B&O American Brasserie presents its Fall cocktail lineup

November 8, 2:06 PMBaltimore Drinks ExaminerMark Burlet

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You know... like the railroad?

So I finally made my way to the newest (as far as I know) addition to downtown's gastronomic landscape, B&O American Brasserie. Having heard nothing but praise for the food and the atmosphere since its introduction a couple months ago, I, of course, was more interested in assaulting the bar to take on their wide array of unique beverages. Joining a group of fellow alcohol adventurers (not saying they're alcoholics, as far as I know), we proceeded to sample the latest B&O had to offer and came away largely impressed... especially with the creativity and boldness of the drink selections. There is something to be said for going out on a limb, especially when it comes to the cocktail. While many will be happy with the same ole margarita or rum and coke, and as a result underwhelmed by a complex concoction featuring sake and fresh ginger, there are a few of us out there who enjoy the kind of variety a good mixologist can produce. And Head Bartender Brendan Dorr is certainly that.

Here is a quick rundown of the selection, including individual reviews and pictures:

• Caboose Cocktail
  Vanilla bean ice cream, Nux Alpina walnut liqueur, Godiva Chocolate Liqueur with dark chocolate shavings
  Very sweet and rich... like dessert in a glass. Not really my thing, but if you like chocolate, you can't go wrong here.
   
• Engineer’s Coffee
  3 shots of espresso with brandy, vanilla demerara sugar & Grand Marnier whipped cream
  Strong and flavorful, as you'd expect from triple espresso. One of these will likely keep you up all night, so take that into consideration... Very tasty for anyone (like myself) who enjoys a strong cup o' joe.
   
• Orient Express
  Sake, lychee and ginger root juice, lemon bitters, simple syrup
  My personal favorite. Extremely smooth with a nice spicy snap from the ginger. Definitely an innovation success story that I hope to re-read soon.
   
• Parfait Poire
  Absolut Pears, pear puree, fall spiced syrup, splash of champagne
  Again, I am not a sweet-drink drunk, but this was quite delicious. No more than one for me, but I have a feeling the ladies will go for this in a big way.
   
• Pom-Nectar Margarita
  Agave Tequila, Organic Agave nectar, pomegranate & fresh lime juices
  The flavors here are subtle, but it definitely gives a little twist to the traditional marg. Worth a couple tries if you're a fan of the margarita genre.
   

I seem to recall trying a couple others, including a pleasant cider-whiskey combo ("Washington's Nightcap", I believe) and an ambitious bourbon cocktail made with liquid smoke ("The Smokestack", or something similar) that was fairly disappointing. But overall, the reception was positive and the service quite attentive. I can't speak to the food, as that's not really my shtick (although the flatbreads we appetized were excellent), but I can recommend a beautifully appointed bar with plenty ambiance and tasty beverages for the post-office happy hour downtown. And maybe I'll make a return trip soon and see if the dinner menu is as successful.

Either way, I feel another Orient Express or three will make the trip worthwhile.

Hope to see you there!

Mark Burlet
Drunken Intellectual