Noshing Around

New Cocktails at Wilko

Wilko, on the corner of Park Avenue and University Boulevard, has a new cocktail menu. The theme seems to be classic cocktails, like the mai tai or old fashioned, made with unique ingredients that add extra flavor and flair. The gin fizz, for instance, is crafted with orange-blossom honey, Amontillado sherry and celery bitters; the old fashioned comes with date molasses, cardamom and Spanish brandy. There are rum punches, pisco sours and other drinks as well, and if the $8 price tag seems too steep, stop in during happy hour from 3 to 7 p.m., every day, and get them for $2 less; www.wilkotucson.com.

New: The Scented Leaf

A tea shop and restaurant has opened in the spot formerly occupied by Red Velvet Cupcakery at 943 E. University Blvd., No. 165. The Scented Leaf Tea House + Lounge is run by Adrienne and Shane Barela, who used to own and operate the nearby Scented Leaf Fine Tea and Fragrances. Fans of fine tea will find a huge selection of high-grade loose-leaf oolong, herbal and other teas sold by the cup and in bulk. The food selection is limited to soups, croissants and desserts for now, but a menu with sandwiches, baked pasta and other dishes will be available when the college crowd returns in August; 624-2930.


Feel the Burn

Many have tried the Inferno Hot Wing Challenge at Brushfire BBQ (2745 N. Campbell Ave., and 7080 E. 22nd St.), but few have succeeded. It works like this: Challengers have 10 minutes to eat six hot wings bathed in dangerously spicy sauce, and then have to sit for 20 more minutes without taking a drink. Those who complete it receive a special bib that allows them to jump to the head of the line at the restaurant whenever they wear it; brushfirebbq.com.


Mead-Making

Want to check out what's going on in the world of local mead production? Join Jerry Morgan and the folks down at Borderlands Brewing Co. at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 4, for a demonstration on the ancient honey wine. The event is being held to coincide with the American Homebrewers Association's Mead Day and is the first chance the public will have to get a glimpse at the incredible meads that Morgan makes. Borderlands Brewing Co. is located at 119 E. Toole Ave.