Curious Elixirs are nonalcoholic beverages that make an excellent substitute for a crafted cocktail. Curious No. 8, a riff on an amaro, is a cosmic blend of black and blueberries. Traditionally made in Italy, Amaro or Amari typically refers to a combination of herbs, botanicals, and spices blended with brandy as a base. Over one hundred Amari varieties and bushels of secret recipes range in proof from 16% to 40% alc./vol. Akin to a luxurious amaro, port, aperitif, or digestif, No. 8 contains ancient botanicals that encourage serotonin and dopamine precursors while increasing circulation, but this version has zero alcohol.…
Author: Michelle Merlo
Famous for its Sunday Jazz Brunch – The Terrace at Delaware Park is Buffalo’s premier Venue for year-round Dining and entertainment. Their patio offers Panoramic views of Hoyt Lake, Delaware Park, the Buffalo History Museum & the Buffalo AKG Art Museum. It is an ideal venue for celebrations, weddings & social gatherings alike. Curious Elixirs are alcohol-free, and Curious No. 7 was specifically made for memorable moments This is precisely why we decided to pop in for brunch to introduce: Curious Elixirs No. 7 (in limited release.) Elixir No. 7 is a riff on the French 77 making it perfect…
Have you ever made the mistake of grocery shopping on an empty stomach, only to succumb to defeat, become overwhelmed, and return home with cake batter and lightbulbs? Busy schedules can present a challenge when it comes to eating healthy. However, meal planning empowers us to make informed decisions at the grocery store. In addition, meal prep leads to portion control, contributing to a more nutritionally balanced diet. Cooking can also help lower stress levels and, of course, help hone your chef skills. Healthy meal planning is beneficial when maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet. Planning and preparing meals in…
Easily overheard in Buffalo over the past six months or so is the question, “Have you been to High Violet?” Behind Buffalo’s most dapper custom-tailored suit shop, BUREAU: you will find HIGH VIOLET. Vibe Alert: A twinge of shiny Twin Peaks (if shot by the likes of Jean-Pierre Jeunet) meets lush style, high class, and exquisitely crafted cocktails. In addition, they offer a menu of small plates, somewhat larger entrees, and a smattering of snacks. High Violet is at 710 Elmwood open, Wednesday through Saturday, starting at 5 pm.This episode of Bitters features Nico Kelly’s Fer-de-Lance. The cocktail, which gets…
I often feel a unique and transcendent sensation on the grounds of Silo City. It is a feeling of the past repurposed for the present, and all are welcome. Salvaged from intimations of Buffalo’s golden age amidst old grain silos, you will find Duende. In this episode of Bitters, we highlight just one of the many note-worthy cocktails Duende has to offer. Duende Bartender Caroline Toohill designed the Saturn 5 cocktail, which had initially called for Mezcal. Duende offers multiple Mezcal cocktails, so the recipe has been adjusted for Tequila. Hibiscus and lime juice are responsible for the breathtaking rubicund…
This pandemic has been a supreme drag, but perhaps a silver lining exists in the variety of new services that have sprouted in response to shared safety concerns. We have had time to reflect on the idea that what we put into our bodies will determine the level of performance it gives. Jodi Battaglia brings her decade-long experience in global food and hospitality via Delaware North to her project: Cur-ate. Ms. Battaglia has created a network of talented local chefs who offer a new catering-type dining experience in the wake of pandemic-concerned hosts and talent. Many people are still wary…
You may have noticed an influx of non-alcoholic offerings at your favorite local watering holes and fine eateries. Most recently, Lindsay Robson of Nickel City Pretty organized Buffalo’s first ever mocktail competition at Hartman’s Distilling Co. If you have found yourself hitching a ride on the teetotaler bandwagon, chances are you have already heard about Curious Elixirs. Each non-alcoholic craft beverage offers an innovative spin on classic cocktail flavors paired with adaptogens that encourage balance and well-being with each sip. Curious No 3: inspired by modern classics like the cucumber collins, this cocktail is herbaceous and floral, elevated by the…
Tasting Notes Curious Elixirs are a layered nuanced approach to non-alcoholic beverages. These drinks invite you to sip and reflect on what your mouth is experiencing. All Curious Elixirs are made with organic ingredients whenever possible, and No. 1 through 4 are Whole30 compliant, meaning they contain no added sugar. No. 2 is a marriage of spicy pineapple margarita and dark & stormy. Ancho chili, jalapeño, and ginger are bright on the palate and Damiana (an ancient Mayan herb) helps the body unwind. These prepackaged craft beverages arrive at your door ready to serve but, while sampling my way through…
Curious Elixir No. 1 Anyone can fill a glass with ice and juice or carbonated sugar water, a few herbs as a garnish, and call it a mocktail. We have sampled (lots of) brands that offer ready-to-drink non-alcoholic cocktails, some of which should (under no circumstance) be sipped-on solo. So when it comes to a quick crowd-pleasing cocktail alternative for those who want or choose to abstain from alcohol, our latest go-to favorite is from Curious Elixirs. What’s great about these non-alcoholic cocktails is that no mixer is necessary, you just need to open the bottle and enjoy! These beverages…
This episode of Bitters is presented by Iconic Cocktail. Ingredients: Barr Hill Honey Gin (you can use any gin) Lemonade (filtered water, lemon juice with pulp, cane sugar) Iconic Cocktail Ginga Syrup Moroccan Bitters Prosecco Orange Peel to garnish Fill your shaker with Ice. Add 1 oz Barr Hill Honey Gin Add 1.5 oz Lemonade, we used Wegmans Cold-Pressed Lemonade Add 1 oz Iconic Cocktail Ginga Syrup Stir Strain into glass with large ice cube 1-2 drops of Moroccan Bitters Top off with Prosecco Garnish with orange peels and serve. About Iconic Cocktail Co. Iconic Cocktail creates handcrafted mixers for…