The Cat’s Meow

By Natalie Bovis-Nelsen (AKA: TheLiquidMuse.com)

Photography by Moshe Zusman

Just when you thought dining in downtown D.C. couldn’t get any more fun, SEI opened its doors. Creative sushi rolls and modern Japanese cuisine are washed down with cool drinks ranging from a Japanese whiskey sour to a variety of sake cocktails. Sommelier Andrew Stover, who also oversees the sake list, says that this drink is a playful tribute to that cute little Asian feline who has delighted fans for decades.

Hello Kitty
1 1/2 ounces citrus vodka          
1 1/2 ounces Strawberry Calpico (a Japanese dry milk-based drink)
1/2 ounce regular flavor Calpico concentrate
1/2 ounce strawberry liqueur
1/2 ounce lime juice
Splash strawberry soda

Shake all ingredients, except strawberry soda, with ice. Strain into ice-filled glass. Top with soda and garnish with a flower.

(March 2009)

Tags: calpico, cocktail, strawberry, vodka