If You Like Vodka Then You Will Love These Facts

Posted on September 30, 2022 by englishivys

From straight up shots to cocktails like vodka sodas, screwdrivers, Long Island iced teas, dirty martinis, and more, vodka is one of the most popular liquors ordered among bar patrons every year. If you are a vodka drinker, continue below to review some of the most interesting facts about vodka, including its noted health benefits, how to use it to clean your house, and some quick recipes that always hit the spot. Even if you don’t like vodka, these fascinating vodka facts might change your mind about keeping some on hand!

Vodka Drink Specials Downtown Indianapolis Indiana 317-822-5070

Facts About Vodka That Will Enhance Your Appreciation for the Spirit

Vodka is made by the distillation of plant matter that is rich in starch or sugar. Plant matter commonly includes various types of grains, such as corn, rye, and wheat, or other foodstuffs, like potatoes, grapes, and soybeans. Since its origin, it has been used in many applications other than beverages, including several health remedies, antiseptics, anesthetics, beauty aids, and even cleaning! That’s right; you can use vodka to clean around the house!

Vodka Can Be Used as a Multi-Purpose Cleaner

Vodka has a high alcohol content, usually between 30% and 40% by volume. This high alcohol content is what makes it an effective cleaning agent. Vodka can be used to clean all kinds of surfaces, such as countertops, plumbing, metal décor, art fixtures, windows, floors, mirrors, and even clothing. It effectively eliminates dirt, grime, mold, mildew, adhesives, grease, odors, and more.

To make your vodka cleaner, all you need is a clean plastic spray bottle and of course, some vodka. Any brand will do, even the cheap stuff! You will also need your conventional cleaning supplies, like rags, sponges, and rubber gloves. Fill the spray bottle up with your vodka of choice and get ready to clean!

Vodka Can Be Good For Your Health

Vodka can be used therapeutically or to treat minor ailments, from bad breath and dandruff, to headaches, toothaches, stress, and even fevers. If you look at its chemical makeup, you might better understand why it can be applied to certain health remedies and uses. Not only does its ethanol composition give vodka several useful properties, but it is also carbohydrate-free and sugar-free, which helps to support nutrition.

It is Simple to Make Your Own Flavored Vodka

You can take any vodka, top shelf or not, and infuse it with your own combination of flavors and essences. The process is so simple, it can be compared to making homemade lemonade! To get started, all you need is 750 ml of vodka (3 cups), your choice of produce, a strainer, and some mason jars. Just be sure to stay under 80 proof vodka so that the taste isn’t too strong or bitter. Use anything to infuse your vodka creation, from cucumbers and mint to ginger, lemon, fruits, honey, vegetables, herbs, and spices. The general rule of thumb, 2 cups of chopped fruit to every 3 cups of vodka.

Are you looking for a delicious and local vodka cocktail at a great price? Visit English Ivy’s Downtown Pub and Eatery to enjoy our Friday night drink specials in Downtown Indianapolis, including $4 Effen cocktails, $5 Kettle One cocktails, and $3 glasses of wine. Be sure to indulge in our daily food and drink specials too!

Best Bar Drinks to Order When Watching Your Calories

Posted on September 16, 2022 by englishivys

Just because you have responsible health and fitness goals doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice a good buzz! There are plenty of cocktails and beers you can order without feeling any guilt about ruining your diet! Continue below for some top recommended, low calorie and low carb bar drinks, plus where to get the best drink specials in Downtown Indy this weekend!

Best Drink Specials in Indianapolis 317-822-5070

Low Calorie Cocktails For Any Occasion

Here are some common bar drinks that run in a very low calorie range. Keep in mind that these caloric values can differ slightly depending on brand, flavor, mixer, garnishes, and more.

