Arm Candy:
Bourbon takes a decidedly feminine turn at Abigail’s American Bistro in Highland Park with a drink called Arm Candy.Maker’s Mark bourbon is blended with a syrup made of fresh blackberries, sage, cardamom and rose water to produce a festive concoction reminiscent of punch. But maybe that’s just because it’s the color of fuchsia lipstick.
Despite the name, Arm Candy is not too sweet, although the added ingredients perhaps mask the bourbon a touch more than we’d like. But we’re not complaining. It’s a balanced cocktail that won’t go wrong if your food comes before you’ve finished sipping. In fact, its slightly sour flavor would provide a welcome counterpoint to meaty fare.
The $11 drink is garnished with skewered blackberries and a finger-length sage leaf. The sage makes for a striking green-on-pink presentation, but more important adds that earthy aroma akin to the ones you smell when you walk into home stores: Think Restoration Hardware in a glass.
493 Roger Williams Ave., Highland Park; 847-780-4862
— Jennifer Day
