If you’re cheap, broke or a combination of the two, here’s a quick and easy way to Rachael Ray some crappy beer.
I was first introduced to this drink at a place called Primo Patio near At&t Park. The menu promised that the drink, comprised of beer, sugar and lime juice had Cuban origins. I was like, that’s disgusting, let’s order it.
I feel better already: St. George Spirits/Hangar One Distillery (2601 Monarch at Alameda Point, Alameda) are hosting a Summer Open House tomorrow, Saturday, June 28, from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. and they want you to help them celebrate the release of this year's Fraser River Raspberry Vodka and their brand-spanking new still. The entrance fee will get you three cocktails, an unspecified quantity of spirits (they also make whiskey), and best of all: iced vodka luges! It'll be just like spring break '99 all over again. Bonus: the stills will be running most of the day, offering the rare opportunity to witness the distillation process up close.
But that's not all! Those looking for something with a little more kick will definitely want to check out the special "Absinthe Den" where (for an extra $10) the hosts will be pouring Absinthe, Heirloom Apple Brandy, and a DeProfundis 20-year-old Pear Brandy. Wisely, they're providing free shuttle service to the distillery from both the West Oakland BART station and the Alameda Main street ferry building, beginning at 12:30 p.m. and running until 4:30 p.m.
Tickets are $35 at the door; order tickets on the phone by calling 510-864-0635. This is a 21 and over event, so don't even think about it kids. Bring picture ID.
-- Brian Bernbaum
Restaurant owners will have a chance to show off their green stripes starting next month if they can prove that their menus are trans fat free. In accordance with a new participatory program mandated by the Board of Supervisors and Mayor Gavin Newsom, the San Francisco Department of Public Health will reward a decal of a green heart displaying the Golden Gate Bridge to restaurants that pony up $250 and document every ingredient served, or are willing to spend $150 for an inspection. The badge will display the words "Trans Fat Free San Francisco Restaurant."
Trans-fat is an unsaturated fat found in cakes and salad dressing that can raise cholesterol and contribute to heart problems, diabetes or obesity. But many restaurants in the Bay Area already claim to be trans fat free. No word whether your local fast food chains are up for the challenge. --Edward Paik
