Paulius Musteikis
Violet's Daiquiri at Red Sushi Grill
A new drink menu at Red Sushi, 106 King St., is full of original drinks and well-executed riffs on classics.
The Ginger Sour is a take on the venerable Whiskey Sour, and arrives nicely frothed from egg whites for that signature lush mouthfeel. It’s a must-try with fried crab or something smoky like salmon skin, with citrusy notes and hot bourbon. Ginger liqueur provides the flavor bridge to the food menu.
Equally engaging is the Parapluie (French for umbrella), which balances slightly bitter Aperol and sweet elderflower liqueur for a robust drink based on gin and topped with a dash of Prosecco. It’s served up with a twist of lemon, and not, as one might guess, with a cocktail umbrella.
On the lighter side, Violet’s Daiquiri is a classic recipe made more interesting by using blueberry rooibos tea. The blueberry is subtle, and works well with the fresh lime and quality Plantation rum. It’s full-flavored and shows a deft hand by bartender Sean Lauterbach.
Lauterbach is behind the newly focused drinks menu, and he’s ensuring that Red Sushi’s cocktail program is one to watch.
