Serafina Introduces New Cocktail Classes - Eastlake Restaurant Beginning Cocktail And Liquor Tasting Program

On April, 25, 2009 Serafina will introduce a new cocktail and liquor education program at the Eastlake Avenue restaurant.

As a complement to Serafina's existing wine tasting program, the new Saturday afternoon tastings will provide guests with an intimate knowledge of the inner workings of the Serafina bar program. Nicknamed the "Mad Scientist", Chris Bollenbacher has been the creative force behind Serafina's infusion program, including concoctions such as bay leaf and blueberry infused vodka and apple infused bourbon. He is known for his encyclopedic knowledge of classic cocktails and their components. Matthew Skeel has been managing Serafina's bar for many years, and has a strong established customer base. On a recent comment card written by a guest, Matthew was praised as "attentive, knowledgeable and genuine". Yelper, "Ian S.", recently wrote: "Damn. Awesome bar service with house-made gin, infused alcohols, well shaken and well strained cocktails, and great presentation in classy stemware, fruit, and zest."

Guests can meet at Serafina for an afternoon of tasting, education and noshes. Bites of Chef Dylan Giordan's food will be matched with the liquors and cocktails being tasted. Guests will come away with a few drink recipes and a new appreciation for lesser known mixers and liquors. Space is limited to 20 guests, and reservations are necessary. A credit card is required at the time of booking. All take place on Saturdays from 3:30 - 5:00pm and are priced between $35 and $45 per person exclusive of tax and gratuity.
Below is a description from the restaurant of each of the upcoming events:
� April 25th: Craft Bartending Exposed - Serafina's Secret Recipes - Take part in a discovery of our most popular Serafina original cocktails. Learn how they are made, a history of their ingredients, as well as the bartending techniques and secrets that make them unique.
� May 23rd: Whisky cocktails; water of life with a twist - Join us on a journey into the intriguing underworld of whisky cocktails from pre-prohibition to modern times. You'll enjoy this session whether you are new to whisky or you are an established whisky drinker who is looking for exciting new cocktail experiences.
� June 27th: Vodka cocktails; classic favorites and innovative originals - Vodka, known in ancient times as "water of bread wine", is the purest of the spirits. Join us for an exploration into vodka and how to make balanced and delicious cocktails using fresh juices and professional techniques.

For more information about Serafina's cocktail tasting program please contact the restaurant at 206.323.0807.

Serafina Osteria & Enoteca is located at 2043 Eastlake Avenue East in Seattle. The restaurant is open from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm Monday through Friday for lunch and from 5:00 to 10:00 pm Sunday through Thursday and from 5:00 to 11:00 pm Friday and Saturday for dinner. The bar is open for happy hour from 4:00 to 6:00 pm Monday through Friday and late night nibbles are available nightly until 12:00 am. Brunch is served from 10:00 am to 2:30 pm on Sundays. Reservations may be made by calling (206) 323-0807. Or visit www.serafinaseattle.com for more information.