Like just about everybody who does anything in Detroit, Danielle Mayo doesn't have what might be referred to as a "formal education." She's been working in bars for the past 10 years, learning and honing her skills in the field, rather than in a classroom. You might recognize her from the Town Pump Tavern, where she worked for the better part of seven years, but she recently made the switch back to J's Bar and Grill, the place she cut her teeth serving drinks a decade ago.
The bar is in the midst of a bit of an overhaul, and Mayo is working to change up the menu and make the bar more of a community hangout. J's is a sports bar at heart, with wall-to-wall TVs to prove it, but she says she wants wives and girlfriends to feel just as comfortable here as one of the guys. Her goal is the make it "everybody's bar," and part of that involves serving something for everyone.
Part of the changes will include a curated cocktail menu that will add to J's offerings. Mayo admits that right now, it's more of a shot-and-a-beer bar, but she's hoping to change all that. She mixed us up an Absolut Hibiskus, which is just one of the cocktails to come. This drink is fruity and refreshing, perfect if you're starting out early. Hit J's up over the next few months to see the rest of what Mayo has come up with.
Drink Recipe - "Absolut Hibiskus "
1-1/3 ounces of Absolut Hibiskus Vodka
2/3 ounces ginger brandy
Fresh squeezed orange
Splash of lemonade
Shake with ice and strain. Pour in a martini glass with a lemon peel for garnish.
