If you're looking for an alternative to summer's Aperol Spritzes and Negronis, famed cocktail bar Dante NYC, suggests the Garibaldi. Named after Giuseppe Garibaldi, a revolutionary leader in Italy's unification, this red-hued spirit is the perfect beverage for a cool down on a hot, steamy day. "The Garibaldi is a classic and simple mixed drink that we came to love after seeing the way it was served with juice squeezed fresh to order at a place in Sydney called North Bondi Italian Food," says Linden Pride, co-owner, Dante, voted the World's Best Cocktail Bar in 2019, and Dante West Village.
Garibaldi (ph Steven Freihon)
Campari and orange juice are all you need to create the Garibaldi, but what makes Dante's version a standout is its juice prepping technique. "The key is squeezing the orange juice immediately before serving," offers Pride. "We use a high-speed juicer that aerates the juice, making it fluffy and textured. It takes seconds to make but is delicate and stunningly light every time— ideal for a refreshing escape and simple enough to whip up at home." If you don't have a juicer, a stick blender on low speed is a good substitute (that's what I used, and it fluffed well).
Of course, aperitivo isn't complete without a light bite. Dante's Chef Angel Fernandez suggests pairing the Garibaldi with a delicious combination of toasted brioche with smoked eggplant, spiced pear & gorgonzola dolce.
For step-by-step instructions on making the Garibaldi, Jamie Gordon, bartender/Director of Dante's Brand Development, is featured in the accompanying video mixing one up at their new venue in the West Village. Salute!
Dante NYC’s Signature Garibaldi
Ingredients:
1.5 ounces Campari
4 ounces freshly squeezed orange juice
Orange wedge for garnish
Method:
Pour Campari into a glass with no ice.
Add two ice cubes.
Pour orange juice directly on top (save a little).
Add another ice cube.
Top off with remaining orange juice.
Stir well to combine.
Garnish with a single orange wedge resting on the rim.