Mudlick Tap House
Santa’s Little Helper, $9
135 E. Second St., Dayton
937-895-4066 or http://mudlicktaphouse.com
Baby, it’s cold out there! Stop in and check out “Santa’s Little Helper” made with Tito’s Vodka, Elderflower, house made spiced cranberry sauce and a splash of dry vermouth and fresh lime. Grab one for $6 during Happiness Hours from 3-6 p.m.
>>1900s-themed cocktail bar now open in the Oregon District
Van Buren Room
Salted Maple Old Fashioned, $11
122 Van Buren St., Dayton
937-250-1837 or www.vanburenroom.com
If you haven’t made a stop at the Van Buren Room yet it’s time. The new spot opened by the great minds behind Belle of Dayton Distillery features classic cocktails with Belle of Dayton spirits along with rare and experimental releases. Their salted maple Old Fashioned is made with Rye Whiskey, Mezcal, bitters, spiced maple and salt. It will warm you up and invoke holiday spirit.
Sky Asian Cuisine
Cranberry Sleigher, $9
4090 Wilmington Pike, Kettering
937-949-9883 or skyasiancuisine.com
This sushi restaurant knows its cocktails. The Cranberry Sleigher is made with Tito’s vodka, St. Germain liqueur, white cranberry juice, Prosecco and fresh cranberry. Their Winter Whiskey Warmer, $9, made with Tullamore D.E.W. Irish Whiskey, sweet Vermouth, housemate salted maple syrup and rosemary is also a winner.
>>Popular downtown Dayton restaurant to expand, add brunch
Wheat Penny
Yes Virginia, $9
515 Wayne Ave., Dayton
937-496-5268 or www.wheatpennydayton.com
A wintery mix of white tequila with poached pear syrup, Branca Menta, Sambuca and cranberry has become one of the best selling cocktails on Wheat Penny’s menu and for good reason — it’s delicious.
Lily’s Bistro
Harvest Moon, $8.75
329 E. Fifth St., Dayton
937-723-7637 or lilysbistro.com
Junior Johnson Apple Pie Moonshine, Paul Masson Brandy, Ohio apple cider and fall spices are a sweet combination worth seeking out.
Corner Kitchen
Marry Barry, $8
613 E. Fifth St., Dayton
937-719-0999 or www.afinerdiner.com
Beefeater Gin, strawberry, rosemary, lemon and a balsamic reduction come together to make this sweet and savory mash-up that is light enough not to weigh you down and powerful enough to make an impression.
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