The best in Washington, DC things to do, entertainment, nightlife, culture, arts, fashion and more.

Buzzed: Love-inspired Cocktails

By Kate Nerenberg , Jasmine Touton

Buzzed is a feature where we scout out Washington’s most interesting drinks. This week, a love-inspired set of cocktails at Cafe Soleil.

Cafe Soleil's chocolate raspberry cocktail.

Cafe Soleil's chocolate raspberry cocktail.

The spot: Cafe Soleil

The drinks: A chocolate-, fruit-, and love-inspired February cocktail lineup

The price: $10

Orange Crème

First impression: The mellow tangerine-colored martini comes complete with froth, promising a smoothielike experience. The initial sip, however, dashes all hopes of an Orange Julius-style thirst-quenching—the Smirnoff orange vodka and Godiva white-chocolate liqueur come on a bit too strong in the first wave of flavor. Grand Marnier follows close behind. Despite its fluffy appearance, this drink is by no means soft.

Last impression: This upscale version of a screwdriver grows on you. The light, bubbly froth—made with real orange juice and cream—provides a necessary tang to counteract the liquor.

Grade: B+

Chocolate-Covered Cherry

First impression: This deep, mahogany-purple drink gives off a sweet aroma and looks sort of like children’s cough syrup. But no need to close your eyes and hold your breath with your first swallow—you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

Last impression: The drink—Godiva dark-chocolate liqueur and amaretto with a hint of cherry flavor—isn’t too heavy or sweet, despite its ingredients. A giant glass is probably too much for the taste buds, but to share with a Valentine or sweetheart? Could be the cherry to top off the perfect date.

Grade: B

Chocolate Raspberry

First impression: Don’t let the Yoo-hoo color fool you; as soon as you catch a whiff, you’ll realize this isn’t just any chocolate milk. With Baileys Irish Cream and Godiva Dark, the cocktail is a creamy upgrade from that lunchtime drink. Sweetened with Smirnoff Raspberry, it’s initially hard to put down.

Last impression: We love the classic chocolate-rasberry combination, but the cocktail begs for something original. A few sips in, it really is rather boring.

Grade: B

Strawberry Shortcake

First impression: The ingredient list—Smirnoff Vanilla and Raspberry, amaretto, Baileys, and strawberry purée—looks promising. This martini, however, will shock you (and not in a good way) with its screaming-pink color and an overwhelmingly sweet smell. The first sip might be just enough.

Last impression: Drinking liquid cotton candy is just too sweet, even on Valentine’s Day.

Grade: D+

Post a comment

Feel free to leave a comment or ask a question. Because of the prevalence of spam, we ask that you fill out the code in the image below to help us eliminate spam comments. By posting here, you affirm that you are 13 years of age or older. Washingtonian.com reserves the right to remove or edit content once posted.

Find A ...
Find A Restaurant







  1. Only show Delivery
    Only show Kid Friendly
    Only show Late Night
    Only show Party Space
    Only show Weekend Brunch
Find Events




Find A Happy Hour





  1. search_finda.gif
Find A Spa




  1. search_finda.gif
Find a Home





  1. search_finda.gif
  2. Powered by  
Find A Hotel


  1.   


  2. Reviewed by Washingtonian
  3. Kid Friendly     Valet Parking
    Handicap Accessible    

  4. Childcare
    WiFi
    Pet Friendly
    Bar/Lounge/Dining
    Airport Shuttle
    Salon/Spa
    Swimming Pool
    Fitness Room
    On-site Drycleaning
    Meeting Rooms
    Golf
    Tennis Courts
    Game Room
  5. search_finda.gif
Newsletter Signup
  1. Where & When
  2. Shop Around
  3. Dining Out
  4. Bridal Party
  5. Kliman Online
  6. Learn more sign_up.gif
 

Attack on the Street: What's Your Hidden Talent?

For this week's edition of Attack on the Street, we wanted to know: What special talent do you have? more

Find A Happy Hour