Nighty Nightcap: The Sippin’ 5 After Dinner Drinks by Jason Black
On special evenings, after an amazing, memorable meal with close friends and family, there’s nothing that tops off the night quite like grabbing a nightcap. Personally, on those occasions, I tend to order a classic glass of ruby port or Madeira. Or, perhaps, I’ll opt for a cappuccino instead if I need to drive home. Nothing fancy. It’s just something short and sweet to punctuate the night. But now, modern mixologists are taking “after dinner time” as a real opportunity to highlight their creative cocktail skills with some incredible, tasty libations. So sit back, relax and slip into the Sippin’ 5 after dinner drinks in Hawaii:
Tuaca-Espresso Flip | Nobu:
At Waikiki sushi hot spot Nobu, main-man David Newman has created a popular twist on his original “Flip” that he’s dubbed the Tuaca-Espresso Flip. He describes it as “perfect for relaxing after a good meal when you’re looking for a little pick me up to keep your night going.” Sounds perfect. To craft his new Flip, Newman starts with Tuaca, an Italian brandy that’s infused with Madagascar Vanilla and hints of citrus. Then, he adds a splash of Kahlua, cream, egg and fresh vanilla-infused simple syrup. Finally, he shakes it all together to emulsify the egg with the rest of the ingredients. And presto — a delightfully creamy and flavorful cocktail served in a champagne flute.
Nobu is located at 2244 Helumoa Rd. www.noburestaurants.com/waikiki 808.237.6699.
Spice Pomme Sidecar | Brasserie Du Vin:
Hunting for a nightcap to your after work dinner in and around downtown? Look no further than wine bistro Brasserie Du Vin where you can try their Spice Pomme Sidecar. Their unique twist on this classic brandy cocktail is made with Hennessey VS Cognac, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, Funkin Apple Puree and a splash of cranberry juice. Once shaken, the Sidecar is served in a Martini glass that’s rimmed with cinnamon and sugar. Bonsoir!
Brasserie Du Vin is located at 1115 Bethel St. www.brasserieduvin.com 808.545.1115.
Espresso Indulgence | Lewers Lounge:
Over at Lewers Lounge nestled in the Halekulani Hotel, friendly neighborhood mixologist Tim Rita suggests you sample the “Espresso Indulgence” as an after dinner bracer. It’s the perfect blend of Van Gogh Espresso vodka, Tia Maria, Kahlua, and cold espresso. Next, the mixture is shaken and served up in a Martini glass that’s rimmed with fresh ground Kona coffee and sugar then topped with a swirl of cream. Yummy!
Or, if you’re looking for something unexpected (and off-menu), try wrapping up your evening on a sweet and sparkling note with the intriguing “Agave Rose.” A fan of fine tequila, Rita incorporates Corzo Reposado, a tawny port, muddled fresh raspberries, fresh lime juice and agave nectar that’s topped with sparkling wine. Presented in a champagne flute, the “Rose” is simply garnished with three skewed raspberries sitting on top.
Now, what does the man behind the bar himself enjoy as an after dinner drink? That’s easy. Rita favors a classic Campari and soda with an orange slice and a dash of angostura bitters. Cheers Tim!
Lewers Lounge is located at 2199 Kalia Rd. www.halekulani.com/dining 808.923.2311.
Capische Smash| Capische
Craving a night-ending cocktail that’s simple, chic and oh-so delicious? No sweat. When you’re over on Maui, stop by the Hotel Wailea where Capische Manager and Mixologist Charles Seibert recommends you try sipping the Capische Smash. This tasty nightcap’s handmade with three-and-a-half ounces of Grand Marnier, fresh-cut lemon wedges and a clutch of mint leaves. First, the lemon and mint get muddled in a shaker. Then, the Grand Marnier is poured in and shaken till the tin is nice and frosty. Finally, this concoction is strained over new rocks and garnished with a sprig of fresh mint. Lip smacking delish!
Capische is located at 555 Kaukahi St. www.capische.com 808.879.2224.
Nutty Hawaiian | Kahala Hotel & Resort:
Sometimes you feel like a nut. Sometimes you feel like a Nutty Hawaiian. When you do, the Kahala Hotel’s got a perfect way to cap off your night. Their signature “nutso” after dinner drink includes macadamia nut liqueur, vanilla Cognac and coconut cream. They craft this “nutrageous” concoction by mixing 1 fluid ounce of each ingredient and shake with ice. Then, the Nutty Hawaiian is strained into a chilled Martini glass and garnished with chocolate flakes. Goodnight and good luck.
Kahala Hotel & Resort is located at 5000 Kahala Ave. www.kahalaresort.com 808.739.8888.