’t think that just because she is with a guy, it’s her guy. This one can be a bit tricky to navigate. Girls want to have a wingman as well, and in the words of my sister “some sort of boy-be-gone” repellant to chase away the less than desirables and make it easier for her to scope out the playing field. Common sense would say that maybe if she is there with the guy, holding his hand, dancing exclusively (and in very close proximity) with him, making out etc., this is most likely her man. However, girls like to feel safe and generally there is no way that she and he will be going for the same prospect. It makes it easier for her, but doesn’t mean that she is unavailable! During your lap, scope it out, notice how they are interacting and go from there.

Cocktail of the Week: Celebrating Apple Season

10/14/2009 8:22:00 AM

October is a fruitful month that offers many benefits for those who’re still bummed over saying adios to summer. Colorful leaves paint the skies, we have an excuse to dress up as our favorite superhero, candy is sold in bodegas by the bucketfuls, and plump, juicy apples are ready to be picked. Whether you prefer this yummy natural dessert in dark ruby, sun kissed yellow, or golden green, autumn brings forth apple season and the best time to savor them is in October. When gorging on pies every day could prevent us from fitting into our costumes for Halloween, apples are the ideal way to satisfy our sweet tooth, while staying healthy. It’s no wonder people still believe that “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” Apples are not only delicious, but they’re low in calories. Now that apple season is here, numerous bars are discovering new ways to make their signature cocktails mouthwatering with this crunchy treat. To celebrate apple season, we found two cocktails that’ll have you picking Rome Beauties, Granny Smiths, and Honeycrisps.

Top Apple Season Cocktail: Apple-Cran Toddy

Now that the weather is getting colder, a delicious way to keep warm is with a mug of Apple-Cran Toddy. Like the traditional Hot Toddy, the Apple-Cran Toddy is hot, inviting, and ideal for getting cozy underneath blankets or when you need a strong punch to fight off a cold. Going in par with apple harvest time, this drink incorporates traditional fall flavors: sweet apples, tart cranberries, and a touch of spice.

Ingredients
4 cups Apple cider
1 cup Cranberry juice cocktail
1 Cinnamon stick
4 oz. Tequila reposado (We used Herradura Reposado)
1.5 oz. Triple sec
1 Orange peel

Preparation
Heat the apple cider, cranberry juice, and cinnamon stick in a sauce pan just until boiling point. Remove from heat and add tequila and triple sec. Pour into heat resistant mugs and garnish with orange peel.

Top Apple Season Cocktail: AppleDura

For Halloween, we recommend the AppleDura, an easy-to-make recipe for party planners wanting to create a festive atmosphere at any fiesta. Think of Snow White’s poisonous apple, but with a twist, minus the poison, of course, as this cocktail will surely enchant patrons with its delicious and irresistible flavor. Thanks to tequila, orange liqueur, and chilled apple juice, you’ll easily have guests under your spell!

Ingredients
1.5 oz. Tequila reposado (We used Herradura Reposado)
1.5 oz. Orange liqueur
6 oz. Apple juice
1 Apple slice

Preparation
In a tall glass with ice, add tequila, orange liqueur, and apple juice. Stir and garnish with an apple slice.

Cocktail of the Week: Dulce De Leche Martini

10/7/2009 8:47:00 AM

Creamy, mouthwatering, and decadent-it’s hard to find someone who doesn’t love the velvety, rich taste of Argentina’s best import. Dulce de leche, simply known as “milk candy,” is a smooth golden syrup that’s similar to caramel, except it’s prepared by slowly heating condensed milk to a thick, sticky sauce, as opposed to water. There are many legends that attempt to explain how this heavenly treat was invented, all usually involving a 19th century maid who made a wonderful accident in the kitchen. Today, dulce de leche is found all over Latin American and ever since Haagen-Dazs first introduced it as an ice cream in 1997, it continues to reign supreme as one of the best selling flavors. Therefore, it wasn’t surprising that dulce de leche would soon be introduced in bars and captivate patrons.

In time for the Argentine Wine and Food Festival taking place in several restaurants near you between October 5-15, we’re enjoying one of our favorite traditional treats in a modern martini. The Dulce De Leche Martini, served at New York City’s Libertador, is made with ice cold vodka infused with vanilla beans, along with spiced rum carefully blended with cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and orange peels. Not only is oozing dulce de leche added to the alcoholic concoction, but swirls of lip smacking caramel sauce are also included to compliment all the flavors, resulting in one breathtaking, sophisticated number that’ll leave you sipping every single drop. Fall in love with this irresistible, treasured dessert all over again with a martini that will forever keep you hooked.

Dulce De Leche Martini Recipe

Ingredients
5 oz. Vanilla flavored vodka
1 oz. Dulce de leche
1/2 oz. Spiced rum
Caramel sauce
Sea salt

Preparation
Combine vodka, dulce de leche, and rum in an ice-filled cocktail shaker. Shake and strain into a martini glass. Top with a light drizzle of caramel sauce and a sprinkle of coarse sea salt.