Cocktails (1.5 Ounces)

Rum and Diet – 97 Calories

Vodka and Soda w/Lime – 96 Calories

Wine Spritzer – 100 to 125 Calories

Classic Martini – 128 Calories

Wine (5 Ounces)

Champagne or Prosecco – 96 Calories

Rosé – 130 Calories

White Wine – 127 Calories

Red Wine – 125 Calories

Riesling – 128 Calories

Beer

White Claw – 100 Calories

Light Beer – 90 to 105 Calories

Corona Light – 99 Calories

Miller Lite – 96 Calories

Michelob ULTRA – 95 Calories

Yuengling Light Lager – 99 Calories

Tonic Water Versus Soda Water

Tonic water is a type of soda water, but it contains sugar; although just a smidge, it makes a big difference in taste. Tonic water can contain up to 30 grams of sugar in a 12 ounce serving. Seltzer water is simply plain soda water. Club soda, on the other hand, is soda water that contains a bit of sodium, usually salt, and sometimes a few other additives. But it does not contain any sugar.

Ready to enjoy some low calorie beer and cocktails this weekend? Visit English Ivy’s Downtown Pub and Eatery and order from our full bar and cocktail menu! We offer beer, wine, and liquor drink specials in Downtown Indianapolis every day of the week!

What to Do if You Have a Really Bad Hangover

Posted on August 25, 2022 by englishivys

So, you had a little more to drink than you intended to last night? Bad hangovers are the worst. A standard hangover can be tolerable, still allowing you to pull it together and eek your way through your daily obligations. But when you have a hangover from H-E-Double-Hockey-Sticks, it can feel impossible doing anything other than going back and forth to the bathroom. Fortunately, if you did in fact drink too much last night and today you feel like you are at death’s door, there are plenty of things you can do to alleviate your agony without even leaving your house!

Continue reading to learn some effective methods for curing a nasty hangover so you can get back to real life sooner than later!

Thirsty Thursday Specials Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070

Hangover Treatment 101

Have a nasty hangover? Don’t let it get in the way of your day! Try these remedies to quickly reduce the ailing effects of over-drinking from the night before:

Drink Several Glasses of Water

This is by far the most important and most effective method for treating a hangover. Your body is deprived of hydration right now and needs as much water as you can give it in a 24 hour period. Aim for one gallon of water. This is a sure way to flush out all those residual toxins and get your body back to a normal state.

In fact, if you feel like you’ve had too much to drink before going to bed, drink a few bottles of water to lessen the symptoms of a hangover the next morning. This truly works, especially if you are prone to headaches when hungover. If you are a coffee or tea drinker in the morning, limit your intake to one cup. Too much caffeine can enhance your hangover symptoms.

Eat As Soon As Possible

You likely did not eat as much as you should before drinking alcohol last night. So, with your water, you will need increase your blood sugar levels by filling your belly with something that will give you energy and absorb the digestive acids in your stomach, which can cause indigestion, upset stomach, and acid reflux. It should also help reduce the feeling of nausea and prevent you from vomiting.

When choosing something to eat, you’ll want to reach for the phone and dial a pizza or Chinese delivery service, but don’t. Try to eat something hearty and healthy if you want to feel better soon, like eggs, oatmeal, whole grain breads, deli meats, grilled fish, fresh vegetables, fruit, and whole wheat pasta are great choices.

Stay away from heavy creams, syrups, sugars, and grease. Highly processed foods and foods high in sugar will not make you feel better. They can actually prolong your hangover symptoms, like fatigue, headache, and upset stomach. You might just feel worse tomorrow if you spend all day consuming sugary frappuccinos, buttery cookies, and greasy fried foods.

Medicate Your Symptoms

If you are open to taking over-the-counter medication, consider taking Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen, and even an antacid to help alleviate your symptoms. This will help reduce body aches, headaches, and heartburn, and can even help settle an upset stomach. Never drink another alcoholic drink in the morning to alleviate your hangover. This will just prolong the inevitable. Try to not drink for a full 48 hours after curing your hangover too. This is the best way to get your body back on track after a night of drinking.

Are you looking for a Hair of the Dog? Or perhaps some delicious, hangover-worthy bites in Downtown Indianapolis? Come to English Ivy’s Pub and Eatery for our Thursday drink specials, including $5 Margaritas, $3.50 Corona Bottles, $3 Fireball, $5.35 Pitchers, $10 Beer Buckets. We also have a full bar that can make any cocktail you request!

