SoCo’s newest bar is whipping up an ice-cold pick-me-up with a kick: the Velouria Frozen Espresso Martini.
By Kaiti Evans, Photo courtesy of Cassandra Klepac Photography
Velouria is the newest hot spot on South Congress Avenue for coffee in the morning and cocktails in the evening. Sultry vibes and green velvet chairs accentuate the beautifully lit bar for a cool and comfy space, perfect for any time of day.
Owners Sara and Tim Lupa recently opened Velouria, adding to their drink domain, which includes two other bars in Austin: The Brixton and Drinks Lounge. Sara Lupa says she wanted to open a coffee shop and bar in the same space because it suits the neighborhood.
Opening a coffee-and-cocktails bar “is definitely not normal for us,” she says. “We have only ever done bars, but it seemed like the perfect place and all the stars aligned, so we did it. We just felt like this place needed both. With so many residents here, we thought it could be an all-day spot.”
The coffee menu features an array of pour-overs, espresso and cold brews. Guests have the option to pair pastries, breakfast tacos or sandwiches with their coffee as well. In the evening, classic cocktails are available, along with snacks and charcuterie boards.
For the summer, Sara Lupa’s drink of choice is the Velouria Frozen Espresso Martini, noting it perfectly displays the intricate dynamic of coffee and booze Velouria excels at.
“With the [Velouria Frozen Espresso Martini], you are getting both things: coffee and booze,” Sara Lupa says. “It’s a cocktail-and-coffee place, so it’s something that represents us—and it’s perfect to make at home.”
Frozen Espresso Martini Recipe
Ingredients
2 ounces vanilla vodka
2 ounces espresso
1 ounce coffee liqueur
1 ounce simple syrup
Directions
1. Toss all ingredients on ice in a blender and blend until smooth.
2. For an added kick, sprinkle some espresso-bean dust on top.