We all know the joy and pain that is a summer evening on a patio bar. Leave it to Mojos on 86th to capture it in a cocktail.
Credit goes to Bjorn Carlson, front house and catering director, who found his inspiration somewhere between Chicago and D.C. — it’s all a blur — in a drink involving jalapeno and cranberry. “I thought I’d play with it.”
He and his staff started with simple syrup and vodka, “but there wasn’t enough depth.” Then they pulled in tequila and agave, “and it just kind of went.” If you relish sweet heat, this drink will definitely go — as in down, and maybe a little too quickly.
What’s in the mix? Bjorn starts with cranberry juice and adds a sliver of jalapeno. He tosses in ice and a shot and a half of Patron Silver tequila, some blue agave nectar, and a smidge of lime before shaking and serving it up with another jalapeno slice. The result: an icy-cold sip that starts with the full-on sweetness of agave, then delights with a tingle of cranberry. Just as you’re congratulating yourself for grace under capsaicin pressure, the jalapeno kicks in — which, as Carlson points out, “kind of makes you want to drink more.”
Plan to stay for dinner, or at least starters, so you can leave with your driving privileges (and your dignity) intact. You’ll find a nice array of farm-to-table options, which, depending on availability, might include De Bruin Brothers rabbit, Milton Creamery cheeses and Turtle Farm herbs.
A seasonal offering, Hot Iowa Night will be around through September, a delicious smidge longer than the real thing.
Hot Iowa Night
Try it: Mojos on 86th, 6163 N.W. 86th St., Johnston
Cost: $8