You Might Be Drinking Your Beer the Wrong Way

Posted on June 23, 2022 by englishivys

You might be doing the whole “beer thing” wrong. So, if you are someone who likes to drink beer, then it is your duty to learn how to enjoy it the most. Review these tips to forever enhance your beer-drinking experiences. With so many styles, flavors, and brands of beer on the market, it can be quite the challenge choosing one to fit your mood. But with the right beer drinking knowledge, you can ensure that any beer you order or take home from the store will be a great-tasting brew. Understanding the proper ways to order, purchase, pour, and drink beer will immediately improve the way you enjoy the overall experience.

Continue below to learn if you’ve been drinking beer the wrong way all this time!

Beer Buckets and Corona Bottle Specials Indianapolis Indiana 317-822-5070

How to Buy the Best Beer

If you are not brewing your own beer, chances are you are procuring it from a local store or brewery. If this is the case, you need to be on alert and choose a quality product. First, avoid buying bottled beer that is old and covered in dust. So, it is not likely to have the best taste and mouth feel. Always check freshness and expiration dates on all beers, canned or bottled. More importantly, do not buy it if it is too close or passed the printed date.

If you have the choice of selecting beer from a refrigerated area or beer from a shelf, go with the refrigerated products. This is likely to have to the freshest dates and flavors. Although it goes without saying, never buy beer that has been sitting in the sun. Likewise, avoid leaving your beer in the sun unless it is iced and cooled properly.

Also, do not buy bottled beer that has solid debris, flakes, or floaters inside. This is an indication of a poor-quality product. It can also make you sick. If you are drinking beer from a growler, it is important to consume it before it goes flat. Once flat, the taste and quality become compromised. Enjoy your growler within the first day or two of opening.

How to Drink Your Best Beer Yet

Beer should be served at proper temperatures, which vary depending on the style of beer you are drinking, as well as your personal preference. The way you pour and serve your beer also influence your total beer enjoyment.

First and foremost, beers that are lighter in body and color should be served quite cold, between 40 and 44 degrees Fahrenheit. Darker beers should be served slighter warmer than lighter beers, between 44 to 48 degrees Fahrenheit. If you are drinking a high-octane beer, room temperature will uncover its best flavors.

It is best to drink beer from a glass. When poured into the glass, a lot of the CO2 is released, thus enhancing the aromatics. It also reduces your carbonation intake, which is easier on your belly. When drinking beer from a glass, always use a clean one. Any settled dust or invisible pollen can alter the overall experience and reduce foam faster.

When serving beer in a glass, try to use proper style, such as Pilsner glasses, Weissbier glasses, wine flutes, and brandy snifters. Although this is not incredibly important compared to the other tips mentioned above, it can bring your beer-drinking experience o the ultimate level.

When pouring beer into a glass, go for at least 2 fingers of head depth. A fuller head delivers a fuller aromatic bouquet. To get experience the aroma the most, be sure to take a sip before the head dissipates entirely.

Are you craving a cold frosty brew now? Just visit English Ivy’s Pub and Eatery in Downtown Indianapolis for all the best beers and bar specials in town! Join us Tuesdays for $2 domestics, Wednesdays for $3 Corona bottles, or Thursdays for $10 beer buckets!

6 Delicious Mule Cocktails and Where to Try Them in Downtown Indy

Posted on June 6, 2022 by englishivys

There’s just something about ginger beer and lime combo that really makes the traditional Mule cocktail so tempting. Well, they just got even better! There is more than one way to build a delicious Mule cocktail aside from the classic vodka ginger beer recipe.

Scroll down to learn 6 new Mule cocktails to add to your cock-tailing routine, plus where to get the best bar specials on Mules and more in Downtown Indianapolis!

Best Drink Specials Indianapolis 317-822-5070 — Best Drink Specials in Indianapolis 317-822-5070

Appreciate a Copper Mug

Most admirers of Mule cocktails insist that they taste crisper and more aromatic when served in a copper mug. This is likely due to the fact that the copper decreases the temperature of the drink, thus delivering consistent, chill-worthy sips from start to finish. It is also said that copper mugs create extra fizz and carbonation, which in turn enhances the core flavor of the ginger, citrus, and mint inside.

