The bounty of San Diego County growers is expressed in locally crafted drinks that flaunt the flavors of the region in every sip. Here are three places to find for dandelions paired with gin, local citrus become beer, and mushrooms as energizing elixir.

Girl & Dug Farm + AVANT at Rancho Bernardo Inn

AVANT at Rancho Bernardo Inn has a rotating seasonal cocktail menu with specialties like the Dandy Shanti featuring dandelions from Girl & Dug Farm in San Marcos. Jason Sorge, the mixologist at AVANT, infuses gin with the local dandelions and combines it with a subtle lavender honey syrup and soda water for a refreshing remedy.

Schaner Farms + Saint Archer Brewing Company

Fresh lemons and oranges from Schaner Farms are the inspiration for Saint Archer Brewing Company’s new White Sangria sour beer. All of the grain used to make the beer will be donated back to Schaner Farms to feed their livestock.

Om Mushroom + The Plot

(non-alcoholic)

The Overachiever Latte at The Plot in Oceanside is made with cordyceps (a type of medicinal mushroom) from Carlsbad’s Om Mushroom, which gives natural energy even without the espresso. The mushrooms are combined with frothy oat milk, agave, and molasses.

Must be 21+ years old to consume alcohol. Please drink responsibly.

Image: Tyler Shaw.

About the Contributor
Michelle Stansbury
Michelle Stansbury is a food enthusiast and the founder of Eat, Drink, Be SD, sharing the best restaurants, bars, and happenings in San Diego. Misuse of the word "literally" drives her figuratively insane.
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