Michael's - Holiday Cocktails

Michael's Santa Monica
1147 3rd Street, Santa Monica CA 90401
http://www.michaelssantamonica.com ($$$)

Before another irreverent dinner with the eat+drink crew, we had a chance to sample some of Michael's enticing signature cocktails from the bar. As you can see, we were damn thirsty this evening, which meant we gave most of their menu a try.

Now as you all may know, when a restaurant or bar tries too hard to make unique cocktails... well it doesn't always lead to stellar results. Lets face it, often we feel cheated that the drinks never live up to their names. But at Michael's bar, their current selection does for the most part hit the mark and there's quite the variety for everyone to enjoy.

Again, you shouldn't expect that everyone will love every cocktail, but we certainly enjoyed the ones below. Of particular note was the Under The Mistletoe, a Ketel One-based concoction with a spicy bitter yet earthy tone, that captures that Christmas-theme they were going for well. 

Chef's Egg Nog: rye, cognac, Amaretto, cream, egg yolk, nutmeg, Fernet Branca
Road to Kyushu: Kikori japanese whiskey, Galliano, Averna amaro, barrel aged bitters, kumquat, clove
The 1979: brown butter infused Don Pancho 8 year rum, maple syrup, Angostura bitters, orange bitters, orange twist.
Under The Mistletoe: tamarillo infused Ketel One, allspice dram, honey, lime, egg white, soda, porcini mushroom vinegar.
El Paseo: tequila blanco, mezcal, pamplemousse rose, lemon, agave, grapefruit, pomegranate and chili granita, pomegranate seeds.
Clementine's Kiss: Vapid vodka, maraschino, mixed citrus, pomegranate molasses.

As with many spots, their bar menu will vary with the season but during the holidays Michael's certainly made our spirits bright. Let me know what you think when you go.
Cheers