aperitifs...

...are now being served on the mezzanine. In a long ago, far away life, beautiful Kate would make this announcement over the intercom on Friday afternoons. Her voice was smooth and reassuring, like a flight attendant. We loved her fancy turn of phrase. She made us laugh. And then we enjoyed a cocktail together to end the work week. Happy hours are now a long ago memory, but it doesn't mean we can't enjoy a nice cocktail to start the weekend. Here are some recipes to consider.

Alberto's Cocktail - from the drink master at La Caravelle in New York City

1 1/2 ounces vodka

3 ounces champagne

3 fresh mint sprigs

1 ounce fresh lime juice

1/2 ounce simple syrup

Place the mint sprigs in a shaker and muddle until oils are released. Add the vodka, lime juice, simple syrup and plenty of cracked ice, and shake vigorously to combine, them strain into a water goblet or wine glass. Top with the champagne and serve.

For you tequila lovers, a departure from the margarita. The name is a bonus.

Bling Bling - from Cocktail Parties with a Twist - Alexandra and Eliot Angle

1 1/2 ounces tequila

1 1/2 ounces fresh grapefruit juice

ginger ale

lime wedge

Place tequila, grapefruit juice, and plenty of cracked ice in a shaker, and shake vigorously to combine. Strain thoroughly into an old fashioned glass filled with ice and top with ginger ale. Squeeze the lime wedge over the drink, toss it in, and serve.

Simple Syrup

Boil a cup of sugar in a cup of water and stir until dissolved. Let cool, decant into a glass container and keep refrigerated.

Enjoy your weekend.

photo by Heidi Schumann for The New York Times