Bringing Fall Flavors to Life in a Glass
As the crisp autumn air starts to roll in, my senses seem to sharpen, and I find myself drawn to all things Fall – from the vibrant foliage to the warm, comforting scents that fill the kitchen. And it seems I’m not the only one who’s been bitten by the Fall bug. As I was perusing the latest cocktail menu at The Up and Under Pub, I couldn’t help but notice a new addition that had me positively giddy: the Smoked Sazerac.
Perfecting the Sazerac
Now, the Sazerac is no ordinary cocktail. It’s considered to be America’s oldest cocktail, with roots tracing back to 19th century New Orleans. The traditional recipe is a captivating blend of rye whiskey, absinthe, Peychaud’s bitters, and a touch of sugar. But the bartenders at The Up and Under have taken this classic to new heights, putting their own creative spin on the iconic drink.
As I settled into a cozy spot at the bar, I couldn’t wait to see the magic unfold. Our bartender, Kelly, walked me through each step of the process, and I was utterly transfixed. First, she chilled an old-fashioned glass by filling it with ice, then set it aside. Next, she combined the rye, ginger-cinnamon syrup, and Peychaud’s bitters in another glass, stirring until the flavors married perfectly.
But the real showstopper came when Kelly reached for a handful of cherry wood chips and a jigger of absinthe. She placed the wood chips in a fire-safe bowl, then used a match to ignite the absinthe and poured it over the chips, filling the chilled glass with a mesmerizing layer of smoke. Finally, she strained the rye mixture into the smoky glass and garnished it with a charred orange peel.
Elevating the Drinking Experience
As I brought the glass to my lips, the aroma of the smoked cocktail was absolutely captivating. The rye provided a bold, spicy backbone, while the ginger-cinnamon syrup lent a warm, comforting sweetness. The Peychaud’s bitters added a subtle herbal note, and the wisp of smoke from the cherry wood chips elevated the entire experience, transporting me to a cozy autumn evening.
This wasn’t just a cocktail – it was an immersive sensory journey.
With each sip, I found myself getting lost in the complexity of flavors and aromas. The Smoked Sazerac was a masterful blend of tradition and innovation, a testament to the creativity and passion of the team at The Up and Under Pub.
Cocktail Couture: Elevating the Drinking Experience
And it’s not just the Smoked Sazerac that’s turning heads at The Up and Under. The entire cocktail program is a true testament to the art of elevated drink pairings. From the carefully curated spirit selection to the meticulously crafted syrups and bitters, every element is designed to elevate the drinking experience.
Take, for example, the Autumn Spice Old Fashioned. This twist on a classic features a bold, aromatic rye whiskey, complemented by a homemade cinnamon-orange syrup and a touch of Angostura bitters. The result is a warm, cozy cocktail that perfectly captures the essence of the season.
Or consider the Harvest Moon Margarita, which puts a seasonal spin on a beloved staple. Made with Espolòn Blanco tequila, fresh lime juice, and a pumpkin spice syrup, this cocktail is a delightful balance of sweet, tart, and spicy – a true celebration of autumn’s bounty.
Pairing Perfection
But the team at The Up and Under Pub doesn’t just stop at crafting exceptional cocktails. They also put a tremendous amount of thought into pairing them with the pub’s mouthwatering menu.
As I perused the food menu, I couldn’t help but imagine how each dish would pair with the cocktail offerings.
Take the Braised Short Rib Poutine, for instance. The rich, savory flavors of the short ribs and the creamy, indulgent cheese curds would pair beautifully with the bold, warming notes of the Autumn Spice Old Fashioned. Or the Grilled Salmon Salad, with its bright, fresh flavors, would be the perfect companion to the refreshing Harvest Moon Margarita.
Cultivating a Sense of Community
But what sets The Up and Under Pub apart is not just the exceptional cocktails and food – it’s the warm, inviting atmosphere that permeates the entire space. As I settled into a cozy corner of the pub, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of belonging, like I was part of a close-knit community.
The decor, with its rustic wood accents and cozy furnishings, creates a welcoming vibe that immediately puts you at ease. And the staff, from the friendly bartenders to the knowledgeable servers, go above and beyond to ensure that every guest feels valued and appreciated.
It’s this attention to detail and genuine hospitality that truly sets The Up and Under Pub apart.
Elevating the Everyday
As I reluctantly said goodbye to my Smoked Sazerac and prepared to head out, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement for the future. The team at The Up and Under Pub has truly elevated the drinking experience, turning every visit into a celebration of the senses.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot to unwind after a long day or a vibrant gathering place to share a few drinks with friends, The Up and Under Pub is the perfect destination. So why not indulge in a bit of Cocktail Couture and discover the magic for yourself?
After all, isn’t that what the Fall season is all about – embracing the simple pleasures and elevating the everyday?
