The Return of the Boozy Ice Cream Cocktail: A Nostalgic Twist on Dessert
The classic supper club cocktail is making a comeback, and it's a delightful blast from the past. Des Moines, Iowa, is embracing a trend that takes us back to the golden era of dessert drinks. Imagine your parents' generation unwinding after a hearty meal with a Grasshopper, or celebrating a special occasion with a Brandy Alexander. These frozen treats are more than just drinks; they're a cultural phenomenon, and they're here to remind us of simpler times.
Revisiting the Golden Age of Cocktails
What makes this trend so captivating is its ability to transport us to a different era. Johnny's Italian Steakhouse in Des Moines is leading the charge with a menu that pays homage to the 1950s and '60s, when dessert cocktails were an event in themselves. The Golden Cadillac, a vintage creation from 1952, takes center stage, offering a rich and indulgent experience that feels like a journey through time. It's not just about the drink; it's about the ambiance and the memories it evokes.
Personally, I find this resurgence fascinating because it taps into our collective nostalgia. It's a reminder that sometimes the best innovations are revivals, bringing back what worked in the past and giving it a modern twist. The Golden Cadillac, with its Galliano, white crème de cacao, and vanilla ice cream, is a perfect example of this—a classic recipe with a contemporary presentation.
A Trio of Timeless Classics
The menu at Johnny's doesn't stop at the Golden Cadillac. It's a full-blown celebration of the era's greatest hits. The Grasshopper, with its cool minty flavor, is a timeless classic that never goes out of style. The Brandy Alexander, with its refined cognac base, is a velvety delight. And let's not forget the Pink Squirrel, a sweet and playful cocktail that brings back memories of childhood summers. These drinks are more than just flavors; they're a trip down memory lane, each with its own unique story to tell.
One thing that immediately stands out to me is the attention to detail in recreating these vintage cocktails. The use of crème de Noyaux in the Pink Squirrel, for instance, not only adds a unique almond and chocolate flavor but also gives the drink its signature pink hue. It's these small touches that make the experience truly authentic.
The Original vs. The Revival
While Johnny's offers a polished and modern take on these cocktails, Jesse's Embers, a tiny supper club in Des Moines, stays true to the original concept. Here, you won't find traditional desserts; instead, the meal ends with a choice of Brandy Alexanders, Pink Squirrels, or Grasshoppers. It's a pure, unadulterated celebration of the Midwestern tradition, complete with steaks grilled over an open flame and regulars chatting at the bar. This is where you go for a genuine, old-school experience.
In my opinion, the beauty of this trend lies in the diversity of interpretations. Johnny's provides a sophisticated, Rat Pack-era vibe, while Jesse's Embers keeps it classic and unpretentious. Both are equally valid approaches, catering to different preferences and moods.
A Modern Twist on a Classic
For those seeking a more contemporary adventure, Zombie Burger + Bird in Des Moines offers a playful twist. Their Drink Lab transforms milkshakes into spiked adult treats, like the Zombie Unicorn and the Human Centipede. These creations are a far cry from the traditional supper club cocktails but are a fun and innovative way to enjoy dessert with a kick. It's a testament to the versatility of this trend, appealing to both traditionalists and those seeking something new.
What many people don't realize is that these boozy ice cream cocktails are more than just a summer fad. They represent a deeper connection to our past, a way to relive memories and create new ones. Whether you're a fan of the classic supper club experience or prefer a modern interpretation, this trend is about enjoying the simple pleasures of life, one creamy cocktail at a time.
