Forget About Drinking Alone — Sip This Romantic Cocktail for Two

Remember the classic spaghetti scene from Lady and The Tramp? (Hint — it involves two smitten pooches and one plate of pasta and meatballs.) With that sharing sentiment in mind, Moses Laboy of Bottle & Bine (1085 2nd Avenue; 212-888-7405) created a Valentine’s Day cocktail intended to encourage public canoodling.

Laboy’s drink for two, which he calls the “Get Lucky”, employs vodka as the base. While other spirits like bourbon, rye, and mescal can be acquired tastes, vodka is the ultimate neutral. The bartender adds Cherry Heering for sweetness (and a romantic red hue), fresh lemon juice, ginger liqueur, and orange bitters for a little bite.

“I take my cues from the kitchen; I always have,” Laboy says. And the drink features another special touch —  an ice cube with a loving message inside, which is slowly revealed as the ice melts.

Laboy is also making a version of the cocktail with gin, for drinkers who want to spice up the night a little more.

Get Lucky by Moses Laboy
1 1/2 ounces Domaine de Canton ginger liqueur
1 ounce vodka
3/4 ounce fresh lemon juice
1/2 ounce Cherry Heering
4 dashes Regan’s orange bitters
Ice

Write a Valentine’s Day message on a strip of paper, laminate the paper, and put in an ice cube tray. Cover with water and freeze.

Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice. Shake vigorously until cold and double strain over two ice cubes. Serve in a glass big enough for two straws.