Foodie Trend: Boozy Desserts

Momofuku Milkshake (via UrbanSpoon)

One of my favorite foodie trends has to be the combination of two things I love-- decadent desserts and a good drink. Luckily for me, there are plenty of eateries who are bringing the two together in a beautiful marriage. Here are five picks that you can't miss.

1. Fancy Shakes at Momofuku Milk Bar in Brooklyn
The shakes at Momofuku Milk Bar are already spectacular-- a thick and creamy blend of homemade soft serve and flavored milk, BUT for an extra three dollars, why not make it "fancy?" Try the Cereal Milk White Russian for a unique treat.

2. The Tipsy Parson at The Tipsy Parson in New York City
First, picture a soft piece of almond cake. Now picture it soaked in brandy. Much better, right? The Tipsy Parson at The Tipsy Parson in New York is a nice mix of fruit, nuts, and booze, topped with vanilla custard, brandied dried apricots, prunes, sour cherries, cranberries, and toasted almonds.

3. Saffron Candied Ginger Ice Cream at Drunken Udder in Los Angeles. This place is dedicated to booze-infused desserts-- all in the form of ice cream. Go for the Saffron Candied Ginger for a sweet and spicy flavor, and surprise! There's hidden Southern Comfort. Some other great flavors? Salted Butter Caramel with bourbon and Fresh Strawberry with cognac.

4. Milkshake Shot at Stanton Social in New York City
For some of us, shots are just the way to go, and those people will love the Milkshake Shot at Stanton Social in NYC. For three dollars, they serve up a mix of caramel ice cream and Maker's Mark. Be careful people, this is 90 proof!

5. Boozy Donuts at Flex Mussels in New York City
You won't find this one on the menu, but go ahead and ask for the collection of boozy donuts at Flex Mussels. They're like the soft jelly doughnuts you find at any bakery, but injected with all of your favorite cocktails like margarita, absinthe chocolate, and blueberry daiquiri.

I don't suggest trying them all at once, otherwise you may be in for a sugary hangover.


St. Nicholas Square 3-Pc. Dessert Ornament Set
Sanders 4-Pk. Dessert Toppings
Nostalgia Electrics Margarator Frozen Drink Machine
Orvis Liqueur–Filled Belgian Chocolates
Chocolate Chocolate 300502 Liqueur Cups

Where to Take Your Brooklyn Date

Dating in New York is messy enough— there’s no need to throw the “Where should we eat?” confusion into the mix. That’s why I've picked out five date spots for you to choose from that any Brooklyn guy or gal will love.

1. Black Mountain Wine House

Nothing says “let’s cuddle” more than sharing a bottle of wine in a rustic cabin-esque bar, complete with a crackling fireplace. Black Mountain Wine House has a cheese-centric menu filled with shareable goodies like a goat cheese tart, classic Swiss fondue, and even a wild mushroom, Gruyere and truffle oil mac & cheese. Despite its wine bar label, it’s completely unpretentious, offering a relaxing environment for you and your date.

2. Palo Cortado

There’s something sexy about tapas, isn't there? Palo Cortado is a tapas and sherry bar that serves up plates perfect for sharing. Go for the Garbanzos Fritos, or fried chickpeas, the Paella Palo Cortado with saffron rice, shrimp, mussels, clams, and chorizo, and my favorite—the Pulpo a la Gallega, which is Spanish octopus with fingerling potatoes and pimento vinaigrette. Don’t forget to ask the server for a sherry pairing recommendation!

3. Vinegar Hill House

If you’re looking for somewhere (literally) off the beaten path, head over to Vinegar Hill House. The eatery is tucked away on a cobblestone street in Vinegar Hill, a neighborhood with limited subway access but charming old homes and swoon-worthy streets. The restaurant offers unique specials, changing their menu with the seasons, but is known for a perfectly-crispy cast-iron pan chicken when it’s available. They don’t take reservations for parties under six, but you can stop by the restaurant’s new wine bar Hillside just a couple doors down while you wait.

4.  Brucie

Unleash your inner Lady and the Tramp, with this adorable Italian eatery. The menu boasts uber-fresh homemade pastas, and classic Italian-American plates with a modern twist. The Tagliatelle shines, as it’s topped with house-made burrata, tomato butter, and toasty Brussels sprouts. For a sweet ending, share a Coolhaus Ice Cream sandwich, or get two and try a little of each!

  

5.  Zenkichi

You may walk by Zenkichi without noticing the first time you visit. The unmarked door in Williamsburg is a fitting detail in this maze-like restaurant of cozy curtain-encased wooden booths. Each table is equipped with a buzzer to make the waiter appear. The dark surroundings are dotted with dim lights, making for a romantic evening. Try the 8-course Omakase tasting menu paired with sake for a unique showcase of Zenkichi’s offerings, which includes plenty of fresh fish and traditional Japanese plates. 

Enjoy!