When I first moved to San Diego in 2002, I’d make comments about how mild the weather was compared with the rest of SoCal. Even in the summer, once the sun went down, I’d regret it if I didn’t have a sweater. That sure ain’t the case lately, which means there’s even more reason to seek out relief in the form of a chilled cocktail. Here are four you’ll be sure to enjoy.
Improvised Harmony @ Panama 66
Made with: Mezcal, pêche de vigne, tangerine, tamarind syrup, lime
Why you’ll love it: When I tried this, it was garnished with a slice of blood orange that fit perfectly atop the cocktail — meaning you sort of had to sip through the orange. It made for a good buffer — otherwise you’d finish off this nice pairing of smokey mezcal and citrus in a couple of gulps.
Hundred Sunsets @ Hundred Proof
Made with: Ford’s gin, Amaro Nonino, Aperol, raspberry, lime
Why you’ll love it: The folks behind hit Hillcrest restaurant Trust recently opened a second spot, Hundred Proof. Beverage Director Juan Sanchez, whose cocktails at Trust have been among my favorites, created some great options for the restaurant’s first menu. This one includes two of my favorite liqueurs — rich Amaro Nonino and subtlety sweet Aperol.
Primo Guapo @ Curadero
Made with: Roca Patron Silver, St. George green chile vodka, cucumber, Cholula, lime
Why you’ll love it: Curadero’s Jade Boyd knocked it out of the park with her first menu for this new Gaslamp spot. Her latest menu stays true to her goal to create fresh, approachable cocktails with Mexican flair. (Hello Cholula sauce!)
Mexican Chocolate Milk Punch @ Tamarindo
Made with: Lots of stuff
Why you’ll love it: I’ve been really digging Ian Ward’s cocktail column in CityBeat. Ward bartends at Addison and knows his stuff, so when he recommends a cocktail, it means something. I’ve been wanting to check out Tamarindo to see what Mark Broadfoot’s (George’s, Galaxy Taco) up to in his new gig. Ward’s recent piece on Broadfoot’s Mexican Chocolate Milk Punch underscored why we all need to check it out.
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4 New Cocktails That Are Perfect for Summer
Hundred Proof’s Hundred Sunsets cocktail.
