Culaccino | Franklin, Tenn.
By Patricia Fitzgerald
May 10, 2022
Taking inspiration from the New York of a bygone era, the cocktail list at Nina’s, a bar located inside the NoMo Hotel, was developed in collaboration with Liquid Lab NYC, and drinks like the Dusk til Dawn emphasize a visual aesthetic, a powerful driver with guests primed to document their libations on social media. This cocktail has been a fan favorite since the 2012 launch of the Nina’s x Liquid Lab NYC project, say Parker Boase and Gregory Lucas, Co-Founders of the mixology company.
The recipe features 818 blanco tequila, fresh lime juice and amber agave with a housemade pineapple/jalapeño purée and a touch of Aperol. The combination is shaken, served over ice and garnished with dehydrated pineapple and jalapeño for added punch. “We wanted to design a creative but simple recipe that could give island vibes year round,” says Boase. The profile delivers optimal balance, with elements of sweet, sour, spice, a hint of vanilla and a bitter finish from the Aperol. “It’s been a huge hit over the years, especially with guests looking for a beautiful cocktail with a kick,” adds Lucas.
Atwitter for Fritters: Asparagus Fritters Culaccino | Franklin, Tenn.
Spanish Comfort: Rossejat De Fideos Comedor | Laguna Beach, Calif.
Comedor | Laguna Beach, Calif.
Soup for the Soul: French Onion Agnolotti Church & Union | Nashville, Tenn.
Church & Union | Nashville, Tenn.
Umami Bombs: Yuzu-Xilli Dumplings Camp | Greenville, S.C.
Camp | Greenville, S.C.
Signature Stamp: Espresso Martinique Apothecary | Dallas
Apothecary | Dallas
Hook, Line and Sinker: Kanpachi Crudo The Salt Line | Washington, D.C., and Arlington, Va.
The Salt Line | Washington, D.C., and Arlington, Va.
Knuckle Down: Lobster Knuckles “Escargot Style” The Mermaid Inn | Three locations in New York
The Mermaid Inn | Three locations in New York
Use Your Noodle: Chicken Curry Ramen The Holding Company | San Diego
The Holding Company | San Diego