Menus everywhere boast fresh herbs, vegetables and fruit in unique cocktail creations. Flavorful approaches to unexpected produce allow expert bartenders to carve out their space in the Jacksonville cocktail scene. From cilantro margaritas (don’t knock it ‘til you try it!) to imaginative Bloody Mary’s, there is no shortage of drinks for you to try.
Start with a List of In-Season Produce in Your Area
There are plenty of online resources that provide a breakdown of when to buy certain produce in your part of the country. Why buy seasonal, exactly? You’ll immediately notice a difference in flavor, size and color when fresh fruits or veggies are enjoyed at peak season. In fact, certain foods aren’t even sold during the off-season (we’re looking at you, peaches).
Here’s a handy go-to list for fresh ingredients to include in your summer cocktails:
Blueberries
Peaches
Citrus
Sweet Peppers
Dragon Fruit
Melons
Swiss Chard
Lychee
Zucchini
Pair Your Produce with the Right Booze
Some matches are just meant to be. Thyme and prosecco, orange and bourbon, vodka and cucumber…we could go on forever. It’s important to understand each individual ingredient (and the right ratios) before creating your cocktail.
Always make a test batch before you mix something up for your friends. There’s a good chance you’ll want to adjust for sweetness, alcohol strength and presentation.
Don’t Sleep on the Importance of a Good Garnish
Gourmet beverages from coast to coast come in vibrant colors and feature beautiful final touches. From a simple salt rim to skewered meats and veggies (we’re talking about that over-the-top Bloody Mary that’s taken over the internet), garnishes are a great way to get people excited about the drink they’re about to enjoy.
Our mixologists follow a few simple rules when it comes to the garnish. First, it’s important to pay homage to the ingredients of the cocktail. If your drink includes a muddled fruit, for example, hooking the same fruit on the rim or skewering some across the top is smart. Also, your garnish of choice should be free of deformities (bruising, wilting, etc). Remember, your goal is to appeal to the drinker’s senses before they even taste your drink.
Sample a Few Seasonal Favorites at North Beach Fish Camp
Whether you pop in for a drink with some friends or feel more comfortable ordering to-go, the Fish Camp crew is here to help. A few of our favorite cocktails to sip this summer include:
– Royal Orchid Punch | St. Germain liqueur, gin, gold rum, guava papaya nectar
– Mojito | Your choice of classic lime, mango or cucumber melon
– Hot Mama | Patron silver, jalapeno, cilantro, cucumber, agave nectar, lime juice
Book your reservation today. We can’t wait to see you!