What could possibly be better this summer than sipping on an ice-cold, book-inspired cocktail while admiring a panoramic view of Jozi’s leafy suburbs?
Well, you can do just that at Social Kitchen & Bar in the heart of Hyde Park, which has just released their new summer cocktail menu inspired by literary greats and packed full of bookish flavour. Crafted by World Class cocktail competition winner, Dom de Lorenzo, each of the cocktails has been carefully developed to not only reflect the story of the book, but flavours and ingredients from each story.
The sumptuous list of cocktails can be enjoyed with friends or with colleagues after work, or to merely immerse yourself in the taste sensation while turning the pages of its literary muse.
Without further ado, here they are…
The Invisible Man by H.G. Wells
Inspired by this science fiction novel’s iconic character, Griffin, this cocktail is filled with bourbon, apple, Christmas spice and vanilla, The Invisible Man is deliciously deceptive. It will come to your table looking like a glass of water but the taste will take you on a beautiful journey to Christmas and back. A perfect choice for the festive season.
Ulysses by James Joyce
Heralded as the best novel of the English language the Ulysses cocktail matches the book by taking you on a deep journey of flavour. Beginning with light floral and raspberry notes, then moving into a touch of nuttiness and finishing off with delicate vanilla and caramel, this cocktail will be hard to put down.
Women in Love by D.H. Lawrence
There is nothing more passionate than a woman in love and Lawrence’s emotive work comes to life in this heart-inspired cocktail. With spices from the Don Julio as a forefront, to the delicate grapefruit and vanilla notes working in perfect harmony, this cocktail will keep you coming back for more.
The Call of the Wild by Jack London
Much like the book, The Call of the Wild, is for adventure and nature lovers. Inspired by all things natural, this earthy cocktail with cucumber water, a touch of elderflower and a splash of apple soda is then brought to life with Ketel One. It’s an adventure on your tongue.
A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens
Wine purists might tell a tall tale about this one, but when they taste the extraordinary combination of crisp South African wine, fresh apple juice and vanilla, shaken together with Ketel One, they will only have reason to praise it.
The Door into Summer by Robert Heinlein
Inspired by the book, one sip will transport you into a suspended animation. This is a drink of science fiction proportions, enticing you with its gin, ginger ale and fruity tones. For the brave.
So, with summer upon us and such a vast array of cocktails on offer, do not tarry.
Social Kitchen & Bar is Johannesburg’s best restaurant to share conversations and hand-crafted food and can be found in the heart of Hyde Park Corner – level six, inside the Exclusive Books store.
For reservations call them on 011 268 6039 or email [email protected]. For more information, visit www.socialkitchenandbar.co.za.
