Peanut butter and jelly. Macaroni and cheese. Matcha and vodka?! OK, it may not be an iconic duo… yet. But these local bars and restaurants are mixing green tea into their cocktails in such fun and creative ways that it might just be the next big thing. And because it’s loaded with antioxidants, sipping a green tea cocktail will technically improve brain function and prevent diseases. To your health!
Shogun Powder from Highball
We got so hooked on Highball’s earthy twist on a pisco sour that we featured it in our 101 best dishes and drinks earlier this year. We’ve been finding excuses to go back ever since. A tropical, earthy blend of Peruvian brandy, vodka, herbal liqueur, fernet, lemon, lime and the pièce de résistance – coconut matcha. Comes in a coupe glass garnished with fresh mint. Cheers!
1514 N. Seventh Ave. Phoenix, 602-675-4244, highballphx.com
No. 17 from Windsor
It’s no secret that we’re fans of Windsor’s whimsical brunch, lunch and dinner offerings, but the cocktails deserve a spot in the sun, too. Speaking of sun – get some rays on the restaurant’s cheery patio while sipping this refreshing mix of cucumber vodka, green tea, fresh cucumber and mint. Then, snap a pic by the cassette wall and stop by Churn on your way out. It’s the perfect way to spend a sunny Sunday afternoon in Phoenix.
5223 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, 602-279-1111, windsoraz.com
Honor Your Dojo from Clever Koi
We’ve been vowing to visit this sleek Asian fusion spot to try their new vegan ramen bowl but, in the meantime, we can appreciate its cocktail menu for this unique blend of St. George dry rye, snap pea-infused blanc vermouth, green chartreuse and green tea bitters. If you like dry, earthy sippers with a hint of herbs, you’ll be in heaven.
Two Valley locations, thecleverkoi.com
Nimbly Bimbly from Bitter & Twisted
We love this cocktail from B&T for both its fun name and thoughtful, exotic mix of ingredients – rum, yuzu, pineapple and green tea. The fact that it’s shaken and garnished with fresh mint and lime makes it more enticing (and refreshing)!
1 W. Jefferson St., Phoenix, 602-340-1924, bitterandtwistedaz.com
