Aspen Peak - Niche Media - Aspen living at its peak
Issue link: http://digital.greengale.com/i/129660
TASTE CHRISTINE LIGHT, High on Aspen blogger To me, Ajax Tavern epitomizes Aspen in the summer. Nothing beats sitting on the patio on a sunny day with a glass of rosé in hand. Top table: Anywhere on the patio is a top table in my book. Who to know: Being polite and friendly usually does the trick. Not-to-miss dish: The Ajax double cheeseburger, the best in town. Best summer cocktail: Peach Bellini. Vinoculture: A glass of rosé or Sauvignon blanc is always my pick. Insider tips: The menu changes seasonally. "Only in Aspen" moment: The view overlooking Aspen Mountain. Ajax Tavern, 685 E. Durant Ave., 970-920-6334; ajaxtavernaspen.com AP TOASTS OF THE TOWN Master mixologists divulge Aspen's hottest summer cocktails. BY MELISSA WISENBAKER Mixologist: Erin "E-Rock" Harris Where: Jimmy's, An American Restaurant & Bar What: The Aloha Paciano Why: Domaine de Canton (an ultrapremium French ginger liqueur), Vida Mezcal tequila, Amaro Nonino, Bittermans Elemakule Tiki Bitters, Angostura Bitters, pineapple juice, lemon, and lime juice. Packing a tropical punch, the drink perfectly pairs with Jimmy's grilled fish tacos. Best enjoyed on the outdoor deck during a Rocky Mountain sunset. 205 S. Mill St., 970-925-6020; jimmysaspen.com TOP: Ajax Tavern's delightful garden terrace is the ideal spot for an alfresco meal. Christine Light (ABOVE) recommends a glass of rosé with the double cheeseburger and fries (LEFT). continued from page 88 hosting a party for 50. And the quality of the food and service has been fantastic and consistent for as long as I've been going. Who to know: Jim Andre is my man for reservations. Not-to-miss dishes: My recommendations for dinner always include the crispy oysters with crème fraîche and caviar, the famous Freddy's salad, and the grilled filet of beef with foie gras. Vinoculture: The Piñons wine list is second to none, and the staff is made up of oenophiles. You always feel you're getting the best bottle of wine, even on a budget. Little-known fact: Piñons is celebrating its 25th anniversary. Summer cocktail: I'm partial to the roasted jalapeño margarita. Piñons, 105 S. Mill St., 970-920-2021; pinons.net 90 Mixologist: Distillers Mark Kleckner and David Matthews Where: Woody Creek Distillers What: Stobrawa vodka martini Why: Crafted with premium Stobrawa potato vodka (only 1,000 bottles available), which is made from a high-starch Polish potato grown by Woody Creek Distillers at its nearby Scanlan Family Farm. The result? One of the smoothest martinis in the country, and glutenfree to boot. Sip and savor it on the sun-drenched patio at WCD's new Basalt tasting room. 60 Sunset Dr., Basalt, 970-279-5110; woodycreekdistillers.com The Aloha Paciano at Jimmy's, An American Restaurant & Bar. PHOTOGRAPHY BY BROOKE CASILLAS/COURTESY OF JASON DEWEY (AJAX TAVERN GARDEN) Mixologist: Steve Smith Where: Rustique Bistro What: Jalapeño margarita Why: Jalapeño-infused Sauza tequila, fresh-squeezed lime juice, a few drops of agave nectar, and a splash of orange liqueur. Steve infuses the jalapeños in the tequila for at least one week prior to serving. Best with Rustique's mussels, served with garlic, white wine, and spicy sausage. 216 S. Monarch St., 970-920-2555, rustiquebistro.com ASPENPEAK-MAGAZINE.COM 086-090_AP_Dining_SMD_SUM_Fall_13.indd 90 5/6/13 10:44 AM