by partysugar 9

The best thing about hosting your half birthday party — or any party — at a bar is that you don't have to worry about the drinks! My soirée is at Rye — a bar that specializes in classic cocktails made with fresh and fabulous ingredients. Guests can choose and order what they feel like drinking. Rye offers specialty cocktails, wine, and beer.

I will most likely drink their basil gimlet at the happy hour. A lovely blend of fresh basil and lime, this is a refreshingly light cocktail. To see how it's made, read more.

From Rye in San Francisco

Basil Gimlet

Ingredients

5 basil leaves
1 medium lime
1/2 ounce Simple Syrup
2 1/2 ounces vodka or gin

Directions

1. Place five basil leaves in a mixing glass. Squeeze the lime into the glass. Press down on the leaves with a muddler and twist 4 to 5 times.
2. Fill glass three-quarters of the way with ice cubes. Add the simple syrup and vodka or gin.
3. Give the glass a good shake and strain into a cocktail glass. Float a piece of the muddled basil on the top as a garnish.

Makes 1 drink.

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