Ah Memorial Day weekend. 

The freedom, the family time, the beginning of summer and…the booze. Excuse us if we sound a little like lushes around here, but we can’t help but bask a little in the beginning of summer. There’s nothing quite like the first time you’re allowed to fire up the grill or the first time you pop the tab on a local brew—burgers and beer go hand in hand. What’s more, a delicious cocktail with your besties is another way to celebrate your extra day off from work. So, we’ve compiled two ways for you to kick off summer the right way. First, you’ll find our pick for the best local drink.  Also, if you’re feeling like an at-home mixologist, we’ve included a way for you to make your own cocktail in the comfort and privacy of your own home. No shoes, no shirts, no problem is the phrase that keeps circling in our minds.

The Black Raven

14471 NE 23rd Street—Choctaw

This Irish Pub is a gem—and we aren’t talking about a blarney stone. Situated in Choctaw, The Black Raven honors its Irish roots through traditional food and drinks that harken back to the highlands. Dishes like shepherd’s pie, salmon boxty and Irish bread pudding—forgive us as we drool—are a few of the wares featured at this local hot spot.  It is also, as the name notes, a pub. Their drink menu is extensive and has everything from an Irish Wolfhound cocktail to seasonal favorites like bottled Keinenkugel Snowdrift Vanilla to (of course) Guinness on tap. 

When it comes to cocktails we recommend the Irish Mule. This unique drink combines Jameson, ginger beer, bitters and a squeeze of lime creating a fresh, fruity drink that will knock your socks off. Enjoy it with some meat and potatoes and consider yourself a true Irish man or woman—at least for the night. 

DIY Drink

For a spin on The Black Raven’s Irish Mule, we recommend you compile the following ingredients: 1.5 oz of Irish Whiskey, cocktail bitters, one whole lime and 3 oz of the ginger beer of your choice. Mix together the ginger beer, whiskey and juice from half a lime. Pour over ice and top off with 2 splashes of cocktail bitters. Garnish with the other half of the lime, and if you’re feeling extra fancy, pour cocktail into a copper cup. Enjoy!

This recipe was found on Pretty Prudent. For more delicious recipes you can make yourself, visit prettyprudent.com.