Ingredient Fri Jun 15 2007

More about flavoring beverages with cucumber

It turns out that sometimes flavoring a beverage with cucumber doesn't turn out so great.

One of my favorite lunch spots in the Ravenswood/Lincoln Square neighborhood, First Slice Café, did something completely unheard of until today: disappoint me. The cucumber lemonade I ordered in hopes of a refreshing summer drink on this 90 degree day tasted as if someone had accidentally spilled a pickle or two (along with the pickle juice) in the lemonade pitcher. Too bad, because I really had high hopes for this drink. At least for the two minutes that passed between ordering and being served.

If you've never been to First Slice, don't let this one mishap deter you. In fact, I think you should go try the cucumber lemonade for yourself. Pickled lemonade might just be your thing.

— Meghan Murphy Gill / Comments (4)

Ed / June 15, 2007 3:24 PM

Crust, which I've heard almost nothing but mediocre reviews of, also sells a cucumber infused vodka.

Bob S. / June 15, 2007 3:35 PM

Agua fresca de pepino just might be your best friend. Google for recipes, search menus for it. Maiz' used to be my favorite but its availability there has always been spotty. Worth seeking out, though. And despite all the recipes, I've never managed to make one at home anywhere near as good as those available in the humblest Mexican restaurants here.

Jen G / June 15, 2007 4:29 PM

Try the cucumber lemonade at Wishbone, it is the perfect summer drink.

Kathryn / June 15, 2007 6:38 PM

Yick, I don't even care much for water flavored with cucumber, let alone lemonade. To me, it tastes a little soapy.

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