Feelin' Punchy

Ok, I'm becoming totally and completely spoilt.  ANOTHER chance to put on a dress (this time a fringe-y 1920's inspired number) and some fishnet stockings and take on the TOWN.  This is what I was meant to do with my 20's (ahem...ok 30's)!  Maybe it's time to start incorporating photos...

Enough vanity, let's talk cocktails.  Because even though the Punch Room at the Ritz does come with a slightly pretentious entry process (you can't call ahead to make a reservation, but when you arrive they ask you if you have a reservation...um, ok?) it is worth the silliness.  In fact, it's worth a lot of hoops to get in there, because it is the BEST DAMN COCKTAIL I've ever had in Charlotte, North Carolina.  Well. Done. Bob.

We were fortunate (we being me and the incredibly handsome man who keeps making it a point to take me out and ensure I'm having fun) enough to be seated at the bar where we could watch the composition of and lust after cocktails that would not be ours. And while perusing the menu we sipped the complimentary brandy based punch (yes, Punch Room) that was just large enough to keep my mouth occupied and whet my appetite. Took me back to Asheville and the Thirsty Monk.  Total quality, care for ingredients, patience to put it together.  Why am I moving?

Bob introduced me to the Hanky Panky (go ahead, I giggled too) and this brilliant thing called Fernet Branca, which evidently I will have loads of in SF.  Gin, Fernet Branca infused with vanilla (only Bob does this), sweet vermouth (color!!!!!), and the most darling orange-peel-shaped-like-a-leaf-with-the-world's-tiniest-clothespin as a garnish. Ridiculous. Delicious. Perfection.  Go and challenge yourself to have one drink. Savor it. Commit it to memory. After all, it's the Ritz.

Ritz - 10
Cocktail - 10
Date - 10

^ has THAT ever happened before?