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A lot of you may think that sometimes I drink my dinner-Ha! I wish! No, I like to have a little nosh with my cocktail. Pairing the right food with your cocktails is a must. You certainly wouldn't want a pizza with your martini would you? Of course not, you have more class than that. Here are a few pairings that will impress your guest.


Whiskey cocktails~
If you are a whiskey drinker, think of foods with strong flavors. Lamb, sausage and smoked salmon are perfect meats. If you are pairing with cheese, again, think smokey or sharp. A dark chocolate, or a dipped espresso bean is a wonderful after dinner treat with a nice Scotch.

Vodka Cockails~
Because of it's nondescript taste, vodka is really just a vehicle for whatever it is paired with in a cocktail. A nice Peppercorn cocktail would be great with sushi. Sweeter, spicy vodka is wonderful for pork-maybe spare ribs,or pecan pie. Try a wonderful Lavender vodka cocktail with soft cheeses such as Brie or Havarti.

Rum Cocktails~
This is OMP's favorite! I'm sure he will tell you that rum will go with everything. Since we like tropical drinks, I would pair a nice BBQ rib or chicken with a pineapple rum cocktail. Spicy Thai cuisine heats up as the rum flavors cool down the palate. Of course, any seafood is amazing with rum.

Tequila Cocktails~
Everyone knows that Mexican food is great with tequila but there are so many other options out there. Tequila with a wonderful dark chocolate truffle is a crowd pleaser-you have the contrast of the salty tequila with the bitterness of the chocolate. Seafood is another great flavor, especially shrimp. As far as cheese goes, a mild hard cheese would be best with a slightly sweet flavor, nothing too overpowering.

Okay, is it just me or are you starving now? My mouth is watering for a yummy cocktail and some good food. Take chances with your pairings. Try foods and desserts that generally aren't thought of with traditional cocktails. Think of the way the main ingredient tastes and build a meal around that. Okay that's enough for toady. I have to run, I think I hear the dinner bell ringing!