Toast With This!: Elderflower Lemonade Spritz

Only a handful of days back home from my most recent jaunts to London and Paris and everything--including the longing to return--is still fresh and vivid in my memory.  As I paused to reflect, I realized that this most recent visit to Paris, in particular, marked the fifth over the past 17 years.  And can I let you in on a secret?  It's still my favorite all these years later.  If you've been following the blog for a while, then you know London is also a fond destination and this third time around was as charming as the first over twelve years ago.

So putting my sentiments to the side, momentarily at least, I want to share an ode to the casual, yet sophisticated, sip that takes many variations among the sidewalk cafes and restaurants throughout each destination: the Spritz.

From the Aperol (which recently underwent a heated review, turned debate, courtesy of New York Times Cooking, but which showed no sign of waning across the pond if my observations are any proof), to the St. Germain, and beyond, the Spritz undoubtedly holds its own as a drink of choice. 

I've created a light, effervescent version that's as refreshing as the Summer days are long and the temps are hot--making it an undeniable go-to all season long. Combining Elderflower Lemonade (I like Belvoir's), Prosecco, and Club Soda for an elegant sip couldn't be easier, or more delicious--and the combined bubbly effect is a lovely bonus. 

If you can't be cafe-side in Paris or London, you can still enjoy the same joie de vivre--and toast with this.

Happy Sipping!

Elderflower Lemonade Spritz
Ingredients:
Elderflower Lemonade (or Lemonade combined with an Elderflower Cordial), chilled
Prosecco, chilled
Club Soda

Method:
Pour Elderflower Lemonade into a glass, followed by Prosecco, and topped off with a splash of club soda.  Stir slightly and enjoy!
  

{Taste of Atlanta}: Sear Restaurant at the Marriott Marquis

Marquis Honey Butter Bread

Last night I attended an intimate dinner in the heart of downtown Atlanta, at a previously hidden (to me) gem on the local dining scene.  Here enters Sear Restaurant--located in the stunning Marriot Marquis hotel.  Now before you're tempted to mentally lump Sear into the typical hotel restaurant category (read: pretty hum-drum, sans wow-appeal), let me share a few highlights that will paint the true picture--and distinction.

Open since 2008, Sear has continued to evolve over the last decade, completing an extensive renovation last year.  Its moody and slightly rustic aesthetic, replete with one-of-a-kind art from artists throughout Georgia, gives you all the warm and cozy vibes.  And once you're settled in to one of the public or private dining spaces, all that's left to do is feast on its exceptional menu that boasts seafood, steak, vegetarian and vegan dishes that are creatively--and deliciously--prepared.



And speaking of dishes, the pictured honey butter bread was a mouth-watering start to a night of indulgent eating and sipping.  What I admittedly loved most was being gifted with a swag (gift) basket, replete with its own skillet of freshly baked bread, the signature Marquis honey, hand crafted hot sauce, and the recipe for bringing it to life in my kitchen.  And because sharing is caring, I'm passing it along to you for your baking and noshing pleasure, as well. Thank me later.

So the next time a breakfast, lunch or dinner outing is on the agenda, be sure to make Sear one of your go-tos.  The chefs and staff will ensure that your visit is top notch from start to finish and make it a favorite in your Atlanta dining repertoire.

Happy Eating!