6 Tasty Mule Recipes to Try

All Mule recipes below call for 1.5 ounces of liquor and 4 ounces of ginger beer. Serve them on the rocks, over ice, in a copper mug. Finish them with a splash of lime juice, then garnish with fresh mint springs and a lime wedge!

Dutch Mule

The Dutch Mule is today’s Mule; a classic made better! In fact, the Dutch Mule is made specifically with Ketel One Vodka. Simply combine Ketel One vodka with ginger beer and a splash of lime juice to bring this cocktail to life!

Kentucky Mule

In Kentucky, Kentuckians love their bourbon, which is what this delicious Mule cocktail is built upon! The Kentucky Mule is made exclusively with Bulleit Bourbon, which hails from Lebanon, Kentucky! Follow the traditional recipe, combining Bulleit Bourbon with ginger beer and a splash of lime!

London Mule

If you are a lover of gin, the London Mule is for you. Featuring Bombay Sapphire Gin, the combination of the floral bouquets awakens all the senses! When you want elegance with a little kick, opt for the London Mule!

Irish Mule

When whiskey is what you want, go for the Irish Mule, made specifically with Jameson Irish Whiskey! This rich and crispy combination will delight your taste buds and have you craving more before the last sip! Pair your Irish Mule cocktail with some fish and chips!

Mexicali Mule

Want something that will deliver some instant arousal? Get your fiesta on with a Mexicali Mule, made exclusively with Espolòn Blanco Tequila! This is a delicious alternative to a margarita or Ranch water cocktail. Something magical happens when you combine Espolòn Blanco Tequila with ginger beer!

Dark & Stormy

Brooding? Or just bored? Perhaps you need to spice things up a bit with a Dark & Stormy Mule! This incredibly satisfying cocktail can only be made using Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, so you can see where it gets its name!

Craving a frosty copper mug filled with one of these exclusive and satisfying Mules? Visit English Ivy’s Downtown Pub and Eatery to enjoy our $6 Mule Mondays! We are also featuring ½ bottles of wine, $4 Effen vodka cocktails, and 50 cent wings! Be sure to check out our weekly specials, too!

Hooray for National Cocktail Day!

Posted on March 24, 2022 by englishivys

🎉🍹 March 24^th is National Cocktail Day! 🍹🎉 Let’s celebrate with some trending drink recipes, pairings, ideas, and fun facts!

Cocktail Specials Indianapolis Indiana 317-822-5070

Happy National Cocktail Day! Thirsty Thursday will never be the same after this year! We hope you are prepared to celebrate this fun and silly holiday with your loved ones! Didn’t have any plans before you knew about National Cocktail Day? Well, now you have a good excuse to go out! When you do, visit English Ivy’s Eatery and Pub for $5 margaritas, $3.50 Corona bottles, $3 Fireball, $5.35 pitchers, $10 beer buckets, and all the You-Call-It cocktails you love so much!

In the meantime, let’s take a closer look at National Cocktail Day, like who came up with the idea and what is stands for. Then you can check out some related blogs about your favorite drinks, drink recipes, pairings, alcohol quizzes, fun facts, and more!

National Cocktail Day is Today!

We can all thank holidaymaker Jace Shoemaker-Galloway for creating National Cocktail Day. It is basically a day to appreciate and enjoy your favorite cocktails and alcoholic drinks! So go on, enjoy them! Fun Fact, the most popular cocktail drink in the United States is the Margarita!

Origin of Cocktails in the United States

Before prohibition, the term cocktail wasn’t used a lot. There was mention of it in an 1803 edition magazine called The Famer’s Cabinet, and then again in a New York magazine in 1806. In 1917, a Missourian by the name of Clara Bell Walsh coined the phrase, cocktail party, after inviting over a large crowd of guests for drinks at noon and calling it so.

