My friend found out about this experience and asked me to go because I love mocktails. I thought this would be a mocktail class but it was actually a free for all drink making experimentation lab, no lessons on technique, but still a great experience. I had a lot of fun.
We first donned lab coats and chose our mad scientist names. Jen, the owner, gave us a 10 minute introduction of all the stations and we were let loose in the lab to concoct our own drink creations.
The experience was rather immersive in an atelier-like workspace that is decorated with old books and antique trinkets. It felt like I was in an eclectic mad scientist’s lab/apothecary type of environment. There were vials, funnels, shakers, stirrers, measuring spoons, tweezers—all manner of lab tools to aid in experimentation.
The best part about this lab is the variety of ingredients I got to discover and sample. There were ingredients I didn’t even know about or wouldn’t even think to buy myself. I enjoyed trying the freeze dried juice powders, various bitters, the non-alcoholic liquors, and edible glitter.
There were nice touches like a smoker to smoke your drink with wood chips, herb plants to pick fresh herbs, fun dehydrated fruit pieces for garnish, and fresh citrus. There was also an infusion station with various spices, dried herbs, and teas. Jen made sure to supply everything you would need to create the ultimate drink! I felt like a kid in a candy store.
There were also bulk bin snacks provided like wasabi peas, walnuts, gummies, chocolates covered almonds, and banana chips along with charcuterie from the deli in the Melrose Market.
Lastly there were 8 participants in this lab and I felt that was just the right amount of people. I didn’t feel crowded or like I was competing for tools/space. We had free roam in the lab and Jen was very generous with sharing some of the more exotic and expensive ingredients. I like how I didn’t feel restricted or limited in resources or time. The 2 hour time allotted felt enough.
I definitely recommend this experience and I would for sure go back!