Back on track
While those of us who live along the St. Charles Avenue streetcar line eagerly await its return, in the meantime we can find solace in another streetcar of a more seductive sort. Called the “Street Car,” this alluring cocktail is concocted by Brandon Brown, expert mixologist at La Phare, a new lounge located at 523 Gravier St.
“The ‘Street Car’ is a play on an old school classic, the ‘Side Car,’” Brown says.
“With this cocktail, La Phare is trying to keep with tradition, while flirting with new flavors.” Instead of the customary cognac and lime, the “Street Car” uses apricot brandy and orange juice, creating a soothing combination of tart and sweet.
The “Street Car” is just one of Brown’s interpretations on classic cocktails – some of which are nonalcoholic, yet are just as intoxicating. But for a little more kick, Brown’s cocktails recall a more sophisticated era when creatively mixed drinks became such the rage. Could New Orleans be ushering in a new golden age of cocktails? Perhaps – and the “Street Car” is sure to steer us in the right direction. — Sue Strachan
The Street Car
1 1/2 oz. apricot brandy
1/2 oz. Cointreau
1/2 oz. freshly squeezed orange juice
Orange twist, for garnish
Combine all ingredients in a shaker over ice. Shake vigorously for 10 seconds. Strain into a chilled martini glass with a sugared rim. Garnish with a “flame-kissed” orange twist.
