In the hospitality industry, October is classified as a “shoulder month.” It’s still very warm; even the memory of hot weather has not faded. Life’s cyclical happenings of work, school, vacation are more in a work mode. Around here, the seasonal challenges of hurricanes are winding down and there is a bit of cooler weather, plus those longer days are in the air.
For New Orleans, the festival scene does not take any break. We continue to stage incredible amounts of distinguished celebrations, any of one of which would be uniquely noteworthy in any other community. But around here, they all have to jostle and compete for our attention and patronage, which they all do with impressive and satisfying styles.
Keeping tipples simple and delicious is still the siren call, and the creative gang at La Boulangerie have hit the perfect notes, emphasizing our town’s Italian heritage which we celebrate frequently. Aperol is an Italian digestive, bitter in character but also sweet, and quite the refreshing change of pace, especially when it is the centerpiece of a sparkling beverage.
RECIPE
Aperol Spritz
2 ¼ oz. Bianca Vigna Prosecco
1 ½ oz. Aperol
¾ oz. soda water
1 healthy mint sprig (garnish)
1 half-wheel of orange (garnish)
Combine all ingredients gently in 16 oz. tumbler. Add ice to fill. Garnish with mint and orange half-wheel.
La Boulangerie, 4600 Magazine Street, 269-3777, laboulangerie.com
