It’s almost New Year’s Eve which means it’s time to start thinking about some fun cocktails.  HiB’s good friend Tim Monaghan is quite the bartender, and he’s compiled a list of his three favorite festive drinks, which he demonstrates in this holiday special. One very cool thing is that so many of these liquors are being produced locally these days. Tim uses Breuckelen Gin, made right here in this fine borough.  Ask your local liquor store if they have anything made locally. From Absinthe to Vodka, you’re bound to find something artisanal. 

On a more somber note, shortly after filming this episode, Tim suffered a serioush head injury, and he is still in intensive care.  His family and friends have set up a fund to help contribute to his growing medical expenses.  Please visit Tim’s Fund Page and donate whatever you can.  Every little bit helps for Tim’s faster and complete recovery.  

Here’s the episode, with the recipes to follow.  Have a happy and safe New Year!

COCKTAIL RECIPES COURTESY OF TIM MONAGHAN:

French 75 

• 1 tsp sugar
• 3/4 oz lemon juice 
• 1 1/2 oz gin
• Champagne for topping 

In your shaker, combine sugar, lemon juice, and gin.  Top with ice, shake until your shaker is frosty, and pour into a champagne glass.  Top with champagne. 

*Party Tip: You can batch this for a large party by combining the same ratios of sugar, lemon juice and gin stirred vigorously in a pitcher.  Just make sure to top each glass with champagne separately as they’re served. 

Philadelphia Fish House Punch 

• 2 lemon peels
• 1 heaping tsp sugar
• 3/4 oz lemon juice 
• 1 oz Jamaica Rum 
• 1 oz Apple Jack 

Muddle the lemon peels and sugar in the bottom of your shaker to release the oils in the lemon.  Add lemon juice, rum, and apple jack.  Give it a good shake, pour and serve. 

*Party Tip: Batch this for a large party in a punch bowl!  Festive and easy. 

Tim’s Gin Toddy 

• 1/2 sprig rosemary
• 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/2 oz lemon juice
• 3/4 ounce honey syrup 
• 1 1/2 oz gin
• 4-5 oz hot water

*Perfect for a cozy New Years at home with your sweetie. Especially with this weather!