The Fourth of July is just around the corner {already!}.
Every year I find myself in the same predicament: Trying to come up with creative and festive recipes... extra points for a red, white, and blue color scheme.
This year, I got a little help from my friends over at Tin Fish Clematis in downtown West Palm Beach. They invited me over to test out some of their Independence Day cocktails, which will be available at the Top of the Fish bar {upstairs} and main dining room starting this Thursday {June 27}, and will run until July 8.
I got to chat for a second with the mastermind behind these fabulous Fourth-themed concoctions, bartender Kelsey. She let me sample two out of three of their special patriotic drinks and even gave me recipes to share with you!
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| Creative AND adorable! |
First up: The Star Spangled Martini
A true salute to the red, white, and blue, The Star Spangled Martini {$9} combines muddled raspberry, citrus vodka, blue curacao, and a white sugar rim {plus, check out that cute fish!}. Since I know that vodka is not my best friend, I took a little sip and let my husband {who came along for the ride} sample the rest.
The citrus flavor with the fresh raspberries created a sweet, fruity combination that is perfect for those who like their cocktails bordering on candy-like!
Next, I tried out Kelsey's inventive Patriotic Punch {$6/glass, $18/pitcher}. A "punchy" harmony of Pinot Grigio with apricot and peach accents made this drink more my style. Filled to the brim with berries and accessorized with pineapple cutouts, this festive twist on white wine sangria will appeal to wine drinkers and fruit lovers alike.
The last "cocktail" wasn't really a drink at all... but rather, a Jell-O shot for patriotic party-goers! The "My Jell-o Americans" shot {haha!} features berry flavored gelatin with a boozy kick topped off with Pop Rocks. I didn't get to sample this one as the gelatin was taking its time setting, but judging from Kelsey's description, it sounds it is sure to dazzle the taste buds and end the night with a bang!
While you're sipping at Tin Fish, you may also want to munch on some of their most popular menu items. The Fried Clam Strips {$4.95} make a nice crunchy snack, and the ever-popular Fish Tacos {either grilled Mahi, $4.95 each or fried Cod, $3.95 each.} are always a favorite among patrons.
My favorite was the Spicy Kaboom Shrimp {$9.95} featuring flash fried tender shrimp, in a sweet and spicy sauce.
While Tin Fish features many fried classics, Tin Fish also offers a number of delicious dishes that appeal to your lighter cravings, so be sure to peruse their menu!
{Tin Fish Tip: If you like margaritas, ask for the "Kelsarita", a delightful blend of 1800 Coconut Tequila and Chambord [raspberry] liquor... I couldn't get enough!}
Steve and I had a great time hanging out with the Tin Fish crew. While we enjoyed the menu offerings and agreed that we'd return for a fun happy hour, it was the laid back atmosphere and warmth of the owners and staff that would really draw us back in.
If you find yourself near downtown West Palm Beach, stop in to Tin Fish for a bite and a beverage. Kelsey and the crew are sure to take care of you! Visit their Facebook page for special events and promotions!
Meanwhile, you can recreate some of Kelsey's lively libations right at home. They're sure to be a hit at Fourth of July celebrations!
Thanks again, Tin Fish Clematis, for a great evening!
Disclosure: The food and drinks mentioned in this post were provided to me free of charge. As always, the opinions you read here are all my own!
Star Spangled Martini
Created by Kelsey Simon, bartender at Tin Fish, West Palm Beach
4-5 muddled raspberries
Patriotic Punch
Created by Kelsey Simon, bartender at Tin Fish, West Palm Beach
Kelsey makes the Tin Fish the place to be! She's always looking for new ways to serve up at great time. Coupled with the Kitchen of the Tin Fish you are in for a treat when she is behind the bar.