MolecuBar: The Science of the Bar

MolecuBar - South Florida Science Center & Aquarium - Molecular Mixology

If you have ever seen an episode of Spike TV’s Bar Rescue, then you have probably heard nightlife expert/host yell “running a bar isn’t just a business, it’s a science.” This does not just ring true on how proper lighting and barstool height can turn into cash, but also has much to do with the mixology happening behind the bar. The act of mixing a cocktail is not just a practice of a steady hand and muscle memory, but is chemistry in action. Why do citrusy cocktails taste better when shaken; what is the proper amount of ice to walk that precarious dilution line of watered-down or overly strong; how do different liquid densities affect a cocktail’s flavor? If you have ever asked yourself these questions, then the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium’s educational cocktail soiree, MolecuBar, is a must attend.

   Set for Thursday, November 19, the 21-and-up party takes a look at the science behind the drink, breaking down mixology to the molecular level. With the help of the United States Bartenders’ Guild of Palm Beach, the Science Center will explore the inner workings of molecular mixology—similar to molecular gastronomy, where the use of gels, powders, and foams are used to enhance the flavor, texture, and appearance of a drink—as well as exploring the science of alcohol itself. In other words, MolecuBar is turning the barroom into a science lab, complete with Bunsen burners, vacuum sealers, and liquid nitrogen, allowing mixologists to infuse, evaporate, freeze, liquefy, and even solidify spirits and cocktail ingredients for something truly unique and tasty.

   So what’s on tap? How does a little liquid nitrogen merlot ice cream sound? Want to make some beer? Join in for some beer brewing demonstrations and learn how to start your own home brew. Guests can also show off those Milli Vanilli skills at the Kahlua Karaoke sessions, take a bite out the spicy, boozy tequila jalapenos, burn up some isopropyl alcohol, and sip on some glowing gin and tonic—how’d they even do that? Find out on November 19.

  • The party will run from 6-9 p.m. with stargazing in the observatory running from 9-10 p.m., weather permitting, Admission costs $20, $45 for VIP access, which includes a special Molecular Mixology Workshop at 6:30 p.m., as well as some Science Center barroom swag. The price of admission includes bites from local restaurants, cocktail and beer tastings, and access to the Science Center and the current traveling exhibit, “Dinosaurs Around the World”—how often can you say you shared a cocktail with a T-Rex? For more information, visit sfsciencecenter.org.

Green Dinosaur - South Florida Science Cneter & Aqaurium - MolecuBar - Tito's Vodka - Blue MartiniCan’t wait for the party? Try MolecuBar’s signature cocktail, the Green Dinosaur, courtesy of Tito’s Vodka and Blue Martini.

Green Dinosaur

  • 1 oz. silver tequila
  • 1 oz. vodka
  • 1 oz. light rum
  • 1 oz. Midori
  • 2 oz. lemonade

Combine all ingredients in a martini glass and stir. Added ice optional

 

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