Drink Recipe:: Paloma

Today we're talking about the Paloma, a refreshing Mexican cocktail that's perfect for summertime sipping.

Origin Story: The Paloma is believed to have originated in Mexico in the mid-20th century, and it's now one of the most popular tequila-based cocktails in the country. The name Paloma actually means "dove" in Spanish, and the cocktail is said to have been inspired by the beautiful bird's colors.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz tequila
• 1/2 oz lime juice
• 4 oz grapefruit soda (such as Squirt or Jarritos)
• Salt (optional)
• Grapefruit slice for garnish

Recipe:

1. Rim a highball glass with salt (if desired).
2. Fill the glass with ice.
3. Pour in the tequila and lime juice and stir.
4. Top with grapefruit soda and gently stir again.
5. Garnish with a grapefruit slice and enjoy!

Best Places to Try: While the Paloma is a popular cocktail in Mexico, it's also gaining popularity in the United States. Some of the best places to try a Paloma include:

1. Leyenda in Brooklyn, New York: This award-winning bar has a variety of tequilas and uses fresh grapefruit juice for their Paloma.

2. Gracias Madre in West Hollywood, California: This vegan Mexican restaurant offers a unique twist on the Paloma by using mezcal instead of tequila.

3. Bar Clacson in Los Angeles, California: This trendy spot offers a Paloma made with homemade grapefruit soda.

Personal Opinion: In my opinion, the Paloma is one of the best tequila cocktails out there. It's light, refreshing, and has the perfect balance of sweet and sour. I prefer to use a high-quality tequila and fresh grapefruit juice instead of grapefruit soda for a more natural flavor. This cocktail pairs well with Mexican dishes like tacos, ceviche, and guacamole.

So, there you have it, folks! The Paloma - a refreshing and delicious cocktail that's perfect for summertime sipping. Give it a try and let me know what you think!