IMBIBE: Thatcher’s Juice

What do Persimmon and St. Patrick’s Day have in common?

Absolutely nothing at all. And that’s just lovely, actually, because when looking for amazing food experiences, we often think of Persimmon, right?

But did you know, kind drinker, that Persimmon’s bar is spot-on, managed by one of the most creative cocktail inventors in the city? Kevin O’Connor came to mind when this lowly cocktail writer was stuck thinking of what to do for a March IMBIBE article. Yes, he’s the dining room manager as well as head of their bar program. And yes, he just so happened to create a refreshing pearl of a drink when said writer came calling.

When a vodka bearing the name of Champe and Lisa’s son came up, O’Connor knew just what to do for a drink in honor of the littlest Persimmon member. “Thatcher loves vanilla ice cream and bananas, and I wanted to incorporate that into a drink with his name.” Rather than cream, he lightens the cocktail using citrus and a gorgeous vanilla syrup.

What: Thatcher’s Juice

Found Where: Persimmon, 99 Hope St, Providence

Go Get:

1.5 oz Thatcher’s Vodka

1 oz Lemon Juice

.5 oz  Giffard Banane du Bresil

.5 oz Housemade Madagascar Vanilla Syrup

Banana Chip

Make: Shake all of the ingredients, strain and serve in a coupe. Garnish, if you can, as expertly as O’Connor and the folks at Persimmon do. Look at that great banana chip clipped on the glass. Never mind, just go there.

Think of this as a treat to get you ready for all of those St. Patrick’s Day 5ks, or ummm a little respite from the heavier, earthier libations we consume this time of year. Now, as for St. Patrick’s Day, O’Connor admits he’s “a purist, so a draft of Guinness” has to be part of the holiday. And that’s just fine with us.