DD's Drink of the Month: Angels and Demons

Since its opening in October 2009, Level has excelled at both seasonal, farm-to-table food and cocktail creation. With its ever-changing menu, it has become one of my personal favorite restaurants and bars in Annapolis. Outside of Level, owners the Fox Brothers (yes, they really are brothers) have definitely created a name for themselves with the creation of Vida Taco Bar and Fox’s Den--excelling in a creative take on food and drinks.

About the mixologist:

Today at Level, I am greeted by general manager and bartender Devon “Devo” Glaccum. Originally from Bowie, Maryland, Devon is no stranger to bartending. He’s been mixing drinks for seventeen years—from Maryland to Florida and back home again. And he’s been making Level patrons happy since 2013. Devon’s seventeen years of bartending experience show in both his knowledge and skill as a mixologist.

Angels & Demons 

When I asked Devon about his current favorite cocktail on the menu, his answer was quick and easy: ‘Angels & Demons’. This cocktail is unexpected but perfectly pleasant. Combining El Jimador tequila, St. Germain, micro cilantro, habanero, lime and agave, it is a perfect drink for any time of day or year, but especially for a hot summer day like today. When sipping, you are initially hit with a punch of cilantro. If you are a cilantro lover like I am, this is a very pleasant greeting. According to Devon, Angels & Demons is an “earthy play with heat on a classic margarita.” At $9 during Happy Hour and $13 during non-Happy Hour hours, this drink is a delight and worth every dollar.

The Gimlet

'The Gimlet', a classic cocktail, described (in Wikipedia) as a combination of "gin, a spot of lime, and soda”, has become a favorite amongst Level regulars. This modern-day version is made with Finlandia Vodka, fresh lime, sugar cane, soda water. Note: Vodka, in my opinion, is a favorable substitute to gin; it’s extremely refreshing and makes all of your senses happy.

Last Words

Presenting menus that change with the season is something Level seems to do with both ease and creativity. When asked about his favorite cocktail not currently on the menu, Devon's answer was ‘Last Words’: gin, green chartreuse, Luxardo maraschino liqueur, and fresh lime juice. If it sounds tasty, it is and you’ll be happy to know that you can still order it if you ask nicely!

Devon's Favs:

Favorite Fox Bros bar to drink (besides Level): Fox’s Den & Vida Favorite Drink Order: If at a dive bar, Jameson and Ginger. When out to dinner, Manhattan & Old. Favorite thing about working at Level: The interaction with staff and guests, creativity.