When Zeke's BBQ opened a couple weeks ago on Nine Mile Road in Ferndale, it was obvious that the place was going to be popular. Business was so good, they ran out of food during their first week, but recovered quickly. Paled, just one of their all-star bartenders, says the first few days were crazy, but when we stopped in last week, it seemed under control. It was only 6:30 on a Wednesday night (after a record-breaking snowstorm, might we add) and we couldn't get a seat at the bar. Seems this is the new after-work go-to in Ferndale.
Despite the crowd, Paled whipped us up a jalapenofest, a cocktail she says has been popular in Zeke's first few weeks. It's made with Tito's Handmade Vodka and it's very boozy, so you can expect a kick from both the peppers and the liquor.
Zeke's other alcoholic offerings include a vanilla julep, a Ginger Jack, a Rosetta, and something called a Sunshine, but Paled says their cocktail menu is majorly subject to change. Sounds like you'll have to stop in regularly to keep up with their new offerings.
Jalapenofest
2 ounces Tito's
Handmade Vodka
Half teaspoon diced roasted jalapeno (de-ribbed and de-seeded)
2 lime wedges
1 sugar cube
Splash soda water
In a rocks glass, squeeze the juice of one lime wedge, muddle lime juice with sugar cube and jalapeno. Top with ice, vodka, and a splash of soda water. Garnish with remaining lime wedge.
