Enjoyed: Sunday, May 29, 2022

Listed on the menu: Yes, as “Black Walnut Old Fashioned”

Ingredients:  Basil Hayden Bourbon, sugar, dash of hazelnut liqueur, black walnut bitters, and orange rind.

The occasion: After a long visit with my mom, I needed some cheering up, so Sister and Brother-in-law took me to his favorite restaurant in the area. We chose to sit near the bar, which had a fun vibe. Our meal was delicious.

My rating: *** out of 5. The recipe sounded daring, so I was curious. The presentation was lovely, but I think the bartender was too heavy-handed with the “dash” of hazelnut liqueur, and well as with the sugar. The cocktail was tasty, but much too sweet, and would have made a great dessert drink. The Basil Hayden, a fine bourbon on its own, was definitely overshadowed by the hazelnut flavor.

Final thoughts: I am an East Coast Snob, and I am distrustful of seafood restaurants that are not near the ocean. (Coincidentally, this establishment, Blue Point, shares its name with my favorite restaurant in the Outer Banks of North Carolina.) I ordered the Fisherman’s Bucket, chock-full of fried goodness like cod planks, shrimp, hush puppies, and tater tots, and my oh my, I was satisfied. (Notice that I did stay away from the oysters and sushi. I remain a snob.)