Cocktails at RAW: almond

This past week I had the opportunity to sip beautifully crafted cocktails on the frozen river as part of RAW: almond's cocktail bar experience.

The first run of this incredibly unique pop-up was in January of 2013, and each year, they're gaining momentum. Tickets for the full five-course dinner have been sold out for weeks, but you can still grab a seat at the skate-up brunch over the weekend or snag tickets to the cocktail bar.

Tickets go live at 8am with three seatings - 5:30, 7:30 and 9:30pm every day. The experience kicks off with a shot of vodka followed by three exquisite cocktails, paired with three amuse-bouches. Each night features different premier Winnipeg chefs and bartenders at the top of their game. Our cocktails were made by Josie of deer + almond, and each one was more delicious than the last, with complex flavours and flawless presentation.

If you're lucky enough to nab a seat, eat before you go, since the food is light and the drinks are strong; and walk over, bus or get a ride.