The Pinhook
Downtown Durham, NC
$8
The Pinhook has a new list of specialty drinks out, which means it was time to head out for a show! Not only did Aye Nako! and Dangerous Ponies give great shows—with impressively sparkly outfits to match—but the Point Break cocktail provided a smooth drink to relax my way into dancing. It’s made with Absolut Citron, Campari, orange juice, and club soda, and “balanced, extremely mellow, Keanu-free” were the tasting notes that sold me. I was surprised at how strongly it tasted of grapefruit on first sip, likely because the Campari was huddled at the bottom of the drink. After I mixed it up some, though, the Campari melded much better with the orange juice. Bitterness shifted into tartness with enough club soda to cut through it so it wasn’t overwhelming, just enjoyable.
I found the Point Break quite refreshing and balanced, though make sure you give it a stir before drinking.
Reviewed 5.29.11.
Most of my posts on nightlife feature a specific cocktail that I’ve enjoyed rather than focusing on the atmosphere of the bar, club, or wine bar that I’m patronizing. Largely, that’s because I care more about what’s in my glass than I do what’s playing on the speakers. However, I am far more likely to enjoy neighborhood dive bars and wine bars than I am a club or anywhere with loud music. I’ll still give the latter a try, and if the beverages are inventive and fun, I’ll be back no matter the soundtrack!