After USA TODAY named Potential New Boyfriend one of its 38 USA TODAY Bars of the Year for 2026, we knew we'd want to celebrate with a cocktail.
So we asked for a recipe.
The bar — which mixes the best elements to concoct the best social and tasting experience, as a music listening lounge and dessert and wine bar — created The Café Rosso as a wine-based take on the Espresso Martini.
Buy the Book! Potential New Boyfriend featured in 'Shake & Sip: Recipes from America's Best Bars'
The recipe was a staff collaboration to remedy guests' request for Espresso Martinis at the bar that only stocks wine. The riff was an instant hit.
Now not only can patrons take home pints of Potential New Boyfriend's in-house-made artisan ice cream, but, in a few easy steps,
they can pair it with one of its menu bestsellers.
Café Rosso
The recipe allows for it to be made for a party of one or multiply the ingredients to make a batch to wow the crowd at your at-home kickback.
1 ounce espresso
1 1/2 ounce Delinquente Bizzarro Aperitivo
1 1/2 ounce Berto Rosso sweet vermouth
2-3 dashes bitters
Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with cubed ice and shake vigorously. Strain into a rocks glass, then garnish with a thick orange peel slice.
Makes one serving.
Tiana Kennell is the food and dining reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Co., covering the food and beverage industry, including the James Beard Awards, Michelin Guide, restaurant openings, closings and other hospitality industry news and events.
Tips, comments, questions? Email tkennell@citizentimes.com or follow @PrincessOfPage on Instagram. Sign up for AVL Bites and Brews, our weekly food and drink newsletter here.
This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Make the espresso martini riff from Potential New Boyfriend at home
