Thompson’s Bookstore + Fort Worth, Texas

Downtown Fort Worth, Texas has some surprises in store for you. It's Texas, but it is not all cowboy boots and big belt buckles... well there is some of that. But, take a walk down the broad streets of downtown and find the all-white facade of the simply titled “THOMPSON’S” in strictly capital letters. The door looks a little run down in the yellow light, but don't let that deter you - grab the handle and open up to a cocktail wonderland.

Now, the name may be a bit misleading because there really isn’t a bookstore. It is just the theme and most of the book action comes when you try to go to the speakeasy portion of the bar (it is through the false book shelves via the use of a password that can be found via Facebook or at the bottom of your receipt when you purchase from from the front bar... I know, so secret!) and when you pay (the check comes in a book you can sign) - all very kitschy and very fun.

But, not to worry this kitschyness does not take away from the talent behind the bar. There are a range of cocktails to choose from and definitely one for every taste. Sweet, sour, brute - you name it, it is there. I decided to try two lovely concoctions: The Saint and Fitzgerald. Yes, I know I was jumping around in my booze base. But hey, Texas summer heat scrambles the brain!

The Saint

The Saint is a vodka based drink and not too boozy. Middle ground on the sweet factor, but well balanced and refreshing in the hot Texas summer. This light cocktail uses Zodiac Vodka, St. Germain Elderflower liqueur, Aperol, Lemon Juice, and Domaine Michelle Brut. Basically, this is a spin on an Aperol Spritz, but with a bit of a booze boost from the vodka.

Fitzgerald at Thompson's Bookstore

Fitzgerald was the second cocktail I ordered and a very simple cocktail. Also kept it light with a more summer taste. It uses Tanqueray No. 10 Gin, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, and Angostura Bitters. The gin kept that nice juniper taste alive and kicking while the bitters, lemon juice, and sugar balance it out and compliment the citrus tastes of the No. 10 Gin. Again, the hot summer weather was leading my taste buds and I wanted to keep it nice and light.

The drinks were all well made and with the dark cool ambiance, I was a happy drinker. I did spend my time at the upstairs bar (bottom left picture) and only popped my head downstairs (see bottom right picture) to check it out. To be honest, this is a bar to get your drink-on but not to get your read-on. Too dark, but perfect for a few well made cocktails and a welcomed escape from the Texas summer temperatures.