Lure Fishbar | Based in New York
By Jarrett A. Rogers
May 12, 2022
Mezcal’s rise to popularity in recent years continues to drive interest in cocktails that showcase the smoky spirit in new ways. At Spanish-inspired Duende, Bar Manager JB Reynolds serves his signature Un Dia, built from a base of muddled cucumber slices and celery bitters to which pineapple juice, lemon juice, mezcal and a housemade raspberry syrup are added.
“I give it a hard shake to achieve a nice white foam on top, thanks in part to the pineapple juice,” says Reynolds. “The charred and roasted flavors of the mezcal are rounded out nicely by raspberry and pineapple. The muddled cucumber brings a fresh green flavor into the mix and the celery bitters add a peppery note that cannot be missed. This is my ‘everything I want during summer’ type of drink.”
Reynolds attributes the success of the cocktail to several aspects of this libation: its aesthetic beauty and flavor—noting its frequent appearance on the social media platforms of his guests—but also the increased appeal of fresh ingredients in beverages. “Farm-to-glass is the way I like to make cocktails,” he says. “I am convinced people appreciate that and the fact that we make our own ingredients.”
Dumplings To Talk About: Pork & Shrimp Potstickers Lure Fishbar | Based in New York
Pulpo Perfection: Octopus Carpaccio Leku | Miami
Leku | Miami
Seeding Success: Gluten-Free Super Seed Bread Le Pain Quotidien | Based in New York
Le Pain Quotidien | Based in New York
Street Sensation: Pomegranate Bhel Puri Khan Saab Desi Craft Kitchen | Fullerton, Calif.
Khan Saab Desi Craft Kitchen | Fullerton, Calif.
Fill ‘er Up: Empanadas Rustika Café and Bakery | Based in Houston
Rustika Café and Bakery | Based in Houston
Original Icon: Khao Mun Gai Rooster & Rice | Based in San Francisco
Rooster & Rice | Based in San Francisco
High Steaks: Steak Gorgonzola Romano’s Macaroni Grill | Based in Denver
Romano’s Macaroni Grill | Based in Denver
Camera Ready: Roasted Tika Cauliflower Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery | Based in Houston
Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery | Based in Houston