District mixologist Carlie Steiner will entertain guests at her Northwest restaurant Himitsu Wednesday evening in order to showcase modern cola-based cocktails. The cocktails will incorporate Pepsi’s new 1893 Original, Ginger, Citrus and Black Currant colas, which are inspired by the original recipes crafted in 1893 by Pepsi founder Caleb Bradham.
“They were looking for a bartender in D.C. to come up with some new cocktails to launch their products,” Ms. Steiner told The Washington Times of her partnership with the beverage giant. “We’re really excited about it to unveil those.”
The event, called The 1893 Top Shelf Happy Hour, will allow visitors to observe Ms. Steiner making some cocktails with the 1893 products.
“With the Black Currant cola, I’m not trying to find something [else] that contains black currant [since] it has so much berry flavor in it already,” Ms. Steiner said. “It really gives us a lot more flexibility to pick the spirits to mix it with.”
Ms. Steiner will also incorporate local ingredients, such as Capitoline Vermouth, a District product. And as Wednesday is also National Rum Day, Ms. Steiner will be showcasing a cocktail she calls “The Balancing Act,” which features aged rum, 1893 cola and maraschino cherries.
Himitsu, which Ms. Steiner co-owns and for which she is beverage director, features only 25 seats, which she believes allows for a more intimate dining experience
“We want to make it this unique experience when you walk in,” Ms. Steiner said. “We really focus on having very personable hospitality, so it’s like you’re coming into your home when you come dine here.”
Himitsu, which opened in November, is located at 828 Upshur St NW, Washington, D.C., 20011.
• Eric Althoff can be reached at twt@washingtontimes.com.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.