It’s mid-July, and I’m about to throw you a cocktail life raft in case you have fallen behind in your summer sipping. When the sun is nudging you in the direction of a boozy and beachy beverage, what could be more satisfying than Tiki-style drinks? Two of Augusta’s best bartenders are pouring concoctions that will transport you straightaway to a tropical paradise.
The Naked Epicurean Visits Solo Vino Wine Parlor
A Tiki drink—the quintessential summer cocktail-—is typically loaded with tropical fruit + spice and then elaborately garnished. Such is the case with the Pineapple Sling at Second City at Riverwalk. Cara serves up her gin-based drink with sweet pineapple and bright lemon, then adds soda water for a summer sparkle. Adorned with a cherry and skewered pineapple leaf garnish, this bevvy smacks of an island getaway.
Lose yourself further in the flavors of a tropical vacation with the Tiki Friday at North Augusta’s Drift Raw Bar. In traditional Tiki-style, Jordon starts with rum, and then she adds lemon, passion fruit and bitters reminiscent of island spice. It’s a tall, cold glass of sweet escape.
So, the next time your mouth is dry and longs for a taste of the islands, order a Pineapple Sling from Cara or a Tiki Friday from Jordon. Me? I’d be thrilled to live out the remaining days of summer with one of these in each hand.
Ann Beth Strelec is known around town as the Naked Epicurean, sampling the finest cocktails known to Augustans. Find out about adult beverages at The Augusta Press on the first and third Friday or on Instagram @NakedEpicurean.
