Heart of The House San Diego

What was the inspiration behind this fantastic dish, and how did you incorporate Jägermeister?

The inspiration behind this dish is entirely from Chef Andy and Chef Kevin, being native San Diegans. San Diego is a perfect culinary spot, not only because of the amazing weather but because it’s a diverse melting pot of cultures. Andy and Kevin love Latino and Asian flavors, so they wanted to honor both culinary styles by combining them into what San Diego is famous for…… the fish taco. They use a wonderful/local seafood company that provides the best local fish around. These past couple of years, local caught halibut has been thriving and has such a perfect fish for this dish. They wanted to create a taco that has an ideal combination of flavors and textures and utilize both Jägermeister and Jägermeister cold brew for a unique culinary experience.

What do you love the most about the city? 

San Diego. The best city on the planet. Chef Andy and Chef Kevin are part of a small group of people that were fortunate enough to be born and raised in this amazing city. San Diego is really a perfect place for a Chef. With such amazing weather, they can have an astonishing amount of fresh produce year around. Fresh fish, caught daily by local fishermen and amazing family-owned companies really give them such a great sense of community and support to be creative and inspired. San Diego has always had a laid-back attitude when it comes to everything, and they love it. The food scene has always been strong, and it’s just getting better and better each year. There are so many talented Chefs here and both Andy and Kevin all love and support each other. It’s the San Diego way.

The inspiration behind the cocktail creation.

San Diego is a transplant city where many people are passionate about different things. A bunch of flavors melts together, and you can find some of the most flavorful food if you know where to look. My inspiration for the cocktail was featuring the innovative coffee and ice cream shops you can find around the city (two of my favorite things). I chose Horchata as the beautiful rice-based Mexican drink that is beyond underrated. The Mexican culture has a massive influence on the San Diego culture, so featuring it in the cocktail is only fitting. This is my twist on the ever so growing popular espresso martini, which you can find in any bar putting its twist to stand out.

Cocktail Name: Scoop with a Kick

Recipe:

• 1.5 part Jägermeister Cold Brew

• 2 parts local Horchata-infused cold brew

• .5 part hazelnut cacao nib cordial

• .5 part Irish cream liquor,

• 1 spoon espresso ice cream,

• .25 part Benedictine

• crushed sugar ice cream cone rim

Tips and Tricks:

For the cordial: crush hazelnuts and cacao nibs and place them in a jar with neutral alcohol covering all the contents. Let the mixture sit, and the alcohol pulls all the flavors from the cacao and nuts. Taste and strain when you reach desired flavor. For rimming the glass, I suggest making Nutella syrup to get the sugar cone to stick to the rim of your martini glass.

What do you love most about your city?

San Diego is paradise. It’s central to everything, so a trip to wherever you feel like getting away for the weekend is just a car ride away. Los Angeles, Vegas, Scottsdale, the beautiful vineyards of Mexico, the beach, some of the most scenic hikes you can imagine, or a night out on the town in Gaslamp. The talent and passion in the bar industry can be found in any bar you walk in. San Diego can be broken up into little subsections, making it easier to find what kind of night you want to have. Pacific Beach has a younger crowd for the wild nights, and OB has the more relaxed, vibey crowd. Little Italy for the professional, more lively crowd and Gaslamp for a dressy night out. There’s a little something for everybody! If you want a slice of paradise, come to San Diego!

Let's Make It Together!