By Nanette Wiser
HOCKEY HOORAY Going to a Lightning game just got tastier with the introduction of sensational sips including Copper Cane Wine- Section 206, Cutwater Spirits-Section 306 and Cigar City Brewing’s local crafts throughout the arena. Connoisseurs can sip Casamigos Tequila, Jack Daniel’s® Tennessee Whiskey, 6 O’Clock Gin, Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey, New Amsterdam Vodka, and limited release mezcals, whiskies and bourbons can be savored at various bars throughout the arena. As a post-game destination, the Budweiser Biergarten on the terrace level provides stunning views of the Tampa skyline, while the Corona Cantina and Cigar City Brewing Taproom Downtown on Ford Thunder Alley offer the perfect atmosphere to celebrate Lightning victories. AI tech debuts with the TendedBar experience at the Tampa Bay Club (Section 209). This Florida-based marvel utilizes facial recognition and automation to serve up fan-favorite mixed drinks with lightning speed and precision. Fans can enjoy their beverages hassle-free, thanks to this pioneering technology. New eats include Lolis Tacos and Bull Market.
HOLIDAY PARTY HOTSPOTS At 3 Daughters Brewing DTSP, The Nook is their new conference/party room: email jacki@
3dbrewing.com for more info. Other great holiday party locations include Mastry’s Brewing/The Kitchen, Sea Dog Brewing Co., Stan’s Epicurean, Elizabeth’s Wine Bar, Slyce Pizza, The Emporium/Coffee Mill, Sea Salt St. Pete, The James Museum and more. For catering, Bayou Catering & Market serve up sensational food and many cuisines, including breakfast and Cajun Mardi Gras.
FRIENDSGIVING COCKTAILS Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or pre-Sanding Ovations get together, create a signature trending cocktail for your guests such as a Pumpkin Pie Martini, Cranberry Moscow Mule or Margarita, Apple Cider Old-Fashioned or Hot Toddy. For a gang, mulled wine with fragrant fall spices is delightful. For the beer lovers, Shipyard Pumpkin Ale or any craft pumpkin brew pairs well with football.
Apple Cider Prosecco Spritz In a champagne flute or wine glass, 1oz. vodka, 4 oz. apple cider and top off with Prosecco, then garnish with an apple slice.
Apple Cider Sangria Two cups apple cider, 1 cup apple brandy, 1 750 ml. bottle chilled dry white wine, 1 juice from a fresh lemon, 3 thinly sliced apples, 12 oz. bottle ginger ale. Combine everything but the ginger ale and refrigerate for at least four hours, pour in ginger ale and serve over ice.
