Bartender Book Review

Drinking Like Ladies: 75 Modern Cocktails from the World’s Leading Female Bartenders

By Kirsten Amann and Misty Kalkofen 
Quarry Books, 2018

Veteran bartenders Amann and Kalkofen know what “drinking like a girl” really means: “passing on drinks that cover up the flavors of alcohol, learning about strong cocktails from strong-minded women, and never being pigeonholed.”  

Forget the neon-syrupy, so-called “girly drinks.” The balanced cocktails within—all originals created by bar-women around the globe—are absolutely first class.

The fun lies in the pairings with notable women of history. In one example, bartender Chandra Lam toasts to scientist Rosalind Elsie Franklin with her creation that’s “slightly bitter with a hint of salt to emulate how Rosalind must’ve felt, never receiving recognition for her work.”  

Not only do the enriching historical accounts elevate this beyond yet another recipe book, its beautifully concise “essential mixology” guide will train the novice while simultaneously appealing to the most experienced. Drinking Like Ladies belongs on the shelf of any cocktail enthusiast—or history buff for that matter—regardless of gender.   

Aperitif: A Spirited Guide to the Drinks, History, and Culture of the Aperitif

By Kate Hawkings 
Quadrille, 2018 

The aperitif has a history dating back centuries to when alcohol was safer to drink than water and has become increasingly relevant, especially with lower-alcohol tipples trending. Luckily, even if you aren’t well versed in this digestive aid, everything you could ever want to know you will find under this cover. Seriously. Everything.  

Hawkings’ thorough book is so well organized it will become your best reference guide. Even her sub-categories have categories. After laying down a meticulously researched foundation, Hawkings delves into classic recipes, which will have you longing to stir up your own “Mad Men” party. The way she writes about a gin and tonic will make bubbles dance across your tongue without even taking a sip. Whether you geek out over historical anecdotes or the metaphysical beauty of glassware, Aperitif will tickle the cocktail nerd in us all.

“Hawkings’ thorough book is so well organized it will become your best reference guide”
- Briana Rupel, Restaurant Inc. Resident Bartender