Cool Down with Cafe Drake

With NYC experiencing the hottest (both in high temps, humidity and number of days over 90 degrees) summer since the infamous heat wave of 1896, we've gotta drink something to take off the edge. Our beloved "straight up - no ice" standbys  - Manhattans, Gimlets, Sidecars, Stingers and Martinis - all warm up quicker than even WE can drink them in this infernal weather so we've reverted to venerable faves such as Old Fashioneds and Cuba Libras. Variation is the spice of our lives however, so join Cafe Drake in cooling down and catching a buzz with the two cocktails below.

ANGLER'S COCKTAIL

A great opportunity here to explore the new world of artisanal and homemade bitters. Have fun with a kitchen project and make your own and spice with anything from rhubarb to lemon verbena. Endless recipes and techniques abound on the internet.

Shake the following with ice cubes and strain into highball glasses filled with ice: 3 dashes Orange or other flavored bitters, 2 dashes regular Angostura bitters, 2 oz. gin and 1 dash of grenadine. Garnish or not.

PLANTERS PUNCH

Since we've had plenty of leftover pineapple juice around the house lately, Cafe Drake rediscovered this Southern smash hit. Almost universally enjoyed.

Combine 3 oz. dark rum and 2 oz. each of orange and pineapple juices in a shaker filled with ice. Shake or stir briefly. Strain in to a tall Collins glass filled with ice and garnish with a drizzle of grenadine and a fresh cherry.