SGROPPINO – What is it?!

drinks, Uncategorized

Sgroppino is an alcoholic mixed drink originating in Venice, Italy based on lemon sorbet and vodka, topped up with Italian sparkling Prosecco. Sgroppino can be served as a palate-cleansing aperitif or as a dessert drink after your meal.

The Sgroppino was served in aristocratic Venetian homes back in the 16th century. The Sgropin, as it’s called in the Venetian dialect, means to ‘untie’ such as to untie a little knot in ones stomach following a rather filling meal. It is also to cleanse the palate between the first and second courses.

Even though the drink originates in Italy, as you travel throughout the country you may have some difficulty finding the drink and even local restaurants knowing what it is. This is because further away from La Serenissima it is not a Sgroppino anymore, it is simply Sorbetto.

That tradition continues today, with a few minor tweaks to the centuries-old recipe. As the classic Sgroppino is made with lemon sorbetto, vodka and Prosecco sparkling wine, variations include strawberry, grapefruit or lavender, and sometimes the addition of limoncello.

Sweet and citrusy,  this creamy lemon Prosecco cocktail is hands down the best dessert drink ever! Simple ingredients and no special skills required to make.

EATALY – Las Vegas

drinks, food, Uncategorized

Having been to a few different Eataly’s, Las Vegas Eataly at Park MGM is the greatest thing that has happened to my tastebuds. The comparison to an amusement park for foodies is spot on. They have mastered fast food and quick bites for on the go with high quality ingredients or you can sit down for a leisurely meal and immerse yourself in the experience Eataly provides.

Their philosophy of “eat, shop, learn” is something the strip has not scene before and they do it right. Their fresh pizza dough and pasta are some of the best things to exist. They hand pull their own mozzarella right in front of you and its our favorite show in Vegas as well as the best edible souvenirs.

It is every food snobs dream come true. Infact, this place will appeal to any person. Pizza, pasta, drinks, sweets – they have a food station for any craving. Enjoy an Aperol Spritz sitting under the sunshine like an Italian or take it to go in a plastic cup Vegas style.

FOOD RECOMMENDATIONS:

  • Tradizionale Pizza – your traditional Neapolitan pizza
  • Charcuterie Board with pickled veggies
  • Nutella Crêpe
  • Espresso
  • Aperol Spritz and Limoncello Spritz

Items to be informed about…

  • The cannoli is Sicilian style with whipped ricotta so it may not be something you’re used to. It’s not as sweet of a filling you find in Italian bakeries in the US.
  • The Presseco and gelato drink at the Il Gelato station is essentially just a scoop in your drink. (Can be spotted in the picture below)

Antonelli’s – Austin

austin, fun, Uncategorized

Mmmmmmm Cheeeeeeeese…. Who doesn’t love cheese?! I can’t even associate with you if you say you don’t like cheese. For those “lactose intolerant” – it’s simply a state of mind. Now that we’re all on the same page, I have a cheesy suggestion for you. (No pun intended) Antonelli’s Cheese Shop in Austin hosts cheese classes. Perfect for a date or girls night out.

It’s about an hour and a half class learning about the origin of the cheese you are sampling while sipping on wine. They have pairing suggestions, provide snacks such as almonds and olives, and unlimited bread.

The class is what you make of it – learn as much as you want or you’re just in it for the food. No matter what you’re looking for it’s a fun evening.

TIP: If you want to continue to party after class, head next door to Uncle Nicky’s for gelato and an aperitif.