When talking about American bar culture, one cannot separate the intrinsic cultural influence of individuals of color. What are considered classic cocktails have deep roots in African American communities, dating back to post-slavery and the subsequent Great Migration. The communities formed in larger northern cities became epicenters of culture, where libations flowed freely until the […]
Rejoice! The holidays are over … or are they? Lurking right around the corner is the highly anticipated Lunar New Year. The Lunar New Year is a time of celebration and the beginning of the agricultural season in ancient China. Many cultural traditions include fireworks, plum blossom gazing, lion dances, shrine visits, and extended families […]
When the wind whips down South Main on a cold winter night, I’m happy for my knee length coat, hurrying to meet my guide John Gendron for our first speakeasy. The Walnut Room is co-owned by Michael Sears, a successful local serial entrepreneur who launched a series of betting apps and Candida Musanti, and a […]
Feeling stressed about finding the perfect holiday gift for your bestie who has everything? Exhausted from listening to Uncle Joe talk about NASCAR? This cocktail is bold and no-nonsense, designed for those “too much” holiday moments. Smoky mezcal gives this Old Fashioned a strong, spirited kick, complemented by warming spices. Inspired by a comforting classic, […]
Ingredients 3 or 4 large butternut squash peeled and washed ½ cup of dried cranberries 1 cup and 3 tablespoons of butter (plant butter may be substituted) ½ cup of diced shallots A few sprigs of thyme (to preference) Salt and pepper (to taste) 4 quarts chicken or vegetable stock 2 cups of reserved water […]
Brendan Maddock is no stranger to winning Motif’s Mixology competitions. The bartender, who works primarily at the Square Peg in Warren, has attended many of our Monthly Mixology Madness competitions and usually walks away with a prize. At our Bartender Awards on August 11 we set up a mixology competition that challenged participants to produce […]
During COVID, we all had grand aspirations of becoming a personal chef or an elite baker. Then the world started again, and now we’re so busy that it’s hard to find time to breathe, never mind cook. Not to worry! We have three fall mug recipes sure to play wonderfully with your palate. From busy […]
As the crisp autumn air sets in, it’s time to embrace the cozy comforts of the season – think warm sweaters, vibrant foliage, and the mouthwatering flavors that define fall. If you want to elevate your autumn experience, why not add a unique twist to your favorite seasonal recipes with a dash of cannabis? Cooking […]
Blackberry Thyme Spritz Build in a collins glass. Add ice, whiskey, and simple syrup. Top with soda water. Garnish with a blackberry and thyme sprig. Blackberry Thyme Simple Add all ingredients into a saucepan. Bring to a low simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring often, and let cool. Double strain into a container for use. The […]
From when I turned eighteen, all the way through my mid-thirties, I worked in a hospital setting. I spent a significant portion of that time working overnight shifts, from midnight to 8am. This bustling capital city institution hosted a 24-hour emergency room, general medical floors, and a myriad of mental health units. Most mornings, I […]