Best Thing We Drank This Week: The Frisco Kid at Citron and Rose

The Reb Roy and The Frisco Kid

Story and Photo by Danya Henninger

Banish thoughts of syrupy, gag-worthy Manischewitz from your mind - the cocktails at new Cook + Solo restaurant Citron and Rose are serious winners, despite the fact that it’s a strictly kosher establishment. It was hard to choose, but our favorite from a recent visit has to be The Frisco Kid, both for its clever name and bright but nuanced taste.

The Frisco Kid is a 1979 movie starring Harrison Ford and Gene Wilder, who plays a Polish rabbi. He arrives in Philadelphia from Europe and on his way westward is taken in by some Amish, who he mistakes for orthodox Jews. The Frisco, on the other hand, is the name of a cocktail from the early 20th century, featuring whiskey, Bénédictine and lemon juice.

The cocktail at Citron and Rose plays off the Philly and Jewish connections in the movie while successfully updating the classic recipe. Bulleit rye is shaken with Luxardo Fernet (a bitter amaro more in vogue than Bénédictine right now) and ginger-lime cordial. The result is a spicy, sparkly sip that is going to be even better enjoyed outside on the slate patio when outdoor seating arrives at the Main Line spot later this spring ($11; 610-664-4919).