But once alcohol became illegal, cocktail concoctions were popping up all over the place. Back then, cocktails were traditionally made with a combination of spirits, sugar, bitters, and water. Today, the Manhattan, Sazerac, and Old Fashioned still carry on this traditional recipe base.

🍹🍹 Links You Will Like if You Like Cocktails:

QUENCH YOUR THIRST THIS SPRING WITH THESE BEER-BASED COCKTAILS

HOW TO MAKE A SPONTANEOUS COCKTAIL USING WHATEVER IS IN YOUR FRIDGE

THE 3 BASIC COCKTAILS AND HOW TO MAKE THEM

2 NEW TAKES ON THE TRADITIONAL OLD FASHIONED

3 TASTY WAYS TO ORDER A PATRÓN TEQUILA COCKTAIL

TONIC WATER VERSUS SODA WATER

DOES A MARGARITA TASTE BETTER WITH SILVER OR GOLD TEQUILA?

SUGGESTED HEALTH BENEFITS OF VODKA

EASY TIPS FOR INFUSING YOUR OWN VODKA

TIPS FOR USING VODKA AS A HOUSEHOLD CLEANER

ARE THERE ANY ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES THAT ARE KETO FRIENDLY?

TOP SUMMERTIME WHISKEY COCKTAILS FOR BARBECUE

EASY ICED TEA MOCKTAIL AND COCKTAIL RECIPES FOR SUMMER

WHERE DO COCKTAILS GET THEIR NAMES?

TOP 4 TIPS FOR A RESPONSIBLE NIGHT OF DRINKING

TEST YOUR ALCOHOL EXPERTISE WITH THIS FUN QUIZ!

Are you ready to get your cocktail on in Downtown Indianapolis? Come to English Ivy’s Pub and Eatery tonight for our Thursday drink specials, including $5 Margaritas, $3.50 Corona Bottles, $3 Fireball, $5.35 Pitchers, $10 Beer Buckets. We also have a full bar that can make any cocktail you request! We are located on N. Alabama Street and have both lot and street parking available. Place carryout orders at 317-822-5070, anytime!

Downtown Indianapolis Bar Restaurant — 317-822-5070

3 Tasty Ways to Order a Patrón Tequila Cocktail

Posted on March 9, 2022 by englishivys

When you crave a premium tequila cocktail, Patrón is what you order. Tonight, while out with friends and loved ones, change up your go-to margarita-like drink and opt for one of these 3 tasty Patrón tequila cocktails!

Tequila Drink Specials Downtown Indianapolis Indiana 317-822-5070

Patrón Tequila is a Top-Shelf Choice

You cannot go wrong with a Patrón tequila cocktail or margarita. Patrón is a highly-regarded, premium tequila available at almost every retailer or vendor that sells alcohol. It comes in different varieties, which includes Patrón Silver, Reposado, Añejo, Extra Añejo, and XO Café. Patrón also makes liqueurs like Patrón Citrónge Orange. If you are making cocktails, focus on Silver and Reposado. Añejo and Extra Añejo are best for sipping straight up. XO Café is great for martinis and coffee-based cocktails.

So, why is Patrón so great? It starts with zero additives and 100% agave. In between is a long and patient process of agave and piña harvesting, fermentation, distillation, and aging, which is still done in handmade barrels by the way. Without going into great detail, Patrón tequila is one of the finest of today. With each sip, you can expect to enjoy deep and complex flavors, followed by a smooth and balanced finishes.

So, the next time you are craving tequila, be sure to order yourself a Patrón cocktail! And if a margarita is not what you are in the mood for, try one (or all) of these 3 top-recommended Patrón-based cocktails, below!

3 Patrón Tequila Cocktails You Will Be Glad You Ordered

Palomita

You have surely heard of a Paloma, which is a grapefruit and tequila based cocktail that calls for a sugary lemon-lime soda. But if you are not interested in something to sweet, ask your bartender for a Palomita! Fresh and refreshing, this favored tequila cocktail is delicious and easy on the calories!

