5 coffee cocktails to sip when that espresso martini feels a little stale
![Craft illy Coffee cocktails at Le Meridien St. Louis Clayton, photo provided by Le Meridien St. Louis Clayton Craft illy Coffee cocktails at Le Meridien St. Louis Clayton, photo provided by Le Meridien St. Louis Clayton](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/dd5949c601c5777f38979227f74773b59e0a0f8086257856c7779ac21ec0c587.jpg)
From the local bar to even one of the world’s largest cruise ships, coffee is taking over the cocktail shaker. While it seems like everyone is sipping that espresso martini, it does not have to be the only beverage in the glass. These five craft coffee cocktails perk up not only the tastebuds but also the direction that mixology is going.
Over the years, coffee has become more than just the sip to start the day. From that smooth cold brew that satisfies when the afternoon drags on to the taste to enjoy an enjoyable meal, coffee can be enjoyed morning, noon, and night.
The rise of the espresso martini has filled many a cocktail glass. While not all versions are the same, the spike in recent popularity has everyone taking that sip. Still, there are other ways to bring coffee to cocktail hour.
Le Meridien St. Louis Clayton has partnered with illy to offer craft coffee cocktails at its Café la Vie. Available through the end of the year, these sultry sippers showcase the versatile that a great coffee cocktail offers.
According to General Manager, Andrew Hargis, “Staying true to our European roots, we view our illy coffee experience as a vehicle to savor the moment. That’s why we’re partnering with the illy brand to give hotel guests and St. Louis locals an opportunity to enjoy high quality coffee in a new and adventurous way. And given the hotel’s central location, it makes Café la Vie an ideal spot for happy hour after work or dinner with friends, and we hope this new collaboration with illy allows guests to experience connections in a chic and inviting setting.”
The specialty coffee cocktails include: Lamponi Ginger Beer Cold Brew, Cherry Vanilla Cocktail, Amore, Bourbon Cherry Caffe, and Spritz Cold Brew. Whether made with illy cold brew, espresso or a Caffe Latte, the complexity of the coffee is contrasted with the liquor and its other flavors.
From the sweetness of a dessert slant cocktail like the Cherry Vanilla cocktail to the effervescent and zesty Spritz Cold Brew with flavors of elderberry and prosecco, there is a libation for any craving or moment.
And, cocktail hour isn’t the only time where the illy coffee shines. From illy coffee makers in guestrooms and specialty coffee drinks at the Café la Vie’s Gourmet Coffee Bar, there is no shortage of opportunities to enjoy the experience, taste and art of a perfect cup of coffee.
Ready to sip on these craft coffee cocktails? Do you step outside of your favorite beverage when you travel?