It's not often that I use the word "orgasmic" as a descriptor. But in the case of the midnight espresso at Bar & Books, I just can't help myself.
How else could I express the lustful adoration I feel for this magical cocktail? I don't usually like mixed drinks that are too sweet, and the midnight espresso (145 CZK) is definitely on the sugary side. But the rich combo of Absolut Vanilia, Kahlúa, Frangelico, and Baileys is offset by a shot of ristretto that gives the cocktail a pleasantly bitter aftertaste. And there's a little fruitiness in there, too, courtesy of a whiff of Chambord and a physalis garnish.
It's so good that I have to insist you try it. Just remember to contain yourself when you do.
Bar and Books
Týnská 19
Prague 1 - Old Town
Tel: 224 808 250
map
Corner Bar and Bistro
Mánesova 64
Prague 2 - Vinohrady
Tel: 222 724 581
map
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Prague Spoon Star Drink: Midnight espresso @ Bar & Books
Friday, January 18, 2008
Prague Spoon Star Dish: Tabbouleh @ El Emir
I should probably be featuring a more seasonally appropriate dish when it's this cold outside, but I can't stop thinking about the tabbouleh at El Emir.
This traditional Lebanese mezze composed of parsley, bulgur wheat, tomatoes, mint, scallion, and lemon is clean, refreshing, and reassuringly healthy. Now, thanks to the opening of the colossal Palladium shopping mall on Náměstí Republiky, Prague has at least one restaurant that does tabbouleh right.
El Emir's version is made with plenty of lemon juice, just a dash of bulgur and, crucially, flat Italian parsley, which is more flavorful than the curly strain most often found in Prague markets. It's so delicious you might even forget you're eating it in a food court.
If you'd like to try it at home, here's a good recipe.
El Emir
Palladium Shopping Center (Gourmet Floor)
Náměstí Republiky 1
Prague 1 - New Town
Tel: +420 225 770 250
