This Thirsty Thursday is being brought to you by EVO where I will introduce to you four lovely drinks that will have you coming back for more! EVO is this hidden little gem in Old Town that opened in May. I just discovered it, and let’s just say I am in love. Everything from the interior decorations to the delicious food and drinks is intoxicating, and I can’t forget to mention the service is beyond fabulous. The bartenders and servers are so helpful and they make sure your experience at EVO is the best. Bartender Jessy Parson describes the ambiance as “Chicago meets New York,” and I couldn’t agree more! The chandeliers over the gigantic booths, the mirrors hung on the brick walls and the friendly service left me feeling homesick for some Midwest hospitality. For fare to pair with your drink, try the heavenly grilled cheese bruschetta that comes with a tomato bisque.

Bar manager, Jason Swartz, was so nice to share the following four recipes with Scottsdale Living. I was most impressed with EVO’s drink selection because all products used are locally sourced, and all the drinks only use an average of four ingredients. You would never know by their divine taste, just how simple these recipes are to make!

 

Monroe's Mule
Monroe’s Mule

Monroe’s Mule – $10

This fizzy and pink concoction consists of Smirnoff Raspberry Vodka, lime, raspberries, simple syrup, and ginger beer. This is the perfect drink to sit on the patio and enjoy Arizona’s warm weather with. It is garnished with a raspberry and lime and looks almost too pretty to drink.

 

EVO Maid – $10

The EVO Maid is a nice twist on the mojito. It is made with Hendrick’s Gin, cucumber, mint, and lime. If gin is not your poison, I recommend substituting it for Tito’s Vodka.

EVO Maid
EVO Maid

However which way you make it though, it is sure to be refreshing!

Sunset -$10

Now many of you may not know this, but I am a total whiskey gal, so it was only natural that the Sunset and I would be fast friends. This “entry-level drink to bourbon” consists of Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Maraska Maraschino Liqueur,

watermelon, and lemon. Don’t worry ladies, this drink comes in a coupe so the boys will never know your drinking whiskey.

Grapefruit Basil – $10

The Grapefruit Basil is a favorite of many and was recommended by everyone

Sunset
Sunset

behind the bar, in front of the bar, around the bar… let’s just say everyone loves this drink. Now if you want to try making this drink at home here is the ingredient list and directions:

Ingredients

  • 2 oz. Smirnoff Citrus Vodka 
  • 2 or 3 basil leaves
  • A little fresh lime juice
  • Fresh juice from a grapefruit

 

Grapefruit Basil
Grapefruit Basil

Directions

  1. Combine ingredients
  2. Muddle in the glass
  3. Shake over ice
  4. Double strain and pour into glass

Other cool things to know about EVO:

  • Fireball & Fernet are on tap
  • Red and white wine are both on tap
  • They serve food until 1:30am seven days a week
  • On Sunday’s they have live music from 8pm until 12am

EVO is located at 4175 N. Goldwater Blvd. in Scottsdale.