I recently went on a girls’ weekend getaway with two of my best friends from college. We are all moms now and were in desperate need of some good gab and chill time together, kid free.
The second night of our trip we ended up at a trendy, modern restaurant. We sat down at the bar, and I suddenly realized that it had been years since I had ordered a fancy cocktail. Sure, I’ve had beer and wine from time to time, but this restaurant and this occasion seemed to call for something a bit more extravagant. I totally drew a blank and I’m sure I looked a fool as I hemmed and hawed over the menu, struggling to put my finger on just what it was that I wanted.
I was lucky enough to have the help of my friends and a very accommodating bartender to guide me through the ordering process, but I’m hoping to spare you the same struggle that I went through. So if it’s been a while since you’ve been out and you don’t want to give yourself away, try ordering one of these.
French 75
This happens to be what I ended up ordering that evening and I highly recommend it. Made with Gin, champagne, and lemon juice, it is light and bubbly with a kick.
Paper Plane
Equal parts bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and lemon juice, this drink is a little on the bitter side but still light and refreshing. And it has a cool name.
Boulevardier
Pronounced like boulevard followed by ee-ay, this one has whisky, sweet vermouth, and Campari. It’s a bit heavy and not for the faint of heart!
Ramos Gin Fizz
I will order this one simply because I think the name is fun to say, but also because it’s a change of pace from any other cocktail I’ve tried. A combination of gin, heavy cream, egg white, lemon and lime juice, orange flower water, and club soda, this cocktail is creamy and delicious.
Last Word
This tasty treat is perfect on a warm evening served in a chilled glass. Gin, green Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and lime juice make for an enjoyable modern classic.
Moscow Mule
These have grown in popularity over the last few years, likely in part due to how easy they are to make on your own. Combine vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice for a light, bubbly, and refreshing pick-me-up. Substitute gin for vodka and it’s called a Gin-Gin Mule which is way more fun to order.
Corpse Revivor #2
You can tell from the name that this one was created as a hangover cure, but it’s also really yummy (don’t say that at the bar). I may have no idea what most of the ingredients actually are, but your bartender does! This one combines gin, Lillet, Cointreau, absinthe, and lemon juice (I know that one). It’s strong enough to take you to your happy place, but still light enough to be perfect with some apps.
Chilton
This drink originated in Texas, and is relatively new, so you may end up teaching your bartender how to make a new drink, which just ups your cool status. A simple combo of vodka, lemon juice, and soda water, this one is essentially bubbly lemonade with a boost. It’s just perfect for summertime in Phoenix.
Aperol Spritz
Another light beverage, this drink is easy to make and just as easy to throw down. Made with Brut Prosecco, Aperol, and club soda, this concoction is great for when you’re craving champagne but want to take it up a notch.
Blue Dolphin
This is an excellent choice if you are the designated driver of the evening. When you’re out with the girls and want to fit in but don’t actually want to partake, a Blue Dolphin (AKA water) is the way to go. And it sounds even more legit if you order it on the rocks.
Now go plan a girls night out and enjoy!
