How much do you know about the history of St. Patrick’s Day? Did you know that March 17 is the traditional death date of Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland? Did you know that St. Patrick’s Day was made an official Christian feast day in the 17th century to commemorate Saint Patrick and the arrival of Christianity in Ireland? Did you also know that, for one day only, the Lenten restrictions on drinking alcohol were lifted for the festival of Patrick?
It’s no wonder St. Patrick’s Day has become synonymous with drinking. But not just any old drink will do. Today people will consume more than 13 million glasses of Guinness around the world. But if you’re like me and don’t like beer (and green beer? Forget about it) there are other festival alternatives to sip on in celebration of good old Saint Patrick. Here are a few favorites from around Roanoke.
Lucky’s The Flanary
- 1.5 ounce Tullamore Dew
- 0.75 ounce Green Chartreuse
- 0.75 ounce simple syrup
- 0.5 ounce fresh lemon juice
- 1 egg white
Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously for 45 seconds. Strain into a chilled champagne coupe. Garnish with 4 drops angostura bitters and a twist of lemon.
18 Kirk Ave. SW, Roanoke
540-982-1249
River and Rail’s Grasshopper
- 1 ounce Amarula cream liqeur
- 1 ounce crème de menthe
- 1 ounce cream
Shake, strain. Optional garnish with fresh mint and shaved white chocolate.
2201 Crystal Spring Ave. SW, Roanoke
540-400-6830
