Making mixing look easy is the goal at Allstar Bartenders Training in 11415. The center was founded in 1989 with the simple mission to “make better bartenders.” Thousands have learned Mixology 101 in Allstar’s classrooms, all of which are set up like actual cocktail lounges – with full bars, ice machines, jukeboxes, and everything else a student of bartending could need. Mixologist Michael Massino brings more than 20 years of experience to his students. Nicknamed “Mix Master Mike,” he describes the art of bartending as being a conductor. “You take several different pieces of produce, juices, and purees,” he explains, “mix them in with different beverages and liquor, and you get a fantastic result.” This love of the process has taken Massino all the way to the farm where he grows organic produce that he provides to restaurants, and, of course, incorporates into his cocktails. His creations include the “Basilico,” which infuses Bianco vermouth and vodka and is garnished with a basil leaf. The recipe for this tasty concoction can be found in his new book, The New Martinis… Made Easy. “I love infusing different liquors and am constantly searching for new fruit to experiment with, such as Mangosteen,” says Massino. With a school on Long Island as well as in Kew Gardens, the hope is that the academy’s success will ultimately translate into a consistency in the bartending world. As Massino explains, “I wrote the book in an attempt to get as many bartenders using the same recipes for the same drinks as possible.” Here’s to a future with uniformly delicious mixed drinks.

80-02 Kew Gardens Road, 11415
www.allstarbartending.com
www.organicstodayfarms.com

The following drink recipes are created by mixologist Michael Massino using Tava sparkling beverage flavors:

The Brazilian Samba
1.5 oz of Cachaca
1 oz Mangosteen juice
1 oz Pineapple juice
Top with Tava Brazilian Samba Sparkling Beverage

Mediterranean Fiesta
Pour the following into a shaker glass filled with ice:
2 oz Vodka
1 oz Hypnotic
1 oz Raspberry Liqueur
Top with Tava Mediterranean Fiesta Sparkling Beverage

The Tahitian Tamure
Pour the following into a shaker glass filled with ice:
3 oz Rum infused with vanilla bean and orange zest
1 oz of Pineapple juice
Shake well and pour into a rocks glass
Top with 2 oz of Tava Tahitian Tamure Sparkling Beverage
Garnish with a flamed orange peel

Do you have a signature drink? Post a comment below and Send us a recipe!

The 92nd Street Y has been a bastion of culture for over 130 years. Supporting a wide array of performers, lecturers and exhibits, The 92nd Street Y brings people together. “It’s about people who entertain and challenge, inform and educate. It’s about people who learn and discover, observe and participate.”

In the beginning the Y was the Young Hebrew Association, serving young Jewish men within the surrounding community. Retaining the original principals of good fellowship and harmony, it has evolved into a world renowned center of cultural diversity, teachings and opportunities. One of their largest cultural events is the annual International Street Festival. Every September, New Yorkers swarm to the Upper Eastside for a taste of world traditions. It’s a cultural bazaar like none other. Whether you’re looking to whet your appetite, enlighten you mind, or listen to a master musician, chances are you’ll find something that fits the bill at The 92nd Street Y.

Find something that tickles your fancy at www.92y.org

1395 Lexington Ave., 10128

Chuck your “how to play an instrument” book and hit the recording studio strumming with the help of the Staten Island School of Rock. “We guarantee that you’ll be recording your own lesson by the fourth time you come to us, as long as you practice,” says founder Mike Grande, who has honed his teaching method for the last 20 years. “It’s like karaoke for the musician.” Students begin by learning chords while an instructor plays back up. Then, a custom MP3 is created for take-home rehearsal. Budding musicians learn what other instruments should sound like, and how to lay down tracks in SOR’s recording studio. Still need motivation? “I’m in a band” is a great pick-up line…

101 Ellis Street
www.sischoolofrock.com