I’m not a fan of overly sweet cocktails. Whenever I see “simple syrup” (sugar water) listed on a cocktail menu, I usually just order a vodka or scotch. There’s just something about mixing booze with sugar that guarantees I’ll be suffering a hangover the next morning.
Recently, my friend Chris Parke (mixologist/bartender at Raphael) created a special cocktail for the latest Test Kitchen night at Short Order. This was a one-time event showcasing burgers and cocktails from some of L.A.’s most talented chefs and bartenders.
On the day of the event, I was surprised when Chris tweeted that he named his clementine (“oh my darling”) cocktail after me. Of course I was honored, but what if was too sweet and I didn’t like it? MyLastBite.com has always been about focusing on the positive. If I don’t like it, I don’t share it.
Thankfully the drink was fantastic (everyone at our large table thought so too). It was fruity, refreshing and just a tad bitter. The clementine cocktail also went perfectly with my favorite burger of the night, made by Raphael’s chef Adam Horton.
Jo My Darlin’ Cocktail Recipe
INGREDIENTS:
2 oz Bourbon
1 oz Aperol
1 oz Clementine juice
2 dash orange bitters
A bit of chopped basil
A slice of clementine soaked in aperol for 24 hours (to garnish)
Lemongrass for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS:
Mix Aperol, juice, bourbon, bitters and basil together in cocktail shaker, then pour over ice
Garnish with lemongrass and aperol soaked clementine
Note: Chris added a tiny bit of cayenne pepper in my drink. He knows I like it spicy!
Enjoy!
Cocktail Menu by Chris Parke at Raphael Restaurant. Note: “The Basil” is the one I order the most.
Photo of Chris by Lane Smith Jr. (provided by Chris Parke).
my last bite... 
This post just made me so happy X