A Shameless Plug

Because it is never too late to celebrate the inauguration, let me recommend to our local readers stopping by for a drink at the Oval Room Restaurant just one block north of the White House. Thanks to the generosity of Chris Swonger and his friends at Allied Domecq (they own Stolichnaya and Maker's Mark, among others), I had the honor of imbibing in a few of the "inaugural drinks," strictly for reporting purposes on behalf of Galley Slaves:

The most popular of these libations was the Stoli Oath of Office Martini, a blend of Stoli Ohranj Vodka, Hiram Walker Triple Sec, fresh lime juice, blood orange juice, and a splash of cranberry juice. "The Stoli Oath of Office makes me want to run for office," exclaimed Nicole Chardavoyne, a resident of the District.

Charissa Benjamin, a native of the beautiful and exotic island of Antigua, preferred the Inaugural Mango Melon Ball "because of the Caribbean flavor of it." She's not alone--a fellow named Craig who flew up from Texas described it as "a healthy drink with a kick." (Quite simply, mix some Malibu Mango Rum, Midori Melon liqueur, pineapple juice, and enjoy.)

But there was also the Black Tie and Boots Martini, a combination of Stoli Vanil, Kahlua Especial, and just a splash of dark roast coffee. It tasted more of a dessert than a drink.

The Oval Room is also serving Texas Kahlua Coffee, which includes Kahlua, Amaretto, Creme de Cocoa, Sauza Hornitos, and heavy cream.

If you can't make it out there today, make them at home and drink in honor of the president. (After all, he won't be having any to drink himself.)

Special thanks to Matt J. Lauer and bartender extraordinaire Matthew Mota for their hospitality to Galley Slaves.