The summer is almost over and fall is fast approaching. This does not have to be as sad as it sounds. Why? I'm glad you asked. We can now start to think about football parties and tailgating with our friends.

Let's start with coffee drinks. These are great for keeping your guests warm and your tailgaters from freezing. We have all seen the flavored coffees lined up at the convenience store: hazelnut, Vanille creme, caramel and such. We are going to start with plain coffee and add our own flavors to enhance the taste. You have your old favorites – coffee and Bailey's Irish Creme, Irish Coffee, coffee and Sambuca, and of course, coffee and Kahlua. All these are very tasty and give you just enough alcohol to take the edge off.

Now let's move on to some that you may not have thought about. Try adding some Gran Marnier to your next cup of joe. Just a little at first, this is not only powerful in orange taste but also packs quite a alcoholic punch. Gran Marnier is also pretty pricey, so don't load up the cup of your less desirable party goers.

Next try adding some butterscotch schnapps. This gives the coffee a deliciously sweet taste without an overpowering alcohol taste.

When Chef Mike and I go to cheer on our Philadelphia Eagles, we start at the local convenience store. We fill our 20 oz. insulated cups with hot chocolate and then add an ample pour of Bacardi White Rum! This is a delicious way to keep warm and a good beginning to getting us well on our way to the proper level of rowdiness that is expected of a Philadelphia fan.

PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY!

Your Friendly Neighborhood Bartender, Kevin

As always write in suggestions, comments, criticisms, and articles are appreciated. Kevin can be contacted at connections listed on the bottom of the home page.