The Bartender's Handshake

"Start with a spirited or spirit-free mixed drink at Bartender's Handshake (the ancho chili-spiked carrot and ginger blend called the “Karate Kid” is my favorite), then snag a crispy rice wrap at Southeast Asian eatery Lucky Lotus before devouring a burger and tots from Lachele’s." - Karla Walsh Karla Walsh Karla Walsh is a freelance writer based in Des Moines, Iowa. She has written about travel, health, food, wine, psychology, fitness, beauty, and beyond for more than 15 years. She has visited four continents and near

"Owner and bartender Dave Murrin-von Ebers made one of the most impressive pandemic pivots at this trendy snack and cocktail hotspot. Before the pandemic, customers packed elbow-to-elbow in the bar beneath stained glass windows. So Murrin-von Ebers closed the indoor space, designating it for staff to shake up complex cocktails and spirit-free drinks, then transformed the parking lot into an apres-ski-style outdoor bar complete with fire pit. Come for the drinks, like the Karate Kick with carrot juice, vodka, chile liqueur, and ginger syrup. Stay for the hospitality and snacks like a gochujang barbecue jackfruit sandwich or cold noodles with mint pesto, chile crisp, and ground mushrooms." - Karla Walsh