Cocktail of the Week: Smash Pumpkin

9/30/2009 8:00:00 AM

You may be wondering if you’re having a sudden flashback to a time when oversized flannel shirts were cool, Seattle was the place to be, and Kurt Cobain revolutionized an entire generation with help of a deodorant for teenage girls. However, our cocktail of the week isn’t based on your favorite band, but one sip will surely make you want to rock out and celebrate the breezy season. As we settle into the cool, crisp fall weather, we need a drink that’s creamy and comforting like a slice of pumpkin pie. October is all about golden orange pumpkins ready to be picked from patches. While Halloween is a few weeks away and some of those pumpkins will be needed to create scary Jack-O-Lanterns, would you really deprive yourself a moment to wrap yourself in cashmere while catching up with friends at a bar for happy hour? Smash Pumpkin is carefully blended with ice-cold rum, rich white chocolate liqueur, and smooth pumpkin puree, a perfect base to create autumn’s signature dessert. This pumpkin cocktail even contains sugar candy to satisfy one’s sweet tooth! Of course, for those who’re carefully maintaining their figures to fit into their Halloween costume can replace sugar candy with ground cinnamon for a touch of spice. Smash Pumpkin is the ideal way to spoil yourself in the middle of the week or when you need a reason to go pumpkin picking, whether it’s in the woods or at the supermarket. Who knows, the Smash Pumpkin may even motivate you to clean out your closet and bring back the beanie.

Smash Pumpkin Recipe

Ingredients
1 oz. Rum (We used Cruzan Single Barrel Rum)
1/2 oz. White chocolate liqueur (We used Godiva)
1 oz. Pumpkin puree
½ oz. Half & Half
½ oz. Rock candy or ground cinnamon

Preparation
Combine all ingredients in mixing glass, shake, and strain over ice. Serve in a tall or martini glass and enjoy.

Cocktail of the Week: Roja Loca

9/23/2009 8:05:00 AM

Although the warm, glorious days of summer came and went, the arrival of fall has driven us mad. The cool, crisp morning breeze transforms emerald green leaves into glowing orange, rosy red, and maple brown. The trees become vibrant with jewel hues that glitter from the warm rays of the sun and the air is as sweet as the ripe, juicy apples that thump on the ground. However, autumn is the same season where we must wrap ourselves in layers of wool, a far cry from the days when we wore nothing but sunscreen, shorts, and a t-shirt. Even though leather boots and sweater coats are in season, no runway couture can compare to weekend getaways or dancing under the stars. The current season does leave us yearning for summer again, but at the same time, we can’t help but fall for its enchanting beauty. Autumn does deliver us Fashion Week, Halloween, and Thanksgiving, but it’s also a painful reminder that blizzards aren’t far behind. Instead of going crazy over fall, we’re going to enjoy our love/hate relationship with the season while we still can with an equally alluring drink.

Unlike most cocktails, which are made for specific seasons, Roja Loca is meant to satisfy our tastes for any time of the year. While it’s both light and refreshing for BBQs or weekend picnics, Roja Loca is flavorful enough to make us forget the sudden chilly days of autumn, all thanks to epazote syrup, containing the taste of spicy lemons and mint. It’s rich, raspberry color from red wine, Ruby Port, and freshly picked strawberries combined inspires us to admire once unnoticed trees dazzling with leaves dipped in gold and chocolate. A touch of grapefruit and jalapeno makes the Roja Loca, much like fall, both sweet and bitter, a perfect cocktail that truly exemplifies how the new season is making us feel. The Roja Loca can be found at the Mercadito Restaurants in New York City, Chicago, and Miami, but you can also prepare it at home and enjoy living la vida loca.

Roja Loca Recipe

Ingredients
3 oz. Red wine
½ oz. Ruby Port
2 oz. Grapefruit juice
1 oz. Epazote syrup
¼ Jalapeno (seeded and devain)
1 Strawberry

Preparation
Combine all ingredients and shake over ice. Strain drink into a glass and garnish with a strawberry.

Cocktail of the Week: Best Mexican Independence Day Drinks

9/16/2009 8:00:00 AM

If you think Mexico’s only holiday worth celebrating is Cinco de Mayo then get ready to yell out un grito because there’s an even bigger holiday that’s happening today. September 16th is officially Mexican Independence Day, a holiday to toast Mexico’s independence from Spanish rule. During Mexican Independence Day, people fill the streets for a fiesta including colorful parades, bullfights, rodeos, fireworks, and plenty of drinking. While Mexican Independence Day is traditionally celebrated in Mexico, the U.S. has been honoring it for years in cities, such as Chicago, San Antonio, Denver, Phoenix, Houston, and Austin. Bars and restaurants all over the country serve traditional dishes with tequila to jumpstart the festivities. Today, you can pay tribute to Mexico’s freedom with a classic margarita, a sizzling hot cocktail, or a smooth shot.

Start your own fiesta this Wednesday night with our best Mexican Independence Day drinks. Viva Mexico!

