Scottsdale’s Pasta Brioni is the epitome of a classic Italian restaurant. Over the last 23 years, it has expanded from a small bar to a classy restaurant. With its expansion has come a delicious cocktail menu comprised of a peach Bellini, strawberry basil martini, and Chianti sangria.

The Bellini

The peach Bellini is a perfectly sweet concoction of champagne, peach schnapps, grenadine with a blackberry for garnish. Inspiration struck bartender Megan after New Year’s Eve with nothing to do with all of the leftover champagne. The drink has been well-received and is very fruity, peachy, sweet and delicious.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 ounce peach schnapps
  • 3 ounces of champagne
  • 1 ounce peach nectar
  • 1/2 ounce of grenadine (for color)
  • Blackberry and two blueberries (optional garnish)

The Martini

Next came the strawberry basil martini, which may seem like a weird combination, but it is utterly refreshing and unique. Compared to the Bellini, the strawberry basil martini is more tart and inspired by a twist on the classic mint mojito. The muddled strawberries mix delightfully with the basil and the two strong flavors balance each other perfectly. The pretty light pink drink is a perfect party “accessory” with a sugared rim and basil leaf for garnish.

Ingredients:

  • Fresh muddled strawberries and basil

  • 1 teaspoon sugar

  • 1 ounce lime juice

  • 3 1/2 ounces of vodka

  • Sugar rim

  • Basil leaf for garnish

The Sangria

Last on the cocktail menu is a Chianti sangria. This drink has been around longer than the Bellini and martini and perfected by General Manager Charlie. The sangria has a classic fruity taste that calls back memories of Spain. Every sangria is unique to the creator and establishment, and Pasta Brioni’s Chianti sangria has a nice, deep red color and is filled with fresh fruit. The drink is very fruity, but not too sweet for the wine lover. But be sure to let the wine and fruit marinate because the longer the better!

Ingredients:

  • Chianti wine

  • White rum

  • Pineapple juice

  • Lemonade

  • Mixed fruit – lemons, limes, oranges, and berries

  • Peach schnapps

  • Sprite

To prepare:

  • Infuse Chianti  with sliced oranges, limes and berries
  • Mix with rum and triple sec – poured over ice – with a splash of peach schnapps and Sprite.

You can make these drinks at home or have a night on the town at Pasta Brioni’s. Be sure to also try some delicious appetizers including the spinach dumplings (my favorite!) or a classic caprese salad.

Pasta Brioni is located at 4416 N. Miller Rd. in Scottsdale.