Summertime means a lot of things to me, barbecues, camping, farmers markets, fresh veggies, the list goes on. One of the perks of working for Dishing is the ability to write about what I love, food and cooking. I also get to write about things that I very strongly like (one tier below love), which isn’t to bad either. Summer cocktails enjoyed on beautiful patios in Jackson Hole straddles the middle ground between the two, mainly because saying you love drinking cocktails often gives people the wrong impression.
I set out Sunday evening to try some summertime libations. I was looking for something seasonal and a porch to enjoy it on. I made a pretty big list but kept it to three restaurants for this trip.
Jalapeno Huckleberry Margarita at Hayden’s Post
The first place I visited was Hayden’s Post, as the beautiful patio is only a short stroll from my house and a great place to catch some live music on the weekends. I was lucky enough to find a spot along the railing that has great views looking out to the west, especially around sunset. I went with a huckleberry jalapeno margarita. It was a perfect mix of sweet, spicy and sour. With a side of truffle fries and a great view, it was hard to beat. If you’re not in the mood for a cocktail they also have plenty of beers on tap that can be enjoyed on their plush patio set up.
Watermelon Margarita and Grapefruit Martini at Cafe Genevieve
The next stop was Cafe Genevieve for a couple of cocktails shared on their spacious deck. Note: The lovely pink drink in the picture. That was mine, and I’m ok with that. It is a watermelon margarita and deliciously refreshing after the warm walk over to the restaurant. The grapefruit martini, although offered all year, is perfect for a warm summer day also. With live bluegrass every Wednesday night, Cafe Genevieve is a great place to sit and people watch the night away.
Verde at Local
The last stop on my list for the evening was Local. Their newly opened patio is a great place to sit outside and enjoy a drink. With the patio now being open for lunch until 2 p.m., and between 4 and 10 p.m. you can snag a happy hour or late night drink. I tried two of their seasonal cocktails while I was there, the Verde and the Basil Ginger Smash. I really enjoy savory cocktails, and both of these fit the bill. The Verde was a mixture of cucumber, cilantro, jalapeno, lime and gin. All of those ingredients are pretty easy to overdo on their own, but Local definitely hit the mark with this one. If you like Moscow Mules and you like basil, the basil ginger smash is for you. The floral basil mixes perfect with the house-made ginger syrup to make a super refreshing drink.
Jackson isn’t short on specialty summer cocktails or patios to enjoy them on. After writing this I just got thirsty again. I guess it’s about time to start working on part two.
