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Mixing it Up

Midlothian Cocktail Lounge Offers Classic and Tropical Beverages, Tasty Food, and Rum Education

Article by Joanna Tannenbaum

Photography by Melanie Cooper Studios

Originally published in Midlothian Lifestyle

Winterfield Place is a charming commercial village offering an eclectic mix of shops, offices, and dining venues. One gem that stands out is Sidecar Cocktail Lounge, a place that's just bursting with unique and exciting vibes. From traditional classics to island-inspired concoctions, Sidecar’s drink menu is a delightful journey for the taste buds. And let's not forget the bold and playful food selection – it's the perfect companion to the exceptional drinks. Whether you're a rum aficionado or a rare bourbon and tequila fan, Sidecar has something special waiting for you.

Thanks to the vision of Chris Staples, the industrious mind behind Toast American Gastropub, and Greg Gill, the world’s first Master Rummelier (think wine sommelier, but for rum), residents of our community have been introduced to Sidecar's exceptional dining and drink experience. Chris believed Midlothian needed something new and different and wanted to bring a fun and unique atmosphere to the neighborhood. "Sidecar Cocktail Lounge will sweep you away from the suburbs into the warm, breezy, and whimsical streets of mid-century Miami and embody the vibe and energy of bygone times when the sun was always shining and the rum flowed freely," Chris says.

The folks at Sidecar are masters at concocting incredible cocktails. Their menu features an extensive array of the most exquisite rum and tiki cocktails from across the ages. The original Sidecar Cocktail menu features a tantalizing variety of spirits, ensuring a perfect drink for every palate. Some guest favorites include the Cobra Fang, a potent and fruity concoction; Tiki John’s Perfect Daiquiri, known for its refreshing and citrusy flavor; and the Havana Passion Martini, a delightful blend of tropical flavors with a hint of sophistication. And for those who prefer non-rum classics, they also serve timeless favorites such as Negronis, Manhattans, and Martinis.

Sidecar emphasizes Caribbean and South Beach-inspired flavors and offers a gluten-free menu and a variety of vegan and vegetarian options. Notable dishes include their signature homemade Caribbean Spiced Pretzels, a tantalizing mix of crispy pretzels tossed with rum, butter, and spices – a must-try! Another standout is the Lumpia, a delicious combination of crispy beef and vegetables wrapped in a thin pastry, deep-fried, and served with a tangy dipping sauce. The Jerk Chicken Satay is a Caribbean-inspired delicacy featuring tender, juicy chicken skewers seasoned with a savory blend of jerk spices. Most recently, Sidecar introduced some tempting new additions to its lineup, including delectable Mahalo Mahi Tacos and Banana Pudding with Caribbean Pretzel Crumble.

At Sidecar, it's more than just the food and drinks; they've also crafted an immersive experience with their "History of Rum" wall. This visual journey through the 400-year history of rum features an interactive display with pictures and QR codes that allow guests to dive deeper into the intriguing stories behind the images. Chris emphasizes, "You don’t have to be a rum enthusiast to have a great time at Sidecar. We are, first and foremost, a cocktail lounge, and we cater to everyone's preferences. Whether you prefer a light beer or a vodka soda, we’ve got you covered."

Chris is dedicated to connecting with the local community at Sidecar. The venue hosts the Parrothead Club of Richmond's meetings and the popular South Beach Live DJ Brunch every third Sunday of the month. Additionally, Sidecar offers intriguing Rum Education seminars and tastings each month, along with engaging themed events like the recent Magnum PI-themed night and a memorable Hawaiian luau during the summer. Sidecar’s calendar is always filled with fun and inclusive events for everyone in the neighborhood.

Take advantage of the opportunity to visit Sidecar Cocktail Lounge today! Head over to 3730 Winterfield Road in Winterfield Place for exquisite cocktails and delectable food. sidecarcocktaillounge.com

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