In another life — as in two weeks ago — alcohol leaving any restaurant’s premises in Fort Worth was forbidden by the Texas Alcoholic & Beverage Commission. No one even thought of crafting cocktails to be purchased to-go.
Now, in a world where a virus has completely disrupted daily life, TABC has loosened its reins thanks to a waiver issued by Gov. Greg Abbott. While there’s still some grappling with what, exactly, the “mixed beverage” waiver means, restaurants have seized the day (and the revenue opportunity) by stirring up booze by the batch for drive-by customers.
Many local neighborhood restaurants (Tex-Mex ones, especially), are offering curbside margaritas and other fun drinks. Here are some spots selling big-batch cocktails that have have proven to be popular in all corners of the city. Options include cocktail “kits” and large containers meant to stay sealed tight for the drive home.Note that a food purchase is required by law. Also note that drinking in bars, dining rooms, and lobbies while waiting for pickup is forbidden.
The Post at River East
The Race Street restaurant and live music venue is serving 32-ounce craft cocktail carafes for only $20. The lengthy drink menu includes a vodka-spiked peach basil lemonade; red wine sangria with fresh fruit; mojitos; gin Fitzgerald, and Patio Punch made with rum and tropical fruit juices. Pair the drinks with a $4 per-person dinner, which changes daily and ranges from green chile enchilada casserole to baked penne Alfredo. A family-size platter is $20 and comes with a salad.
Tributary Café
Cocktail four-packs include hurricanes, margaritas, Snickerdoodle Punch, the Old Fashioned, and bloody Mary — each for $20. The Race Street neighborhood gem, popular for elevated Louisiana-inspired fare, is also offering family-style meals that feed four for $40.
