Cocktail Recipe: Peace in the Middle East

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Photographs by Megan Dekok

A ROSE SYRUP-INFUSED ELIXIR

Nik Santches of Rock City Eatery in Hamtramck knows what’s up when it comes to pie and mac and cheese, (served in a Parmesan bowl!). He also makes super-unique cocktails. Inspired by his familiarity with Middle Eastern Jewish culture, he invented a lovely elixir. Since Hamtramck is also rich with Yemen culture, he decided to use ingredients from its cuisine. Says Santches: “The name comes from the ultimate dream for there to actually be peace in the Middle East.”

This drink is perfectly tart and bright red from the rose syrup. I’d take a dozen of these over a bouquet any day. ($4)

INGREDIENTS:

1 ½ ounces vodka
1 ½ ounces date syrup
½ ounce pomegranate molasses
½ ounce rose syrup
½ ounce lemon juice

DIRECTIONS:

Shake vigorously and pour over ice. Top with a lemon wheel and cherry.

Enjoy!