Rolled out of my cozy cabin in the Catskills, head pounding from the wild mixology photoshoot the night before—yeah, that kind of night. I needed a cure and not just any grub would do. Enter Gracie’s Luncheonette in Leeds, NY (hit them up here). This place? A breakfast oasis with the sun pouring in and creek views that make you want to write poetry or something.
Rise, Shine, and Dine: Gracie’s Luncheonette Sets a New Standard for Breakfast in the Catskills – Restaurant Reviews with Maxwell Alexander – Presented by Alluvion Vacations – Photography by Maxwell Alexander for Duncan Avenue Studios
Then came the breakfast burger, and let me tell you, it was everything. Picture this: eggs so fluffy you’d think they were clouds, bacon so crisp it’s like a fresh dollar bill, cheese that’s the perfect amount of ooey-gooey, and a burger patty that had its own moment of silence it was so good. Every breakfast joint needs to take notes because Gracie’s just schooled everyone.
Washed it all down with a mimosa and an Elderflower Spritzer that were so good they deserved their own photoshoot. And speaking of shots, the ones I snapped of the feast? Gold. They captured that fresh, fun vibe that only a place like Gracie’s can dish out.
As a connoisseur of fine mixology and a passionate sharer of all things spirited and flavorful, I’m always on the lookout for interesting cocktail recipes to delight my readers. Whether it’s a refreshing summer sipper or a cozy winter warmer, I believe that the art of the cocktail is about crafting a story in a glass, one that’s steeped in the creativity and the spirit of its maker.
Today, inspired by a recent visit to Gracie’s Luncheonette in the scenic Catskills, I’m thrilled to share with you a recipe that captures the essence of their Grapefruit Elderflower Spritz. It’s a drink that’s as much about the experience as it is about the taste—a concoction that conjures up the laid-back elegance of a Catskills sunset and the vibrant buzz of a New York minute.
So, gather your shakers, your spirits, and your sense of adventure as we dive into a recipe that promises to transport you straight to the heart of the Hudson Valley’s blossoming cocktail scene. Here’s to sharing another slice of mixology magic with you all!
Gracie’s-Inspired Grapefruit Elderflower Citrus Spritz
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz premium Tequila (choose a blanco for a crisp, clean taste)
- 0.75 oz Elderflower Liqueur (for a sweet, floral note)
- 2 oz Sparkling Riesling (adds effervescence and a hint of sweetness)
- 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice (for tartness and freshness)
- Grapefruit slice (for garnish)
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Fill a chilled glass with ice cubes to keep your drink cool and refreshing.
- Pour the tequila over the ice. Tequila is the spirit base of this cocktail, offering a smooth agave flavor.
- Add the elderflower liqueur. This adds a subtle floral sweetness that complements the tequila beautifully.
- Squeeze in the fresh grapefruit juice. The acidity and bitterness of the grapefruit juice balance the sweet notes of the elderflower liqueur.
- Top off with sparkling Riesling. The bubbles bring a lively effervescence to the cocktail, while the Riesling’s sweetness ties all the flavors together.
- Stir gently to mix the ingredients. This integrates the flavors while preserving the Riesling’s sparkle.
- Garnish with a slice of grapefruit. Not only does this add a pop of color, but it also infuses an extra zing of citrus aroma with each sip.
Serve immediately and enjoy a refreshing twist on Gracie’s Grapefruit Elderflower Spritz, perfect for a sunny afternoon or a relaxing evening. Cheers to a homemade cocktail that sings with the spirit of the Catskills!
So, yeah, Gracie’s is the place you tell your buddies about. It’s the kind of joint that makes a morning in the Catskills go from good to “this is why I get out of bed.” And if you’re nursing a hangover, trust me, Gracie’s got the magic. Because nothing says “adventure in the Catskills” like a breakfast burger that slaps and a spritzer that sparkles.
It’s not just a meal; it’s the whole mood. Fresh, lively, and with a side of sunny vibes. The Catskills might be known for their mountains and trails, but Gracie’s? It’s the peak of breakfast culture. And I’m all here for that rise-and-shine revolution. So spread the word, tell your friends, and let’s make sure the world knows where to head when they roll out of bed in the Catskills. Gracie’s is where it’s at.
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Embark on a tantalizing tour with my photo reviews through the Hudson Valley and Catskills—where every snapshot tells a story of flavor, scenery, and soul. Dive into a visual feast of farm-to-table freshness, artisanal eats, and bespoke beverages that define the region’s culinary landscape. From the rustic charm of Rhinebeck to the vintage vibes of Kingston, my lens captures the essence of epicurean adventures.
Experience the ultimate foodie road trip through my curated imagery: sip on craft cocktails against backdrops of historic architecture, relish in the organic opulence of local farmers’ markets, and indulge in gourmet goodness at hidden gem eateries. These are more than reviews; they’re a passport to the palate, guiding you through the Hudson Valley and Catskills’ most Instagrammable indulgences.
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