Jul 22, 2011
My second official day of Tales of the Cocktail was long and eventful. So many great events, seminars, and of course the people. I started out the morning with the smiling faces of Kahlua getting everyone’s day started with some coffee.
Beyond Punch
Later, I attended a pretty interesting seminar called Beyond Punch: Colonial American Drinks. This was a class led by Wayne Curtis. He took a look at what Early Americans in 18th century and early 19th centuries were drinking. Wayne took us through many recipes; he discussed drinks such as Pineapple Syllabub and the Bumbo, which included Brandy, Water and Sugar simply.
Spa Aria
As evening approached, I had a chance to visit Spa Aria in Hotel Monteleone for a pedicure. It was beyond amazing experience. The ladies over there know how to treat your feet. Also, the massages are an event in their selves. Locals, don’t forget about cool hotels like this one! Great way to give yourself a break. Some even give local specials such as the Ritz Carlton.
Spirited Dinner
This year I was able to attend my first ever Spirited Dinner. I attended Southern Comfort ( Southern Comfort was born right here in New Orleans) Dinner at the wonderful Redfish Grill located at 115 Bourbon Street. We dined on a 5 course meal prepared by Executive Chef Brian Katz and cocktails by Giles Looker. The meal consisted of Crabmeat Head Cheese, Southern Comfort BBQ Shrimp, Hickory Grilled Redfish, Beef Tenderloin wrapped Yellowfish Tuna, and Chocolate & Smoked Cayenne Pepper Flourless Torte. Each course was divine! I must say I fell in love with the BBQ shrimp that comes with a yummy rosemary biscuit. I had the pleasure of dining with some visitors who absolutely love New Orleans! I chatted with Greg of A History of Drinking, whom was down in New Orleans for his first time and enjoying. Also had the pleasure of having a great conversation about rums with Robert Burr of Rum Renaissance. It was also great meeting a phenomenal cocktail photography named Vanessa Bahmani who enjoyed the food at Red Fish Grill. At the dinner we met local local favorites as Charmaine Neville and Rockin Dopsie Jr. , they both got on the mic and gave us a little entertainment. Truly was an exciting night filled with the true New Orleans spirit of laughing and loving food.
*click picture at bottom to see more pictures from the first day of Tales of the Cocktail
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| Tales of the Cocktail 2011 |