If you haven’t tried Para yet, it’s got an elegant and globally-inspired menu full of perfectly crafted and styled small bites. Think of lobster shooters, crab rangoons, and delicious short rib dumplings sitting in their own broth, and what’s even better, they’ve got an expert behind the bar crafting amazing cocktails to go with their menu. Washington DC-native, Yashira ‘Yoshi’ Mejia, has crafted a lovely spring cocktail menu that we think is perfect for the season, but before that, let’s introduce you to the restaurant itself.
The food compliments the cocktails just as the design of the restaurant itself compliments the menu. Rich greens compliment the warm yellow of the lamps, walls, and leather seating. Along with the interior is an outdoor patio perfect for these warmer spring and summer days where you’ll be happy to sip on some of Mejia’s stunningly, springy cocktails. When we asked her about her inspiration behind the menu, she said, “The spring additions were inspired by my upbringing of The DMV (Dc.Maryland.Virginia) and finding flavors to compliment the menu.”
Enter the Sakura, described as “floral & boozy” and made with roku gin, sakura vermouth, luxardo maraschino, st. germain, and sakura bitters, one of the newest in a string of naturally-flavored bitters made of Japanese ingredients by acclaimed bartender, Yuki Yamazi. It’s also garnished with a lovely flower that sits and sinks to the bottom of the dainty cocktail.
The Purple Reign is visually similar to its name. A vibrant violet color that has empress 1908 gin, lavender, yuzu, lemon, and lemongrass for a cocktail inspired by Asian influences.
Another Asian-inspired spring cocktail is their Never Lychee Go, a fruity and juicy cocktail with Ketel One vodka, lychee sake, lime, and ginger beer for a strong but smooth drink.
Finally, for something a little more dessert-y, try their Nitro Crème Brûlée Espresso Martino, a rich and creamy take on the popular Espresso Martini we’ve seen highlighted at many cocktail bars. This one’s got vanilla vodka, coffee liqueur, OTPST cold brew, and of course, créme brûlée.
Which one sounds the most exciting to you? Let us know!
Where: 235 W Tremont Ave Suite 100, Charlotte, NC 28203