Spring is just around the corner, and the taste of the tropics has invaded Fells Point and landed at RA Sushi. The Pineapple Express is billed as “a getaway in a glass,” which is a good description for the island flavors that will meet your tongue in this, our first Baltimore Drink of the Week.

Shochu (which is much like a strong sake) meets the elderflower aroma of St. Germain, enlivened by a bit of bubbly and plenty of fruit. Check out the recipe below, and note that the sip goes for just $8 at the restaurant (in case your home bar happens to be currently lacking coconut shochu).

Pineapple Express

1¼ oz. Kai Young Coconut Shochu
¼ oz. St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur
3 oz. pineapple juice
¼ oz. lemon juice (2 lemons)
Splash of Prosecco
2 Pineapple wedges
Slice of lime 

Muddle pineapple with St. Germain in mixing tin. Add everything except soda, shake and strain into ice filled glass, top with Prosecco soda, garnish with a slice of pineapple and lime.

Photo courtesy of the restaurant