SERVE IN A HIGHBALL GLASS:
2 Ounces Patrón Silver
3 Ounces Grapefruit Juice
½ Ounce Lime Juice
Top With Soda Water
Garnish With a Citrus Wheel

Tequila Sunrise

No matter what time of day it is, you can enjoy yourself a delicious Tequila Sunrise! With only 3 simple and tasty ingredients, you can order this delightful tequila cocktail almost anywhere you go. You can easily make it at home too!

SERVE IN A HIGHBALL GLASS:
2 Ounces Patrón Silver
4 Ounces Orange Juice
¾ Ounces Grenadine Syrup (or maraschino cherry juice)
Garnish With an Orange Wedge and Maraschino Cherry

Patrón Silver Martini

When you want something with some pizazz and some class, a Patrón tequila martini might be in order. Shaken with ice and served up-style in a martini glass, this rare beauty of a tequila cocktail will have you feelings all the feels, and real fast!

SERVE IN A MARTINI GLASS:
2 Ounces Patrón Silver
½ Ounce Dry Vermouth
2 Tablespoons Grapefruit Juice
10 Dashes Orange Bitters (more if you like)
Garnish With a Sugar Rim or Citrus Twist

Like to Keep Things Simple?
Here are Some Recommended One-and-Done Mixers for Patrón Tequila:

▷ Coconut Water
▷ Pineapple Juice
▷ Orange Juice
▷ Cranberry Juice
▷ Mountain Dew
▷ Ginger Beer
▷ Ginger Ale
▷ Sprite
▷ Sparking Water
▷ Margarita Mix

If you aren’t craving a frothy Patrón cocktail by now, you might be made of stone! Visit English Ivy’s Downtown Pub and Eatery to enjoy our $7 Patron and $4 Margarita bar specials tonight! We are also featuring a Chef special and 50 cent wings!

Tips for Using Vodka as a Household Cleaner

Posted on February 16, 2022 by englishivys

What do Cosmopolitans, Dirty Martinis, Bloody Mary’s, Screwdrivers, Moscow Mules, Harvey Wallbangers, and White Russians all have in common? The answer we are looking for here is, VODKA! Vodka makes an excellent base liquor for many cocktails, as you may already know and admire, but have you ever thought about using it to clean?

Continue reading to learn how you can use an everyday, store-bought vodka to sterilize and clean several areas of your home!

Wednesday Vodka Drink Specials Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070

Vodka Has Always Been More Than a Drink

Vodka is a Suitable Cleaning Agent

Vodka has a high alcohol content; traditionally, 30 to 40% by volume. In fact, it is so high that it can be used as a cleaning agent for things like dirt, grime, mold, mildew, and more. The alcohol content works well as a sterilizer for all kinds of surfaces, such as countertops, fixtures, windows, floors, mirrors, and even clothing!

Cheap Vodka Works Just as Well

When it comes to choosing a vodka to clean your house with, there is no need to reach for the top shelf brands you prefer for your martinis and tonics. For cleaning and sterilization purposes, you can stick with a basic, generic brand of vodka. The quality of the liquor will not have any influence on its cleaning abilities, so reserve the good stuff for yourself. On the other hand, organic vodka comes highly recommended for the job.

How to Use Vodka to Clean and Sanitize:

What You Need – Get yourself a clean, plastic spray bottle and fill it with your choice of vodka.

Mold/Mildew – For mold and mildew, simply spray the vodka on the affected area and allow it to sit for 10 minutes. Then use a cleaning brush or sponge to scrub the mold and mildew away. Then just rinse the surface with clean water.

Stainless Steel/Plumbing Fixtures – To clean plumbing fixtures like faucets, drains, doorknobs, and more, just spray vodka onto a cloth or paper towel and use some good old-fashioned elbow grease to polish them up.

Glass/Mirrors – For mirrors, windows, and other glass surfaces, spray the solution onto the surface and then buff away the blemishes with a paper towel or bunched up newspaper. Then finish by polishing with a microfiber cloth to reveal a beautiful shine.

Clothing/Fabric – To refresh clothing without tossing them into the washing machine, dilute your vodka with water, and then mist the fabric with your solution. As it dries, the alcohol eliminates any residual odors, like smoke and grease, without leaving behind the smell of vodka. This is a great trick to refresh smelly work uniforms or aprons. It is better than store-bought fabric refresher spray because there are no harsh chemicals damaging the integrity of your clothing!

