www.montereycountynow.com MARCH 5-11, 2026 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY 39 CHILL There’s something to be said about following directions. The name of a mocktail at Brass Tap in Marina, for example, is pretty explicit: Don’t Mock the Dragon. It may be alcohol-free, but still—don’t underestimate this dragon, because it will bite back. A first sip is the beginning of a quest for the palate. An unadventurous one, however, might be in for a surprise. Expect to pucker, as the acidity of the pineapple juice combined with the tartness of the lime overpower all, making it a force to be reckoned with. But just like you wouldn’t fight a dragon wearing nothing but a T-shirt and shorts, the key here is to boost your defenses. A few bites of a complementary dish serves well. In this case, a chicken club wrap, with smoked bacon drizzled in buttermilk ranch dressing, provides the coating that your taste buds need to fight back this frenzied mythological lizard. With a shield in place, the true taste of the mocktail comes alive. The strong sensation of pineapple and lime is muted, and out comes the soothing sweetness of the dragonfruit syrup. For a little more kick, squeeze some lime juice onto the top. The one-two punch of bite and sip will lead the way to an empty glass and victory. Only the dragon’s lair—the remnants of ice—remain. You will learn to respect the dragon, just like you were advised to upon going into the battle. Brass Tap, 99 General Stilwell Drive, Marina. (831) 383-7404, brasstapbeerbar.com/ marina. Mock Up A dragonfruit and pineapple mocktail at Brass Tap in Marina packs a bite. By Erik Chalhoub SEND IDEAS TO: chill@montereycountynow.com ERIK CHALHOUB TRY OUR NEW Tapas Happy Hour & Mid-Week Specials 4:30 - 6:00pm daily #Tapas! A Happy Hour Beyond Compare. Adjacent to the Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa | 700 Munras Avenue, Monterey Reservations Recommended | 831-375-0176 | estebanrestaurant.com DELIGHTFULLY ALFRESCO ’25 Voted Best Appetizers/Small Plates 146 12TH STREET • PACIFIC GROVE PARTY FOR PADDY! Celebrate St. Patrick’s with the Weed Trio! Talented fiddler John Weed and his musical sons, Tyler and Evan, will take us on a musical journey which begins and ends in ancient Ireland. SUN. MARCH 15•3PM Doors Open at 2:30pm Seasonal libations and snacks, and the world famous “Tatties with Toppings.” will be served. AdvAnce tickets AvAilAble At www.celticsociety.org $30 Adv/35 door kids (12 and under) $12 Adv/15 door For more info call or text 831-224-3819 news talk insight a community service of CSU Monterey Bay
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