Top Mexican Independence Day Cocktail: Almeja

You’re probably wondering why any decent bartender would add salty tomato juice to a cocktail. It’s strangely delicious and really, would you prefer gulping down a worm at the end of a tequila bottle? Clamato juice, a spicy tomato cocktail, is often mixed with cerveza among the Mexican community. Not only does it transform beer from gold to caliente red, but it adds one picante kick without adding any jalepenos into the mix. If you want something to fire up your taste buds, but aren’t daring enough to sprinkle in some tabasco sauce, the Almeja will make your heart race and eyes water...but isn’t freedom to enjoy whatever you please worth fighting for?

Ingredients
1 oz. Reposado tequila (We used Cabo Wabo Tequila)
1 oz. Blanco tequila (We used Cabo Wabo Tequila)
1 oz. Clamato juice
1 Lime wheel

Preparation
Shake all ingredients in a cocktail shaker and serve over ice in a salt-rimmed rocks glass. Add lime wheel for garnish.

Top Mexican Independence Day Cocktail: Habanero

When a drink is named after the hottest chili pepper, then you know you’re in for a major scorcher. There’s nothing fruity or girly in this steamy number, it’s all about the heat and nothing more. Resposado tequila not only enhances the spiciness of the chili pepper to the max, but dry vermouth encapsulates all the flavors inside the glass, without masking its sweat-inducing warmth. Habanero will make you sizzle, but what a lovely way to burn.

Ingredients
2 oz. Reposado tequila (We used Cabo Wabo Tequila)
1 oz. Dry vermouth (We used Cinzano)
1 Habanero pepper

Preparation
Add ingredients to an ice-filled rocks glass. Stir and add pepper.

Top Mexican Independence Day Cocktail: Lima

If you’re ready to cool down after a sip of Habanero, quench your thirst with an ice cold Lima, inspired by heat busting limeade. A mix of tangy and delicately sweet, limeade is a refreshing take on traditional lemonade, relying solely on limes for a pale emerald-hue tonic that can cool down temperatures faster than an AC. Limeade is extremely easy to prepare at home and always taste delicious when smooth Mexican lager is added. For the Lima cocktail, we used Pacifico Beer from Mexico as its golden honey notes blend perfectly with freshly squeezed lime juice. Plus, tequila is also included as it gives the body and taste of a Margarita without actually being one. It’s like celebrating Cinco de Mayo all over again, only better!

Ingredients
2 oz. Reposado tequila (We used Cabo Wabo Tequila)
1 oz. Frozen limeade
2 oz. Water
3 oz. Beer (We used Pacifico)
1 Lime wheel

Preparation
Mix all ingredients together and go heavy on the ice. Serve drink in a highball glass. Stir it and liven it up with a lime wheel.

Top Mexican Independence Day Cocktail: Gazpachito Shot

Tequila shots are famous for jumpstarting any fiesta and continue to remain supreme among tourists exploring Mexico’s nightlife. While you could just choose any tequila bottle for shooting, we prefer spicing things up. Surprise friends with this unique shot prepared with sherry, a fortified Spanish white wine known for its diverse elements ranging from roasted hazelnut to baked apple. In addition, tomato juice is included to give the Gazpachito Shot some salt with a rich texture that goes down smoother. However, with jalapenos soaked in, will you be daring enough to drink it all the way through? If you love the Spanish raw vegetable soup that the Gazpachito Shot was named after, then this challenge won’t be too small for you to tackle.

Ingredients
1 oz. Blanco tequila (We used Cabo Wabo Tequila)
1 ½ oz. Tomato juice
½ oz. Sherry
2 Slices of green or red jalapeño
1 Cucumber Spear

Preparation
Shake all ingredients with ice in a shaker. Strain into a chilled shot glass. Slam the shot and then eat the cucumber spear to finish.

Top Mexican Independence Day Cocktail: Margarita Independencia

According to legend, the classic Margarita was named after Hollywood film siren Rita Hayworth when she was dancing under her real name Margarita Cansino at a Mexican nightclub. Whether the story is true or not, there’s no denying that like the golden-era bombshell, Margaritas continues to remain famous among die-hard fans. As the most commonly known tequila-based cocktail, Margaritas are a must for any Mexican fiesta and can be modified to fit one’s preference in taste. Whether you prefer your Margarita with salt or simple syrup, this timeless drink will never go out of style and that’s something worth celebrating.

Ingredients
1 oz. Reposado tequila (We used Cabo Wabo Tequila)
1 oz. Triple Sec
1 oz. Cointreau
1 oz. Southern Comfort
1 oz. Pineapple juice
1 Lime wedge

Preparation
Shake ingredients in a cocktail shaker and serve over ice in a margarita glass. Garnish with a lime wedge.

Top Mexican Independence Day Cocktail: Viva Mexico!

One of the biggest trends to come out of bars today is ginger beer and no, we’re not talking about the sickly sweet soda found in your local bodega. Like root beer, ginger beer isn’t alcoholic, but its zesty, invigorating flavor gives Margaritas a highly sought after edge, making it a popular ingredient in numerous Latin-inspired drinks. Since Mexican Independence Day is about honoring our past and future, we’re going to celebrate our goals and dreams with a modern number that’ll surely put a smile on anyone’s face. Transform your lifeless beverage into a delectable drink, all while honoring a culture that’s leading America’s future.

Ingredients
1 oz. Reposado tequila (We used Cabo Wabo Tequila)