Stickers/Price Tags – To remove stickers and adhesives, just spray a solution of pure vodka directly onto the sticky area. Allow it to sit for a few minutes and then wipe the surface clean with a rag or melamine sponge (i.e. Mr. Clean Magic Eraser). Price tags and labels will no longer be a bother!

With all that vodka talk and vodka aroma, you might be craving a Cosmo or Vodka Martini right about now! Visit English Ivy’s Downtown Pub and Eatery to enjoy our Wednesday drink specials, including $5 Absolut cocktails and martinis, as well as $3 Effen vodka drinks! Be sure to check out our daily food specials, too!

Top 4 Tips for a Responsible Night of Drinking

Posted on January 31, 2022 by englishivys

It’s a fact that many adults like to go out, let loose, and enjoy a selection of delicious cocktails with friends and loved ones. Whether it is the end of a long work week, special celebratory occasion, or just another fun weekend with your crew, if you are planning to go out for drinks, be sure to do so responsibly. With good knowledge and best practices, you can enjoy as much celebratory drinking as you like, while also being sensible and safe. This can also help to mitigate those nasty hangover symptoms that we all dread.

Continue reading to learn the top 4 tips for a responsible night of drinking, including a bonus tip on where to get the best drink specials and downtown Indianapolis.

Bar Near Me Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070 — Bar and Restaurant Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070

Sensible and Healthy Ways to Enjoy Your Alcoholic Beverages

When you are preparing to grab drinks at your local bar or pub with your friends, these 4 tips will help you have a successful, fun, and safe experience:

Pay Attention to Alcohol Content

When drinking alcoholic beverages, it is important to understand that some cocktails and drinks have a lower alcohol content in them compared to others. For example, dark beers can have up to 12% alcohol in them, while light beers can have as low as 4 to 5% alcohol. This means drinking 4 pints of Guinness will have a higher effect on your blood alcohol level, then drinking for Miller Lights.

The same principle applies to liquor. Some liquors are lower proof than others, so it is important to pay attention to what you’re ordering and how much is being poured in that drink. For instance, 3 ounces of 190 proof Everclear, a pure grain alcohol, will have more of an effect on your blood alcohol level than 3 ounces of 40 proof vodka.

So, if you are drinking a cocktail or beverage that has a higher alcohol content in it, understand that you are basically drinking doubles, and the effect of alcohol will impact you much faster and stronger compared to a less-strong beverage.

Pace Yourself

Along with understanding the alcohol content in each beverage, it is important to take your time when drinking alcohol. Pace yourself by drinking glasses of water in between each alcoholic beverage, and by drinking slowly. Avoid taking shots if you can, although this is sometimes impossible. If you take shots, just be sure you are staying hydrated with plenty of water throughout the night.

Eat Something

Perhaps one of the most important tips for drinking responsibly is to ensure you are eating. Food plays an important role in keeping you satiated, while also giving your stomach something to absorb all the alcohol. If you have ever gone drinking without eating anything, you know that you wake up with a severe hangover and a lot of sickness. You also get drunk really fast, which can actually spoil the night because it can cause you to get sleepy or sick too soon. So, while you’re drinking with friends or loved ones, be sure to order appetizers and continue snacking, or eat a full meal at some point in the night.

Look Out for Others

Another critical tip for drinking with friends or loved ones is to look out for each other. If you notice that one of your friends is becoming too intoxicated to quickly, offer them some food or a glass of water. If someone does end up getting too intoxicated, be sure to help them home safely. It is also important to look out for each other in terms of being victimized. Keep your eyes on your drink at all times and keep an eye out for anyone trying to slip anything into your friends’ drinks.

As promised, we are going to give you a bonus tip on where to get the best drink specials, freshest cocktails, and quality bar menu selections in downtown Indianapolis. Visit English Ivy’s in Downtown Indianapolis for daily food and drink specials and more! Be sure to check out our weekly specials, too!

