As Negroni Week (September 16-22, 2024) approaches, three of British Columbia’s premier dining establishments are ready to impress with their unique takes on this beloved cocktail. From Whistler to Vancouver to Tofino, Wild Blue Restaurant, ARC Restaurant at Fairmont Waterfront, and Ombré Restaurant are offering special Negronis that reflect their regions’ distinct flavours and personalities. Here’s a peek at what each has crafted for the occasion.
WILD BLUE RESTAURANT, WHISTLER BC
Negroni Giapponese
Created by Wild Blue Bar Manager Zack Lavoie, the Negroni Giapponese is a bold fusion of East and West, featuring Brew Creek Farm shiso, Campari, gin, sake vermouth, and cucumber. Known for his innovative approach, Zack brings his award-winning cocktail expertise to this creation, following Wild Blue’s success with the Negroni Peloni, which won Air Canada enRoute’s 2023 Cocktail of the Year. The Negroni Giapponese brings a refreshing Japanese twist to the traditional Italian aperitivo.
ARC RESTAURANT AT FAIRMONT WATERFRONT, VANCOUVER BC
The Tempest
At Fairmont Waterfront’s ARC Restaurant, the Negroni takes on a coastal flair with “The Tempest,” a cocktail that channels the power and beauty of the ocean. Crafted with signature Waterfront Gin, oyster shell and sea asparagus-infused dry vermouth, Amaro Chiaro, and topped with Campari pearls, The Tempest is a tribute to Vancouver’s coastal tides. This briny, herbaceous twist evokes the rich sea air, making it a perfect pairing for seafood or simply a moment of contemplation.
OMBRÉ RESTAURANT, TOFINO BC
Ombré Restaurant in Tofino, the community’s newest culinary destination, is embracing Negroni Week with not just one, but four creative variations of the classic drink. Each cocktail offers its own distinct flavour profile, reflecting the adventurous spirit of Tofino’s vibrant culinary scene.
Taormina Negroni
A refreshing take with cantaloupe-infused gin, Select Aperitivo, Cinzano dry vermouth, and orange bitters, this Negroni is garnished with a thin half-circle of orange for a bright, fruity finish.
Milano Negroni
For a summery twist, the Milano features watermelon Campari, Esquimalt sweet vermouth, and a hint of mint syrup, topped with Prosecco. This sparkling version is a perfect balance of sweetness and sophistication.
Rimini Negroni
This bold creation combines Beefeater, Lillet, Martini Bianco, and an orange-rosemary syrup with a touch of bitters, offering a richly aromatic cocktail with depth and complexity.
Amalfi Negroni
An ode to the Amalfi Coast, this version features Malfy Gin, Cinzano dry vermouth, Select Aperitivo, and Peychaud’s bitters, finished with a twist of lemon zest for a zesty, slightly bitter finish that transports you to the Mediterranean.
For more details and to make a reservation, visit their respective websites or the official Negroni Week website at negroniweek.com.