There's a buzz in the air, or should I say, a boozy buzz, as Des Moines embraces a retro trend with a modern twist. The city is experiencing a revival of sorts, a sweet and indulgent one at that.
A Nostalgic Indulgence
The frozen supper club cocktail, a relic of the past, is making a comeback. These creamy, boozy treats are not just desserts; they're a journey back in time, a nod to the Rat Pack era, and a celebration of Midwestern nightlife. From Johnny's Italian Steakhouse to Jesse's Embers, these establishments are serving up nostalgia in a glass.
What makes this trend particularly fascinating is its ability to transport us. These cocktails, with their rich histories and unique flavors, offer an escape. They're not just drinks; they're stories, each with a different chapter and a distinct personality.
The Revival: Johnny's Italian Steakhouse
Johnny's has taken the revival to a whole new level. Their menu reads like a love letter to the '50s and '60s, an era when going out for a drink was an event, and dessert cocktails were the grand finale. The Golden Cadillac, a creamy classic, takes you back to 1952, while the Grasshopper and Brandy Alexander offer a timeless coolness and refinement, respectively.
Personally, I find the Pink Squirrel intriguing. With its almond and chocolate notes, it's a playful cocktail that feels like a liquid dessert. And let's not forget the Espresso Cream Dream, a modern twist that adds a jolt of energy to the mix.
Keeping it Old School: Jesse's Embers
Jesse's Embers is the real deal. This supper club embodies the Midwestern tradition, where steaks are cooked over an open flame, and ice cream cocktails are the perfect ending to a meal. It's a pure, unadulterated experience, a glimpse into the past.
A Playful Twist: Zombie Burger
For those seeking a louder, more fun take on this trend, Zombie Burger's Drink Lab offers an innovative approach. Here, milkshakes are transformed into spiked adult beverages, blurring the lines between dessert and cocktail. The Zombie Unicorn and Human Centipede are prime examples, where the addition of alcohol elevates these shakes to a whole new level of indulgence.
A Deeper Look
This revival isn't just about the drinks; it's about the experience. It's a celebration of a bygone era, a time when going out was an event, and the little luxuries, like a dessert cocktail, were savored. In today's fast-paced world, this trend offers a much-needed pause, a moment to reflect and indulge.
So, as we raise our glasses to this boozy ice cream trend, let's appreciate the stories these drinks tell and the experiences they create. It's a sweet reminder that sometimes, the best things in life are the ones we've forgotten.