Cozy Winter Cocktails to Keep You Warm All Season Long

Posted on January 10, 2022 by englishivys

Wintertime is the perfect season in Indiana to snuggle up with all of your cozy favorites, like over-sized sweaters, knitted socks, chunky throw blankets, and steaming cups of coffee. Speaking of coffee, why not mix a little tequila in to really give you a warm winter buzz? Seriously! Warm winter cocktails are trending this season, and there are plenty to choose, making it easy to find one you’ll love.

Continue reading to learn some of the top cozy winter cocktails to keep you comfy and warm all season long, plus where to go to get the best drink specials in Downtown Indianapolis!

Cocktail Specials Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070

Hot Cocktails for the Winter Season

Traditionally, hot cocktails are made with liquors like bourbon, tequila, whiskey, scotch, and liqueurs like coffee, berry, cream, and chocolate. As for the bases, you can expect a lot of recipes to include hot tea, cocoa, and coffee. But as you explore recipes for hot winter cocktails, you can begin to customize your drinks with your favorite flavors and alcohols.

Here are some of the top cozy winter cocktails to try out:

Hot Toddy

Hot Toddy’s are one of the more traditional winter cocktails. These have been enjoyed for generations, and never seem to disappoint. They are very easy to make and even recommended as a cold remedy for sore throats, coughing, congestion, and chills.

You will need a ceramic or stemmed mug, as well as bourbon, fresh lemon, honey, water, and a cinnamon stick if you so choose. If you don’t have a cinnamon stick, you can simply use ground cinnamon. You can be extra festive by adding a star anise floater or even half a baked pear!

1 CUP OF WATER, HEATED
3 OUNCES BOURBON WHISKEY
1 LEMON WEDGE
2 TABLESPOONS HONEY
1 THIN LEMON SLICE
CINNAMON STICK (OR GROUND CINNAMON)

Heat 1 cup of water in the microwave it for 2 minutes. Be sure to use a glove to remove the cup because it may be very hot. Add the honey to your mug, then pour your hot water and bourbon in. Stir the concoction until the honey has dissolved, then squeeze in the juice of one lemon wedge. Toss in a lemon slice and cinnamon stick, or sprinkle cinnamon on top.

Spiked Rosemary Tea

Now here’s a winter cocktail you may not have heard of before. Try out this delicious, sweet, and oh-so-soothing spiked Rosemary tea with a hint of lemon! It is special because it includes Fernet, a complex Italian spirit that is bitter and aromatic. You will also need some strong black tea, like Earl Gray, and of course a coffee mug.

1 CUP FERNET-BRANCA
6 BAGS OF BLACK TEA
4 OUNCES ROSEMARY SIMPLE SYRUP
4 OUNCES LEMON JUICE
4 OUNCES HONEY

How To Make Rosemary Simple Syrup: In a 2 quart pot, add 1 cup of water, 2 cups of sugar, and 6 rosemary sprigs. Then cut up a lemon into wedges and squeeze the juice of each wedge into the pot. Then toss the squeezed wedges into the pot with all the other ingredients. Keep this concoction on low heat until it creates a thick syrup.

To make your cocktail, first begin with your tea. Once your tea has been brewed, add all ingredients into your mug and stir until well dissolved.

Oaxacan Coffee

South of the border, they really know how to make a tasty cozy cocktail. We are talking about this delicious Oaxacan coffee! This recipe makes a whole pot, so gather up some friends or family! You will need some strong, black espresso to start. Then just mix all ingredients together and garnish with cinnamon sticks and cloves. For an extra treat, top off your cup with whipped cream!

4 CUPS OF ESPRESSO
4 OUNCES TEQUILA, RESPOSADA
1.5 OUNCES MEZCAL
4 OUNCES AGAVE (SWEETEN TO TASTE)
6 CINNAMON STICKS
6 CLOVES

Are you looking for a great place in Downtown Indy to enjoy some warm winter cocktails and delicious meals? Visit English Ivy’s Downtown Pub and Eatery and enjoy brunch, lunch, dinner, and delicious drinks! Be sure to check out our weekly specials, too!