What's better than handcrafted cocktails by the Bar Lab boys? Savory snacks that perfectly pair with the beverages and help to soak up the booze. Now, the Broken Shaker is serving up both with a rotating menu of small plates designed to complement the beloved cocktails. Short Order sat down with Gabriel Orta of Bar Lab who, along with Elad Zvi and techie-turned-chef Steve Santana, created the new menu.
"People know Broken Shaker as a place to drink," said Orta. "But now, we are enhancing that experience with a fresh approach to bar food. The menu will change just as our cocktails do, using local ingredients whenever possible and herbs from our garden."
The menu is broken down into categories: Flat, Proper, Bun, Dip and Jars. The flavors and ingredients of which will change depending on what's in season. Flat ($8) is a stellar flatbread made with miller high life dough currently being topped with shitake and enoki mushrooms-- the same ones used to make their mushroom bitters. The Proper ($8) category will feature an item locally handcrafted by Proper Sausages who Orta speaks very highly of. Right now the Proper being served is a berkshire pork sausage with fresh sage, mace and black pepper topped with homemade mustard in a steamed poppy seed bun.
The Bun ($9) brings two steamed buns with lamb and tzatziki and is substantial enough to undoubtedly be considered an entree. The Dip ($8) currently being served comes with two styles of dip, creamy hummus and vegan cashew curry and comes with plenty of grilled pita for soaking up your Old Fashioned. Lastly, the Jars ($5) category currently offers two options: spiced candied pecan clusters or citrus and herb marinated olives-- yes, the same ones used in their dirty martinis!
As pairings go, we suggest trying the spiced candied pecan Jars ($5) with the Spring Tide ($11). The heat from the cayenne pecans paired with the drink's fresh strawberries and local rhubarb makes for a refreshing salty sweet combo. For a more earthy nosh, order the Flat ($8) with the Chuck Norris ($11) made with George Dickel rye and mushroom bitters.
With such thoughtful pairings, it's clear that Broken Shaker puts the same thought and care into their food as they do their cocktails. Best of all the portions and prices are fair, making them an easy add on while unwinding poolside. Check out the spot's Facebook page for up to date menus and events.
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