The drink: The Gordon Gecko
Why Jillian called it: “It may look like a ladies’ drink, but the Gordon Gecko is very much a man’s drink.” That’s no surprise considering the mix that goes into it.
What’s in it?: Crown Royal whisky, Ketel One vodka, Chambord, sweet and sour, cranberry juice and lime juice, with a lime garnish. It costs $10 at The Exchange.
Tips for making the drink her way: “We use big glasses,” she said. “You get what you pay for. The Gecko is served in a 12-and-a-half ounce glass.” Make sure and give the drink and its strongly delicate taste justice: Don’t overpower the alcohol with the mixers.
About the drink: This mixed drink is ultra fruity with close to no boozy aftertaste, making this a dangerous (and delicious) choice after you’ve already had a few. “The drink is very much like the man it’s named after — very sweet right away, with just the right amount of bitter aftertaste,” Glover said.
About Glover: A bartender as new as the venue she serves at, she arrived fresh from Texas three weeks ago. She’s a country bar veteran and very laid back. While she may not have any standout experiences as a bartender in Des Moines yet, the bombshell has heard every single pick-up line in the book — most of them too risqué to print.
The Gordon Gecko is a classy drink. And it matches the atmosphere — chandeliers, dark damask wallpaper, and a pixilated flashing sign above the bar that will eventually serve as the hub for the bar’s main attraction. The sign will work as an indicator of drink prices as the “market” increases and decreases. Jillian is dressed in suspenders and a white button-up matched with black pants — a tribute to the old-fashioned business dress of stockbrokers. The new bar will feature craft beer flights on Wednesdays.
