Let's talk about a trend that's making a comeback, and it's not just any trend - it's the boozy ice cream cocktail, a dessert drink that's taking Des Moines by storm. This isn't your average cocktail; it's a trip down memory lane, a nostalgic journey that's capturing the hearts and palates of locals and visitors alike.
A Taste of Nostalgia
The frozen supper club cocktail, once a staple of Midwestern nights out, is experiencing a revival. Think about it - the Grasshopper, a refreshing minty treat; the Brandy Alexander, a sophisticated and velvety delight; and the Pink Squirrel, a playful pink cocktail with a unique twist. These drinks are more than just a combination of ingredients; they're a celebration, a way to cap off special occasions or simply enjoy a moment of indulgence.
The Revival: Johnny's Italian Steakhouse
Johnny's Italian Steakhouse is at the forefront of this revival, offering a full menu of boozy ice cream cocktails that will transport you back to the Rat Pack era. Their Golden Cadillac, a creamy classic invented in the '50s, is a standout. It's a rich, smooth experience, a true indulgence that feels like a journey through time. But it's not just about the Golden Cadillac; Johnny's has curated a lineup that pays homage to the golden age of dessert cocktails, with each drink telling a story of its own.
Original Charm: Jesse's Embers
While Johnny's offers a polished take on this trend, Jesse's Embers keeps it old school. This supper club is a true embodiment of the Midwestern tradition, serving ice cream cocktails as the perfect finale to a steak dinner. It's a small, intimate setting where you can sit at the bar, enjoy a classic Brandy Alexander or Grasshopper, and feel like you're part of a long-standing tradition.
Playful Twist: Zombie Burger + Bird
For a more modern and playful interpretation, Zombie Burger's Drink Lab offers a unique twist. They take their milkshakes and transform them into spiked, adult-only versions. The Zombie Unicorn, with its Frooty Pebbles and Tequila Rose, or the Human Centipede, with its vanilla, peach, and vanilla liqueur, are not just cocktails; they're an experience, a dessert-cocktail hybrid that's perfect for those who want something fun and unexpected.
A Deeper Look
What makes this trend so fascinating is its ability to evoke nostalgia while also offering something new. It's a blend of the past and the present, a way to connect with a bygone era while still appealing to modern tastes. These cocktails are not just drinks; they're a cultural phenomenon, a way to experience a piece of history through taste and atmosphere.
In my opinion, this revival is a testament to the power of food and drink to transport us, to evoke emotions, and to create memories. It's a reminder that sometimes, the simplest pleasures - like a creamy, boozy cocktail - can bring us the most joy.
So, the next time you're in Des Moines, raise a glass (or a cocktail spoon) to this delightful trend and toast to the metro's love for a good time.
