Cinco de Mayo calls for a margarita or two. For the Kentucky Derby, a mint julep is traditional.
That both fall on Saturday, May 5, may not pose a problem. Montrio bartender Anthony Vitacca says an overwhelming majority of bar patrons prefer the brisk margarita. He expects only a couple of mint julep orders to interrupt the tequila-lime revelry.
Yet there is a reason to consider the southern classic. Smoky bourbon wafts through each sip, the snarl of alcohol calmed by simple syrup. It’s a relaxing drink, made for warm afternoons, charmed by a fresh breeze of mint.
By comparison, the margarita is brash, with vibrant fruit and an earthy spirit. The classic form, involves a reposado tequila, Cointreau – “there is no substitute,” Vitacca says – and fresh-squeezed lime juice.
“People try to complicate them,” says Vitacca. He plans to keep it classic.
MONTRIO BISTRO 414 Calle Principal, Monterey. 242-1151, montrio.com
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