People in Buffalo take their Tom & Jerrys pretty seriously. Available only at the holidays, this festive cocktail evokes fond memories for those that associate it with The Place, Schwabl's and the original Jimmy Mac's. Made of warm brandy and rum, coffee or milk, and topped with sweet, whipped egg whites and a dash of cinnamon, its flavors echo those of the season. For a closer look at the drink and its history, check out this post from last year.
The Place is closed, and so is Jimmy Mac's. Schwabl's is just too far away. There's also the complication of there being some truly awful tasting Tom & Jerrys out there. I know I've had one or two. So what's a chilly Buffalonian to do?
I'd head to Torches. That's what contributor Courtney Bajdas and I did last night. Torches' Tom & Jerrys are warm, creamy and delicious and served with a sprinkle of chai spice and a pirouline cookie. For $7.50 (the price of a fancy martini), you not only get to enjoy an authentic Tom & Jerry, you also get to keep the mug that says “Torches” on one side and “the warmth of the holidays” on the other.
I can't think of anywhere I'd rather be on a snowy night than snuggled up inside this cozy bar with a frothy, warm holiday drink. And we weren't the only ones. During our lengthy visit we watched numerous people come and go from the bar, having enjoyed one (or more) of these fine cocktails.
If you've been the unfortunate victim of the bad version of this beverage, I beg you to give it another shot. Tom & Jerrys will be available nightly at Torches through the holiday season.
Torches
1141 Kenmore Avenue, Buffalo, 14217
716. 447.7915