JACKSON, Wyo. — From behind the curtain, The Kitchen’s Bar Manager, Kristen Hawley, carefully crafts each drink, using her passion for cocktails as the driving force behind each glass placed on a table.

If you ask her about the inspiration behind her creations, she’ll humbly talk about how her experiences and experimentations have helped shape the cocktail and how each ingredient has been carefully chosen to result in a one-of-a-kind creation for which the restaurant has become known. She may not seek the spotlight, but her talent for creating inspired cocktails shines with each selection. 

With a summer menu filled to the brim with fresh, bright flavors, Hawley is now sharing some of her favorite pairings for the perfect night out at The Kitchen. 

Spicy Cucumber Salad x Barrel Aged Aviation

Spicy cucumber salad with spicy garlic vinaigrette, cherry tomatoes, bonito, scallion and sesame: Pair with the Barrel Aged Aviation – crafted with Great Grey gin, lemon, orgeat, passion fruit and falernum.

The sweetness and acidity of the cocktail play nicely with the heat of the salad. When paired, the cocktail brings a refreshing complement to the salad.

Crab Fried Rice x Paper Plane

Crab fried rice with Carolina gold rice, sesame crunch, fresh herbs and pad thai sauce: Pair with the Paper Plane – crafted with Wyoming Whiskey, Aperol, Meletti and lemon. 

The richness and heat of the rice go well with the tart lemon and bitter notes of the cocktail.

Walu x Albariño

Walu crudo with watermelon gazpacho, cucumber verge, pepitas and olive oil: Pair with a glass of Albariño. 

Albariño is made with grapes grown in close proximity to the sea, making it an ideal sip to enjoy with fish.

General Joe’s Tofu x Prosecco

General Joe’s tofu with quinoa, broccolini, sesame: Pair with a glass of Prosecco. 

The deep, rich flavors of the dish would be lovely with bubbles. The lightness of the drink would lighten the entire meal.

Short Rib Ramen x Sapporo

Short rib ramen with hot and sour broth, smoked corn succotash and ramen noodles: Pair with a Sapporo. 

A classic pairing, Sapporo is ramen’s best friend for good reason. The temperature of the soup pairs well with the cold, crisp beer.

Put these pairings to the test and try out a few of your own. The Kitchen is open Tuesday – Saturday at 5:30pm. To make a reservation at The Kitchen, click here.