Latke, Vodka, Potato, Pota-toe … sounds like a good song to me! CAYA at The Leta has a fun Hanukkah pairing from December 7-15, with their Latkes & Vodka special. Not only do the words rhyme, but latkes — those famed potato pancakes traditionally made with grated potatoes, onions, and egg — happen to pair beautifully with vodka, a spirit that’s often distilled from the very same root vegetable.
Chef Jonathan’s version at CAYA is a dill-infused Vodka Vesper with dill garnish. His take on James Bond’s famous drink also features gin and Lillet Blanc, giving the chilled-to-perfection cocktail a bracing kick, which pairs wonderfully with his crispy yet fluffy potato pancakes. Unlike many latkes I’ve had over the years, these are not greasy at all, and the lox (a k a smoked salmon), sour cream, and apple chutney taste just like the holiday season at Grandma’s — only a much more elevated version!
Latkes and vodka are a great way to get festive this holiday season. Even if you’ve never spun a dreidel, this special is worth giving it a whirl.
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When: December 7-15 from 5-11 p.m.
Where: CAYA at The Leta, 5650 Calle Real, Goleta
Price: $32 (includes latke & vodka cocktail); or $22 for the latke plate and $14 for the cocktail
See cayarestaurant.com .