Laura Mendoza has been in the business of making drinks for a while now. She's worked at Ann Arbor's Vinology and The Black Pearl and Detroit's Rattlesnake Club. She also tended bar in Chile, where she lived for seven years. In fact, the leather-clad drink slinger is half-Chilean and has dual citizenship.
Now settled in Detroit, Mendoza has recently taken a gig at Ferndale's brand new cigar bar and craft cocktail lounge, Secreto. They've been open for about two and a half months, but haven't yet celebrated their grand opening. Mendoza says once they get their kitchen up and running, they'll be throwing a shindig to celebrate the new operation.
The swanky, but relaxed environs offer something for everyone, whether you're a stogie aficionado or just happen to be married to one.
"We get everyone in here," says Mendoza. "Hipsters, old cats, black, white, Asian – it's very diverse. We cater to everyone. You don't have to be from a certain demographic."
Proud of her heritage, Mendoza whipped us up a cocktail that's derived from her native Chile. A take on the Pisco Sour, the Cabresto Sour switches out Chile's national liquor for the Detroit-owned tequila brand. The cocktail isn't on the drink menu yet, but it will be soon. So for now, guests just have to ask for it by name.
When Mendoza isn't crafting cocktails at Secreto, she's practicing or performing with her band, White Shag. The rockers have been together for about two years and will perform at the Loving Touch on Thursday, Oct. 23 with Fort Worth's The Phuss.
Drink Recipe: "Cabresto Sour"
2 oz Cabresto Reposado
Quarter ounce lime juice
Quarter ounce lemon juice
Half ounce simple syrup
1 egg white
Scoop of ice
Blend fully in blender. Pour in glass with sugar rim and garnish with lemon and lime. Let drink sit until separated, then serve.
